thepasarah

MIA

2011-04-27T20:02:00.002-05:00

Wondering where I've been? Me too.

Some people call it being depressed. I should've realized, but I didn't.

After Mom died, I went back to work the next week. Her funeral was Saturday and I went back to work Monday. Looking back, I probably should've taken a little more time off. But I was tired of being in her house. Well, that and family. So I went back to work. My humor came out quite a bit. People would ask me to do stuff and I would tell them. "No thanks, my mom just died." After the first week, I was only allowed to use that excuse once a week. I usually used it to get out of cleaning the coffee mugs. I didn't cry even when patients would ask me about her and they didn't know she had died. Looking back, pretty sure I was still in the shock phase.

Then my house sold and I had to find a house. So that took up some mind time.

Then came Christmas. I thought it was going to be fine since we had a precious new family member. Well, it wasn't. Don't get me wrong. I had a great time with the Teals, but it just wasn't the same. And my poor dad, I think he wanted to cry the whole day. If you knew my mom, Christmas was HER holiday. Every room decorated. Christmas dishes. Even the shelves in the bookcases changed for Christmas. Man, she made it so fun.

(My sister and I joke that she loved Jesus's birthday more than ours. One year she didn't call me to wish me a happy birthday until 9pm. And she mailed my sister a birthday card without signing it.)

Then the snow hit, twice. I was suppose to go to STL the weekend before and spend time with my niece and BFF/SW and her son. But the snow put those plans in the toilet.

Then I got in trouble at work. And pretty much lost it. The ugly cry in front of my boss. I almost quit my job right there. During the ugly crying episodes. You all know, snot and tears mixed. And pretty much looking like a dork. So I took a couple days off work.

I realized I wasn't dealing with the emotions, mostly guilt, about my mom. And they all came out.

It was quite cathartic, big word, eh? And realizing/knowing that I didn't kill my mom because I had given her the pain meds. It's hard to say even on here. But I still feel guilty. Emotionally. But in my mind/medical brain I know I didn't kill her. I know that sounds awful. But I made her so comfortable that I made her stop breathing. I know I didn't do it. It's just coming to terms with that.

Then I'm pretty sure I got mad at God. Didn't pray, didn't open my Bible for months. Crazy, when I could feel His love surrounding me and mom during her illness. I didn't feel like God loved me like I needed to be loved. I needed my mom. Then I heard this song. And God spoke to me and told me, "I love you Sarah, and I love your Mom. That's why I had to take her away from all the pain." And I have to keep reminding myself of that fact, every day.

So that's where I've been. I've been depressed but I'm getting over it. And over myself.

As I told a friend of mine, "Get over it."

And I'm trying . . . .

hygiene

2011-02-06T19:07:00.003-06:00

So a patient last week asks me if the rash he has is from his lack of hygiene. If you have to ask, then YES it is. He proceeds to explain to me that he is working from home and doesn't shower every day, or every other day. Please don't explain why you don't shower. Just start showering and see what happens. Give it a try. You might like it.

And, by the way, I didn't laugh or gag. I'm getting better, guess that comes with age. :) Best part, I had a PA student with me. He was SHOCKED. Told him to get used to it. Patients will ask weird stuff sometimes. And the ART of MEDICINE is not laughing. Or gagging.

let it snow

2011-02-05T19:41:00.006-06:00

So here in Owassy we had 21" of snow. Schools were out all week. The office was closed for two. That's never happened to us before.

It took me 5 hours to shovel my driveway. Or just the path to get my car out of the garage. Never again will I complain about 1-2" of snow.

The dogs really didn't start playing in the snow until today. Enjoy the pics! And hopefully this will end soon!!

blogging

2011-02-02T20:53:00.004-06:00

So I haven't been blogging. Couldn't tell, could you?

I'm fine. Just a little depressed. Know how I know that? All I want to do is sleep. And I'm a little bit snippy at work.

Guess it's probably because it's coming up on the anniversary of my mom's death. Seems like yesterday. I sure miss her. We all do.

And hope I'm going to get out of this 'funk,' as dad calls it, real soon.

It is what it is. Deal with it. Right? It is what it is. Can't change it, just my attitude.

But here's a pic of our newest Team Teal member, she sure is cute!! I made us all Team Teal shirts for the hospital--iron on transfers. They were cute, just don't make it through the laundry. Oh well!

faithful

2010-12-19T22:10:00.005-06:00

I'm so sorry I haven't posted anything lately. Things got kinda crazy with maybe baby, maybe not. And getting ready for the first set of holidays without my mom, so blogging went to the back burner. My mom would have been 61 on December 14th. And last year we surprised her with a Christmas trip to NYC (she didn't get to go and dad stayed home with her). Looking back on that I feel horrible for even telling her about that. But at that point we all just thought she was having bowel issues. And I second guess myself every time I think about it because why didn't I know something? (So I was dreading December 14th this year. Actually I was really trying not to think about it, mostly avoiding it. Kinda like August 10th, the six month anniversary of my mom's death. But that day we found out Baby Teal was going to be a girl. I haven't been that happy in a long while.) But then Haidyn came on December 14th. So no longer will I have to dread that day. Laura was scheduled to be induced but Haidyn came on her own. In 3 hours. If Laura hadn't been scheduled to be induced none of us would have made it there in time. I'm so thankful God's plans for Haidyn's birth included us!! And how HE knew the wranglings of my heart, even without the words coming out of my mouth about that day--Oh how faithful HE is!!

So 2010 started pretty crummy but ended up fabulous. And now I'm dreading February 10th--maybe there will be a proposal or something. (That is totally a joke :) But really if you have diamonds you can send them to me, from God. :)

Enjoy the pics of my new niece!!

love, Aunt SES

(Jonathan's sister is Sarah as well so Cal's nickname for me has stuck! My initials in case you didn't catch on)

(And do you see the pots in the picture? I had to ask Laura where her pots and pans were when I cooked dinner--Ha! I'm such an idiot sometimes!)

Haidyn's Room

2010-11-05T18:17:00.006-05:00

In October, Dad and I went to see Laura and Jonathan in STL. We went for Haidyn's 3D Ultrasound. While we were there, Laura and I did some decorating.

One of my favorite things about my Mom was her decorating sense. We didn't always agree about how many pleats or gathers should be on my drapes, but it always turned out better when I listened to her. Laura and I have missed decorating Haidyn's room with her. I'm beginning to think some of her sense rubbed off on us. We did pretty good together.

One thing Laura cried about after finding out she was pregnant was having 'store bought' bedding since Mom wouldn't be around to make it. God stepped in twenty years ago and introduced us to Michelle, one of Mom's Precept friends. Mom and Michelle are to blame for the 50+ pillows in the Schmidt house. So guess who offered to make Haidyn's bedding? Yup, Michelle.

God is SO Good!!

Of course I can't find the pictures of the bedding but I'll put them on here when I do.

And the drapes, well we bought them and added trim, with hot glue. I'm pretty impressed. Hopefully they'll stay up for awhile. They look really expensive and that's really all that matters, right?

doggie door

2010-10-12T20:12:00.003-05:00

Some of you might remember the post about finding the switch to my furnace while getting Christmas boxes out of the attic.

I'm pretty handy, but sometimes I'm a bit over zealous. As in the case of my doggie door.

My new back door is full glass with blinds between the two panes. So putting a doggie door in the glass wasn't an option. Neither was buying a new door--it was like $500. And the storm doors with doggie doors in them were U-G-L-Y. Think 'Rasing Arizona' trailer look. So I googled doggie doors for a month before deciding on the only option.

1. Purchase a doggie door online that could be put in a glass storm door. ($150 + shipping)

2. Purchase storm door. ($280)

3. Have glass cut for doggie door that could fit in storm door. ($185)

See, much cheaper. . .

But no one told me doors come in different widths. Yes, that's right. I bought the wrong size door. The 36" door was just about 4 inches too wide. No one told me to MEASURE.

So back to Lowe's to SPECIAL ORDER a 32" door. And you know what special order means, more expensive.

And then I lost the receipt to the 36" storm door, not to mention the glass with the doggie door cut out. So they won't take it back.

And then I called the glass company, thinking they could just cut down the glass I had already purchased by 4" so it would fit in the new door. Yeah, that was too easy. The glass is tempered and will shatter when cut. Nice.

So another $300 for the new storm door, another $150 for the glass, and I finally have a doggie door in.

As you can see in the picture, it took Bentley awhile to figure it out. Guess he got confused by the glass.

Thank goodness now they're using it!

And, my front door is 36" wide so the 1st storm door is going on the front door.

So much for my brilliant ideas. . . .

Haidyn

2010-10-12T19:50:00.003-05:00

Ed and I flew to STL this weekend to see Haidyn in 3D. We had a great time. I had to twist Ed's arm to go but I think he really enjoyed it.

To see pics check out my sister's blog: http://teamteal.blogspot.com

We also were able to help Laura and Jonathan finish decorating Haidyn's room. Laura and I found some really great lined and inter-lined curtains at Lowe's that we just hot glued trim onto. (Please don't tell on us--my mother would hate that we hot glued and didn't sew :) But Laura and I think they turned out really well. I'm still waiting for pictures from her--you might as well check out her blog to see them.

We are so excited to welcome Haidyn into our family. We think she'll fit in just nicely!

tulsa state fair

2010-10-04T18:40:00.003-05:00

So since the fair has opened work has been slow. I'm thinking people are spending their time and money at the fair. That's my guess anyway. Makes me sad that people spend their money on that kind of stuff. But, of course, they'll call our office in a few weeks and need some samples to make it through the month because they 'can't afford their medications.' But sure can the $8 Mega Ride at the state fair and the expensive food. Oh well!!

action

2010-09-27T22:17:00.003-05:00

So Kristen--here's your laugh for the day.

A patient was brought in for a visit my his mother. He's 40 and mentally handicapped. But I love him. It appears that he told his Sunday School class that he has a staph infection. They won't let him come back without a note.

