tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-204392492024-03-14T00:38:39.817-06:00ResolutionAccording to Oxford American Dictionaries, a resolution is a firm decision to do or not to do something, it is also a formal expression of opinion, as well as the quality of being determined. I think this sums it up quite nicely.Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.comBlogger147125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-91762786724419276762011-08-18T20:31:00.002-06:002011-08-18T21:03:28.570-06:00First two weeks = epic failHere's a run down of my proposed goals:
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">1. Eliminating junk out of the storage unit </span>
<br />I have the box of junk I want to go through with me at Eric's house, but I'm not sure why I didn't go through it. Maybe I need to clean my current space and stuff so I have somewhere to sort through the box. ??? Just waiting for the room available to put my new desk together to have a dumping ground.
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">2. I am going to commit to going to the gym at least three times a week for 1 hour, minimize my alcohol/naughty food consumption, and lose 10 pounds. </span>
<br />While on vacation, I ate ice cream every day. However, I did take every chance I had at hiking to get in a good hour long hike. I did opt for salads and smaller portion sizes on a couple of occassions. Alcohol consumption has been minimal (except for a long layover in SLC - the gal didn't give me a strange look when I asked if I could just buy the wine by the bottle).
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">3. Saving money</span>
<br />I am proud to say that I developed a very detailed strategy for saving money and paying down debt. I will give myself a much stricter allowance when I get paid, keep better track of my expenses instead of spending freely.
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">4. ECCO / CCRN</span>
<br />Again, an epic fail of my time management. While I was in IL I had planned on doing at least 2 hours a day on ECCO, instead, I researched used cars - A LOT.
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">5. Creativity</span>
<br />I did purchase a sewing book and previewed it before giving it to a very good friend and I was very excited by what I found inside! My said very good friend in turn gave me a pattern for a Marilyn Monroe inspired apron. It's definitely too cute!
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">6. Dancing </span>
<br />Eric and I went dancing last week. I still have the rest of the month to look into <span style="font-style:italic;">opening</span> the DVD's.
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">7. Landri</span>
<br />I did take the dogs to the river today and Landri was actually pretty well behaved.
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">8. Fixing the bicycle</span>
<br />What did I do on Wednesday.... I think I slept in and missed the class, however, there will be another one.
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<br />Overall, I'm quite disappointed by my lack of ambition, but it seems like whenever I try to do something there are 10 different obstacles in my way that I need to take care of first. Since I'm always in a time crunch, this usually prohibits me from doing what I planned on in the first place.... it's a no win situation... maybe though, if I take care of the obstacles once, I'll either get better at that or they'll slowly not be obstacles anymore - they will cease to exist. Till next time, I'm grateful for: friends willing to pick me up, patience in dealing with other people, fans, and celery.Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-34724727954250860632011-08-05T17:03:00.001-06:002011-08-05T17:23:32.734-06:00August ScheduleIt seems a little full, but I truly work best when I have a lot of things on my plate. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZaGGxXwFa_g/Tjx7Nkhnl-I/AAAAAAAAALY/rqepj-mKr5w/s1600/aug.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 309px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZaGGxXwFa_g/Tjx7Nkhnl-I/AAAAAAAAALY/rqepj-mKr5w/s400/aug.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637516306634217442" /></a>Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-29940096026976826752011-08-05T14:11:00.002-06:002011-08-05T15:31:12.552-06:00uufta - It's been a long time.Let me start by typing - it's been a while. Looks like my last post was Oct. 2010, at least I haven't let an entire year pass without writing. I'm blaming FB - it is so much easier to type in a short status on what I'm thinking than write an entire blog post. However, dear FB, you've caused millions of nice, sincere people to become -in short- fake. On the other hand, according to <a href="http://www.sparkpeople.com/">Spark People</a> a good step to succeeding in your goals (particularly weight loss) is to go public with them. Which many FB users have done, and it's been inspiring whether it be building up to a person's first 5K or accomplishing the goal of running 1500 miles in a year! <br /><br />In the past several months, I've realized there are probably hundreds of things I want and <span style="font-style:italic;">need</span> to do. I'm truly eager to get started on all of my projects and see them through. So the first step I'm taking to accomplish my goals are to make them public. I'm relying on whoever out there is listening to hold me accountable. It's also fine if you don't since this is really for me and it's so much easier to type than write this crap down in a paper journal. Without further ado, here are this year's nominees for "Best goals to get accomplished" for the remainder of 2011 and on: <br /><br /> 1. I am going to go through a box every other week from my storage unit and ultimately eliminate half of the stuff I own.