Life in the Valley. . .

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2008-11-25T23:22:00.000-08:00

I don't know why it always seems to be such a long time between Labor Day and Thanksgiving. By the beginning of November I'm starting to get a bit homesick, and I definitely need a break from the everyday run-around. So, I'm so thankful that tomorrow we'll be heading to Spokane and flying out early on Thursday for the Mattson family Thanksgiving in KC!! It's going to be a great trip. . .family, friends, KU basketball, KU football. . .what more could I ask for? Actually, as sad as it is, Raoul and I are really going to miss our little furball while we're gone. He'll be staying at the kennel and will have to celebrate his 1 year birthday on his own (Thanksgiving Day). It's a good thing he's a dog and not a child so he will not remember that we were gone on his birthday and be traumatized for the rest of his life, blaming us for instilling a sense of abandonment in him. I love dogs but honestly had no idea how attached we'd get until Nelson came along. He really is our furry little child. :)

So, Happy Thanksgiving to all! And, Happy Birthday Nelson!!

Election '08

2008-10-30T18:02:00.000-07:00

So, election time is here, and I am eager for it to end. Not because of all the media, or that I'm sick of hearing the candidates talk, or that I'm tired of negative add campaigns. The reason that I can't wait for this election to end is because my co-workers are making this time very difficult. Now, to preface this whole blog post. . .I am not a liberal. In fact I think that it is dangerous for the government to control a lot of things. My personal beliefs on many moral issues "line up" with the Republican platform. However, I do believe in changes from the current presidency such as more government assistance for education and more emphasis on diplomacy with issues of foreign policy. After weighing out the pros and cons of both candidates and attempting to disregard accusations that are mean-spirited and untrue, I will for the first time be voting for the democratic candidate for president. As an American citizen (and a tax-paying one at that) I have the right to my own opinions and beliefs and can choose to vote as I wish. Because I am thankful for that right, I try to respect the rights of others to disagree with me.

The last week, the exact opposite has been happening at my workplace. I work with 6 other male physical therapists. All of them are very right-wing in their political views and have been very vocal in that respect. This has played out in the following ways. First, one co-worker has proceeded to vocally attack another of my co-workers for holding a different political view, using such examples as Obama is like Hitler. Then, today, knowing my opinions, two of them proceeded to talk around me (not directly addressing me) saying that anyone who votes for Obama must be insane, brainwashed or stupid. Not exactly flattering comments to be making around someone who works her ass off for their company, sacrificing a lot to pad their retirement accounts. They used such arguments as Obama is more Muslim than he is black. These guys also love to bring out "evidence" such as e-mails sent from friends or reports taken from biased sources to show how right they are. I disagree with their opinions and their choice of sources, but because I believe they have a right to that opinion so I have not tried to convince them otherwise. They have not extended the same courtesy to me, stating things like: How can you as a Christian vote for someone who is pro-abortion? Again, I know it's not worth arguing with them, and I don't even want to get into a discussion about how they have no right to judge my level of faith. It is sad to me, not that they are McCain supporters, but that they stoop to such untrue and unintelligent ways to promote their view.

So, that leaves me, a little Independent voter who happens to have made her choice. I do not ask that everyone agree with me, only that they respect me as a person and my right to my own thoughts and convictions. I encourage everyone to exercise their right as a U.S. citizen on Nov. 4, and please, respect all others as they exercise their right to do so as well.

I Love the Fall!

2008-10-08T18:36:00.000-07:00

OK, so once again I'm attempting to resurrect my blog. So much has happened over the summer, so I'm glad to finally be settling into normal life again with a regular schedule. After pretty much hating the way my job was going, I got the chance to talk about things with my bosses at my yearly evaluation in July. I tried to explain to them how being in charge of all of the hospital and home health scheduling/contacts and trying to keep a normal clinic schedule was too much for one person to handle. After much discussion, they decided to switch things up a bit. Now I spend my mornings in the outpatient clinic seeing patients. Then, in the afternoon, I go out to people's homes to see them for therapy. I am now only in charge of the home health aspect of our clinic, so my overall stress level is much more managable. The catch is that every six months there will be a switch among the therapists that I have deemed to "sit at the little kid's table" if you know what I mean :) So, in six months I will either switch back to the schedule I had before, or I will spend half day in one outpatient clinic and another half day in our other outpatient clinic. Still not exactly what I had in mind for my dream job, but at least I don't feel so stressed out and run down.

The summer was full of trips and visitors. In June Raoul and I went to San Diego for a 5 day vacation. We got to catch up with Erika and Matt and enjoy the sites. It was great to catch up with friends. . .and it left Erika and I wondering how Matt and Raoul were never really friends in college because they have an astonishing number of similar interests :) Over the 4th of July weekend we flew to KC to see family and friends. Raoul and I also drove out to Hays to visit my Grandma in her new home and shot off fireworks with my little cousins. It was a trip that was way to short, but fun nonetheless. At the end of July my parents came out for a visit and we finally got to take advantage of the amazing rivers in the area. We went whitewater rafting in Riggins, ID for a day and drove up to show them the Seven Devils Mountains lookout. They also got to meet Nelson--they've met all three of their granddogs now :) In August and September I worked several weekends and Raoul was busy preparing for his preliminary exams. We did take a weekend to see our friends Chet and Adrienne get married up north of Spokane and have a date night in the "big city".

Raoul studied very hard for his exams, and after a very stressful summer came out in one piece having passed all four exams. I am extremely proud of him and all of his hard work! Now he gets to experience a "normal" semester without crazy cramming, but he's trying to work things through to be able to propose his dissertation topic early next semester. A couple of weeks ago we went to Seattle to celebrate Raoul's success, Matt's birthday, and Doug and Dave coming into town. It was fun to catch up with people we hadn't seen in awhile, and good to get away for a couple of days.

This month is Physical Therapy month, so Nelson and I get to participate in a walk on Saturday to raise money for a free clinic in the area. Raoul and I will also be working with our church's mission team to build a wheelchair ramp Saturday too. . .can't you just see me with a power drill? :) Plus Sunday is Raoul's 29th birthday--don't forget to wish him a happy birthday!!!!

Summer is coming!

2008-06-01T09:02:00.000-07:00

Since my last post, things have been moving along quickly. After our longest stretch of the year without a day off, Memorial Day weekend couldn't have come soon enough! Raoul's family arrived just as I was finishing another 12 day work "week", which is always an interesting time since by then I am pretty much unable to form complete sentences. :) We had a nice relaxing weekend, though, and we discovered that the new steak house in town is actually really good. They got to meet Nelson, and I'm proud to say that he was very well-behaved for the entire weekend! Finally with some time off it was nice to be able to take him on a walk down by the river. He made some progress with wading into the water, so maybe he'll be willing to try swimming this summer.

We've also got together with our "valley" friends a couple of times because, sadly, one of them is moving to Oregon this weekend to start a new job. It's a great opportunity for him to work on a wildlife refuge, plus we all eventually look forward to when we get to move on to greener pastures than the valley, but all the same it is sad to see Nate leave. We got to take Nelson over to Nate and Shannon's place and let him play with three other dogs. He's so short that he gets trampled quite a bit, but he's learned to use the bigger dogs as barriers when he's playing "catch me if you can" with other bigger dogs :)

Now I'm sitting in Matt and Erika's living room in San Diego, enjoying good company and a beautiful city, real Mexican food, and beaches. More to come on our little mini-vacation!

Nelson is home!

2008-05-21T23:45:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update on the Nelson situation. He stayed at the vet for two days and received an IV dextrose solution. They ran tests after 24 hours and 48 hours to check his blood levels and liver enzymes. Everything came back normal, so either he is not one of the majority of dogs that is effected by xylitol or we got him treatment in time and he had no damage to his liver. Either way I'm just glad we have him home, and he is back to being his little puppy self. Thanks for all of your thoughts and prayers!

Please Pray for Nelson!

2008-05-18T21:44:00.000-07:00

Today was a day that I definitely was not expecting. I was heading home from seeing my last home health patient this afternoon after working all weekend and got a call from Raoul. Our cute adorable little fluffy friend decided to get into my purse which I left on the couch (he is not supposed to get up on the couch) and get into a pack of Orbit cinnamon gum. We're not sure how much he did or didn't eat, but Raoul immediately googled the possible harmful effects of gum on dogs. The type of sugar-free gum I had contained a sugar substitute that just happens to be toxic to dogs. So, Raoul spent 30 minutes on the phone back and forth between the vet and poison control--neither of which were familiar with the effects of the substance on a dog. After research being done on all sides, the vet suggested that we try to get Nelson to vomit back up the gum. I ran to the store to get hydrogen peroxide and mixed up a solution, which promptly made Nelson upchuck all over the yard but no sign of the gum (this substance evidently metabolizes quickly). The vet recommended that we immediately start IV treatment with fluids and dextrose to fight hypoglycemia and try to flush out his system to prevent any liver complications. Nelson is staying at the hospital over night and then the vet will run a full panel in the morning (evidently this substance not only causes liver failure, but system-wide increased blood coagulation and hypoglycemia too). If he does well then he'll probably stay on the fluids for another day or so and have tests done periodically to check his liver enzymes. If he starts to go into liver failure we would be looking at serious medical treatment (i.e. puppy ICU) or he might not make it. Raoul and I are pretty worried about Nelson, and just really want him to be alright without spending thousands of dollars to fix him. Please pray that he will have a full recovery! We already miss him being around :(

31 Cent Ice Cream!

2008-05-03T17:57:00.000-07:00

What a whirl of month since I last posted! So first off, ROCK CHALK JAYHAWK!!! This year's tournament run was fantastic, and that it ended with a win was the icing on the cake! After our near escape from Davidson, I decided that the emotional stress of playing UNC in the Final Four was just too much to endure alone (Raoul was in Tulsa for a wedding), so Nelson and I packed up the car and drove to Seattle to watch with fellow KU fans! What a fun trip! Nelson actually did really well in the car and didn't get sick or fuss. We took long walks by the lake together in the mornings, which he loved, and then Emily and I went shopping that morning, which I loved. It was awesome then to come back and cheer on our boys to victory--what a high! I got to watch the championship game back in the valley with Raoul, and I must say it was really crazy. I'm just glad the cops weren't called on us! It's "one shining moment" I'll always remember, and with Bill sticking around I'm looking forward to more championships in our future!

The extra help we were so excited to get with the new therapist we hired in Dec. left as quickly as it came. By mid-March it was apparent that things were pretty rocky. She just was not up to par on her knowledge-base, but at the same time was not open to learning to catch up either. Really the whole ordeal just brought a lot of office drama, and I was constantly stressed-out trying to make sure she was doing what she needed to do. When she quit it was honestly a blessing, and even though I have more quantity of work to do, at least I know I will get it done and trust the rest of my co-workers to do their part as well. There's nothing more draining than trying to do your job and babysitting someone else at the same time. So. . .we're still looking for another therapist. . .anyone interested? :)

With school winding down for the both of us (Raoul finished yesterday, I have one week to go) we are definitely looking forward to some fun this summer. Last week, we got word that Baskin Robbins was celebrating their 75th anniversary and had ice cream cones for 31 cents! We took Nelson and met up with friends and their 9 mo. old puppy to enjoy the cheapness. Then, we headed back to their place which has a huge fenced-in yard and just let the dogs play. At first Nelson was pretty timid since he was by far the smallest of the two dogs, but after awhile (with all of us cheering him on) he started to take some shots of his own. The best thing (other than enjoying some great company) was when we got home he pretty much crashed like a limp noodle and slept. We need to make more puppy play-dates!

On the schedule for this month: teaching a four-part series on Mormonism to the high school kids, a trip to Seattle next weekend to hang with Matt and Emily, Raoul's family coming to visit! And, we're looking forward to a 5 day get-away we are taking to San Diego starting May 31st! If warm weather won't come to us, we'll go to it!

Here's Nelson!!!

2008-03-21T22:08:00.001-07:00

My blog, back from the dead!!!

2008-03-15T22:37:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's been forever since I've last posted. Things got really crazy after the New Year with work picking up, trying to train our new therapist, and starting up another class for my DPT. Work has steadily been climbing in the shear amount of work there is to do, so thank goodness we found another therapist to help distribute the load. She started in late December, and is now getting to the point that she's able to get a good chunk of work done so it's less of me directing her and more of her just helping out when we need it. That's made for fewer early mornings, but there still are several days a week I'm left working 10 hours. We haven't quite figured out if there are just more sick people now in general, but the hospital where I work has been full almost constantly, and all the other hospitals within a 100 mile radius have also been consistently full. That makes for a lot of people to take care of, along with the influx of surgeries that happen this time of year. Hopefully by May things will start to slow down a bit, and we can catch our breaths.

My class is really time-consuming, averaging 10-12 hours of work per week. This makes for some long days after getting home from work. The class addresses the subject of using research based interventions and evaluation tools for therapy. . .which would be a really good thing if the instructor wasn't the head of the occupational therapy department. So, instead of learning better ways to treat shoulder and knee dysfunctions, I'm learning about how people feel about their assistive devices and how bathroom aids increase function in elderly people. Basically, I'm just trying to fight through the material, reminding myself that after this class I only have 5 hours left to finish and I'm done with school FOREVER!!!!

Our most fun news of the last few months is our furry little edition to the Mattson clan. Nelson is now a 3.5 month old Pembroke Welsh Corgi. He has been a lot of fun, and thank goodness he potty trained in only 2 weeks!! His main vice at this time is biting, and more biting, and more biting. He pretty much chews on everything, especially my coffee table. Raoul did find a somewhat successful solution. He put tobasco sauce on the spots he likes to chew, and Nelson took a nibble, smacked his lips while looking a little taken aback, and ran across the room. Unfortunately the taste wears off after awhile, so it's only a temporary fix. He loves to take walks (which is a good thing) but hates baths (which makes that weekly chore rather challenging). He is (in mine and many others' opinions) the cutest thing I have ever seen, and hopefully I'll get some pictures up soon.

We did get to take a 3 day weekend to Nelson, B.C. in Feb. to go skiing with friends. It was a fun time and a much needed break. This weekend we are in Seattle visiting and had the pleasure of having Frank out here to hang with us in "the valley" for the week. Always a fun thing to watch KU games with other people who are as crazy about KU basketball as I am! Plus, it's almost March Madness, which is maybe my favorite time of year! Go Hawks!

That's about all it for now, mostly work with a little time to play. We'll be hanging around here for the spring with no major plans until the summer. Come see us and meet Nelson! We'd love to have you!

Christmas is around the corner!

2007-12-19T12:43:00.000-08:00

Time just continues to fly by, and it seems like more and more I look forward to just sitting and doing nothing! It's been a whirlwind over the last few weeks with lots to do and so little time and energy to get things done!