Side note: he had staph but not the 'bad' antibiotic-resistant kind.

Mom proceeds to tell me that she goes to a different church. But he goes with some friends because 'he gets more action' at the other church.

And I'm thinking it's a different 'action' that I'm thinking of. At least I hope so.

my sis the preggo

2010-09-19T18:17:00.003-05:00

Last weekend Laura's friends threw her a shower for Miss Haidyn Elizabeth. We had a great time.

Liz even flew up for the event!! Thanks Liz!!

And the food was fabulous

Thanks to everyone who came!

the twins

2010-09-19T18:14:00.002-05:00

Well the twins arrived 8-9-10. Such a great birthday. Ken & Rebecca are AMAZING parents. And not as sleep deprived as I thought. I see them every so often. Sorry this picture is blurry but it looks like they're trying to tell me to shut my mouth. Can't wait to teach them all sorts of things!! Be checking in for more pictures.

Sarah with Abigail and Asher

odors

2010-08-20T20:26:00.003-05:00

You know how there are certain odors that when you smell them it takes you back? Like the day before we started school in Bartlesville. Our cat, Toby, got sprayed by a skunk. And then ran through the house. So anytime I smell a skunk it reminds me of being SOOOO nervous about starting high school. And not having any friends. Then I tried to cover up the smell with some expensive home spray my Mom had. It was vanilla. Bad idea. So now anytime I smell vanilla I gag a little.

Well, one of my new neighbors likes to smoke. Mary Juana that is. In the evenings. So everytime I go out in the backyard in the evenings I smell it. It's not all the time, but it's frequently. I'm pretty sure I know which one it is. Not that he leaves his porch light on, but I think I know. And pretty sure he's not using it for 'medicinal' purposes.

So the first time I smelled it, we were in London. Laura and I were staying in a really small hotel room together. It was Spring Break of my freshman year of high school. Mom had taken us on a whirlwind tour of Europe in 8 days. Most of it seen through the windows of a tour bus. But it was fun. But now everytime I walk in my backyard it takes me back. It was a good trip and I have good memories but the smell, not so much. But at least I can smile.

And if you need to relax, you know where to come in the evenings. . . .

the house

2010-08-08T20:38:00.011-05:00

So I bet you're wondering why I haven't been blogging. Well here's why:

I've been here 6 weeks and it feels like home already. Laura came down for about 4 days after I moved in and really helped me unpack. She and Ed worked on the front porch and had it done and the flowers planted while I was at work.

This SCHLAGE is SOOO cool. It took Ed and I 3 days to figure out how to program it, but it's so nice to take the dogs for a walk to meet Kylie and Cal at the pool and not worry about taking keys with me. I'm gonna have these on all my houses from now on.

If you didn't know about the fencing incident while it was going on, bless you. I had the fence in my contract, but the builder wouldn't put up the fence until after closing. Because they said they've been burned in the past about fencing and then the house doesn't close, yada yada. Well the mortgage company wouldn't close without the fence being up. So, 1 day before we were supposed to close, the fence is taken out of the contract. It was crazy!! But I'm glad I waited because Dad talked me into putting up a picket on the sides, which I love. And it makes the yard seem bigger and not closed in. And Doc talked me into putting it behind the window to the dining room, leaving more room in the front yard. And the fence people talked me into two gates, which I also love. So in the end I love having to wait! Good things come to those who wait.

Entry

Study

Dining Room

Living Room, with Bentley in the corner

Living Room, from the kitchen

Living Room

Kitchen, from the Living Room

Kitchen

Door from the garage is on the left. It's a strange area. I'm still working on it. The kitchen also doesn't have an island, something I'm working on. I feel like I need more workspace, so I'm thinking about talking with a carpenter about building me one.

Pardon the flip flops

Back Porch

View from the back porch

And lawn I don't have to mow. Well, beyond the fence.

Kid's bedroom

I'm calling it the kid's bedroom because I'm hooking up the Wii and having toys in here. So the adults can hang out in the living room. I also hooked up a VCR because of all the kids movies I have on VHS. :)

Guest Bedroom

Guest Bedroom #2 (AKA Storage)

I know that it seems like I have a ton of space and really don't need 4 bedrooms, but I'm hoping to not move ever again. So hopefully I can find a man and some kids to help fill it up. :)

Laundry Room

Guest/Hall Bath

Master

Master, and yes the dog crates

Master Bath

and Jaccuzi tub

excuse the mess

Master Bath

and shower

I am so blessed. Thank you all for your prayers about moving. I'm so glad to be 5min away from work. And closer to Ed. And enjoy being so close to the Easterwoods. We've been visiting the neighborhood pool frequently. Come by sometime. Just give me a head's up to pick up the underwear!

tim

2010-07-08T19:21:00.003-05:00

This week has been hard as we've dealt with the death of Tim Cardwell. Tim was our music minister at FBC when I was in high school. He was also the father of Bryan and Brent Cardwell, two of my high school friends.

He was the best youth choir director, ever. He took us to Washington, D.C.; Colorado; San Francisco; and Orlando, Florida. All 50 of us. He was our fill-in youth director too when we were in between youth ministers, which happened frequently.

He was the guy's church softball coach, who occassionally got kicked out of the games.

He was the guy who wore the BAYLOR class ring and when he wasn't getting things done, it would be used on counters to get people's attention.

But beyond that, he was our friend and role model.

And I think I'm taking it so hard because it hits so close to home. I told my friend last night that I'm too young to be losing my friend's parents. But I guess this is life. And we need to make the most of the time we have. For we aren't guaranteed anything.

The old group is getting together for his Celebration Service next week to sing 'Wings of the Dawn.' Tim would like that.

We miss you buddy and we'll see you again!

And to Bryan and Brent, I'm praying for you guys. . .

rebecca

2010-06-26T20:34:00.007-05:00

My bestest PA friend, Rebecca, is pregnant. And having twins!! A boy and a girl. Asher and Abigail. They are scheduled to arrive 8-9-10. Isn't that fabulous? I asked if they could be born at 11:12am. Her doctor said no.

Today we had a shower for her. We had a 'two peas in a pod' theme. It was SO cute. We even had goodie bags with doublemint gum!! I was so blessed to help with two fabulous cooks and one lady with one eye for design. (I've been packing and moving so I just made bread.) We had a great time and I can't wait to meet Asher and Abigail.

Congrats Rebecca!!

finally moved

2010-06-26T20:00:00.004-05:00

Well, I finally feel like life is getting back to normal. And I can blog again. Well, in between unpacking boxes. I got my computer back up and running this evening and feel so free! And the internet is up as well. So here are some pictures over the past few days.
Can't wait to have everyone over. The pool is less than a mile away. And nachos de cortez can be ordered for pickup to go with the margaritas. (If you haven't had them, they are fabulous--from Compadres here in Owasso--my co-worker Mandee introduced me.)

That's what you'll get if you come and help unpack!!

waiting . . .

2010-06-22T19:30:00.002-05:00

So after lots of rain, like 6" in one day last week, and other troubles with the builder, don't get me started, I'm still living with Dad. Hopefully if all goes as planned we're closing Thursday at 4pm. Please keep it in your prayers. Not really sure why this is all happening--I haven't prayed for patience recently. . . . But trying to stay positive.

So, prayerfully, we'll be moving in Friday morning. So if you're out and about and wanna come by to unpack, just come on up to Owassy!!

And I'll try to get some newer pictures on here once we close!!

i'm gonna be a (real) aunt

2010-06-11T10:43:00.003-05:00

I've been biting my tongue for weeks to tell you all that Laura and Jonathan are expecting!! I consider myself an 'aunt' to all my friend's kids, but this time I'm related and I'm 'really' an aunt!!

(I asked if I could call it Cletus the Fetus and was told no. Same for chicken fry, as in chicken fried rice. Guess I'll just wait to teach it 'pull my finger' and all the other wonderful things I've taught my other nieces and nephews: Wet Willy's, medical terms like syphyllis, etc. Their parents love me!!)

We're so thrilled at the new edition to the Schmidt/Teal Family coming in December!!!

You can see pictures & read more about it here: http://teamteal.blogspot.com

So exciting, isn't it?!?!

cancer smelling dogs

2010-05-16T19:39:00.005-05:00

So a woman calls last week and says, "I know this sounds wierd but I need a mammogram. I've heard dogs can smell cancer and my dogs have been smelling my breasts so I really need to get one."

But then told me she was going to be out of town for the month and would have to wait until she got back to schedule it. (She was really wanting one that day. Too bad I don't work at the medical drive-through ordering service.)

Still waiting to get the results back on that one. I couldn't make this stuff up.

mother's day

2010-05-08T07:34:00.003-05:00

So I'm really not looking forward to tomorrow. Actually, I've tried NOT to think about it. But then I was driving home last night from work and passed the TWIN PEAKS billboard and started to laugh. Mom and I were driving on 169 before she got sick and she saw the billboard and said, "Hey, that looks like a great place to eat. We should try it." I looked at her and said, "Um, do you NOT get the twin peaks analogy? It's boobs mom--it's like Hooters. Do you still want to go there? The girls will have on tight shirts and their business hanging out." She decided we shouldn't go there.

There are so many things I miss about my mom. And I'm sure tomorrow will be hard. But then I remember something funny she said and it's ok.

But I'm going to try to focus on the good things. Like my friends Liz & Kylie and celebrate Mother's Day with them. And their great kids.

And my friend Mandee from work. Who's a single mom of the cutest 5 year old, Toby. She works with us and is going back to school. (I actually tried to help her on a lab report for Biology and I got her a 'D'. She didn't ask for much help after that.) I'm so proud of her. And the other Moms I work with: Omega, Heather, Cindy, Dee & Felicia.

Hope you all have a great weekend!

Last Mother's Day with Laura and Jonathan in St Louis, after Laura's graduation

goodbye bixby, hello owasso

2010-05-01T13:55:00.003-05:00

Bixby

Owasso

Well, what can I say? Ed leaves for Cuba and my house sells and I buy another one. Laura says we should send Ed away more frequently? Me, I say we need to get those Cubans praying for us more often!!