After my quick trip to KC/Lawrence to see my family and the KU game, it was back to hitting the pedal to the medal at work again. This is our really busy season--combination of people trying to get their surgeries in before their deductibles start over, people falling on the ice, higher incidence of pneumonia--so there hasn't been much down time. We did hire a new therapist who started last week, so that means we are finally fully staffed!!! :) It will take time to train her, though, so we should be full force by the end of January. I worked Thanksgiving between 6-10 hours each day, so I've been relishing the weekends that I've had to do something other than work. I also finished my class this semester after sitting through a 7.5 hour final (done over three days time) and am glad to be one step closer to being done with school. Only 3 more classes to go!

We've been spending our weekends getting presents sent home for Christmas, doing Christmas baking, seeing friends, and attending my always interesting office Christmas party. We try to catch up watching KU games when we get them, and are excited about the upcoming Orange Bowl game--although insanely jealous that my parents are going to the game and I have to watch it on TV. We are leaving for Tulsa this coming Friday morning, so there is a lot to do to finish up some things here at the house and pack for our trip. We'll be spending 5 days between Tulsa and Hutchinson seeing family, and I will enjoy being paid to not work!

Our biggest news is that tonight we're going to look at a litter of puppies! Raoul has finally given in to my incessant rantings about wanted a dog, and actually I think he might be a little excited about this too! We learned of a family who bred their two corgis and had 7 puppies. We get to see them tonight and decide on one if we find one that we like. We'd get to bring it home then in January when they have been weaned. I've decided on the name Nelson, which I think is a proper British name for a proper British puppy (well, Welsh, but you get the idea). We'll post pictures when we make a decision!!!

Is it really still football season?

2007-11-04T21:04:00.000-08:00

I almost feel like I'm in the twilight zone. . .it's November and I along with so many other Jayhawks are excited about football. Usually by now we've resigned to another mediocre season and started trading thoughts about our quest for yet another NCAA basketball title. But, not this year. I actually didn't know that KU played its first basketball game last week until Trina called me to ask if I was able to see the game. Instead, I've been so incredibly excited about football, a sport that I honestly still do not understand (too many rules, and why are there so many positions and what do they do?). So excited in fact that at halftime of the KU vs. Texas A&M game I called my parents with news that I really wanted to go to a football game (yes, I said a football game) and found a cheap flight into KC the weekend before Thanksgiving. The next thing I knew, by the end of the game I had booked a flight, and two days later my brother got me tickets to go to the KU vs. ISU game with my family and Trina. Psychotic and crazy? Yes, but I am completely stoked about this game!!!! Raoul will be in Cal. that weekend for a psych conference and we won't be able to come home for Thanksgiving because I have to work, so this worked out great. I'll only be in town for a day, so I won't be able to make the rounds, but I'm hoping to catch a meal with my sister (who has to work that weekend) and spend some time with my parents, brother, and Trina.

In other news, Raoul and I are heading to Seattle next weekend to see Matt and Emily one more time before the weather prevents us from crossing the mountain pass. I'm still working through the class I'm taking this semester. I've made it through the sixth Harry Potter book and am ready to start the seventh. Looking forward to ski season with a trip to Canada in the works in Feb. We'll be spending Thanksgiving with our pastor's family since I'll have to work that weekend, but will be able to spend a couple of days with each of our families at Christmas. Still looking for that camera cord so I can post pictures.

Rock Chalk Jayhawk!!!

So Many Reasons to Love Fall!

2007-10-09T12:41:00.000-07:00

I've had so many good intentions of posting after my trip to Seattle over Labor Day and showing pix from the event. However, I seem to have misplace the connecting cord that hooks my camera into my computer, making it difficult to upload photos. So, you'll have to put up with a verbal update and use your imagination until I find the cord lurking in my office somewhere.

Labor Day was definitely a fun time for all. Three of my PT classmates and a another friend (who also happens to be a PT) met up with me in Seattle for a mini-reunion. We stayed downtown and did all the "Seattle" things for a day. We stopped by REI where I finally purchased a good set of hiking boots so that next time I go hiking I won't come back looking like I was attacked by an evil tree monster from the knee down. Then we took a ferry to Bremerton for the Blackberry Festival and drove on to Bainbridge Island for a short stop. We did a lot of fun things, but hanging with the girls would have been fun pretty much anywhere--I miss them a lot being so far away. Plus, it was a great opportunity for me to tempt them all to move to Seattle. Trina and I had a laugh, though, because it would be quite sad if I convinced all these people to move there and then Raoul and I ended up somewhere in Alabama or something. :( I got to meet up with Matt, Emily, and Raoul then for part of a day before we had to head back. It just seems like there is never enough time to spend with people, but we try to make the best of it.

September has been pretty busy. I worked one weekend, and then the next Raoul and I went to Spokane for the weekend so I could attend a continuing education course. We also got to see a good friend of mine that is starting PT school in Spokane this fall and has since moved up there. I've been working on my DPT class, which has been extremely difficult to be motivated to get done. There's just something about working all week and then just wanting to crash on the weekends, not really getting excited to write 5 page papers every 3 weeks. I just keep telling myself, after this one there's only 3 classes to go and then I will be officially done with school FOREVER!!!!! Raoul and I have started helping out with the high school Sunday School class again and will be teaching a comparative religion set of lessons beginning this winter. I've gone to a few of the high school volleyball games--I definitely miss playing--and tried to get on a city league team, but no one wanted to add me to their roster and I didn't know anyone who was playing on a team. Hopefully, I can find something next year. . .

This weekend was a pretty positive one on the whole. It started with me dragging myself out of bed to watch KU and KSU play football. We had already made plans to meet up with friends for Oktoberfest in Lewiston, so I knew I wouldn't be able to watch the whole game. Thankfully Trina texted me about every 5 minutes with updates and them called me so I could have someone else to temporarily freak out with after we won. Gosh, I might have to actually learn about football now that there is a team that's worth watching! Oktoberfest was fun. The Homebrewers Association brought together several of their brews and we got to partake of some good beer and eat brautwursts while listening to a polka band play. Mostly it was just cool to meet other late '20 early '30 somethings since young people are kind of a rarity around here.

Raoul and I are honestly looking forward to just settling into a routine so we aren't running around like crazy like we did this summer. We'll be home for the most part until Christmas. I'm slated to work Thanksgiving Thursday-Sunday so we'll be here. I did get one day off for Christmas, but it's going to be cutting it close to see both Raoul and my families and fly there and back in only 5 days. Someday I'll have more vacation time again!

Mayhem in Hutchinson. . .

2007-08-30T18:25:00.000-07:00

So, I get this cryptic phone call from my mom late on Tuesday night, telling me to call her the next day, and sounding like something wasn't exactly right. Considering the events of the past month, it kind of freaked me out, but nothing prepared me for what she had to say.

Most of you still living in Kansas probably have heard about the Dillons hostage situation that happened on Tuesday. If you haven't, here's a quick synopsis: 30th St. Dillons gets a phone call from a guy who gives details about the interior of the store, indicating that he is either inside or able to see from the outside what is going on in the store. He says he has a bomb placed in the store and instructs everyone to hit the floor and comply with his request to have $1 million sent to a bank account in Europe, or he'll detonate the bomb. He also stated he would personally cut off the fingers of the store manager if they did not respond. Weird situation in itself, but the sad thing was my poor grandma had decided to go to Dillons to pick something up at that exact time. After everything that's happened this month with my grandpa passing away, this is not exactly what she needed to go through. She made it out OK and eventually connected with my frantic parents and aunt, so everything ended up OK, weird and bizzar but OK. They haven't caught the guy yet last I heard, but they were able to catch some local moron who decided that it would be funny to call in "prank" bomb threats to all the other Dillons stores and the Super Walmart the next day. I guess it goes to show you never know what's going to happen back home. At least things weren't actually exploding this time. . .

So, Raoul and I are off to Seattle for Labor Day weekend tomorrow after work. He's meeting with Matt for some guy time (which I think involves Metroid and movies I would never go with him to see) while I meet up with Trina, Katie, and Megan for a fun weekend in the city. I love Seattle!

Back in Clarkston to stay in one place. . .for a couple weeks anyway!

2007-08-20T21:12:00.000-07:00

So, after two weeks of some crazy traveling, Raoul and I are back and settling into our routines again. Here's a quick recap of our travels. . .

We made an overnight mad-dash home to make it to my Grandpa's funeral. Although it was sad (and hard hitting for me since I hadn't actually seen him since my wedding), it was really good to spend time with my family. The whole thing has made me realize how much I love and enjoy spending time with my parents. Watching them have to deal with the death of a parent at different times over the last few years has not been fun, but everyone handled things very well considering the circumstances. There are so many memories of growing up and spending time with him, but I will always remember one particular time. Throughout high school and into college, he constantly asked my siblings and I when we were going to get a job. . .jokingly of course. When I found out about my job in Lewiston, I was so stoked to tell him because after so many years of finding excuses, I finally had an answer. . .and one I knew he would be proud of. I will always remember the bows on his head at Christmas time, rides on the four-wheeler on the farm, coming in the door to their home and hearing "Well, hi!" and when we'd leave "Now you behave". He will never be forgotten and I look forward to seeing him again some day for one seriously big family reunion.

The one upside of the funeral coming so close to my sister's wedding was that I was able to spend more time with her and Joe and help out with some things prior to the ceremony. What can I say. . .we've gone from near enemies to the closest of friends in just a few short years--funny how growing up will do that to you. It's funny too, because neither of us cried at our own weddings, but we sure did a good share of tearing up seeing the other walking down the aisle. The ceremony was really nice, and again it was so good to just have family together. An added bonus was getting to spend some time with Trina (albeit too short), and we even did some livin' it up at Applebees in Hutch the night before Karen's wedding.

And here are a few photos from the rehearsal dinner and wedding--

The week was really emotional, with highs and lows, but having Raoul and my family there made it a very good time--getting to really spend time with the people I care about most.

This past weekend we decided to take a fun trip with our friends Adrienne and Chet--otherwise known as Jason's twin :) --to Missoula, Montana, where they had gone to school. We spent the time just hanging out with some of their friends and touring the town. It was really great to spend some time just having fun--and we had some great company. My big accomplishment of the weekend was having my first real beer. Now don't laugh at me just because I was actually 26 years old before I had my first brewsky. I've been a big wine fan and also like girly drinks (you know, the sweet ones--amaretto sour, seabreeze, cheerleader beer), but after living down the street from several bars in college and waking up to the smell of cheap beer, I've never quite had the appetite to try it. Chet and Adrienne have been gracious enough to help me out by easing me into the world of beer rather than me just stabbing around attempting to find something tasty. The verdict? I still like wine and the sweet stuff better, but a honey-wheat beer with pizza was pretty good. Here's the photo to document the occasion--

Isn't Raoul just the cutest designated driver ever? And here's the road trip crew, and yes Chet "Jason" is on the right. More on our next travels to Seattle coming up soon!

A Sad Day for the Schraeder Family. . .

2007-08-04T23:29:00.000-07:00

Just as Raoul and I were about to embark to two straight weekends of fun plans with family and friends (my sister's wedding and a weekend in Missoula with friends), we got a sad phone call early this morning. My grandpa had surgery last week to repair some valve problems in his heart. His recovery had been going well, and they were working on weaning him off of the ventilator. Last night and early this morning, they found a serious infection and attempted to fight it with anti-biotics. Because of his delicate condition after surgery, his body was unable to fight off the infection and he passed away early this morning. This was a sudden, unexpected turn of events as he had been doing better the last couple of days, so my family is taking it pretty hard. My sister's wedding is still on schedule for Saturday, and the funeral is scheduled for Wednesday. I was able to take off Wednesday and Thursday to be back with my family, but there hasn't been much time to get things in order with trying to distribute my patient load among my co-workers and finding a last minute flight that would keep me from missing as much work as possible. Raoul and I are planning on leaving late on Tuesday night, arriving in Wichita aroun 9:00 AM on Wednesday. Please pray for my family, especially my sister who is trying to hold things together for the wedding as well as grieving for my grandpa. I'll try to post an update when we return.

I'm Back. . . and Married!

2007-07-10T20:30:00.000-07:00

After returning from our wedding and honeymoon, I received many requests for pictures and updates. Over the last three weeks I've been slowly trying to get things updated, first my facebook page, then my myspace page, and finally my blog. So, here is what you've all been looking for!

The wedding was really fantastic. The ceremony really reflected Raoul's and my personalities, values, and interests. Although there were a few bumps along the way in the last minute details, no major problems occurred and most of our families and many of our friends were able to make it to the ceremony. It's hard to say much in words, so I'll let the pictures tell the story.

Afterwards we had a reception and danced the night away! Here are a few pix. Check out the rest on either my facebook or myspace pages.

Unfortunately, most of the pictures of Raoul and I together were taken by the photographer, so I don't have copies of them yet. They turned out really well, so when they come in, I'll post more pictures.

Overall, the day was great, better than I could have imagined it. Raoul and I got to make a committment to begin our lives together as a couple. . . spend a day with our family and friends. . . and have a blast doing it! It will definitely be a day we will always remember. Enjoy the photos!

Only 1 month to go!

2007-05-10T22:07:00.000-07:00

Boy has time flown by. It's been forever since I've blogged, but things have been running like a freight train. Here I am only a month away from the wedding, and I am anxiously awaiting a time when I can officially not plan something for awhile! Things have gone pretty smoothly with just a few bumps along the way. We did have trouble with our first, second, and several subsequent choices for an accompanist. All of them cannot do it, so we're scrambling a bit with that. I've also been a bit stressed about my dress. See, I've been working really hard over the last few months to get myself healthier and in better shape (funny how a wedding and working with several morbidly obese people in the hospital can do that). Now my dress doesn't exactly fit--even after an alteration--so I'm a bit worried that it won't turn out just like I thought it would. Plus, then there's the worry that the dress will not fit down the aisle (Sarah + dress + Dad > aisle space). I'm sure everything will work out. What's the worse that can happen? The caterer bails and we order pizza for all. . .the DJ fails and we break out my ipod with my new "I love the 90's" mix. In all seriousness, I'm really looking forward to the wedding, it's the waiting that's a pain!

It's funny the reactions I get from people when they find out I'm getting married.

Reaction #1--everyone's excited and talks about it all the time. This gets a bit annoying since although the wedding is exciting and important, my life does include a few other things like work, friends, etc. I know, though, that everyone is just excited so this elicts more just a little annoying twinge with me. It has been kind of hard for me to grasp, this whole wedding/marriage thing. See along the way in my life so far, all the things that people have celebrated with me or congratulated me on have been achievements that I've worked for (i.e. high school, college, PT school, getting a job, track). Now, don't misunderstand, I know that my relationship with Paul is something that we've had to work for, but it's just different. Almost like an event in my life rather than an accomplishment. It's even hard for me to put into words because I don't want to marginalize marriage or my relationship with Raoul. I love him dearly and am excited to start our life together. Maybe it's been because we've been together for so long that this just seems like the right time to move forward with our relationship. So, it's weird to receive congratulations. I almost view it as a chance for all those who are coming to share in this time with us rather than standing back away and just sending their congrats.

Reaction #2--This one comes from the bitter divorced people that I have come into contact with. Now, again, not to marginalize the pain that a divorce brings but I really wish these people would keep this attitude to themselves. I can't tell you how many times that I've been asked if I really want to do this and if I've planned in case things don't work out. Enough already. If I didn't want to marry Raoul, I wouldn't have accepted his proposal. I happen to believe in relationships that can last until the day one of us leaves this Earth, and I am not idealistic--just ask all the patients I work with who have been married for 40-50-60 years. I am a realist, things aren't going to be rosy always, but I think Raoul and I already know and have experienced that. But, it can be done, and I wish those who are cynics wouldn't see it as their duty to enlighten the rest of us.

Overall, I'm looking forward to the time I get to spend with friends and family before the wedding and the reception/party afterwards. I admit that I am nervous about the ceremony itself. I'm just not one of those people who like to stand up in front of people and be watched. So, I figure if I can get through that everything will be fine. Then, Raoul and I will get a whole week to relax, spend some time together that doesn't involve wedding planning, and enjoy getting paid to not work. Then it's back to Washington, where we're planning on having our reception in July. My parents are planning on making it, and Raoul's might too. It will be a really relaxing time to just hang out and enjoy a fun time with friends. Then it won't be long before we get to do it again for my sister! We'll keep you posted as things come along and get pictures up when we can. Looking forward to seeing those of you who can make it!

One Shining Moment. . .

2007-04-03T22:17:00.000-07:00

Quick post, but did anyone else watch "One Shining Moment" after the championship game on Monday? I found it kind of funny that the only clips of KU playing showed Arthur and Collins--both freshman and neither really integral players in the tournament. Funny. So it's farewell to another season--though we did end up #5 in the polls at the end of it all. Next year. . .we're Joe Lumbardi's pick to be the top #1 seed in the tourney. Please let it be true :)

In mourning. . .

2007-03-25T08:11:00.000-07:00

So, last night officially ended our season, and I am continually amazed at how attached to KU basketball I get. The game was really sad for me, not because we lost, but because we shouldn't have. I feel like I'm a teacher or parent who's child/student is exceptionally talented, and after being with them throughout their journey, having to watch them fall down. Sad. Seriously, I really believe that our team is a better team than the UCLA team that they played last night. We have better defense, talent, and quickness. But, instead of being flexible and working around their defensive play, we just ran right into them like a stupid lab rat in a maze hitting the wall and handed them the ball. We worked so hard defensively on every possession to steal the ball, but then we didn't convert. . .making less than half of their layups? They truly started to give up that ballgame about 1 minute before halftime and never recovered. I don't mind losing if it is a hard fought battle where the other team is just better, but losing when we have the potential to win and head on to the final four is tough to take.

Now we begin to look at next year. Brandon Rush, although you played well in the tournament, you are NOT ready to jump to the NBA. Let this year be about Oden/Durant and don't make the mistake that McRoberts from Duke is by jumping early. Instead of sitting on the bench for a year in the NBA, work hard over the summer, gel more as a team, and help bring home our first national championship in 20 years. Next year is the year to do it. After that Self is really going to have to rebuild from the ground up with all of the players graduating and leaving for the pros. To all of "my boys", congratulations on a fantastic season. Big 12 conference and tournament champs, you have worked really hard. When you click on the court, you are AMAZING and very fun to watch. We're all bound to have our bad days. Store this one away and, like last year, use it as fuel to push further next season. . .all the way to the top!!! You have every reason to be proud of your accomplishments, and you will always be #1 in my book! Rock Chalk Jayhawk!

Work and wedding planning and skiing. . .oh my!

2007-02-06T12:23:00.000-08:00

It's been a hectic last few weeks. Work is really busy right now, the class I'm taking this semester is a lot more involved than I thought it was going to be (I mean, really, a 10 page paper for an online physical therapy course? --- I'm a science major, not a history major!) , wedding planning is continuing, and it just feels like the "to do" list gets longer and longer.

Wedding stuff is coming along, though. Raoul and I did our invitations this weekend and my mom booked our DJ, so I think all the big stuff is done. I honestly think this planning thing is overrated, and I'm beginning to dream of why we didn't just do a wedding/bbq in the backyard. It's getting closer all the time, and it will sure be nice for Raoul not to have to leave all the time. . .oh to live in the same town.

Raoul and I did go skiing a couple of weekends ago. He was very patient with my less than stellar performance, and went on green runs with me all day. I'm hoping I'm about ready for a blue, but I'm still not confident in my ability to stop, and then there's that fear of hitting a tree. Considering buying a helmet. . .

We watched the KU vs. Texas A&M game on Saturday. A loss that is acceptable in that they are a ranked team (and a good one too) but not acceptable in that it was at home, they were ahead the entire game, and it was college gameday. Did anyone else's jaw drop to the floor when Digger Phelps said that KU has the potential to contend for the national title? I'm pretty sure that guy has never said a nice thing about KU ever. . . maybe he got caught up in the magic of the Phog :) This week is KSU (who just beat Texas) and Missouri (at Columbia) both games where they'll really have to buckle down a play ball---and both of which will not be televised on the west coast :(

President's Day weekend is fast approaching, and Jaimee, Adrienne and I are ready to hit the slopes in Nelson, B.C. We're staying in a cute little hostel there and scored a good deal on lift tickets (yippee for the Canadian dollar!), so we're way excited for a fun girls weekend. Other than that I think that's my life in a nutshell. Now I'm just awaiting the groundhog's prediction. . .

The Post Entitled: Rock Chalk Jayhawk, or Let it Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow, or Why is it so Cold???

2007-01-14T13:15:00.000-08:00

After a very busy week back in the midwest, Raoul and I are back out west and starting to get back into the groove of our normal routine. I had the chance to spend some really good time with my family, visit Raoul's parents' new house in Tulsa, and get A LOT of wedding planning done. In Hutch, my Uncle and his family drove in from western KS with my grandma to have a post-Christmas gathering with my central KS side of the family. I hadn't seen some of them in over a year, so it was good to visit for a day. Raoul and I spent New Year's Eve with my sis and her fiance playing Cranium and catching up with some old friends of the family. New Years Day Raoul and I drove to Wichita to meet up with Trina for lunch and re-do our Target registry (they apparently lost our info after our first attempt to set it up in November). Then it was on to Tulsa for a couple of days. In true Mattson fashion, we took some time to relax, enjoyed some great food, and Pam and I got into some Sudoku puzzles. I am very thankful, also, that the case of Washington wines I brought home with me on the plane made it safe and sound, so everyone was able to enjoy them in one piece! After Tulsa, we were back up to KC for the rest of the trip. My sister and I spent a day doing some retail therapy--something I no longer take for granted! Then was the day of mayhem. . . In just 7 short hours, we had our engagement pictures taken, picked out the tuxes, met the reception site coordinator, stopped by the church, met with the florist, met with the cake baker, and finally stopped off at the caterer to get a contract started. I honestly can't remember a more productive day that I have ever had. That night we met up with Frank and Scorbin and got to meet her fiance as well. It's always good to see friends when we get a chance, and maybe sometime when we don't have so much to do we'll be able to relax a little more rather than just put it onto our schedules for that trip. The next morning we dropped Raoul off at the airport and then did wedding dress shopping for my sister. That ended the third of three exhausting days, so I was glad for a break to sleep in a bit on Sunday morning before flying back.

Since coming back we've still had pretty big loads at work, except when the snow came (hence one of the titles of this post). Starting early on Wednesday morning we received a blanket of snow and ice (rare for the valley) that has continued to accumulate over the last couple of days. Thank goodness we learned how to drive in these types of conditions, because there are a lot of people out here who haven't. It's so pretty to look around and see the snow, and the roads are pretty clear, so we haven't had any problems getting around. While most people here hate the snow, I just don't feel like it's really winter until we've had a good round of it, so I'm now content. The snow is staying around because IT IS COLD! Now I know the midwest has had ice storms, so I'm not trying to start an argument about where is colder, but IT IS COLD! So could in fact that Raoul and I were unable to go skiing yesterday. We figured skiing in 10-15 degree weather probably wouldn't be much fun :( I work next weekend, so hopefully the weather will get better because I really need to practice before our President's Day getaway to go skiing in Canada.

Finally, the Jayhawks. Their performance on Wednesday against OSU? AMAZING! Their performance on Saturday against ISU? What the heck? I swear, I'm about ready to recommend sending the team to a psychiatrist because I'm pretty sure they are bipolar or have some sort of multiple personality disorder. When they really play, they look like they could beat anyone. When they don't, I wonder if the local high school team could give them a good run. It really does come down to which team decides to show up to the game. I am glad to start seeing a lot of turn-over in the top 25 though. It's good to keep everyone on their toes. Plus UNC lost so that doesn't hurt my feelings. There has been mixed feelings out here though. . .Gonzaga is really starting to struggle, but WSU has played some fantastic games and was ranked 22nd this week. I love college basketball!!!

That's pretty much the update. I'm just trying to get things cleaned up around the apartment and staying on top of the wedding stuff. Hope you all are having a happy New Year!

I do exist!

2006-12-25T22:29:00.000-08:00

So, I know it's been forever since I last posted. Things have been crazy for the last month with the holidays and work, but it's Christmas so I'm taking a moment to reflect on the chaos and pass on another update.

Thanksgiving was busy, but I was able to come home to see my family. Paul came too, making it our first real holiday together. I was supposed to join his family in Tulsa on Thanksgiving Day and then on to my family the following day, but the airlines thought otherwise. The plane we boarded had an instrument broken that tells whether the nose of the plane is pointing up, down, or straight ahead--a pretty important part. So, they were delaying my flight 3 hours to fly in a new part from Atlanta (yes, I said Atlanta). I did manage with some finangling to get a different flight out and arrive in KC 2 hours before my delayed flight would arrive. My plan was to change planes in KC and then head to Tulsa, but even with my new flight plan, I could not make that connecting flight. So, after a day of stress and negotiating, Raoul and his sis and bro-in-law came up to KC with Thanksgiving leftovers at my sister's apartment. The next day we left early for Hutchinson and then came back to KC to look for bridesmaid's dresses and show my mom "the dress". After a thumbs up on the dress and finding one that the girls liked for them, Raoul's family and my family met up for dinner. Then it was back to WA the next day. A whirlwind with a few kinks, but worth it to see my family and get the dress stuff done.

The following weekend I went to Spokane with Jaimee and Adrienne to find "the dress". We found it in the perfect size, color, and length, so I bought it right off of the rack. They gave me a discount, so I ordered this really great veil to match. Now the shoe hunt begins!

Since then I have been really busy with work--end of the year surgeries are really starting to pile up. I played piano for the kid's Christmas program at church, so that took time for practices and the performances. I also got to play two duets with another woman at church on Christmas Eve--hurray for getting my piano at home! Raoul and I picked up with our pastor again on our pre-marriage counseling. We had a discussion on conflict and how we handle it. The whole discussion was really encouraging. I guess after being together for four years we've been able to learn a lot about each other, and I am really glad we waited to get married as long as we have. We've had some invaluable time and experiences to be better prepared for meshing our lives together. On top of those obligations Christmas things had to get done. I mailed some of the packages (the rest of you will get them when I get back home!), sent out our save-the-dates/Christmas letters, did my Christmas baking, and got things lined up for my trip home.

Raoul and I did discover a new winery in Clarkston that is doing really well for their first wines. I also found a red wine that I didn't find too dry as well--so maybe they'll convert me from white to red afterall! I really am facinated by the whole wine making process, and found a wine course at the local community college that might be interesting to look into.

So, Christmas finally came. I worked this weekend, so tons of really great friends invited me to spend Christmas/Christmas Eve with them--and I took a few of them up on it. Last night I went to a couple from church's house and spent time with their family, including participating in a theatrical reinactment of the Christmas story directed by their 8 year old grandson. This morning I worked and then went to my pastor and his family's house for lunch and a few games of cards. Then it was off to have Christmas dinner with my boss and his family. Overall, considering I didn't get to see Raoul or my family, it was a fun Christmas. I've been really blessed with wonderful friends who care about me!

Now I'm rearing up to head back to KC on Sat. Tons of packing, laundry, etc. to do. But, then I get to see my family and Raoul's family! I hope you all had a wonderful holiday! Merry Christmas!

Gilmore Girls Episode 6 & etc.

2006-11-13T18:03:00.000-08:00

So, the reason it's taken me so long to post about Gilmore Girls Episode 6 is that honestly, I really didn't think much of the show. It seemed like an hour passed with more not quite as witty dialogue and no plot development. So, I honestly have no comment, but feel free to comment if you thought differently.

Things here have continued to be crazy. A week ago Raoul and I went to Seattle to see Matt and Emily and their new place. It was fun to see friends again and their house is really awesome! Raoul and I also started to attack our wedding registry. We figured we'd need to start since the pass (through the mountains on the way to Seattle) will be pretty bad until next spring and it would be hard to get back over there again until then. All in all, it went OK and we got a good start with our kitchen stuff.

Last week I got sick, so I spent two days home from work trying to get rid of a nagging head cold/losing my voice. I'm still trying to get rid of the sniffles, but at least I'm well enough to get back to work--being gone makes it really hard on everyone because things have picked up so much. Work continues to be really busy with no slow-down in site. So, we're just hoping we'll find another physical therapist who would love to move out here and work with us.

I had a good birthday, thanks to all of you for your e-mails/flowers/phone calls. 26. . .so I've entered my "late" twenties I think. Trina's glad I've caught up with her, but she'll be a year ahead again in February :) . I'm still playing with my ipod, and have downloaded a lot of awesome stuff to tide me over during my endless travels over the next couple of months. I'm looking forward to seeing my family next week--Thanksgiving is almost here! Then, I have a course to attend in San Francisco the following weekend, so I'll be off again 4 days after I get back. I'll be here for the Christmas holiday working, but I'm planning a trip back to Kansas the first week of January, so hopefully I'll be able to catch up with everyone then. . .and do some much needed wedding planning!

Picked up the new Keith Urban and Sugarland albums this weekend. I love the new Sugarland album, but am not so sure about the Keith Urban one yet. It's kind of sounding a bit overproduced, less country, than his previous works. And, I don't really know if that's a good thing. I just hope that Nicole K. isn't changing his music style. . .that would make me cry :( Any other country fans out there have any thoughts?

Gilmore Girls Episode 5

2006-10-29T20:49:00.000-08:00

So, it's time again for a Gilmore Girls update. I must admit that I think this was my favorite episode so far this season. Here's why--I am a fan of Loreli and Christopher, so I love the fact that they got into a fight and resolved it like mature adults (with their own flare of course). Loreli's right, Christopher can't just send Gigi over to Sherri--he really can't trust her based on a single letter. He was mature enough to think over what Loreli said, and Loreli wants to support him in this decision. What a breath of fresh air to have Loreli's guy want to involve her in his child's life!