I am losing money, but am getting a really good deal on a new home in Owasso. And a great interest rate. Can't wait to have a 10min commute. And the extra money I used to spend on gas.

I'm closing on the Bixby house on May 24th. My new house (should) be ready on June 21st. I know, two moves isn't ideal. But Ed's letting me move in with him, so I'll be able to save some money.

I'll post more pictures of it when they get a little more finished. Because it's still in drywall state, I got to choose finishes. And I pretty much chose the exact same stuff I have now. I'm so predictable. But I had to look at everything first. At lease I know what I like!!

God is good, all the time!

work & dating.

2010-04-14T22:00:00.004-05:00

Haven't been doing much of that lately. It has been SOOO slow at work. And I have a great PA student so she's doing most of the work. So now I'm really bored. And they blocked most of the really good internet sites to surf. If only it were November and I had Christmas cards to address . . .

But two funny stories from work this week.

First, a lady says to me, "So you're fat so you understand how it feels." What? I may be overweight but I don't think I'm fat. I may say I'm fat but NO ONE else can call me that. It's just rude. It's ok--she's kinda strange so it really didn't hurt my feelings.

So same day as I get called fat, an older patient brings in her list of blood pressures. Not only are there blood pressures on her list, about 10 times a day, but also comments. Like, "Rats! Nuts! My scale seems stuck." Our favorite? "Pulse high from eating," which then is scratched out and replaced with "post coitus." Um, she's about 80. Or older. Gross me out!! If you don't know what coitus is, google it.

And dating. Well, let's just say I have some funny stories for my dating book I'm going to write someday.

I've joined eHarmony. Again. Well, I actually joined awhile ago. But was too afraid to discuss it. My goal this time? Having 500 men 'close' communication with me. Well, I achieved my goal this last week. (I'll give you my signature if you want. Insert applause.)

But the BEST was some responses I got from a guy. Why do they have to be one extreme or the other?? Where are all the 'NORMAL,' Christian guys?

Hope you enjoy. I think it speaks for itself.

The questions are ones I sent him--the responses are all his own.

Looking back on your life, of what are you most proud? I guess I'm most proud of my son. He honors Christ, remembers scripture verses, gives generously, prays earnestly, exalts God, obeys his parents, learns and remembers lessons from scripture, and is absolutely brilliant. He exhibits more wisdom than I do, and has far better theology than 90% of preachers in America today. By the way, he's 7.

Describe an interest you have that you would truly hope your partner could share with you. Evangelism, street preaching, door to door and fair booth-type witnessing. The woman I marry, if I am to, must share passion for lost souls. I am also keen to home school our children. I really believe that the home is the best place to learn, and that parents are the best teachers. In fact, I start my teaching licensure this fall, and should be done by the time I retire.

How important is it to you that your partner fulfill traditional gender roles? (I asked this because I like my job and would like to continue working - - - yada, yada--just seeing what he thought about that) Not important, I like doing things around the house. But I'm also used to doing chores because I'm compelled to do it. However, I do believe there is a big difference between what we consider 'traditional gender roles' and the model of marriage Christ laid down in Scripture, and I believe a Christian man and woman ought to model the roles for marriage as set forth in the Bible for the sake of the Gospel. That makes a perfect marriage, and one that is Christ-honoring and God-exhalting.

Just so you know, I closed communication with him.

I'm beginning to feel like I may be single awhile longer. So I'm waiting.

Hope you can laugh. I'm off to do some fair booth-type witnessing. . .

late

2010-03-29T22:02:00.002-05:00

So sorry I'm not posting. Not that there's anything NOT to talk about. Rebecca having twins. Emmie Easterwood's arrival. House on the market again. Dad's big screen planted above the fireplace. He keeps saying Mom would have thought it looked good. Yeah, I'm gonna go with no she wouldn't.

But I'm just really trying to keep it together. Still not sleeping well. Trying all the over the counter sleep aids. The prescription ones make me too loopy. And not cry all the time.

But things will get better. God is Good. I have to keep telling myself that. He is Faithful. And He knows what I need better than I know myself.

So I'm just plugging along. Doing life. Crying some. Trying to sleep some. Not really wanting to blog. But I promise I'll get better. There's lots of new little ones around. And birthday time.

And my favorite from last week:
Senis

No, not that. It's Sinus. Or was supposed to be. That's what a patient wrote why he came in. First time for that spelling.

And my new patient last week. Whose favorite word was 'honestly.' As in, "Honestly, I usually don't have that big of a poop." (That was my favorite use of the word.) So, of course, we are all saying it now. Honestly.

faithfulness

2010-03-10T19:12:00.001-06:00

Got some awesome news today--the lawsuit is offically over.

God is Good.

All the Time.

dogs

2010-03-09T22:06:00.003-06:00

I'm taking care of Dad's dogs this week. Let me just say 4 is WAAAYY too many. Any whoo--I found some rawhide rolls for the Springers. They chewed them for 45 min last night before I took them away--and then gave them back to them tonight. What a great treat! The usual bone lasts about 30 minutes.

So here's my night--Reagan and Rusty growling at each other while chewing their bones. Bella chews her bone for a couple of minutes, then has to run through the rest of the dogs and growl at them and then goes back under the dining room table. Repeat about every 4-5 minutes. Bentley 'guards' his bone until the other dogs are finished with theirs and then eats his. It's quite humorous.

Reagan likes to play ball, but I'm behind on my notes so I didn't throw the ball enough for her tonight, I guess. About 15 minutes ago she came in and barked at me and then walked into her crate. I think I just got flipped off, the dog-way.

It's hard not to laugh at them. Because soon Rusty will come out of my bedroom with my dirty underwear on his head or he's tossing it in the air and catching it. But it does make my underwear 'vented' or 'airy.'

Wish I would have gotten some pics or video . . .

nothing to report

2010-03-07T21:58:00.002-06:00

I've been told I need to get back to blogging. But I really don't have anything to say. Well, besides my mom dying.

I'm beginning to feel like Phoebe from FRIENDS, who constantly brings up the death of her mother. Like when they are chosing maid-of-honor for Monica's wedding, Phoebe's excuse is that her mom committed suicide when she was 15 so she should get to be the maid-of honor. I actually have used the excuse. Someone asked if I wanted to help clean up the kitchen at work. I told them, "No thank you, my mom just died." It tends to work. Except on my sister. We were looking for something at a baby boutique and couldn't find it so I mentioned that we should probably ask. She asked me if I wanted to do it. My response, "No thanks, my mom just died yesterday." She told me she was going to punch me in the face and then told me her mom just died too. I told her I was sooooo sorry to hear that. I did make her smile though.

So, life is moving on. It's wierd though. It really didn't hit until I got back to Bixby. It's funny how I look around my house and see my mom.

The thing I'm dreading? Going through her closet. Dad really wants Laura and I to go through it so we can give it to people who really need the clothes. It's just that her clothes are so personal. That and they smell like her. I'm keeping the jewelry and the purses. Too bad I don't wear a size 7 1/2 shoe.

So this is going to be my only poor me blog. I don't want to turn this into grief therapy. But I don't want people to think I'm moving on without her. She's with me everyday. I really do miss her. But I'm so glad I'm going to see her again. I just tell myself she's making curtains for my heavenly home. That and keeping track of my thank you notes.

Mom's Slideshow

2010-02-23T18:54:00.002-06:00

thanks

2010-02-14T22:22:00.003-06:00

I can't begin to tell you all how much you all have meant to me these last few months. We are still feeling all the prayers.

To those of you who traveled near and far to come to the funeral, I can't tell you how much it meant to me. Grandma told me she wished she'd gone to more weddings and funerals before she died. And I really think that's true. It meant so much for EVERYONE to be there. Thank you.

As Dad and I were putting laundry away today, he said, "I can't believe how much things have changed." I nodded in agreement. Now we've got a new normal.

We had a really good day today. Bruce, Kevin and Amanda came by for bagels before heading back to KC. And Laura and J left to get back to STL before it started snowing again. (Let me just say, Laura, J and I together are not good for snow forcasts. We've been in 3 blizzards since NYC in December.)

Dad and I went to church, and I didn't even cry. (Probably because the Lunesta I took last night hadn't worn off yet.)

And then we went looking for a new tv. Sorry Mom, but we're putting a flat-screen tv on the mantle in the family room. She will probably kick us when we get to heaven, but oh well. I'm thinking Ed's house will be the new football watching house.

I took a nap this afternoon. And I think Dad had a really hard time. He said he tried to take a nap and then turned on the tv and realized Sunday nights were the nights he and Mom would watch the travel shows together. I know there's going to be a lot of that in the next few weeks and months. But I have to keep reminding him & myself how much pain she was in and how much better she is now.

And we'll be ok--it will just take some time.

Mom

2009-12-29T07:28:00.002-06:00

I'm so sorry about the lack of updates. Things around the Schmidt house have been pretty crazy the last month.

If you haven't heard, Mom was diagnosed with colorectal cancer on the 23rd. We've created a website so we don't have to make 30,000 email updates and phone calls. So if you'd like to keep up to date, check out:

www.caringbridge.org/visit/susanmschmidt

We all appreciate the thoughts and prayers.

never been kissed . . .

2009-12-03T21:30:00.002-06:00

by a patient until today. He was 94 years old.

I was going in for a side hug. And he came at me. So I tried to pivot. Didn't work.

But at least I got my mouth closed, because he didn't.

Oh, I was so uncomfortable.

But I think I made his day.

Funny thing was, Dr Maloy was seeing him and asked me to go in and freeze off a couple AKs. So really, she set me up. And I'm not doing it again, ever.

And tomorrow I'm keeping my lips to myself. And I think the Burt's Bees Lip Balm is working.

And he patted my butt as he was leaving. Told me to have a good day.