The Emily DUI storyline was absolute genious. She is the character that we all love to hate, yet somewhere inside of her she has a soft center--making her even more lovable.

Logan really hooked me in during this episode. It was really sweet of him to suprise Rory on his business trip. It's also really great to see him becoming more responsible, enjoying his job, but still not becoming a fuddy duddy like his dad. I'm getting a big red flag, though. The whole Bobbie thing is going to cause some problems. Rory is obviously jealous, and I'm afraid that she is going to do something really stupid and ruin the great thing that her relationship with Logan has become. I truly believe that he is genuinely in love with her and wouldn't do anything to jeapardize that. Rory, though, I think is not as trusting. . .

As for me, things continue kicking along. I got a fabulous early birthday present this weekend from Raoul--a pink Ipod nano! I'm uploading all of my CDs into Itunes as we speak, so I can actually have some variety to listen to during my workouts. We had a retreat for work this weekend and got a lot of things discussed and learned some new things to help out with treating people more effectively in the clinic. We have an exciting weekend coming up with a visit to Seattle to see Matt & Emily and get started on our wedding registry! Look for another update after we return.

Gilmore Girls Episodes 3 & 4

2006-10-19T20:02:00.000-07:00

So, things have been extremely hectic lately, so I haven't had the chance to post updates. I have been keeping up with GG though. The 3rd episode didn't really do much for me. I felt like much didn't really happen, although the writing did seem to get a little bit better. So, I am one of those few who thinks that Christopher and Loreli should end up together, but episode 4 is making me a little wary. Chris is a great guy and is treating Loreli like a princess, but the way they are writing the relationship is a little weird. It just feels perfect, yet disconnected, like I can see them having the two of them split in a few episodes. Plus, everyone is acting all paranoid about him being the rebound guy. Understand the worry behind getting too serious too soon, but why does everyone treat Loreli like a little kid? I'd really love to see her come into her own and not need someone else to tell her what to do. Anyways, I don't have much to comment about it, just waiting to see what happens.

I have been keeping up with Project Runway, so the big finale was last night. It was kind of disapointing that Jeffrey won. Throughout the show I have been a fan of Michael Knight, but honestly in the runway show I thought his collection was kind of trashy. Uli's collection, however, really impressed me. I really think she should have won the competition just based on the runway show. Any other Runway fans out there who have thoughts?

Things here are still really busy. We lost our PTA last week, which has its good and bad points. Good because she wasn't a good fit with the rest of us and bad because we're stuck short-handed again. Volleyball is going OK, but it's kind of tough because my team has a tough time taking the game seriously. I mean, I'm all about having fun, but I really like to play well and win occasionally. . .that's definitely not happening. Plus, since we can't get a pass up, there's no chance of setting it up for a spike, which is my favorite part of the game.

On a good note, though, I went to Spokane next weekend and found "the dress". It took trips to 6 stores to finally find a store with a helpful service staff and a gorgeous dress. So, now the quest is to find it in KC to present to my mom before ordering it back here. So keep your fingers crossed so we can find it.

That's about it. . .feel free to comment away!

Gilmore Girls: Episode Two

2006-10-03T22:11:00.000-07:00

So, it's Gilmore night again, and I must say that tonight was better than last week. The banter was better, much better actually, but there still seems to be something missing. And what was up with the repeated references to Gwenyth Paltrow?

First, new stuff that popped up on the show. Lane is pregnant! Crazy, especially since that's how her mom had her (getting pregnant after having sex on her wedding night). I think it will make a really good story line with Lane really growing up. She will be a great mom! The big question, though, is what will happen to Hep Alien?

Then, Kirk's makeshift diner. So, usually Kirk just makes me go "what the heck?" but tonight he actually made me angry. What is he thinking setting up a diner in front of Luke's? And, he was downright rude to Luke, which was uncalled for. Will he actually sue Luke--he really must be crazy!

Another uncalled for item: Luke hunting down and punching Christopher. What in the world makes him think that's OK? Now I understand that he's upset and I'm not justifying Loreli's choice to sleep with Christopher, but she did break off the engagement. He no longer has the right to be upset about what she does with her life. End of story. And really, I understand he's upset, but he was really the first one to make the move away from getting married when he put April out of their lives, and put her in front of Loreli. Then, was Loreli basically just makes it final, gives him the choice, he stumbles. Her decision then is that she's had enough--and I really don't blame her. It doesn't matter if we think he should get a second chance, she made that decision, and I think people need to respect that. Instead, Luke turns around and acts like a two year old because he's too insecure to admit he's hurting over the break-up. That's really making me not like him much right now. At the end of the show he begins to redeem himself, but I think he's right. They just weren't right for each other, even though it did seem like it when they first started dating. Other parts of their lives got in the way.

My prediction? Loreli and Christopher will begin a relationship after he tells her that he's really serious about her and loves her. Part of the reason I think they haven't gotten together before now is because they have needed to grow up, and go through some things to bring them to where they are now. One reason that I think Loreli was so excited about Luke was that he was so far removed from her parents and their way of life. She has lived her life so determined to not be like them, that it has influenced a lot of her life decisions. Now I think she's kind of afraid of being with Christopher because he is kind of a part of that life, though he's not at all like her parents. She needs to come to accept that she doesn't have to be a polar opposite of her parents' way of life to establish herself as an individual. This whole idea has begun to be explored by the Logan/Rory storyline, that entering into that world of wealth does not necessarily mean that you have to become a superficial stuck-up snob. Not that Logan didn't have his own childish spoiled rich kid ways, but I think he's beginning to grow up as well. Also, I know that Rory is upset about him purchasing a ticket for her to visit at Christmas, but after thinking about it, that means that he's committed to remaining faithful to her for the long haul. And, maybe he'll pop the question in Europe? Hey, maybe the show will end with a double wedding? :)

Thoughts?

Gilmore Girls: Episode One

2006-09-27T23:18:00.002-07:00

So, I watched the season premiere of Gilmore Girls on Tuesday night, and I'm not sure how I feel about it so far. There were times when I wasn't sure if things felt weird because of the writing (since the writer is no longer with the show) or if I was just paranoid because the writer is no longer with the show. I noticed it especially in the arm wrestling scene with Sookie and Michel. Was it over the top because of the characters or just because that scene was badly written? The whole mood of the show was kind of slow and painful too, but again, that could be because of the strained situations Loreli and Rory are dealing with in the episode.

Personally, it was really painful to sit through the whole show going "Luke and Loreli need to talk. I don't care if they get back together or not, but they need to talk". The silence between them was deafening. Then there's the whole Rory/Logan thing. The rocket gift/reference to the Twilight Zone was cool, but just when you think things are going well and maybe you could actually get used to the idea of them as a couple he makes plans not to see her until Christmas. Grrrr. . . I kind of think that the Luke and Loreli thing is over, though. And, I have a feeling that she'll be with Christopher at the end of this season, kind of a happy family kind of ending. After what Luke put her through with April and keeping Loreli out of that relationship, he really does deserve what he gets. I mean, Loreli can't play the desperate character forever (though from the previews for next week it looks like she will take that position yet again). With Rory? I have no idea! As always, though, Taylor continues to annoy me, Kirk continues to make me wonder what planet he came from, and Paris continues to be as socially incompetant as ever.

So, fellow Gilmore fans, any thoughts?

Yeah for Rain!

2006-09-21T21:22:00.000-07:00

So, after months of dry weather and fires, it has finally rained. In fact, it's rained for almost 3 days straight now. I just love the crisp air after a good rain. . .I do miss thunderstorms, though. They don't have them here like they do in Kansas. So, let the rain continue. . .

I had a busy work weekend last weekend, so I am definitely looking forward to two days off this weekend. Things have been hectic all around, but somehow we always seem to get things done. I attribute most of it to teamwork--my co-workers rock! I turned in my first case study for my class last week and heard back from my instructor yesterday. She wants to use my paper as a discussion for everyone taking this course--and she gave me 100%. Yippee! It's really hard to commit to doing this class in the midst of all of my work stuff, but it helps to have that kind of encouragement along the way.

Jaimee and I road bikes for about 10 miles tonight. Now, Quijote makes me look like a novice (it took us about 1 hour and 15 minutes to do it), but it was fun to shake things up a bit instead of just walking or going to the gym. Volleyball starts next week! We practiced a bit last weekend, and boy am I rusty! My timing is way off--hopefully it will come back. Otherwise "Da Wall" will become "Da girl who can't get there in time".

Since work has been so crazy recently, I decided to treat myself to something I've been eyeing for awhile now. On Sunday I bought a 37" flatscreen LCD TV. It is absolutely beautiful! The funny thing is that I explain to everyone here that I needed a bigger TV so that I could watch KU basketball games without sitting 2" from the screen. They all seem to think I'm crazy, but ask any fellow Kansan and the first thing they say when I tell them I bought a new TV is "that will be awesome for watching basketball on". Somethings these northwesterners will never quite understand. That's OK though. The beauty of Kansas basketball is that it is absolutely insanely awesome--our fans have every right to obsess as much as they do about "our boys". I mean, I am not crazy for watching recruiting stuff all summer and anxiously awaiting "Late Night" in October for the season to begin, right?

Things I miss about Kansas: basketball, BBQ, open night skies, Panera, my family, Denim and Diamonds, Trina, my friends--can't wait for my visit home over Thanksgiving!

Missing Seattle already. . .

2006-09-09T12:21:00.000-07:00

So, as you've probably already read from Raoul's post, we returned from Seattle safe and sound. It was an absolute blast! Definitely a fun time with Trina and Karen. . .needed to hang out with them for a few days. They keep me laughing, sane, and having fun--we truly are the dynamic trio (phrase coined by Karen). We did a lot of "Seattle stuff"--the science center, experience music project, space needle, walked along the piers, pike's market. . .and we can't forget several stops for coffee. We also did some dress shopping and found some that are definitely up there on the list. The final decision will be made the weekend after Thanksgiving when my mom will meet up with us in Kansas City. I also exposed Karen to Ikea, and now I think she knows why I rave about it so much. Too bad that my entertainment center wasn't in stock when I went to get it on Monday, nor has it been back in stock since. Maybe someday I'll be able to get it and finish setting up my living room!

Work continues at a frenzied pace. Lots of people to see and it seems like less and less time to do it. There are several circluating rumors about the hospital on the Idaho side of the valley, doctors becoming unhappy with them, staff being laid off because there isn't enough work to do. . .and all of that seems to be flooding us over on the Washington side. Good for our business, difficult at times for us to maintain our sanity. Weekends are becoming less a 3-4 hour task and more often a full days work--this is bad for trying to plan anything outside of work, but good for bringing in more cash. I'm working next weekend, so that should help out with the seemingly endless plane tickets I'm purchasing.

Volleyball starts in a couple of weeks, so we're trying to find more players to fill out our team. I can't wait to get back onto the court again! I'm also keeping busy trying to organize the leftover piles of stuff that have accumulated in my office and bedroom. I hung up a few things on the walls, trying to get rid of the endless cream-colored expanse.

If I could have just one wish right now, I would wish away all of this horrible smoke! The fires around here continue to burn, and with the exception of Seattle, I haven't seen the clear sky in about a month. It makes it difficult to breath, and then Jaimee and I can't go walking outside. Also, several of my patients have had more problems, which can complicate their already present illnesses. What we need is rain, and lots of it!

Raoul and I start teaching high school sunday school tomorrow. . .should prove to be interesting. Other than that, things just keep ticking along. Looking forward to summer being over and fall weather setting in, checking out a high school football game or two, and finishing up my duplex.

Seattle here we come!

2006-08-29T22:12:00.000-07:00

So, as you can tell from the title of my post, I'm excited about this weekend's trip to Seattle. My sister and Trina are flying in to spend time in a fantastic city! We're going to do all the "Seattle" stuff, Trina has requested repeated trips to Starbucks, and on Sunday we'll be doing some dress shopping. Hopefully, at some point I'll find a new entertainment center to replace my broken one. . .yeah for Ikea!

So, for an update since my last post. I've slowly been continuing my quest to organize my duplex. Slowly is the operative word here. I did clear a path in my office to the futon so Raoul doesn't have to use his Steeplechasing skills to sleep on Saturday nights. It's all about injury prevention. We did go to Macy's and pick out some Fiestaware. We did 4 sets in three different colors: cobalt, sunflower, and scarlet. I know, you're probably all thinking "why didn't you just wait to register for them?" Well, Macy's had a huge sale and were selling them for "buy one get one free". It was too good of a deal to pass up, so I splurged a bit. I'm really going through this nesting thing. . .putting together a decent home has suddenly become this huge drive, thus the curtains, dishes, etc. Next on the list? Entertainment Center. End tables for the living room.

Last Saturday Jaimee and I went to Spokane for the day. We hit all the good spots, including Target, and I introduced her to the wonder that is Sonic. We also stopped by David's Bridal and I tried on a couple of things. It's really weird, you know. I'm not exactly a frilly girl. I wear pants and polos all week and usually just casual skirts to church. I pretty much happy in a pair of sweatpants and a t-shirt. Putting on a fancy dress is fun, but just feels odd. Hopefully I'll break into it a bit more after this upcoming weekend.

Raoul and I are continuing wedding planning stuff. It's definitely not easy 2,000 miles away. We have contacted a few photographers and gotten some information on caterers, but I feel like there's so much to be done. I just remember friends planning weddings in college and it being this really elaborate ordeal. Being in the working world, there just isn't time for that. I'm trying to live by "keep it simple, stupid". Good advice, huh?

Also, look for us to come out with a CD of our favorite tunes. As we've been looking for wedding music, we've realized that a lot of our favs are either depressing, about a break-up, or basically just wedding-incompatable lyrics. So, this CD will contain everything that won't work for a wedding. . .should be an interesting compilation!

My Newly Dressed Windows and my New Apartment!

2006-08-20T16:09:00.000-07:00

So after weeks of attempting to get things together, I finally have some of the pieces in place. My first triumph is dressing my windows!

Here's the blinds for my bedroom. . .

And the vertical blinds on my sliding door. . .

Finally the curtains are hung on my living room window. . .

And here are some pictures of my duplex. . .

Along the side of the duplex. . .

The backyard. . .

My living room. . .

My dining room. . .

My kitchen. . .

My bathroom. . .

Hallway to the bedrooms. . .

My office. . .

So the rest of the place is pretty messy still, so I won't post pictures of the rest of my office and my bedroom yet. But, this will let you have a quick look at my new place. Hopefully in a few weeks things will be in better shape.

Quick Update!

2006-08-17T12:51:00.000-07:00

I'm just posting a quick update (at the urging of an impatient future sis-in-law :) ) with a more in-depth post to come in a few days. Things at work have been crazy busy, so I haven't had much time to even think during the day. I've been kicking the exercise thing into high gear--Jaime and I have made a pact to stay after work for 30 min. M-Th and alternate between arms and legs for strength training and then doing abs each day. This adds in to the 3-4 times a week we either take our 5 mile walk or I do 60 min. of cardio at the gym. Now, if I can only stick to it!

Had an exciting evening with Benji winning So You Think You Can Dance. I really did like all four finalists. . .and as cheesy as it sounds I wish the tour was coming close by so I could see them. They really are fantastic at what they do. Now I'm addicted to Project Runway. . .there will always be more reality TV! Raoul and I watched track on TV last weekend and found out that the 2008 Olympic Trials are in Eugene, OR. We're definitely going to try to get tickets to go! I mean, really, 2 days of amazing athletes competing in one of my favorite sports. . .awesome!

The duplex is slowly coming along. They're installing new carpet in as I'm typing this so I'll finally be able to get all of my furniture back into where it goes. Then the organizing can begin. We also hung blinds this weekend, so we only have the new curtain rod/curtains to go. That will be done this weekend after Raoul and I check out the Lentil Festival in Pullman. Keep checking for more details on that experience. . .it should be interesting.

One final thing, for those who haven't checked Raoul's blog, the wedding date is set. June 9, 2007 at Danforth Chapel in Lawrence, KS. More details to follow as I find time to try to keep planning.

An Entertaining Weekend in Spokane

2006-08-06T21:55:00.000-07:00

So, this week has been pretty crazy. Busy, lack of sleep, and clutter all around from not yet unpacking everything. I did finally get ahold of my landloards who have decided to get the carpet cleaned so that Raoul doesn't die of an allergy attack. Knowing that we'd be spending a lot of time on Sunday moving everything out of my living room and dining room into the garage, we decided to have a fun day in Spokane on Saturday.

One of my primary goals was to take a look at some window treatments so I could ditch the horrible drapes (that incidently are pretty much laden with cat hair) that are currently in my living room window and on the sliding glass door. I've never bought drapes before, but I knew I'd be investing some money. . .not that I wanted to spend much since I don't plan on staying in this duplex forever. Anyways, I digress. After stopping off at Sonic for lunch (yippee!) we headed to JC Penney's to check out there drapes. We found the perfect fabric to match my pillows, but because my window is gigantic, they would have to be custom made. The salesperson calls is sticker-shock, I call it highway robbery--$2,500 to dress my window and sliding glass door. I DO NOT think so. So blinds, she says, are a less expensive option. Again having to be custom made because of the size of the window--now I'm looking at $350 for the window alone. Again, I DO NOT think so. Determined to find a cheaper avenue, we headed to Target. And, I again found matching drapes (a difficult thing because of the deep red color of my pillows). This time each panel was only $40. A little more than I'd like, but much more do-able. Problem, the rod I have in place will not work with these drapes. Problem solved. . .I ditch the curtain rod I have along with the curtains and start from scratch. I found a cool curtain rod that matches the feel I want for the room. . .and then another problem. I'm going to need 4 panels to cover that window--$160 for drapes. But we can make this work for cheaper, right? So I buy two panels and the rod. Then it's off to Linen's and Things and World Market to buy sheers to go behind the curtains, leaving it open in the middle so I can have more light in the room anyways, and it will still look good. $20 x 4 panels for sheers? This window is getting very expensive! So I find these shears at World Market for $12 a panel which is definitely more manageable. Then, I remember that you can't put two different curtains on the same rod. But, by this time I am dead tired and sick of shopping for window treatments. I'll pick up a simple rod for the sheers at Wal-Mart this week.

After this exhausting experience, I've decided that I'm going to get vertical blinds for the screen door--a much cheaper $60 from Home Depot. I also need to get new blinds for my bedroom window because the ones I have now don't exactly shut all the way. Definitely a trip to Home Depot this week.

After abandoning window shopping, Raoul and I looked at flatware at Pottery Barn and then went to dinner at Olive Garden (yippee!) where I had a really good glass of Riesling--nice and smooth without too much bite to go well with dinner. Then Raoul and I took a little tram-ride to see Spokane falls. A pretty sight, but nothing compared to our trip to Multnomah falls this May. On our way to the tram we stumbled upon Spocannabis. Yes, that's right, a festival with a bunch of hippies trying to get marijuana legalized. Odd thing, though, the band that played was hardcore screaming stuff--not exactly hippy grooving tunes. I'm sure that Raoul will recreate this experience for you more vividly, so check out his blog. We also stumbled upon tropical snow in Spokane!!!! Yeah!!!! I miss Tad's a ton, and I don't know who runs this thing, but it's the same stuff----and it's awesome!!! Yummy sugary goodness.

So, an exciting and exhausting day. Sunday we pretty much took a 2 hour nap after church and then spent the afternoon emptying out my apartment. . .and getting rid of those dreadful curtains!!! They are now banished to the garage where they will stay for all eternity, or at least until I move out. We saw Taladaga Nights tonight. It's a really funny flick, definitely a recommended movie when you feel like watching something pointless and funny. It's a whole lot 'o redneck crammed into 2 hours of laughs. So, check it out, and tell me what you think. Also any advice on how to do this window shopping stuff without spending an entire paycheck?

I Feel All Grown Up Now!!!

2006-07-29T11:50:00.000-07:00

A quick aside before I start the real reason for this post. I just got up from sleeping 11 hours straight, and oh my gosh is that amazing! I don't need it all the time, but about once a month, man is it great!

Anyways, back to the subject at hand. So I have officially been working for an entire year now. There's something about being able to say "I've been here a year" that sounds so much more impressive than "I've been here 10 months". It's a huge milestone, like I finally feel like I have some credibility and that I'm not still "in training". When I really sat down to start thinking about it, I realized that I have completely provided for myself--everything I've needed or wanted--for an entire year. Although I have always been very appreciative of all of the help my parents have given me over the years, there is just something about being able to say that I can take care of myself. I've officially become a productive part of society and financially self sufficient! That makes me a real grown-up!

So, as my second year of employment begins, I am to have an evaluation with my boss regarding my work performance, and I am eager to see where I'm on the right track and where I need to get things together a little more. One thing I definitely want to do is to do more independent research to keep up with journal articles/new techniques, etc. This first year has mostly been just trying to keep my head on straight (and I think I need some more post-it notes!) and I haven't done much other than be a sponge and soak up stuff that the other guys already know. I'm on a quest to become an independent sponge so that I can squeeze out some things of my own for them to learn. All about becoming a team player.

My assessment on adulthood? Some things are not as much fun. . .less vacation time, bills, etc. Some things are much cooler though. . .being able to afford quick weekend getaways, having real furniture, keeping a steady paycheck! I think I'm content to stay where I am at for awhile. . .afterall there is no going back now!

Moving. . .

2006-07-23T15:25:00.000-07:00

As the rest of the country has felt the heatwave, the LC valley is no exception. It has been between 95 and 110 for over a week now. And, of course, when it is that hot I decide that it is a good time to move all of my stuff to a new apartment. The new place is great, with the main exception being that the previous owner had a cat, and the cat left behind a not so great odor. I've tried several things with only marginal success, so now it's on to talking to my landloards about the need to replace the carpet in about half of my apartment. Aside from that, I love my garage, I have a ton more room, and central air is a definite blessing. For the sake of Raoul and his allergic reaction to cats, though, I should definitely get the cat thing taken care of. We got most of my stuff moved last weekend, all of the furniture and my clothes, dishes, etc. My electronic stuff came over mid-week when my cable was turned on here, and all I have left is odds and ends like coats (which you don't really think about when it's 110) and storage stuff. Hopefully next weekend I'll have some down time to get the apartment clean and turn over the keys so I can be done with the old place!

This weekend after working a 7 hour day on Saturday, we had the pleasure of having Matt and Emily come in from Seattle. . .though they may have wished that they had stayed there after they got a taste of the heat here. We had dinner at the Sangria grill (yummy!) and went to see "Lady in the Water" while indulging in frozen junior mints. The movie was really fantastic. . .probably my favorite M. Night movie behind "Signs". And, contrary to the trailers, the movie is not scary. In fact, it is really sweet and a wonderful story. Today at church we officially became members, and then we took Matt and Emily to the pizzeria where they know us by name. We took in the "Idaho Sucks" video at the Lewis and Clark Discovery Center, and then went out to the Nez Perce visitor's center. Unexpectedly, a park ranger was giving a talk on how to throw an atlal. And, after some instruction, we were able to try it out for ourselves. Congrats to Matt who was the only one of the four of us who hit the cardboard woolly mammoth! Then Raoul took them back up to Pullman so they could head back up to the coast. It was a quick weekend, but a fun time to catch up with friends.

That leaves me an afternoon/evening of some relaxation. I might catch up on some laundry so I have clothes for the next week, and I need to pick up another load of stuff at the apartment because Jaime's coming over tonight to experience DDR for the first time. I have a feeling an obsession with be born and we'll have another mode of exercise besides walking the bridges. Then to face another week of work and try to get this place in some semblence of order. More to come when I finish the move and hopefully some pictures of the new place too!

I'm Engaged!

2006-07-13T18:13:00.000-07:00

OK, so I know that most of you who read my blog already know this fact, but the unanswered question from most of you is "how did he do it?" So here goes. . .

My sister, her boyfriend, and I were driving back up to the KC area after a day in Hutchinson with my family. They were supposed to drop me off in Lawrence with Raoul who was helping Paco pack up his apartment. I called him once we got there and gave the phone to my sis for directions to his location. She said he wanted to meet us at the Union. . .and then proceeded to drive around in circles all over campus (passing the Union several times in the process) because she "hadn't seen campus in awhile". Definitely suspect. Then we ended up in front of the CC house and Paco showed up behind us in his car. He brought up a card for me and a packet for my sister. The card said that Raoul had set up a scavenger hunt for me. At each location, Paco would give me a card with a memory written on it from some special time that Raoul and I had shared at that place. My sister would also give me a question with the answer each time being the next location. I took this trip down memory lane and ended up at the Campanile. From there I walked down to the bench where 4 years ago Raoul and I agreed not to date for a year (do you all remember this? and remember how that promise lasted all of about 2 months?).

Raoul was down at the bench and said I needed to sit down because he had something special for me. He handed me a plastic bag and told me to open my eyes. Now for all of you who know him pretty well, you know that Raoul has a habit of giving people gifts in the bag that they came in from the store. So, this part of the proposal made me chuckle a bit. I looked in the bag and saw a Nintendo DS light with Tetris, the Brain game, and Nintendog (complete with a virtual pembroke welsh corgi). Definitely cool, but not exactly what I was expecting. Then he told me he had something else for me. He reached in his pocket and kind of went down on one knee to bring out. . . the Nintendo DS itself--since he and Poco, and others had been playing it for the last 2 days. He then told me that he knew I wanted something else but that he wasn't quite ready for it. . .and wanted to know if that was OK--to which I replied "well, not really, but I guess it will have to be". Then he said "good, because I'm ready now". Then he got down on one knee and pulled out a gorgeous white gold with a 1.5 carat diamond ring and asked me to marry him. And, of course I said yes! My sister and Poco were present to capture the whole thing on camera, so it was a very special time for us that we will always remember.

So, that's the whole story. No plans on a date yet, still trying to figure out a location first. Regardless of location, we will be planning a casual reception in Washington/Idaho and another back home for our friends in addition to the wedding, so hopefully we'll get to see everybody at some point. I'll keep everyone posted as things come together.

Congrats to Bugsy and Bobo!

2006-07-06T09:34:00.000-07:00

Well, we have all officially made it through the wedding in one piece. . .and I must say that it was a fantastic experience. I loved the smallness (is that a word?) because it allowed all of us to really spend some time together and not just run around going crazy making sure everything was in place. The bride was beautiful. . .gorgeous actually. . .and both of them kept things really light and fun--no stress or tension here! Overall, a very fun, relaxing, and special weekend that I feel blessed to have taken part in.

Massachusetts. . .what a crazy state! I've never seen so many trees in my life, and I live near the mountains! Driving there was quite a trick, since they seem to have omitted several important street signs and you cannot see around you because of the trees so it's easy to lose your sense of direction. We did have beautiful weather, though, and even got to spend a few hours at the beach. Our hosts were fantastic and made our experience as minimally confusing as possible. A neat place to visit, but I guess I just love my scenery and wide-open spaces too much!

After much craziness at several airports. . .with a big thank you to the guy who got us on the plane to Providence at MCI even though we almost missed it thanks to not receiving an update on our flight changes. . .and a long drive from KC, I'm finally here at my parent's house for about 24 hours before heading back up to KC. Since the US Senior Open is going on right now, we're pretty much caged in to our neighborhood, but Grandma and Grandpa are coming over for dinner tonight. I also got to see my cousin briefly before she left on a flight to see my uncle's side of the family. . .think driving to the airport at 4:30 am this morning. I promptly came back home to sleep after that!

That's a quick update on our trip so far. Plans to go to the Royal's game on Saturday and meet up with some of my classmates in KC on Saturday. A busy trip, but did I mention that I love being paid to have fun? Yippee for vacation time!

I'm moving!!!

2006-06-26T20:35:00.000-07:00

So, it's official. . .I'm moving out of my cursed apartment! Yippee!!! The duplex came through, and I'll be able to move in sometime after getting back from Kansas City. I've already had tons of people offer to help move and let me use their trucks (no U-Haul for this move :) ) , and there is word going around of a barbeque to kick off my new little backyard. I'm VERY excited! Plus, since it's on ground level DDR will live again. Just wait till the LC Valley gets a taste of the master :) So, our Seattle friends will actually have room to stay with me now. Just ask my family how much room there is for everybody in my current dwelling!

This weekend we began our Washington Sonic experience, and it was fabulous. I found two more pillows for my couch and two pairs of sunglasses (hoping that with two I'll make it through the rest of the summer without losing or breaking them). Then we came back and played poker with some of my friends from work. I may not play poker very well, but I was sure lucky!! I almost took it all but lost on the last hand--an all-in round to finish off the game. Sunday we ran tons of errands to get ready to leave on Friday. We have also been watching the "Into the West" series that was on TV last year. It is really good and gives a more in-depth perspective of how white people basically decimated native american culture. Sad, very sad. It also portrays Quantrail's raid on Lawrence, and I must admit I got pretty pissed and a little teary-eyed. How dare those horrible people come into a town, kill everyone, burn it down, and enjoy every minute of it? Sick, very sick. We saw Nacho Libre last night. . .not exactly my type of flick, but wondering what Raoul's bro thought of the movie?

Tomorrow is an exciting, much anticipated night. . .Superman opens for a 10:00 pm showing in Lewiston, and Raoul and I are going! There is much else to do--lots of laundry, packing, continuing my dedication to exercise, having dinner with my boss's family sometime this week. . .so much to do, so little time. Too bad I don't have multiple personalities :)

Another weekend excursion ahead!