Oh, at least I can find the humor. . .

quotes

2009-11-18T21:25:00.002-06:00

So I realized I hadn't posted in awhile.

Today's quote:

"My bronical tubes are hurting."

Many patients here in Oklahoma call their BRONCHIAL tubes that. If it were me, I'd just say my lungs. Such as, 'my lungs are hurting.' That way I wouldn't sound retarded because I was mis-pronouncing a medical term. Just a thought.

funniest quote of my career

2009-11-07T08:39:00.004-06:00

This would be MUCH funnier if I felt it appropriate to use the exact words that were said on Thursday, however, it's not. So, please use your imagination.

New patient arrives in office. He's cute, 22 years old, and works out. (Meaning probably uses 'roids) So his muscles are bulging. The girls are following him around the office, drooling.

His main reason for visiting the office: "Groin Strain."

So I start asking him questions. How long had it been there? When did he first notice it? What makes it worse? Had he tried taking anything for it? Where is the pain?

Of course, he points to his inguinal canal. (Or groin)

I ask him if he's felt any bulging or anything different there.

He states: "Yeah, I have two balls"

My response: "Um, no I don't mean those balls"

He gets all flustered and says, "Oh my gosh, I didn't mean that. Yeah, there are two little balls right here."

Well, what he was feeling were not balls but his intestines. Yep, it was a hernia.

Then we had the Friends episode discussion:
"Are you sure it a hernia?"
"Yes."
"What else could it be?"
"A hernia."
"Or?"
"A hernia."

quotes

2009-10-29T19:29:00.002-05:00

Two quotes from the day:

Patient #1: "Well you don't look like the doctor. I was told I had an appointment with the doctor. And you're not her. The D-O-C-T-O-R (he spells it for me). Do you know who she is?"
Me: "Well it's your lucky day because you get to see me and the doctor today. She'll be in a little later."
The visit continues. . . .
As I'm leaving the room, Me: "Well the D-O-C-T-O-R will be right in to see you."
He smiled at me. He's ornery and he knows it. He gave me a hug before he left.

It's all in your perspective.

Patient #2, as I'm looking in her ears: "Can you see my sinuses in there?"
Me: "No, only your ears."

2009-10-23T22:15:00.002-05:00

Maybe this happy ending doesn't include a wonderful guy.

Maybe it's you, on your own, picking up the pieces and starting over.

Freeing yourself up for something better in the future.

Maybe this happy ending is just moving on.

Or maybe the happy ending is this:

Knowing that through all the unreturned phone calls and broken hearts,

Through all the blunders and missed signals,

Through all the pain and embarrassment,

You never, ever, gave up hope.

--GiGi

He's Just Not That Into You

with or without you

2009-10-19T18:33:00.002-05:00

U2

2009-10-19T18:30:00.003-05:00

It's one alphabetical symbol and one numeric symbol. That's what the Tulsa World said. I say it was one of the top 10 best nights of my life!! I'm sure the next few posts will be about the concert. It was GREAT. If you get a chance to go see them, DO IT!!!! You won't be sorry you did.

the house

2009-10-11T21:32:00.002-05:00

Is STILL on the market.

Here's the situ:
Two weekend ago, I was like, forget it, it'll never sell. I'm taking the dogs back. So I did. Went to B'ville--got the dogs, and all their gear, and came home.
Next day, I get a call from a realtor who wants to show the house between 4 and 5pm.
WHAAAA??? I'm 30min away at work and its 1:15pm.
Thank heavens the schedule was light and I drove frantically home. Got there in time. Picked up all the laundry that was 'air drying' on the guest bed--threw them in the car. Threw the rest of the dirty laundry in the car. Carried dirty dishes and stacked them on top of the clean dishes in the dishwasher. (Classy, I know) Grabbed the dogs and got in the car.
Since I'd left work in such a rush, we headed to McDonalds because I'd seen that they have WiFi. Uh, that you have to pay $3 for 24hrs of usage.
So, classy lady and her two dogs, dirty laundry, some clean laundry, are sitting in the parking lots of McDonalds so I can work on my laptop.
Be Jealous, be very jealous.

Get home--they haven't come by. So 20min after 5, they show up. So out the door with the dogs on a leash. About 15 min later come home and can't get in the garage door because it's locked. So I have to call my realtor to call the other realtor to come back and let me in.
All that--and no stinking contract.

2 more lookers after that and no contract.

Today? Open house and no one came.

I'm getting frustrated. But:
1. My pantry is clean, vacuumed and I found some thermoses I'd forgotten about.
2. I now know how long it takes to clean a house: 10min when you can throw stuff in a car.
3. There are variations on 'clean'
3. My closet is very well organized and color coordinated.

It's hard to wait on God's timing. So here's praying I let God take back control. . . .

Oh, and 1 week from tonight? U2!!! I'm so pumped!!!!

where I've been

2009-10-01T22:05:00.004-05:00

Sorry--the H1N1 has hit. My hog farmer family members ask that I not call it 'Swine Flu' since it hurts their business. I'm seeing about 5-10 patients a day with it. And Doc was out for a week with it. I'm just now catching up from being busy, ok overwhelmed. I do enjoy being busy and not surfing the net though--now that they've blocked facebook at work.

And the fall is always bad on my mood. . . so I've been eating a lot of oreos, double stuffed. And sleeping.

And patients are really getting on my nerves. The crazies have been out for weeks. Let me just tell you, a please and a grateful attitude really go a long way--much farther than yelling, cussing and complaining. Just so you know.

And no one has come to look at my house in 5 weeks. So I brought the dogs home on Saturday-Mom & Dad have been caring for them since August. I've had 2 lookers since Saturday. Once with laundry drying in the spare bedroom. So I've rushed home to get the dogs and throw underwear in the closet. I just hope I can find them again. And hope that my house sells quickly.

And I'm single and turning 32 quickly.

And with all the steroids over the summer, I'm fat.

See where I'm going. I'm irritable. And need a REALLY long vacation. That's why I haven't posted. But there you go. That's where I am. Being aware there is a problem is always step 1, right?

ewwwwww!!!

2009-09-03T19:55:00.003-05:00

So today one of the strangest, grossest things happened. I know, hard to believe. A woman was scheduled for a wellness exam. . . with a pap. And guess who accompanied her? Her husband. WANTED to come--didn't go back to the waiting room during the exam. Said, "I come to all her appointments."

That's just weird. I had to keep saying, "Excuse me, excuse me." I'm just not accustomed to having an audience, who watched.

Weired me out. And the office staff.

I hope none of you have your 'man' come with you.

It's just gross.

the squirts

2009-08-24T19:32:00.003-05:00

Heather had them last week. Today she shared. And no, they didn't hit at home. Of course, I was at work where there is only one bathroom for the office staff. After three trips in less than 2 hours, I left. I drove really fast. Thank goodness no skid marks. So this afternoon I've been in bed, on the pot, in bed, on the pot. Just so you know. My job ain't all that glamourous!

the house

2009-08-22T09:14:00.002-05:00

Know what I don't enjoy? Having to get up early on a Saturday so people can come look at my house! Oh well. Guess the Lord knows if I had nothing else to do I'd be in bed all day!

I signed a contract with a realtor last week and the house is officially listed on the MLS. Kinda wierd. But I sure am ready to move closer to work!!

Ed and Sus offered, after I begged, to keep Bella and Bentley until the house sells. My house is so much cleaner. And smells so much better. But it's quite lonely in the evenings.

Here's praying it sells quickly--so I can sleep in again and get my dogs back!

crazy comments

2009-08-10T21:43:00.000-05:00

ok, so who knows how to delete comments left by crazy people from INDIA???

journey

2009-08-08T19:21:00.005-05:00

Lisa, Omega, Cindy and I went to the Journey concert on Wednesday. (Lisa works at the front desk of our office, Omega is one of our MAs and Cindy is the doctor I work with)

It was really fun. We had great seats thanks to Omega. I'd forgotten how much I enjoyed Journey! I've been trying all day to upload videos and it's not working. So if you want to see some you'll have to come over.

colorado pics

2009-07-28T22:01:00.006-05:00

Sorry, I was really planning on getting some pics on the blog earlier. Still working on it but just wanted to give you a peek of the great pics Laura got.

The fam on top of Pike's Peak.

Laura and I hiked up the 'hill' behind our cabin. This is me in front of the 'back side' of Pike's peak. We had quite the few inside jokes about that. Like, is it hairy? Etc.

Then we, actually Sus, found this and knew exactly what the 'back side' meant:

I'll try to get more pics on here! Thanks for the great memories Lou!

Oh, and JT and Ed did some of this:

17 Trout! Pretty Impressive. Except Ed lost a rod and reel--while trying to pose for a pic. I'm just glad it wasn't me that lost the EXPENSIVE piece of fishing equipment in the South Platte. Oh well!

the 'roids

2009-07-28T21:54:00.002-05:00

Not those. Steroids. I'm back on them. After the last post I broke out in hives. First it started on my face, I thought it was the suntan lotion, but by lunch time it was all over. It wasn't until 3 days later on our drive home that it hit me that it was probably my blood pressure medicine, lisinopril. A highly likely candidate for angioedema (swelling of the lips, see pictures below) and hives (little red itchy bumps all over). So I texted my PA friend Rebecca and we both agreed to stop the lisinopril, of course I had already taken it that day. So Sunday, after getting home I drove to Sand Springs to see her at the Urgent Care Clinic. So back on steroids I am. They also gave me some 'non-drowsy' anti-itch medicine. Well I took it at 4pm and at 4:30pm I was in bed and woke up the next morning.

Today I went to see my doctor and he agreed. I'm on a new bp med. I'm also carrying around a Epi Pen for the next few months, in case 'my throat closes shut.'

As Laura said, at least I do things wierd. (Is that correct grammar?) I do. Crazy Phyllodes Tumor and the 'possible' Glomus tumor. Now this. I'm wierd. Gotta keep my docs on their toes.

colorado

2009-07-21T22:42:00.006-05:00

Day 1: Drive to "the springs." Slober so much while sleeping upright in the 3rd row you wake yourself up. Stay at the Broadmoor. I'm retiring there. Or having a destination wedding there. Just so you know.

Day 2: Drive to Pike's Peak. Get a really bad headache from the lack of oxygen. Next time I'm bringing a bottle of O2. Drive to Lake George. Get caught in downpour in Woodland Park's Walmart. Sleep with the windows open and get up at 9am.

Day 3: Accompany your father and brother-in-law fishing and read a book while sitting on the bank. Bite it--fall off a LARGE granite rock into the stream (head first while holding on for dear life to the rock), scraping my entire left leg while trying to save my dad's rod as it floats down the river. Oh, and Jonathan, he's continuing to fish because he thinks I'm joking, as I'm yelling HELP.

Gotta love vacation

And the previous post about timing? I went on a date and had a couple come look at my house, in the same evening. The couple really seemed to like it. I'm continuing to pray. . . . .I KNOW God has a sense of humor!

my mother's driving

2009-07-17T22:01:00.002-05:00

I can't believe I caught this on film. It's documented. This is how my mother took turns in Dallas. And she tells me to slow down?

the lip capade

2009-07-17T21:34:00.004-05:00

I've been so busy. Crazy busy as I call it. I had just a little bit of time to post on facebook, but I'm finally getting a chance to get the 'LIP CAPADE' on the blog.

Last friday started off with a day off from work. Mom, Aunt Carole, Liz and I were going to spend the weekend in Dallas shopping. Last week was really slow at work so I took Friday off as well. I got up early to get some things done around the house. I should have stayed in bed.

I went in the backyard to water my plants. I was tugging the hose out of its reel when it came back and hit me smack dab in the middle of my upper lip. Nice, I thought. I'm going to have a fat lip in Dallas. Well, at least I'll have another funny story for the blog.

I've always disliked my thin upper lip. I was looking forward to seeing what it would look like. So I took a picture:

Little did I know this would get much worse.

4-5 hours after impact--I call this my platypus look.

NO PHOTOSHOP

THIS IS REAL

I spent the entire trip to Dallas with ice on my lip and downing advil. See how much it helped?

I called Cindy and Rebecca about 30 times once it got to this point. I was FREAKING OUT!! A hit on the lip from the metal end of a hose should not make your lip this big. We think I was allergic to something. Either the latex on the hose or something that was on the hose. But I'm not sure. Let's just hope it doesn't happen again anytime soon.

Me trying to hide my lip while at Chuy's.

Yes, I went out in public looking like that. And yes, people stared.

Liz laughed at the response I gave people. If I caught them looking at me, I would make my lips even bigger and glare back.

I really needed a sign or tee-shirt to explain. Here are a few of my ideas:

Yes, I realize my upper lip is GINORMOUS

No, I am not an abuse victim

Yes, I am taking medication for this

Less than 24 hours later, my lip was back to normal.

But the next 9 days on steroids, were, well, interesting. My co-workers were really tired of me re-arranging the pencils and note pads on their desks. And I paced alot. And my appetite. I, however, bought candy for the office because if I was getting fatter, everyone else was too!!

Three good things came out of this experience:
1) I realized I could be uglier.
2) I do not need silicone, ever. Anywhere.
3) The First Wives Club should've used me for that opening scene; I could've been a millionaire. Or on HITCH.
4) My cabinets are very clean and organized after a 9 Day course of Prednisone.

I've always been a positive thinker and boy can I laugh at myself.

We're even thinking about making Platypus Sarah masks for Halloween. We'll see. . . .

Hope you enjoy the laughs! And next week can't get much worse. I'm on vacay with the family at Lake George, Co. My PA friend, Rebecca, and her family are letting us stay at their cabin. We are so blessed! Thanks Rebecca!

timing

2009-07-06T21:31:00.004-05:00

I am taking a Beth Moore Bible Study this summer with a friend. I was very hesitant because I'm used to lots of homework with my Precepts. This is just fill-in-the-blank stuff so how can you really learn anything? HA!

I came straight home tonight and had to write this stuff down. Not only for me, but for two of my very close friends who need to hear it too. Oh, and me. Did I mention I need this?

Wanna know why my house hasn't sold? Because God.

That's it. For some reason, the timing ain't right. No, I don't know when it will sell or why it hasn't, because it's gosh darn cute. But it hasn't. Either the timing ain't right. Or it's time to WAIT.

Waiting sucks. And you'd think I'd be good at it by now. For God's sake, I'm 31 and 1/2 and still single. I've been waiting.

Maybe it hasn't sold because the timing isn't right for someone else. Maybe Mr. Right isn't totally together yet. Maybe I could what if all night.

I can stand around in my 'paralysis of analysis' and try to figure God out. Or not even that, just His plan for my life. Or maybe I just let it go and move on.

And you know that verse, Isa 40:31? Yea, the one we sang about in High School Church Choir? And the one playing? The one about eagles and waiting on Him? I really don't believe it. And I sure am NOT 'renewing my strength.' I'm tired. Wanna know why? Because I'm waiting on that wedding day, worrying if I'll be 40 and still single. I'm waiting and worrying about the event that I THINK will answer all of my problems. I'm NOT waiting on the LORD. As soon as I stop waiting for the event to come and start waiting on the LORD then my strength will be renewed.

So this is my prayer. That you stop waiting for your event. For your wedding. For your baby. And you start, with me, waiting on the LORD.

Because in the meantime, that's GOD-TIME.

Habakkuk 2:3b
Though it linger, wait on it;
it will certainly come and will not delay

And this fill-in-the-blank Bible Study? Whipped me upside the head tonight.

Thanks Beth

lou lou

2009-07-06T18:18:00.003-05:00

Laura got this FABULOUS gift for her birthday, from me of course. A Bamboo. And is finally learning how to use it. Hence the new background/s. As you've probably noticed, it has changed frequently over the past few weeks. I think we've finally found a stopping point. I just love it. And as Laura's big sis, I'm ok with you calling her a nerd, she prefers that over geek. Or Lou Lou--she loves it. :) Thanks Lou.

hero

2009-06-30T21:54:00.005-05:00

Sorry for the 'hard' music. But it's Christian. And has great lyrics.

I am just a man

not a superhuman

Who's gonna fight for the weak

Who's gonna make 'em believe

I've got a Hero

Livin' in me

It's great driving music. And it's better if it's really loud. You can play teenager, drive real fast, roll down your windows, and turn up the music. But I won't pay your ticket if you get caught for speeding.

If I were a baseball player, stop laughing Laura, this would be the song they played when I came up to bat.

So if you need a little get-away; turn up your speakers really loud and head bang. You'll feel much better. You have my permission.

swat team

2009-06-30T21:39:00.002-05:00

So a patient today was telling about the anaphylactic reaction, really bad allergic reaction, she had to Lasix. She told me she stopped breathing and her heart stopped.

And 'the SWAT team had to be called in.'

I think what she meant was the CODE BLUE team had to be called in. The SWAT team works for the police department. They come in for hostage situations and when people have bombs. So, unless she was carrying a bomb or had a weapon she was unwilling to give up, I think she meant the CODE BLUE team.

Ah the days I have to giggle under my breath. . .

And my sister said something REALLY funny to me tonight and I laughed so hard I snorted a little. But since she's my new webmaster and I really like her, I'm not going to share it. But it was really funny. So maybe if you see me sometime soon and I remember what I was laughing at I will tell you too, just don't tell Laura.

So I was being sassy self today and answered the phone,

"It's a great day at OMNI Owasso MOB, this is Sarah, how may I help you?"

My boss thought I was being serious. I have them fooled! She's going to have the staff start saying that tomorrow at their staff meeting. Because it sounded 'great and pleasant.' Oh how the staff is going to hate me tomorrow. . . . Oh well.

gray hair

2009-06-20T17:33:00.003-05:00

So I found my first gray hair while getting ready this morning. And I know you're probably thinking this doesn't deserve a post but it's where I found the gray hair. In my eyebrow. It, actually the pair of them, were not there yesterday. And they were long. Guess they grew in overnight.

I showed my sister who promptly told me she gets those all the time. But she calls them blonde. I'm calling mine 'highlighted.'

So Kylie, don't give away my secret.

Gray eyebrow hairs. No gray real hairs on my head. I'm wierd.

regina

2009-06-13T01:13:00.005-05:00

We lost a great co-worker tonight. Please pray for the family in their sudden loss. We miss you Regina!!

One of my favorite, all-time funny stories includes Regina. And paps. So not appropriate for the blog. But I smile everytime I do a pap because of her. And I will always think of her from now on.

new

2009-06-08T17:18:00.001-05:00

Let me give a shout-out to my new little computer geek--Laura. She designed this blogsite for me. Isn't she great? Just thought I'd say thanks.

dementia

2009-06-01T21:18:00.003-05:00

So, it's been awhile since I've posted about work. But tonight driving home from a Beth Moore Bible Study, Esther--which by the way is fabulous and you should join one or start your own and I've only seen the Introduction, with my fellow PA friend Rebecca I was reminded about a really funny encounter a few months ago.

The Alcoholic Dementia patient who'd forgotten that he drank. It's just funny. I guess he woke up one day and forgot he drank and doesn't drink anymore.

Hope you find it as funny as I did. Makes me smile.

tv timeout

2009-05-28T20:51:00.002-05:00

Last summer I was on Channel 8 News here in Tulsa discussing sunscreen. I believe I faked it pretty good.

Summer before that, I was on Channel 6 News about wearing my seatbelt after a traffic stop. Thank goodness I was heading to church and looked pretty cute.

Tomorrow, I'm supposed to be on the Noon News on Channel 6. You know, the one where they have callers. My dad told me he'd call in. Please don't let it be should've used Preparation H.