2006-06-22T22:26:00.000-07:00

So, as you've all probably read from other blogs by now, we returned from Seattle after a quick weekend of fun with Matt and Emily. Since their stuff actually arrived while we were there, we got to lend a hand helping unpack. Well, I unpacked a lot. . .I think Raoul became the regular "take the empty boxes outside" guy. Plus, we visited Ikea, Target, and other wonderful locations that I am not able to frequent as much as I'd like. Sometimes living in a smaller town is really nice. . .but I definitely miss the conveniences of a big city. So, I informed Raoul that he'd just have to work really hard so that he could get a job in Seattle after he's done in Pullman :) Overall a great weekend, and I'm excited to get to spend more time with our fellow Washingtonians in the future.

After having a couple of weeks of being slow at work, things have decided to pick back up again. We got 8 home health referrals this week, with 3 more on the way this weekend. That pretty much doubles our existing patient load and puts us back to our more "normal" number of patients. Good thing I took advantage of the "slow" time when I had it because otherwise there would be an insane stack of papers on my desk that I would have never gotten through. We're prepping right now to get things set up so that everything is covered while I'm gone after next week. Thank goodness Chris is coming back soon. . .July 10th! I celebrated my 11 mo. anniversary in the working world a couple of days ago. It's hard to believe that things have flown by so quickly!

In housing news. . .I checked out a duplex for rent a couple of days ago. Raoul and I are going to check it out again on Sunday, but then it looks like I'll be getting out of this cursed apartment. This duplex is definitely stuck in the '70s (aka gold appliances, a pink shower, dark cheap wood cabinets) but it does have a garage, all appliances (including a garbage disposal. . .yippee!) and a small fenced in yard. That would be perfect for the corgi puppy that might be negotiable according to the owner of the property. I'm not trying to get ahead of myself, though, so I'll fill everyone in more after a decision is made one way or the other.

Raoul and I are going to Spokane on Saturday so that we can go to (drumroll please) . . .SONIC!!! Yes, Spokane is the first city in Washington to have a Sonic drive-through. And yes, it is completely reasonable to drive 2 hours to partake in this fantastic achievement! I haven't had a cherry limeade in SOOOO long. In fact I may have to write a poem to put into words the love I have for this wonderful drink. Stay tuned for more. . .

Back to Work Again!

2006-06-14T19:35:00.000-07:00

To pick up where I left off in my last post, my parents, brother and I spent our last day together taking a nice drive up the clearwater river to check out some rafting places for their next visit out here. It was a beautiful day, and we found a neat little tea room in Kamiah (pronounced Kam-e-eye) that had soups/salads/sandwiches and makes there own homemade bread. Yummy! Then they left to drive up to Spokane and fly home to Kansas. Overall it was a very fun trip. . .too short, but fun.

Then it was back to work again. I worked last weekend, so it was like I went straight back to working a whole week. Working on the weekends can be a bit challenging (since that means we work 12 days in a row) but it does give me some extra money to pay for all those plane tickets to come home to Kansas! Things have been rolling right on, but Raoul and I are off to Seattle this weekend to see our friends Matt and Emily who just moved there. We love Seattle!

So I have finally resolved to stop putting it off and start getting healthier. I've started doing 60 minutes of cardio 3-4 times a week and add in some weight training a couple of days a week as well. I haven't had a soda in over a week, and I am attempting to weed out a lot of my usual fast food and dessert runs. Summer is definitely the time to do it. . .I'm usually not as hungry as in the winter, and it's nice enough to exercise outside. Starting a habit is definitely hard, but it's time I buckled down and did it.

My new TV obsession is "So you think you can dance". Yes, it's like American Idol, and yes it can definitely be cheezy at times, but there are some really talented people out there! Plus, since I can't dance to save my life (except for line dancing) it's really cool to see what others can do! In other entertainment news, Raoul and I watched "To Be or Not to Be" with Mel Brooks last weekend, and I really liked it. It was definitely more serious than his other films, but maybe that's why I liked it so much. We've also checked out "The Breakup", which I really don't recommend. The beginning is pretty funny and then it just gets. . .really awkward :( The ending leaves much to be desired, and Vince Vaughn stops being funny after about 45 minutes. If you have to see it, wait till video. I'd like to see "Prairie Home Companion" and "Cars" sometime soon, so hopefully they will be a better flick than that disappointing waste of money I saw last weekend. Also, something to look forward to. . .Garrison Keeler and Prairie Home Companion is coming to WSU in October and Raoul and I are definitely getting tickets!!!

That's all for now. We're off to Seattle on Friday, back for two weeks and then it's off to the east coast! Looking forward to seeing everyone there!

Fun with the Family!

2006-06-05T18:06:00.000-07:00

Things have been busy. . .very busy! Once we got back from Portland things just kept going and haven't stopped yet. First, I helped out with the first aid tent at the NAIA world series. . .which Lewis Clark State College won! Go Warriors! I had a goodbye party to attend for a co-worker and New Membership class at church to attend. Then my sister and her boyfriend came into town. They got the grand tour of the clinic and we showed them around town. . .which takes all of 10 minutes. :)

Friday, things really got started. We left early in the morning for Wallowa Lake State Park. Upon arriving, our bad luck with weather began. It drizzled all day, so we did a couple of short 3 mile hikes to stay close to the base of the mountain in case the weather worsened. We stopped off at a waterfall that had overrun the bridge due to the high water level from the snow beginning to melt. After a few pictures we returned to make camp. My sister just happens to be the camping expert (which is funny since she never liked camping as a kid) so she helped direct setting up the tent and building the fire. Well, it was more than a fire. . .more like an 8 hour long inferno! It was cold and rainy, so the fire was a very welcome addition to camp. We cooked burgers and made s'mores before heading to bed pretty late that night. We woke up to damp sleeping bags after shivering all night. . .not exactly ideal camping conditions. We tore down camp and went to begin our day's activities. We had planned on riding the tram up to the mountain peak for some fantastic views, but fog and snow ended that idea. So, we took an hour horse trailride. It was pretty cool, and I was definitely impressed at how good the horses were at navigating the tough rocky inclines. We took a quick ride on the go carts, and then we headed into town for a late lunch. By the end of all of this we were exhausted so we left for home to meet my parents when they made it into Clarkston.

Sunday my whole family went to church and then spent the day checking out the Lewis and Clark and Nez Perce museums. Both were very interesting, and I learned that navigating through Idaho was a nightmare for Lewis and Clark due to the Bitterroot mountain range. Good to know that our area contributed to the worst pain and sufferring on their entire journey. :) We had cake to celebrate both Karen and Joe's birthdays and then went bowling with the family. We set up girls vs. boys and although the boys eventually won out after 3 games, we held our own pretty well. Then we pretty much crashed because Karen and Joe were flying out at 7:00 am Monday morning.

I dropped them off at the airport early and then went into work for the morning. I met up with Raoul, my parents, and my brother for a jet boat tour of Hells Canyon at noon. We had done the tour last summer with just my parents and I, but Raoul and Preston had never seen it. Definitely cool to see again, and a very relaxing boat ride. We even saw some mountain sheep! I took them all by the office so that they could meet my co-workers and see where I spend the majority of my time and then came home to clean up so my parents would have a decent place to sleep. Tonight we are going to have dinner with my boss and his wife, so I am excited that my family will get to meet them.

Pictures to come soon on my facebook and more posting on the end of family fun in a couple of days.

A weekend in Oregon!

2006-05-29T22:44:00.000-07:00

Raoul and I spent the last three days in the Portland/Columbia River Basin area. It was soooo great to get away for a few days and see civilization again (LOL), and now I'm refreshed to return to work for the whole 2 1/2 days I'm working this week. Yippee for vacation time!!! As for this weekend, it definitely had its ups and downs. . .

It rained. . .and I mean rained! In fact there were only 2 hours of time where there was no rain the entire two days we were in Portland. Now, you say, "you went to the west coast, what did you expect?" So yes, you would be right. . .but the rain made it hard to make a statement regarding what I think about Portland as a city since we didn't get to do all the things we had planned. The first day it rained all day, so we took advantage of the time by doing one of my favorite past times. . .shopping! Poor Raoul! He was a great sport, though, even when I made him help me decide on which pair of pink pumas to buy (I'm pretty sure he really didn't care) :) We did get him a new suit for his sister's wedding, though; and I must say he looks pretty darn snazzy. After shopping for about 8 hours straight, we went to the Olive Garden for dinner and then to X-3 for a late night movie. A fun movie, not exactly following the comic book (what the heck, Cyclops dies?), but definitely entertaining.

Day two. . .the day with two hours of dry weather. We decided to tackle some of the sights since Raoul was definitely tired of shopping. First we went to the Portland Zoo, where we spent the entire two hours of dry weather. Then it was off to the Rose Gardens, Raoul's favorite. It was pretty spectacular, even in the rain. I haven't figured out how to upload pictures yet, so check out my facebook for the full weekend of pictures. We spent a little bit of time downtown doing yes, shopping, and then to Border's for awhile to get a guidebook for hiking next weekend. Boy do I miss Borders!!! That evening we ate at McCormick and Schmicks which had some fantastic food! Then it was back to the hotel to rest up for day three of the trip.

Day three. . .we left Portland early so we could stop for some neat sites on the way back home. First we stopped at Multnomah Falls, a double waterfall that was simply awesome! We walked up to a bridge that was at the top of the lower falls and then took a VERY steep 1 mile hike up to the top of the upper falls. The scenery was amazing, even though we were getting wet both from the rain and the waterfall. It was a great early morning workout! Then we went on further down the highway to Mount Hood. It is the only mountain in the northwest that you can ski on 365 days a year. It's 11,000 feet tall and a beautiful sight. We saw it from the North side but it was covered with clouds, so we drove to the South side and got a much better view. By the time we'd seen all of this, we were dead tired and headed back to Clarkston.

A whirlwind of a trip, but fun and saw some awesome sights. Again, check my facebook for more pictures until I figure out how to post them here.

7 1/2 days and counting. . .

2006-05-21T21:55:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am still counting, but not much further to go until vacation time! To recap the last couple of weeks: Raoul's parents came up to see us, and we all had a blast. We took a trip to Walla Walla, WA to check out some of the wineries, and they also got to come see where I spend the majority of my days and the cool people I spend them with (a.k.a. work). I definitely think, though, that I ate WAY too much while they were here. . .need to hit the gym overtime for a few weeks :)

Last week at work actually eased off a bit. . .Yippee! I worked this weekend, so I will be able to save up some extra cash for all our summer trips. And speaking of summer trips, Raoul and I are getting ready to head to Portland, OR on Friday for the weekend. I'm looking forward to a much needed weekend away for some retail therapy, get a glimpse of civilization, and see some awesome sights (waterfalls, rose gardens, Mount Hood). Then we're back in Lewiston on Monday evening to get ready for my sister and her boyfriend to arrive on Wednesday evening for the marathon week with my family (with a relay handoff from my sister to my parents in between). A lot coming up. . .definitely motivation to keep my apartment clean.

We had a crazy storm this week. On Friday, we had thunder/lightening/rain after 3 nearly unbearable days of 95 degree heat. It helped cool things off, but the river looks pretty bad littered with a lot of tree branches/trunks. The bridge actually shut down for awhile when a car stalled in a puddle. One telephone near one of my co-worker's homes was split in two. We also had the electricity go out at the clinic 3 times Friday afternoon, so I did a lot of stretching in the dark, and not many modalities were performed that day. I figure that lightening storms and electrical stimulation machines don't really mix that well. Rain has been on and off since then, with a pretty fabulous rainbow today.

Bugsy has turned me on to reading again, so I started "In Cold Blood" after we saw Capote a couple of weeks ago. I ordered a few more books online, and borrowed a couple of others, so hopefully I'll be more well-read after all the traveling I'm doing this summer. I'll comment on them as I go as Bugsy has taken to doing on her blog.

Have a great Memorial Day everyone!!!

It's official. . .America is completely stupid!

2006-05-10T22:06:00.000-07:00

So, why is America stupid? It has nothing to do with politics or materialism. . .it has everything to do with tonight's episode of American Idol. It is completely obvious to everyone who has the ability to hear that Chris Daughtry is the best singer and performer on the show. And, I believe, he's the only one of the final four that could actually make a record that is marketable to the masses beyond just American Idol fans. It is an absolute crying shame that he was voted off tonight. He is the only one who deserves to win that competition, and I will be the first to run out and buy his first album. Get the boy a band and let him sing!!!

17 1/2 days and counting. . .

2006-05-06T19:13:00.000-07:00

What, you may ask, is 17 1/2 days and counting? That is exactly how many days of work I have left before I get my first official vacation day!!! Can you tell I'm excited? I honestly had no idea the first year would be quite this difficult to adjust to. I mean, I definitely like my job and co-workers, but I had been used to having a week or two off of school 2-3 times a year even in graduate school. Now I have work straight from July 20th until now without taking a single vacation day (per the employee handbook). In fact I'm technically not supposed to have any vacation for a full year, but my boss is being very gracious (perhaps he doesn't want to me to crazy, hmmm. . . .) and letting me taking some time a little earlier. To be paid not to work, definitely something to look forward to!

Raoul has officially finished his first year of graduate school and now has way too much time on his hands (for a couple of weeks anyways). This, of course makes me extremely jealous. . .until I remember that paycheck thing, nice to have around. Plus, this means he can run errands for me and pick up family members at the airport, right?

Next weekend Raoul's parents are up here for a visit. We are very excited!! On Saturday we are planning a day trip to Walla Walla, WA for tours of the vineyards and some wine tasting at the wineries. Plus that weekend there will be several hot air balloons in the sky. . .pretty!!! And definitely loving that Raoul is such a willing designated driver.

Plans for the following weekends:
May 20-21 working
May 26-29 Portland, OR

I am definitely excited for Portland since Raoul has finally given in and is letting me take him shopping!!! He needs a new suit for the wedding and a new jacket since he got paint on it during Habitat for Humanity. I am going to find something pretty for myself as well, because we can't have those east-coast folks thinking we're all backwoods out west. We do have running water and electricity now, you know! :)

That's all for now. . .off to an evening of relaxation and not thinking about anything productive.

Help is on the way!

2006-04-26T18:33:00.000-07:00

We had a sigh of relief and a shout for joy this week at work. . .the therapist that left for a new job in October is coming back this summer to work for us again! Yippee! Talk about awesome, no training needed, and we really love the guy too. We will once again be graced with the lovely sounds of random movies and a hilarious impression of a frenchman. We've also put out another offer, and will find out by the end of the week if he will come on as well. If we were fully staffed with 7 therapists, we'd be rocking out and doing some really cool stuff!

After a month of rain, we have had two weeks of amazing sunshine! This allowed us to finish up the whole exterior of our Habitat House (I got to help paint after the building was done). Raoul and I took a walk along the river on Sunday, and it was fantastic to get outside and enjoy the great weather. It definitely gets me excited about all the outdoor activities for the summer.