Anyway, if you're in the area you should tune in!!

summer

2009-05-26T19:29:00.002-05:00

Something I've forgotten about summer--smashed fireflies on your windshield at night that still glow! And then take FOREVER to get off with the water the gas station calls 'cleaner.'

my sisto

2009-05-22T22:34:00.004-05:00

Have I mentioned how much I love this lady and am proud of her? And don't ask how many pictures we took to get a good one. Love you!

(Oh, and please excuse my legs--could they be any bluer because they're so white? Don't worry. The Avon Skin So Soft Tanner has been applied every day since seeing this picture. And the Weight Watchers is back out. I'm still waiting on that drug that lowers your cholesterol, makes you tan, and helps you lose weight- - - - I think I'll be waiting for a long time!)

the sign's up

2009-05-19T19:30:00.002-05:00

I've really been praying about selling the house. I got up this morning and another home on my street is on the market. So, I bought a sign at Lowe's on my way home from work. I made some really fancy brochures. And the sign is up.

I may need some Tums tonight. I had such a peace about it until I actually put the sign in the yard. Please pray with me that if this is what I need to do it will sell quickly.

(My neighbors across the street told my other neighbors that they'd kill me if I put my house on the market, who then told me. I'm hoping they're kidding. They're asking too much for theirs and it's been on the market for a long time. I go out and take a picture of the sign, but I'm kind of nervous. . . . I can never get away from the drama!)

the music

2009-05-12T20:45:00.002-05:00

I took off the music because it took forever to load and actually was a pain to update all the time. But this weekend Laura asked if I'd put it back on. So here's a couple of my new favorite songs. I know the Kelly Clarkson song is a bit crude. Sorry. But the rest of her album is AWESOME and I couldn't find any of the other songs. If you don't like the music, guess you'll have to talk to Laura, who, by the way, graduated this weekend with her MAT.

That's Master's in Teaching/Reading. I love those initials! Much better than PA-C, which my friend told all my fellow graduates at our reunion was because I only made Cs. Thanks Rick!

I'm waiting on pics from the graduation--you're going to love them. And be glad I didn't come to your graduation. (We made life-size bobble heads of Laura--because she wouldn't let us bring the fog horn!) Congrats Lou!

idiots

2009-05-12T20:26:00.002-05:00

Do you ever have those days that you just need to go back to bed and start the whole day again? Well, today I discovered that I told a patient to decrease her potassium from 4 TBSP per day to 3 tsp per day. That was 2 months ago. Nice. My grandmother, the family living teacher, would be horrified if she were still alive. Good news--her K+ level was 4.6. So not so bad.

But then I stopped by the grocery store. I realized I was not the worst idiot of the day. Here's what the flyer said:

Missing Dog (with picture)

My husband accidentally sold our long haired chihuahua while selling puppies at the corner of 111th and Memorial by the Walmart. Our family is devastated. If you would please call us we will gladly reimburse your expense."

At least I'm not him.

house for sale

2009-05-06T19:05:00.003-05:00

It finally stopped raining long enough for me to mow and take some pictures. So here you go!

the house

2009-05-03T21:32:00.008-05:00

I think I'm ready to do it. I'm going to sell my house. I hit the wall last week and decided I'm going to try it. I'm really tired of driving 60 miles a day. I love my house though. But I'm not quite ready to use a realtor and have anyone come whenever they want for the next 6 months. I'm going to put a sign in my yard, since there are so many other homes for sale in my neighborhood. If God is in this and wants me to move, it'll happen.

So, if you know anyone looking for a fabulous house in South Tulsa/Bixby. Send them my way! And your prayers. Every major decision in my life has been bathed in prayer and God has given me peace about it. I KNOW he will do the same. Thanks in advance God! You're AWESOME!!

Kitchen

Dining Area

Living Room

Study

Master Bedroom

Master Bath

Guest Room

Guest Bath

4652 E 144th Place South
Bixby, OK 74008
Quiet living in Falcon Ridge II. Professionally landscaped. Security System. Scored Driveway. Open Floor Plan. Neutral Colors. Crown Molding. Frieze Carpet. Oil Rubbed Bronze Hardware. Stainless Appliances. Granite Counters in Eat-In Kitchen. Double Sinks & Jacuzzi in Large Master Bath. Large Master Closet. Vaulted ceilings in Living and Master. 2” blinds throughout. Ceiling fans in all bedrooms. Wood Burning Fireplace.

swine flu

2009-04-27T21:33:00.003-05:00

It's been 4 days since it hit the news. 40 people in the US are confirmed to have it. I think I'm, oink, getting it, oink. Only about 100 calls today, oink, with people asking about it. I think it's going to be a long week. . . . . . oink.

quote of the day

2009-04-25T13:58:00.003-05:00

Patient, "Are you going back to become a doctor?"

Me, "No, I'm finished with school. I love being a PA and just can't see spending more time and money to be a doctor when I love what I do."

Patient, "Oh, so you must not have any ambition."

Me, trying not to hit the man, "Why don't you try to get into PA school and then we can talk about ambition." As I'm filling out his FMLA paperwork so he doesn't have to go back to work.

Jerk with no ambition. I tell you. . . . . . . .I did, however, control my tongue. Just not my thoughts. Jerk!

happy earth day

2009-04-22T19:44:00.002-05:00

The earth is the Lord's, and all it contains

Psalm 24:1a

why?

2009-04-20T21:45:00.003-05:00

Do you ever have those days that you don't understand God? Don't understand cancer? Don't understand why people have to suffer? Why little kids, who don't understand, lose their mom?

I know I don't know why. But I'm still sad. If I were a drinker or drug addict I'd run there now.

This is part of the job I hate.

But tonight I just pray. I just pray. . . . . for healing. In whatever form that takes.

Oct 18th

2009-04-18T11:50:00.002-05:00

If you know me at all, you know I love music. All different genres of music. I have all sorts of mix tapes from the 80s, hey, you never know, cassette tapes might come back. I did not, however, save the mixed tapes of my Suzuki piano songs, sorry Sus. I even have a mix on my iTunes for Sooner game day. And I snuck Boomer Sooner onto a Classical CD I made for work--it plays in the halls. My doc is a total OSU fan--she loves me when I play repeat on Boomer Sooner.

But something I've always said is, if U2 is ever around here, I WILL be there. No matter what the price.

Something amazing happened this week. . . I HAVE TICKETS. In front of the stage. For the concert at Gaylord Memorial Stadium on October 18th. Thanks to my friend Bryan Hindman.

He was going to surprise Liz, his wife, who is also a U2 lover, with tickets. Except that I ruined the surprise. I heard on the radio that U2 tickets were going on sale. So I emailed Liz to see if she wanted to go with me, like she would have said no. She emailed back that she would love to but Bryan told her he had a surprise for her in the fall. She didn't know what it was but it might be U2 tickets. Nice ruining of the surprise. So I emailed Bryan. Yup, he had tickets but it was a surprise. So I asked him how he got tickets---told me he signed up early.

So I go onto the U2 website and sign up to be a fan. And pay. And get 2 tickets--not good tickets--but tickets none the less.

Then find out that Bryan has a ticket for me.

No worries, doc is buying the tickets I bought so I'm not out the money.

That's what impatience does for you. But I was not going to miss the opportunity to see them live.

I AM SO PUMPED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

U2. Oct 18th. I will be there.

And I still haven't found what I'm looking for. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .It's a beautiful day . . . . . . . . . . . .

far, far away

2009-04-07T20:58:00.003-05:00

So I've been away for awhile. SWITCH, the youth group I volunteer with, has been talking about how much time we spend doing 'stuff' instead of spending time with God. Guess what I gave up for a couple of weeks? Facebook and Blogging. So that's where I've been.

Oh, and in bed this weekend. I haven't gotten many migraines in the past few years. Until this year. I got one on Christmas Eve, aura and all. And then I got one Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Barfing and all. Now I just feel hung over from all the meds I've taken.

Quote of the day
"Now how do I administer this medication?" patient
"You put it on your tongue and swallow" me

Gotta love people who use big words.

gotta love oklahoma

2009-03-28T12:02:00.003-05:00

One day you're wearing flip-flops. The next day it snows. In March. I'm staying inside today. In the Yoga Pants. And drinking hot chocolate with marshmellows.

so long

2009-03-27T22:12:00.002-05:00

It's been forever since I've posted.

The 'crud' (yes, it is a medical term) is now here. I've been crazy busy at work the past 2-3 weeks. Spending evenings, at least 1-2 hours, finishing notes at home. I know, be jealous. And we're still short staffed at work so we're all pitching in to make sure things are finished before we leave the office. I'm just wiped out when I get home. I miss sleep. . . .because the fabulous personality that I have doesn't allow me to sleep when we're busy at work. I dream about work, worry about things, have dreams about diagnosis I missed. I'm sure you all do the same. I just wish I could dream and nice dream. About being on a beach somewhere, tanning my pasty white body. (I know about the melanoma, but I promise if I start seeing dead people I'll see the doctor Izzy Stephens/Grey's Anatomy.)

And I'm finally caught up on Lost. Well, just through Season 4. I've been recording Season 5 on the DVR and Ed and Sus told me I'm not allowed to watch without them. Those season boxed sets really get you spoiled. I try to fast forward through live tv. What did we do without them?

But life hasn't been all bad. During spring break I went with the youth on Switch Break. I hope to post some pics soon. We spent 3 days doing service projects around Tulsa. It was really refreshing. And I got to spend time with some really great kids. And slept on linoleum floors. This old lady can't do that anymore. Sleeping on the floor, ok I brought the air mattress, doesn't count as sleep. It's more of a close your eyes, turn over and bounce for awhile. Then get cold because you only have a sheet to cover you up. Because another child wakes you up crying because she is so cold and you give her your blanket. So you cover your arms up and try to go back to sleep. Then your feet get cold and you wake up and move the sheet to your feet. Get the idea? I did spend the next night in my bed because I had to work. The 'children' spent the entire night at Laser Quest. I knew I couldn't do that and work the next day. . . . Ah to be a teenager.

So that's where I've been. Crud. Linoleum. Sleep. Pretty much sums up the past few weeks.