We have finally solidified plans for our families coming to visit--Raoul's M&D in two weeks, my sis and her boy the first of June and my parents and brother shortly after that. It will definitely be good to see them all again!

This Friday I am going to see Air Supply in concert right here in Lewiston. . .any of you 80's fans are I'm sure extremely jealous! :)

That's about all for now. . .off to attempt to get some ironing done. . .

It is officially flip-flop weather!

2006-04-10T12:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday after coming home from church, I ran inside to start celebrating. . . it is officially warm enough to declare flip-flop season open! Yippee!!

Things keep plugging right along here. Work is work, but we are interviewing some people for our job openings, yippee! Still plugging away with my class as well, but boy is it hard to study after coming home from work. And never fear, the queen of percrastination lives on! I worked this past weekend and tried to get stuff done around the house. . .and yes, I have finally made it through the massive pile of ironing that has been on my couch for 2 weeks now.

I officially finished the 5th season of Gilmore Girls last night. What a truly fantastic show! I never really caught on to it until last year, but going back through all of the episodes definitely made things more complete. And, I love the fact that I can watch them over and over again and not get tired of them!

American Idol continues to be one of my obsessions, though things have not been as great the past couple of weeks. Hopefully the contestants can really start to put something together now before they get kicked off. This week should be awesome. . .the songs of Queen. My fav. is still Chris, though I'm a fan of Katherine and Taylor as well. Ace has really got to go. . .I mean really, if you are going to have long hair, do it right not like some big poof ball. Bucky is on his way out as well. And I do have to disagree with Simon on one thing. . .Kelly Pickler is NOT a better singer/performer/personality than Carrie Underwood. She really is just Jessica Simpson (pre-Nick break-up) with a country flare. . .naiive and irritating.

This week is Easter and Raoul and I are going to Bill and Kathy's for dinner. The following weekend we are working with habitat for humanity and our church to build a house in a week! I love power tools!!! April is looking to fly right by, but I am excited because May/June/July are coming and they are going to be fantastic.

I leave you all with one question to ponder. I have really been craving Girl Scout cookies and finally they were at Wal-Mart yesterday. . . and they charged $4 a box! It really wasn't all that long ago that I last bought cookies and I'm pretty sure that they were $2.50. I personally think that the girl scouts are overcharging for their product and then hording up the money to buy a compound and take over the world (which they have fattened up with all those cookies!). Thoughts?

Pride and Prejudice: Theatrical version vs. A&E

2006-03-08T21:32:00.000-08:00

This weekend I rented the theatrical version of Pride and Prejudice. I must admit that I had some apprehensions, knowing that a lot of material would have to be left out and considering how much I absolutely love the A&E version. Suprisingly, though, I really did enjoy it. Thus a movie comparison began and these are my thoughts:

Things I liked more about the theatrical version:

1) Mrs. Bennett's character was SO much more tolerable! Although she did retain the essence of her character, she also portrayed a woman who was just desperate to have her family cared and provided for.

2) The casting of the Bennett sisters as a whole was great! I liked Jane much better in this version, more human and less like someone straight out of a renaissance painting. Keira Knightly did a fabulous job, though I think I like her and the Lizzy from A&E equally. They each portrayed the character well with little different nuances. The rest of the girls were pretty much identical to that of the A&E version, but that's probably because those characters and fairly one-dimensional and leave little room for interpretation.

3) The cinematography was fantastic! I just liked the overall feel of the movie rather than a more "mini-series" feel of the A&E version.

Things I liked better from the A&E version:

1) Mr. Bennett's character was more what I pictured him to be like rather than how he was done in the theatrical version. I like him to be more sarcastic, not at all caught up in the craziness of the family, and more of a idealic character. The theatrical version made the character a lot more human with several flaws, and I just preferred the other interpretation.

2) Details, details, details. They did have to leave a lot out for the theatrical version. Most importantly, I think, they left out much of the development of Mr. Wiccam's interaction with the Bennetts and Lizzy in particular. Leaving out many portions of the book did not take away the central idea and I think that it helped the movie to flow more quickly, but I would rather see the whole picture and more character development.

3) Last, and most importantly I think, Colin Firth is THE Mr. Darcy. I didn't like the way that they interpreted Mr. Darcy's character during the beginning develpment of his relationship with Lizzy. There was definitely romantic tension beginning on their second meeting, and I did not believe that Lizzy actually "hated" him at any point in time. She acted more like she was just trying to shove him out of her head. I much prefer how the A&E version developed their relationship. Mr. Darcy shows absolutely no hint of his feelings prior to his first proposal and Lizzy does not even begin to think of him romantically until the last 1/4 of the movie. This, I think, more clearly reveals the "Pride" and "Prejudice". Aside from how the relationship developed differently, Colin Firth was so much more attractive and was able to achieve a truly "arrogant" and "aloof" character prior to swallowing his pride. He is, I believe, the epitimy of the true gentleman and I can pretty much guarantee that every single girl will swoon as he begins to woo his love.

Regardless of which version you watch, however, the scene of the second proposal is quite possibly the most romantic instance in all of cinematic history. I mean, who wouldn't want to be told that "You have bewitched me body and soul" ? I get chills just thinking about that. Plus Mr. Darcy's character becomes such a gentle person to the one he loves, and you can just tell that he intends to love and protect her, while still respecting her and her mind, for the rest of their lives. Now, tell me what girl doesn't envision that as what she truly wants in a relationship?

So, that is my commentary. . .those who are fellow fans of this wonderful love story please comment away!

Why are girls so stupid and guys are so icky?

2006-02-27T18:46:00.000-08:00

So, I know that I just posted yesterday, but my boyfriend insists that a blog is a place to post things that you just care to rant about for a bit. Here goes. . .

Girls drive me crazy! I have definitely had some good girl friends over the years, but I wouldn't call them girly girls if you know what I mean. They weren't caddy and petty and just downright mean. And hey, we all have our moments of insanity, but man. . .girls can be absolutely crazy. All of you who know we know that it drives me absolutely insane when girls become bridezilla. Once they are engaged, they are all of the sudden too good to spend time with people who are not married and morph into this clingy person who's entire worth is established by the fact that she is getting married. Yuck! It's so disgusting that it honestly makes me consider surpassing the wedding part and heading straight for the marraige whenever I get to that point. And girls become so mean about it too, because they then become so much better than their single counterparts and basically become completely self-absorbed because, afterall, shouldn't the world revolve around them? They are getting married after all.

Girls also have this tendency to confuse people profusely. One minute they say one thing and then turn right around and find the need to revisit the subject that had to be set aside for a certain time period. And, of course, if they can't handle a situation, then it's time to turn and run though they expect to have a secure place to come back to after their rant is over and they establish some sanity.

I do have to comment on the fact that I am indeed a girl, not a girly girl, but a girl nonetheless. I have my moments of temporary insanity just like everyone else. I do not however find it fulfilling to pick petty fights and put others down just so I can feel better about myself. And, as I have learned in the past, running from problems does not fix them, and you may not have a second chance. So yes, there are times that I have technically driven myself crazy. . . but hopefully not on a regular basis.

Some boys aren't much better, though. Over the past several weeks, I have discovered that there are a few patients in our clinic both middle-aged and teenagers that think it's fun to hit on their therapist. Some are just clueless and end up being very clingy, trying to show off their fabulous personalities. Others are just down-right disgusting with very inappropriate comments. I mean, really, I'm not saying that I am ugly, but I know that I am definitely not a "bombshell". My whole life I've avoiding being hit on because being the tall girl scares people. I'm a fairly conservative dresser--it's not like I wear mini skirts and hooker boots to work! So why, please tell me why, they insist on continuing this crazy cherade that they have no prayer of actually carrying out? I've honestly started thinking about buying a ring just to wear so that maybe they'll leave me alone. Any advice? I could just stop being a nice person. . .but that wouldn't be fair to my sweet elderly patients now would it?

That, is my rant. Take from it what you will and comment away!

I emerge from the deep, dark lagoon. . .hehehe!

2006-02-26T18:07:00.000-08:00

So it seems that I've been pretty bad about posting, and have been reminded several times by those that like to check up on me. You got it. . .here goes!

Work:
Work is good. Very busy but good. It's crazy how one minute you feel like you might have it together and the next you are feeling quite clueless again. Ah, humility! We are interviewing another PT in a couple of weeks, and there might be a very remote possibility that the therapist that left last fall might return. What can I say but who wouldn't miss a bunch of crazy people like us? I am taking an online course in medical imaging this semester to slowly work towards finishing my DPT. We had our first test last week and it was pretty successful. . .96%! It's hard to remember after getting home that I need to keep up with the reading and start putting together my paper, but I'm attempting to stay on top of things.

My new goal:
So after being out of a regular exercise routine for several years, I've definitely started to see things take a toll, so back in the saddle I go. I got a membership at a gym and go workout 3-4 times a week. So far only a cardio routine, but I'm hoping to get strength training going as well. My new motivation? I want to be in shape to be able to play volleyball again!

Reality TV addiction:
Yes, it does continue. I've been hooked on watching Jerry Rice ballroom dancing, entertained by Beauty and the Geek 2, and of course, American Idol. And man, there is some great talent in the top 24. And then again, there are some people that you're like "how the heck did they get through to this point?" The guys are definitely looking better than the girls this year. . .I think the girls might be too young to pull it off. And the whole time I'm thinking, "why does Paula get so emotionally attached to the contestants. . .I think she might need a kick in her social life. In the next few weeks I'll start to figure out my favorites. . .stay tuned!

KU Basketball:
For a string of 10 games, they were looking so good. . . until last night. I mean, I was not expecting them to even beat Texas, but talk about faltering on the fundamentals of the game. Texas played a phenomenal game. . . and I'm not sure what game we were playing. Even though our shots weren't falling and Texas' defense was stifling, I do expect the fundamentals: DO NOT turn over the ball and REBOUND!!!! I mean seriously, that game should have been a whole lot closer, especially if we would stop passing the ball directly to the other team. That would help. I mean, don't get me wrong, KU has come a LONG way in the last two months, and they are a real quality team that deserves its ranking. They look like a team when they play well, but being young results in these inevitable blips. So, we'll look to wins against Colorado and K-State and see if Texas drops the ball with A&M or Oklahoma.

Weekend in KC:
Last weekend I flew to KC for the weekend to hang out with my sister since I didn't get to see her at Christmas. We had a blast playing with her new puppy, shopping (I'd almost forgotten what a mall looked like!), and touring the KU Hall of Fame exhibit which is pretty incredible. I got to see my parents briefly and had brunch with the bro. A quick weekend for sure, with extremely LONG lay-overs, but good to see my family.

Church:
Raoul and I decided that the church in Pullman just wasn't cutting it for us, so we started church shopping once again. We have landed at the First Presbyterian Church in Clarkston. Talk about a VERY friendly group of people, and the pastor is really good as well. I'm joining up with a small group this week, and we are both just looking forward to getting involved and meeting all these neat people!

So, that's the update. I promise I'll be better in the future, and if I figure out how, I'll post some pix from my recent weekend get-away.

Christmas time is here!

2005-12-25T17:25:00.000-08:00

The drought of not posting is coming to an end. It has been a couple of crazy weeks. . .and I finally have a moment to sit and rest before the mayhem continues.

The flood ordeal continues! I had the case manager for my claim come to visit my apartment and he has decided that I am not liable for the damages, so if this thing goes through then my apartment should pay for the damages and I'm only responsible for my electric bill. So, fingers crossed, the crisis should be nearing an end. I also got all the money back from my car incident thanks to my boss, so all looks to be well.

Things at work have been pretty hectic since we've had people sick and on vacation for the holidays. We've managed to get everything done, but it hasn't been easy and it's taken everybody's effort to make things work. I've never realized how important team work really is! I still love working there, though. And I've been able to see some results with some of my patients. It's amazing to think "hey, I can actually do something to make someone better". I'm planning on starting my DPT this January and my first class will be teaching me how to read X-Rays/MRIs etc. Should be an interesting course. I just hope I've got some of my school work ethic left.

Christmas has been good, being able to spend time with family. It kind of stinks to be away from Raoul for a couple of weeks, so I'll just have to stay busy with work, fixing up my apartment, etc. Hopefully I'll be able to do some skiing over some of the weekends in January. I have some co-workers who are planning on going, and I need some more lessons--badly. Otherwise I'll just be trying to get my life and stuff back in order after being displaced from my apartment. I'd love to get to see some of you if I'd only have more time to come home. But, if anyone has some time off of their own, and you'd like to go skiing, or visit Seattle, or go camping in the spring. . .come visit me! :)

What a weekend. . .

2005-12-04T15:45:00.000-08:00

So, it's been a nutty weekend, but first. . .my Thanksgiving! I had a blast with my family and it was good to talk to them and see them at the same time! We ate lots of yummy food. . .way too much yummy food! The five of us went to Lawrence on Saturday and met Trina to see the KU vs. ISU football game. What a game! It was way great to see the boys play well and win against a good team. I picked up some great KU gear at the bookstore and then it was off to KC. My mom and I went shopping for a new dress for me to wear to our office party and came away successful! We got to eat at Jacks Stacks Fiorella BBQ. . .YUMMY! Then we walked down by the plaza to look at the pretty lights. The next day we ate a a good Mexican restaurant (which I haven't had in months!) and then my whirlwind trip home was over.

Now onto this weekend. So, I took my car into the Ford dealer on Friday to get my oil changed and transmission serviced. Serviced not flushed. I came back and they had indeed flushed my transmission and charged me $275 for the whole deal. That's $150 more than I was anticipating. On top of this, they told me my break fluid was 50% low, I needed new brake pads, my brakes flushed, and new tires. So, I promptly left, intending to call the managment on Monday about my overcharged bill, and had my car looked at somewhere else. They said that my brake fluid was full, my brake pads had at least 6 months left before needing to be changed, and my tires were fine. Now I'm really pretty steamed at the dealer and I will be talking with them on Monday because that is ridiculous that they would take advantage of someone like that.

Then it was on to my apartment. . .to find it completely flooded. I had a picture hanging above my toilet in my bathroom and it had fallen and broken the PVC pipe going into the toilet. Water pretty much went everywhere and got through almost all of my carpet. Thankfully my electronics are OK, my Christmas tree survived, and I only had water damage to a few books I think. I'll have blowers in my apartment for the next 3-5 days, but thankfully I have a wonderful boss who is putting me up for the next few days until I can get back in.

So that's it for now. . .I'll be in touch with more info as I have it.

Back from Seattle. . .