I hope to have some fun soon. . . . maybe I'll even find some time to post some pics.

quote

2009-03-07T18:36:00.002-06:00

The last week has been very busy. We are short staffed so the doc and I have stayed late every night and helped out. Like doing refills and faxing. However, doc 'doesn't know how to use the fax.' And it's true! Everything she touches gets stuck. So I run the fax.

It just makes me laugh. She has a medical degree and doesn't know how to run a fax machine. Her excuse is that fax machines came out while she was in residency. But I can type in a fax number and hit send.

The flu is showing up here. Better late than never. But Tamiflu, which has been our 'go to drug' the past 5 years, doesn't help because the strains of flu are 98% resistant. So my best advice--GET THE FLU SHOT. Because we don't have any medicine to help you.

Anyway, off my soap box.

Quote of the week:

I asked, should we say less educated for lack of a better term, patient about her social history and where she was working.

This was her reply:

"I work at Eggbert's and Kmart. But I'm going to University of Phoenix to get my doctorate in anthropology."

"Oh really," I replied, "What are you going to do with that?"

"Become a medical examiner in forensics. But right now I'm just working on my associate's degree."

"That's cool," I tried to say while biting my tongue.

She was also the patient who was questioning me why I running a pregnancy test since her last period was the first of December.

Ah, life!

Winter Jam 09

2009-02-28T21:31:00.009-06:00

Last night I went here
And had a great time! Little did I know we should have arrived earlier than the 6pm door opening time. IT WAS CRAZY.

But I do love tobyMac so I'll sit anywhere to see him. Including behind the stage. The place was PACKED and the only place we could find seats was behind the stage. People were sitting in the aisles and standing everywhere. So at least we had seats.

But way fun. And I know I'm getting old because I was really concerned that I forgot my ear plugs at home. And that I would have to use my fingers to plug my ears all night long. But the speakers were facing the opposite direction. And my ears only rang until I fell asleep.

And if you love tobyMac too, I really suggest buying the alive and transported album. It includes a CD of the live concert and a DVD as well. I told the girls with me last night that we can put in the DVD and watch the show from my couch, and see the front of the stage. :)

Enjoy the short video I caught. It's like you're behind the stage with us!

bowling

2009-02-21T16:32:00.004-06:00

Last Saturday I took Jarrett and Bradleigh bowling so their parents could enjoy a night out on the town. It was really fun! And a great way to spend Valentine's Day.

Bradleigh is one good bowler! She actually was the only one in our group to get 2 strikes. After pushing the ball down the ramp, she'd point her fingers in the air and yell, "Go, Go, Go!" I was laughing so hard I forgot to take some pictures.

We also found the snack bar! They take after me and I'm not even related!! Maybe we hang out too much!

wonder where i've been?

2009-02-21T16:26:00.002-06:00

In front of my tv. Catching up on LOST.

I got tired of everybody talking about it and having NO idea what was going on. So I started watching shows on-line. But my home office isn't very condusive to comfy tv show watching so I decided to rent the shows at BlockBuster. But $4 a disc x 6-8 discs per season x 4 seasons is a lot of money to have nothing to show in return.

So I bought all 4 seasons. At Amazon.com.

I'm catching up, slowly.

I've also hooked Ed and Sus in. I actually got nothing done last week so I left Season 3 at their house last weekend. Mom called a couple of days ago and asked where Season 4 is.

Dad asked what kind of genre this tv show is. (Not sure he's into SciFi like Sus and me.) But he's still hooked.

So if you haven't seen them and are feeling left out, I'll let you borrow them!

marriage

2009-02-16T21:28:00.002-06:00

So as a single gal still gagging from Valentine's Day I went to church yesterday to find solace.

Not so much.

What are we discussing for the next 6 weeks? Marriage. (I know. Princess Bride running through the memory, "Marriage is what brings us together today. Love, true love . . . " with the lisp of course)

I digress . . .

Yeah, marriage. And the Vow. That's the title of the series. Like I need to be taking notes on the Vow. I'm so far from that at this point. Haven't been on a date since the 90's. The recent ones don't count because I was paying for them.

So I'm praying under my breath, "OK God. I like this church. But you know how I lose interest in marriage sermon series." After 31 years of marriage talks, I've heard it all.

But this was different.

(Maybe it was the hunk sitting in front of me raising his hand that he's single. AND TAKING NOTES. No I did NOT introduce myself, that's just sad.)

I again digress.

We were challenged to put God #1 and our spouse, someday, #2. I've heard it before. But this time it sunk in. He asked us if we really were putting God #1 like we were when we were looking for a mate. (Back to the dating above) I've done it all--E-Harmony/It's Just Lunch. Maybe I need to join God.

So I'm praying, every day, for something specific about my future spouse.

This morning, as I'm grumbling and complaining while driving to work still mad that I said I would pray for my spouse and 31 years later still single, I start praying:

OK God. This is it. You ARE #1. I'm not trying to find a mate anymore. I'm focusing on YOU and what YOU have for my life.

And I look up and see a rainbow. And I start crying. A rainbow in February in Oklahoma. Not so much. God--oh, so much! See, a rainbow is a sign that God would never destroy the Earth by water again. For me, it was God showing me He heard--and He wouldn't destroy my desire and my heart and His promise to always provide for me.

So Valentine's Day came on the 16th of February this year for me.

God is #1.

Oh, and tomorrow I'm praying for a Starbuck's Mocha Non-Fat No Whip. God did it last time, He can do it again . . . . :)

Love you all!

HALLELUJAH!!

2009-02-16T18:08:00.003-06:00

The lawsuit has been dismissed!! What a weight has been lifted off my shoulders!! Praise the Lord!! Now I can start sleeping again!!!!!!!

Thanks to everyone who's been praying!!! The Lord is Good!!! All the Time!!!

I'm using exclamation marks all night!!!! And maybe into tomorrow!!!!!

And my new theme song is playing to the right. Sorry about the Beyonce--I think we've all had enough of her!!!

quotes

2009-02-03T19:21:00.002-06:00

"Itch in virginia" (I think you can figure out what this is) There is more to the story but it's just too much for a blog. . . .

"Cys Its" (for Cysts)

What a day! This is how you know I'm working on finishing notes at home. My distractability kicks in. I get bored. Notes stop. Posting starts. I'm at the computer much longer . . . . . . . .

I hope tomorrow is a better day!

hug me

2009-01-27T12:04:00.003-06:00

I've found what will make my life complete: The Hug Me Pillow:

If you really love me, you will buy me this for Valentine's Day. Here's what the website said:

The perfect snuggling companion, the Hug Me pillow provides comfort as well as piece of mind.

Unique shape provides firm sleeping support
Microfiber shirt is incredibly soft and conveniently machine washable
Woven from 100-percent polyester
Use as a body pillow or neck roll
Pillow is dry clean only, shirt is machine washable

Is this crazy or what? I just had to share. And by the way, I'm kidding.

scrubs

2009-01-26T19:41:00.003-06:00

I love wearing scrubs. Except for last week. After working really late one night on notes and wanting to sleep in, I decided to wear scrubs to work. Then a patient asked me, "Why are you wearing those blue things? You looked so nice the last time we came in and today you're wearing those." Great for the ego.

Granted, the scrubs are part of the uniform. I get to chose if I want to wear scrubs or 'real' clothes. And since we get our scrubs through a uniform service, some don't fit as well as others. And I'm not allowed to wear any other scrubs. Like my cute OU ones or my pink and black with my black crocs. I want to wear REAL scrubs!

(look how long my hair was--this is my trying to look like I'm doing something important look)

There have been times in the past that I don't allow myself to wear the scrubs since I tend to want to "fill them out." ie: gain weight. Since they're not 'real' clothes it's hard to tell how much you really weigh. Although, tight (and I do mean tight) scrubs aren't cute. Some of the scrubs are folded nicely in my closet because I can't wear them.

But these were some of my baggy ones. They weren't tight.

Really? Are you really going to tell somebody that? That they don't look nice?

Almost as nice as the pat on the stomach while asking, "When's your baby due?"

Nope. Just fat. Thanks, though.

Both things that should not be said. Please don't tell your health care provider that if they show up in your room with scrubs on. Why not complement them on showing up for work? Or thanking them for showering before coming to see you. There are other ways to make conversation.

And, on another note, why do Sweet Tarts continue to make green ones? I thought life was better when the yellow stopped showing up. Don't they know no one eats the green ones. I have a nice pile right here by the computer. I would like more blue ones instead. Maybe I can return them to Wal-Mart and ask for a refund. Reason for return: too many green Sweet Tarts!

sorry

2009-01-24T16:43:00.002-06:00

Life at Omni Owasso MOB has been a bit crazy since returning from Miami. What ever was keeping the patients away in December must have left. We've been CRAZY BUSY. So I haven't been posting much, since my evenings are spent finishing up notes at home. I've been up to at least 11pm most nights trying to get things finished.

Anyway, I have a great quote from the past week:

A new patient brought her teenage daughter to her new office appointment. We were discussing the lab I was going to order: CBC , Chem 14, TSH, lipid panel, ect. . . When her daughter asked what the thyroid gland is.

So you know me, loving to teach. I begin to explain that thyroid gland is part of the endocrine system and helps regulate your metabolism and hair.

And she said, "My thyroid must be curly." (She had curly hair)

I just love kids!

theme song for my valentine's day

2009-01-15T20:30:00.003-06:00

Is playing to your right! I just love it. So much in fact that I'm kinda gettin' tired of the song. But who gets to sing about single ladies? I love that Beyonce still remembers us.

And if you're not single anymore, you can still sing along! And dance. And maybe throw your hands up! Burn off some of those holiday calories!

And I don't celebrate valentine's day. I think it's a farce Hallmark made up! I don't participate. But I liked the backgrounds! And my theme song.

So there ya go!

miami pics

2009-01-14T20:27:00.001-06:00

florida

2009-01-14T19:41:00.003-06:00

So the game wasn't so fun.