2005-11-20T20:22:00.000-08:00

So, it was indeed a wonderful whirl-wind trip to Seattle. And, it definitely had its ups and downs. First, after arriving in this wonderful city, we headed off to the Supersonics game. It was really great to see the boys play again, but the game itself really wasn't that exciting. The Sonics were behind by like 15 at the half. . .and then the Bulls ended up losing by 15. It was a really lopsided game with first one team, then the other team playing really awful basketball. Kirk had an especially bad night, not like I remember seeing from him. Raoul and I did our best to hold up our sign with pride, but I'm afraid they did not see it among the huge crowd of fans. Then, there was supposed to be a news conference with Nick Collison and Luke Ridnour after the game. We went to the right place to wait. . .and nothing happened. No one seemed to know about any news conference, so apparently there was some miscommunication between the Sonics staff and the KU alumni Seattle chapter. So, huge bummer there. . .no Nick, no Kirk. The game was fun, but I do look back much more fondly of when they played together, and the crowd was a whole lot more enthusiastic. Also, the KU pep band is AWESOME!!! Electronic music and R&B/Rap stuff at NBA games is truly awful. It was fun to see the game, though, and maybe next time I'll be able to see Nick. . .going to try and use my K-Club connections.

Saturday was a way fun day. We started out by going to our favorite French pastery shop "le panier" and eating yummy apricot croissants for brunch. Then it was off to the underground tour of Seattle. Very interesting. . .and boy were there some stubborn people who founded that city! We then went on an afternoon of shopping. . .Raoul for comics and some plastic thing named "Thanos", and me for what else. . .clothes! He was very patient with me, but we were unable to find something for me to wear to our clinic's Christmas party. I'll have to keep looking in KC over Thanksgiving. Then we had dinner at PF Changs (yummy!) and went to see the new Harry Potter movie. It was good, very different from the others. . .and I've decided that I would have enjoyed it much more had I been in a comfy chair with a blanket. We did see some entertainment afterwards, though, when two guys almost started a fight because one of them accidently kicked the other guy's chair during the movie. Sometimes I wonder where all the common sense and courtesy has gone. Anyways, after the movie we topped off the night by stopping by the cheesecake factory and heading back to the hotel with our midnight snack.

Sunday was a short day since we had to leave town. We went down to Pike's market, and we ate lunch at a great seafood restaurant that we found on our last trip over. Raoul got his samon and chowder, and I enjoyed my chicken fetticine alfredo. At the market we picked up a couple of gifts to bring home to the family over Thanksgiving, and then it was back to "le panier" for French pastries and hot chocolate to go. After a long drive in the fog (I think we actually saw the space needle twice while we were there!), we finished our weekend at our favorite Pullman eatery: The Cougar Country Drive-In. Overall an exhausting, but fun weekend. . .and somewhere along the way a demented children's story about Steve the quesadilla making robot was created. You'll have to ask Raoul about that one.

I'm off to good 'ol Kansas on Thursday. Yippee! Wishing all of you a fantastic Thanksgiving and safe travels!

What a couple of exciting weeks ahead!

2005-11-16T18:57:00.000-08:00

So, I'm at home right now, waiting for the paint on my sign to dry for Friday. And what, may you ask, is this sign for? I GET TO SEE NICK COLLISON AND KIRK HINRICH PLAY IN SEATTLE ON FRIDAY!!!!! Can you tell that I'm excited? And maybe, just maybe if I'm lucky, I'll get to chat with them quickly after the game, get an autograph, maybe even a picture. Rock Chalk Jayhawk! Raoul got me tickets to the game for my birthday, and we're 16 rows up from the bottom. . .great seats! We're going to stay in Seattle for the weekend, so much fun will be had, and we're staying downtown so we won't have to use the bus to commute into the city. Hopefully the weather will be good and the pass will be clear so we can get there in time for the game.

In other news, next week is Thanksgiving! I got to talk with most of my family over the last week because of my birthday, but I'm really excited to get to see them again. I was doing pretty well. . .missing them of course, but overall having a blast. . .until we saw "Elizabethtown" this weekend. In the movie Orlando is driving down US 50 and there is a sign for Wichita, KS. . . kind of made me homesick. Plus I've heard I have a sister who is eager to have me home (and I am eager to see her as well). Over the break I will have plenty of time to spend with family, eat lots of good food, catch a KU football game, and eat barbeque! It will be a fantastic trip, and I am excited for it. Plus, I've really been missing the barbeque and there is no Sonic here. My sis and I will be stopping by Sonic on the way home from KC so I can get my cherry limeade fix.

Things are continuing to kick right along here in the valley. Work keeps me busy, but when you love what you do it's well worth it. I'm also loving having Raoul so close by. We get to see each other much more than we did in KC/Lawrence. Plus it doesn't hurt to have Seattle so close. . .it makes for a fun weekend.

Hope all is well, and I'll divulge all the details about my weekend when I return!

Isn't he the greatest!

2005-11-08T22:16:00.000-08:00

After my evening has come to a close, I have to say a quick word about the amazing boy in my life. I had a long day today, but when I came home I had dinner ready waiting for me with candles and cheesecake, courtesy of my guy. What makes it really special is that he had a long day as well, but still made the 45 minute trip down to see me and help me relax for the evening. So, to that special guy. . .THANK YOU!!! You are AWESOME!!! --Much love

A super, and super-busy weekend!

2005-11-06T17:05:00.000-08:00

Wow! What a weekend! So much has happened in the last couple of days, so here goes. . . and who knows, maybe someone will actually respond to my posts (my blog is very lonely :( ).

Weekend started out with a night at the LSCS basketball game. Got to hang out with the bosses and their families, and at half-time we were privelaged to be the first booster to be honored on the court. We got to go down to the floor, snap a couple of pictures, and received a way cool looking plaque. The neatest thing was that the bosses wanted all of us to be there, not just them, because it's all of us who are a part of clinic. Very cool to feel a part of something. Also, I get to have my picture in a welcome ad in the Lewiston Tribune soon, so everybody will know who I am. And, I've gotten several reserve orders from the family for copies to be sent of my first time in print. Overall, continuing to love work. . . except for all the paperwork stuff (death to Medicare!!!). The guys are awesome, and I'm continuing to learn constantly. . . and speaking of learning, I really need to get my TDPT application in (note to self).

History happened on Saturday. . .KU beat Nebraska in football for the first time in 37 years! YEAH!!!! And not only did they beat them, they clobbered them with a blunt object. . .40-15. Hooray for ending the second longest losing streak in NCAA history! And maybe, just maybe, if the offense can continue to play, they may actually help contribute like the defense has been doing all year. I mean, how can a team with one of the best defenses in the nation have so much trouble winning football games? We've got two games left, and if we can win just one of them (either Texas or Iowa State--both very good footbal teams) we'll be off to a bowl game! Rock, Chalk, Jayhawks!

Then, after a mad cleaning dash on Saturday (this place is cleaner than it's ever been!), a girl I work with and her boyfriend came over for dinner. Yeah for taco soup! We played a rousing game of Cranium and chatted till the wee hours of the night. They are very cool people, and we have vowed to get together more often. Along with the fun. . .my b-friend's sis (and also one of my good friends) is engaged! It is very exciting! In fact, this is probably one of the only weddings I will attend that I have been excited about in the last few years. While the news is very cool, I have to say that the reaction from the boy provided some entertainment as well. He did a little happy dance and went into a Cartman monologue (which he explained to me later. . .something about an empty amusment park). It's so sweet to see him so excited about B & B, especially since when bobo first entered the picture, his brother and he interrogated him for an hour over dinner. And, once again, I wash my hands of that whole incident!!!!! :) Anyways, excitement for all! Yippee! I'm going to try to get out to Boston in the spring for a weekend sometime. . . I'll let you know when bugsy!

And then there was children's church. I volunteered to help with the kiddos since they've been looking for help. I'm with the school-age kids, so no problem, they can actually read pretty well! Except. . .there are several children who have a certain condition that I've become more familiar with because of people close to me with similar experiences. It's not a complete problem, but with 4 or 5 of them, it can be pretty disruptive. I guess that God is bound and determined to teach me patience. I just hope with a lot of prayer and support, I can learn it as gracefully as possible.

So, now I'm back home from up north, settling in to get some dishes done, do laundry, and write that stinking 500 word essay for my TDPT application. A pretty uneventful end to an eventful weekend. But, nonetheless it must be done! :)

My experience with the Asotin Co. court system. . .

2005-10-29T14:12:00.000-07:00

So, since most of you heard about my unfortunate ticket that I receive about a month ago, I thought I would post some closure to the drama. For those of you who haven't heard. . .here's the story.

So, I was leaving the hospital one morning after finishing my rounds and was heading to the clinic to start my day there, when all of the sudden I see flashing lights behind me, pulling me over. I'm thinking to myself, "what in the world did I do?". I had been driving 35 mph, which was what I thought the speed limit was, so I assumed that they were stopping me because I have out of state tags. Then another cop pulls up and I've got two cop cars with flashing lights pulled up behind me in plain view in this rinky-dink town. After they finished discussing my out-of-state tags (yes I can hear people talking outside of my car), the officer asked for proof of insurance and registration. I found the insurance, but was flustered because I was having a hard time finding my registration. When I had bee pulled over in KS last year, they just looked at the liscence plates to see my registration hadn't expired. So, I continued to be flustered and not able to find the paper, and the cop wasn't exactly very nice about it. He finally gave me a speeding ticket for 36 mph in a 25mph zone, which I want to point out is NOT MARKED going westbound on that street for almost 2,000 feet behind the hospital.

So, I decided to contest because of improperly marked streets. Everyone at the office thought I had a good shot too, because I was new and there isn't a speed limit sign anywhere close to the hospital. They gave me a court date which just happened to be smack in the middle of my work day, and it is tough since we have patients scheduled so far in advance. Another co-worker offered to cover for me while I went to court. Contested hearings began at 1:35 pm and the court clerk told me I should be out of there by 45 minutes later. She said she would put my name first on the docket. . . right!

I show up for court, ready to plead my case. After a couple who were divorcing and did not have their paperwork done correctly, several mitigation cases, and a harassment case, we finally got on to the contested cases. So, I should be first, right? NO! Every time a lawyer stepped into the room, their cases got pushed right to the front. To make matters worse, they were going through the cases by alphabetical order, and I was not put in the front as requested. At 3:00pm we still had not reached my case, and I really had to get back to the clinic. The judge called for a recess, and I just raised my hand and stated my predicament. He responded by saying he'd either give me a deferrment (which means I pay $25 on top of the ticket, which was already $132, and if I have no infractions in 6 mo. it doesn't go on my record) or I could wait around and he'd get to me when my name came up on the docket. I didn't really have a choice, so I paid the deferrment, and after some pathetic attempts at apologizing by the court clerk (she just couldn't figure out why I hadn't been put earlier, and really it was the fault of all the lawyers that showed up), I left, trying not to speed to get back to work in time to pick up my caseload. Needless to say, I am not exactly impressed.

I am still concerned about the fact that there are a lack of speed limit signs around the hospital. So many people come to visit friends and relatives there, and many of them have never been there before. How would they know? So, my plan is to call the county commissioner (the only helpful piece of advice given to me by the court clerk) and suggest that more speed limit signs will be put around the hospital going both directions.

So, you see that the drama of a small town really is just as interesting as life in the big city, right?

My how time flies. . .

2005-10-20T18:15:00.000-07:00

So, I was looking at my blog the other day and realized, I haven't posted in awhile. Since I don't want people to think I've dropped off the face of the earth, I figured I should pass on some more info about my ever exciting life.

Work is continuing to go well, busy but well. I still love working here and love my co-workers. And heck, I'm even helping some people get better! My boss talked to me last week to kind of comment on my first 3 months here. He said that I was doing a great job, am very personable with my patients, and he had no doubt that I was going to be a great therapist. Inside I said a silent "yippee!". See, the thing is that when you graduate from school and get into the real world, you pretty much feel like a complete idiot that knows nothing. I still feel like I know very little, but the little that I do know seems to be helping people. Don't get me wrong, there are some patients that you are just like "I have no idea what's going on here and have tried everything, but nothing is working!" But then the guys remind me that they have moments like that too, and they are a great resource when the wheels in my brain get stuck in the mud. I LOVE working with people, and everyday is another adventure.

Aside from work. . . The Boy had his birthday last week and we got to celebrate with Scorbin! It was way fun to get to spend time with her again, although she had to hang by herself for a whole day since I had to work. We went down to Oregon last Saturday, spent some time in Joseph which is a pretty little mountain town. I got a way cool scarf, and met a guy who's dad played for Phog Allen, and another guy who was a KU grad. We took a short hike in the Wallowa mountains, overlooking Wallowa Lake, which is absolutely beautiful. There is an "air gondola" ride that gives people a view of the mountains, but it had already shut down for the winter season. Add in eating salmon a couple of times, and making a trip to Spokane, and you get a fun weekend with an old friend. We also had cake, and you can't go wrong with cake. Especially cake that's chocolate with vanilla cheesecake filling and cream cheese frosting. Mmmm. . .

And more on the note of exciting news. . .the boy is giving me my best birthday present ever! He got us tickets to see the Bulls play the Supersonics in Seattle in November. I'll get to see Nick Collison and Kirk Hinrich play again!!! I am all ready to make a huge sign that says "we love you Nick and Kirk!" with a big Jayhawk on it. I'm hoping to get some autographs, and maybe a picture with them too! Keep checking here for updates from my birthday trip.

Excited for my birthday. Excited for Thanksgiving and Grandma's yummy food. So much to look forward to!

We finally get some rain!

2005-09-30T18:23:00.000-07:00

So I thought that western Kansas was one of the driest places in the US . . . and then I moved to eastern Washington. I think it's only rained about 3-4 days since I moved here the first week of July. It was nice and refreshing. . .though I think the icky weather caused a few of my cancellations and no-shows at the clinic today.

Things are continuing to roll right along here. I have one more week of full time in the clinic before I go to my new permanent schedule of hospital and home health in the morning and clinic in the afternoon. It's kind of crazy trying to adjust schedules and have patients come at a different time than they're used to coming, but I'm sure it will all work out soon. Hopefully we will be bringing on another therapist soon, which will help with the large patient load that we are carrying now.

As far as non-work life, I'm going to take in a showing of Chicago at the Lewiston Civic Theatre tomorrow night, and the b-friend is graciously coming with me. We're going to meet up with a couple of girls from work and their husbands, so a good time should be had by all. I'm hoping to start playing volleyball soon. . .got to remember to call the lady in charge back. Scaborbin is coming to visit in a couple of weeks. Looking forward to it, and hoping I can get someone to cover my weekend for me--otherwise I won't get to see much of her. :(

That's all for now. . . more later.

Hello, and welcome to my blog!

2005-09-25T17:38:00.000-07:00

So, I've been hearing about this whole "blog" thing from my b-friend and his family and thought, heck, why not? You can check here to see new and ingenious and not so ingenious thoughts from me. Since I have such trouble keeping in touch. . . especially with the time change and keeping my day minutes on my cell phone down, this is a great way to check on what I am up to. And, you can leave posts to say hello right back! Enjoy!