But I had a fabulous time in Florida. 80 Degrees. Flip Flops. Capris. An afternoon on a boat in the sun. Life can't get much better.

Let me tell you, I spent Monday in bed. One, because we hadn't slept much, and Two, because I was still pouting about the game.

I meant to get on here and write all about it. But I was in bed.

At least I don't drink or do drugs when I get depressed. I just sleep. Could be worse!

I'm working on getting a slideshow put together and will post it ASAP!

And maybe next year. I just heard Sam is coming back! WOO HOO!! But I won't be going to the bowl game. I'll be at home, saving my money, throwing a REALLY big party!!

And a quote from Ed, "I'm still a Sooners fan!"

Amen.

miami here we come!

2009-01-02T19:22:00.003-06:00

After a busy day like today I'm looking forward to this:

And did I mention we found fabulous tickets so we're NOT driving??? I am so excited!!! And I am SOOOO looking forward to some time in the sun!! I've just downloaded some new tunes to the iPod for the trip--enjoy listening to a sampling of my new, upbeat tunes!! (Just stare at the picture and you can be there with me!)

Christmas 2008

2009-01-02T19:02:00.001-06:00

quote of the day

2008-12-31T21:15:00.002-06:00

"I have a cough in my chest"

Yeah? Really, because last time I checked that was the only place you could get a cough.

And no, I didn't say that, just thought it. And laughed.

At least I could find a laugh today. . . .

Happy New Year!!!

stamps

2008-12-16T18:22:00.002-06:00

I thought I'd share with you something new I learned. After stopping at 2 Post Offices yesterday for Christmas stamps and being told both were out but would be getting some soon. And after having another close in my face at 4:30pm (what is up with that?) I learned you can order stamps on-line and they will mail them to you. How fabulous is that? A dollar for shipping, that's all it cost. And I don't have to go back to the Post Office. Yippeeee!!!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-15T17:32:00.005-06:00

My mother, the decorator, came over and helped me with my mantle decorations for Christmas. And since none of you have come over to see it, here are the pictures. I just love decorating for Christmas, but it sure takes a long time. And living almost in Texas, as I'm told by my friends, no one comes over to appreciate it. And Bella and Bentley are tired of me looking at the decorations and saying, "Aren't they pretty?" They think "Christmas tree" sounds too much like "treat" so off to the treat jar they run every time I talk about it.

And Merry Christmas!!

"The Earth is full of His unfailing love"

Psalm 33:5

My tree

My Christmas Dishes.

Three Christmases waiting outside Dillards on the 26th to get the 50% Off Sales. I just love them!!

My Dining Room--unused, but decorated none the less.

Learned that from Sus--setting the table even though no one is coming.

And my mantle--didn't my mom do a great job? One for the cover of Southern Living!!!

happy birthday mom!

2008-12-15T17:31:00.003-06:00

To the greatest Mom in the World,

You have done more for me than I could ever imagine. I thank you for the way you show me Jesus in all that you do. Thank you for all the sewing you do. I love my house, not so much the smocked dresses when I was 5. But you're right, the pictures are nice. Thanks for teaching me to be nice to my sister, I do treasure her. Thank you for letting me move back in, twice, to finish my education. I know I'm not easy to live with but I loved our time together. Thanks for calling me every day, just to check in. I love that you still check in on a 31 year old. I hope we have 31 more years together!

Love you! Sarah

how 'bout them sooners?

2008-12-08T15:41:00.003-06:00

Some friends and I are going to make the 21+ Hour trek to Miami, FL for the BCS Championship Game. It will be a fabulous time!! Anyone else want to join us?

the 30s

2008-12-06T15:08:00.006-06:00

Well, I'm offically in my 30s. Last year it didn't really count. This year it does because I've lived my 31st year. (You know--you turn 1 after living your first year, turn 2 after living your 2nd year, ect.)

Some fabulous friends met me for dinner and a movie last night. We saw AUSTRALIA. I would recommend an afternoon viewing--10:45 on a Friday night is a bit late for me. But it was really great. Thanks gals!!!

And let's not forget the cake. Num Yummy! (have you seen that Campbell's commerical, maybe it's just me) It was a chocolate cake (no duh) with a layer of fudge and nuts, then a layer of cheesecake, topped with a chocolate ganache. It was fabulous!!

The past couple of years have been really trying. But God is so good and has blessed me beyond what I could have imagined. Sure, I would love to be married and have a family by the time I turned 30 but I can't forget what HE has done for me. The grass is always greener on the other side, right?

Kylie, me, Rebecca and Liz

Thanks for making my birthday so special. And here's to a great 32nd year of life!!

living alone

2008-12-03T19:55:00.002-06:00

I really enjoy living by myself, most of the time. If the kitchen is dirty when I leave, it will be dirty when I get home. No one else to blame but myself. Not so much the roommates. (love you Lou) I could clean the kitchen, leave, come home and it was dirty. Angering.

But today I experienced one not so good thing about living alone:

Running out of toilet paper.

See, if you live with others you can yell for TP.

Not so much when you live alone. I'm thinking about letting the dogs go to seeing eye dog training camp to learn to fetch needed things for me. We've all seen the videos of dogs getting their owners beer from the fridge. I think they could be trained to fetch TP.

But in the end, another reason to live alone: running through the house with pants around your ankles looking for TP. . . . .

a funny story

2008-12-02T19:33:00.002-06:00

So last night I get home and decide to get some Christmas stuff out of the attic. I climb up the attic and see a light switch is turned on and there is no light.

Climb back down the ladder, get new light bulb, climb back up the ladder and take out the old lightbulb and try the new one.

No luck.

Back down the ladder to get another lightbulb out of the package. Because if the first one didn't work, the 2nd one must. Climb back up the ladder.

No luck.

Back down the ladder to get the flashlight. Back up the ladder and hold the flashlight with one hand while pushing boxes to the ladder with my feet.

I carry them one by one down the ladder and start making a pile.

About the 5th trip down the ladder, I notice a light switch on the wall of the garage about half way up the wall. It's off. I turn it on. And THERE WAS LIGHT.

No matter, I giggle and think great story for the blog.

After I finish with the boxes, I turn off the other switch because who knows what that controls and I can hear electricity running through it.

5:30 AM. I AM FREEZING COLD.

Get out of bed, check the thermostat. It's 60. Turn up the temp a couple of degrees, nothing.

Then light goes on in my head--THAT SWITCH IN THE ATTIC.

Get in my car at 5:30 AM. Back the car out. Climb up into the attic and flip the switch. Furnace turns on.

Then I climb back in bed.

Moral of the story: I now know where the power switch to my furnace is located: in the attic. I also know where the light switch for the attic is.

Now if I only had a label maker . . . . .

baby alive

2008-11-20T12:42:00.002-06:00

I was shopping for Christmas gifts in the toy aisle at Walmart yesterday and found that doll that Laura used to have--BABY ALIVE. It even has food packs that you combine with water to make "juice" and "apple sauce." So it poops and pees. This one even had a potty and it would tell you when it had to go.

I also remember Laura begging Mom to buy her the food. And Mom telling her it was too expensive. And Mom mixing something in water and Laura crying because it "wasn't the same!"

But the best was hooking her up to the hose.

And ask Laura about the time I talked her into letting me cut her doll's hair instead of mine. I wasn't stupid, I knew my doll's hair wouldn't grow back. I think Mom still has that doll up in the attic. Poor thing! Looks like she had a rough life!

Oh the memories!!

random things

2008-11-18T18:49:00.002-06:00

I was "tagged" by a friend to post seven random things about myself:

1. I went to 7 different colleges. (OU-Norman, BWC-now OWU, RSU, Evangel University, OU-Tulsa, Langston, and OU HSC) I am now done.

2. I grow wierd things. Tumors, moles, whatever.

3. I like Braum's Skim Milk the best.

4. I used to be able to barf up spinach salad my mom made because I hated it so much. Didn't have to eat it for awhile.

5. My sister used to have a doll that pooped/peed after you fed her. I hooked her up to the hose in the back yard and made her pee all day long. (Sorry Laura, I know she's still a little sensitive about it.)

6. I dated a guy in college with the last name Schmitz. My name could have been Sarah Schmidt-Schmitz. Cool, eh?

7. I'm really good at Trival Pursuit. I've been known to read the cards while on the throne to study up before Christmas Eve. Just being honest.

the cost of internet

2008-11-09T18:27:00.006-06:00

Diane, me, Cindy

This past weekend I went with the doc I work with and manager to a AAFP (American Academy of Family Practioners) Conference in Dallas. It was a really great time and I'm very excited to get to work in the morning to implement some new ideas. (Details to come)

But you know me, always finding the humor in life.

I was really upset because we stayed at a Renassiance Hotel, nice and expensive, and they charged you for internet!! Even the EconoLodge has free internet!!! They charge $9.95 a day. I thought that was ridiculous. So last night after eating at Chuy's Mexican restaurant we decided to go to the lobby (where the internet was free) and check our email. Well, there is no place in the lobby besides the bar so we went in and got a table. Well, I felt bad for taking a table so we ordered some drinks.

And $13.00 later, I had a lemon drop martini and access to the internet. Nope, didn't pay the $9.95 for the internet, but I paid $13.00 for a martini.

Oh well!

i am alive

2008-11-06T11:56:00.003-06:00

Sorry about the lack of posts. And no, I am not stuck in the toilet without toilet paper. (thank you kylee or rick . . . . )

I've been sick. Got sick at the stupid PA conference. I work around sick people all day and get sick at the PA conference. Upsetting. As soon as I got home last week I took Nyquil and was out for the evening. And finally work is busy so I'm working on notes when I'm home instead of playing on the internet and posting on my blog. Sorry.

I'm leaving after work today for a AAFP conference in Dallas on Diabetes. Woo Hoo! (not really) but we are going to Sam Moon. Get ready for jewelry for Christmas gifts my friends!

And I'll post soon!