<br /><br /> 2. I am going to commit to going to the gym at least three times a week for 1 hour, minimize my alcohol/naughty food consumption, and lose 10 pounds. <br /><br /> 3. I am going to evaluate purchases more intensely so I can ultimately save more money and not hinder the progress of goal #1. (At least I bought those <a href="http://www.heels.com/womens-shoes/haylow-blush.html">Steve Madden Haylow</a> heels before this goal - but I did wait two months to buy them and the price was reduced by 60%!)<br /><br /> 4. Upon completion of the Essentials of Critical Care Orientation modules on HealthStream in October, I will study to take the CCRN in February. In doing this, this will ultimately help me save more money and the additional money I'll make from this certification will be directly deposited from my paychecks into a savings account at St.Pat's Credit Union. <br /><br /> 5. I also resolve to dedicate more time to being creative and I am going to finish that handmade necklace I've been working on for the last 2 years. I am going to finish one project a month whether it be a <a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/blog/2011/06/23/in-praise-of-totes/">tote bag</a> or a set of earrings. <br /><br /> 6. I am going to learn at least one dance move a month from a <a href="http://www.swingdancestuff.com/instructional/">DVD set</a> we bought in May that are still wrapped in shrink-wrap. <br /><br /> 7. I will try to be more patient with Bad-Dog Landri as long as Eric takes her to dog classes. <br /><br /> 8. Finally, I resolve to fix-up an old bike I've had in my possession for the last year. I would like to take it to <a href="http://www.strans.org/freecycles.html">Free Cycle</a> at least once a month for at least an hour until it is finally rideable. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.sparkpeople.com/">Spark People</a> also recommends you make steps to achieve your goals so I am also going to publish a month's schedule on how I'm going to accomplish said goals. I am also going to post my progress on here at least once a week. So, here's some progress I've already made: even though I'll have to start paying rent, I will now have a space - <span style="font-style:italic;">to call my own</span> - for a desk and what-have you.Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-56222719693297837822010-10-16T23:30:00.002-06:002010-10-16T23:49:29.297-06:00Hormonal Driven AnxietyI think I could handle all that goes along with being a woman if I didn't have the rollercoaster mood changes caused by hormone fluctuations. The sane part of me knows that I feel these ridiculous moods because of the hormones but then the crazy hormonal part thinks the sky is falling! I just need to breathe and know it will be over soon and fuck it all. Seriously.Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-45234776463175929912010-09-07T19:39:00.003-06:002010-09-07T20:17:54.472-06:00The birds are singingOver the past several weeks, I have felt as if I've been glowing with a giant permagrin. I finally had a revelation that my friends, bless their hearts, had seen something I had not, and they gratefully told me about it and I brushed it off as if it had been nothing. That I was FINE. As I kept telling myself I was, but they could see I wasn't. And now, I feel the change. I feel it every day - even at work, and it is amazing how this simple thing can make me so happy on both the inside and outside. <br /><br />I am keeping my mind open to the fact that it can change, but right now, I'm going to enjoy what I have. And I hope I don't forget how to find this place - even without someone else. I can easily see the beauty and joy in simple things. Now I see why they call it a 'bug', once you catch it, it is with you for a while and affects all aspects of your life. :D <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/TIbyF_taGcI/AAAAAAAAAK4/Hgayoo4Fy4s/s1600/love-birds-image-8_1024x768.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/TIbyF_taGcI/AAAAAAAAAK4/Hgayoo4Fy4s/s320/love-birds-image-8_1024x768.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514360978576906690" /></a>Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-34335694663299016902010-07-11T19:34:00.002-06:002010-07-11T22:06:18.636-06:00My thoughts on this past work week - ugh.What am I doing with my life? I have had a couple shitty days at work, and they make me wonder what I should be doing that would truly be best for my career. I would never make it without the support and guidance of my amazing co-workers. They listen and offer true bits of wisdom. I don't understand how I can have amazing patients one day who tell me how much they appreciate me taking a couple minutes out of my day to chit chat with them, and then others scream out "I can't believe how you treat people!" I'm also appalled at my inability to be patient with all of my patients.Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-83986143885435335552010-03-13T23:51:00.002-07:002010-03-14T00:18:36.577-07:00New DayNot sure what day this is in the count.<br /><br />I am grateful for masseurs. (Enough said.)<br /><br />I am grateful for chefs.<br /><br />I am grateful for sharp knives and the new skills to make knives sharper.<br /><br />I am grateful for simple but refreshing chats with friends.<br /><br />I am grateful for local bakeries who have perfected the art of bread making.<br /><br />I am grateful for dedicated coworkers and charge nurses.Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-21652013890239730272010-03-08T13:03:00.002-07:002010-03-08T13:21:15.538-07:00March 8, 2010I am grateful for the smell of spring air.<br /><br />I am grateful for plastic "money" I use at work.<br /><br />I am grateful for sweet 80ish year old women and men who remind you of your grandparents and make you want to do everything right by them. <br /><br />I am grateful for being able to recognize what stresses me so I can fix it.<br /><br />I am grateful for TUMS.Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-84491934861991689872010-03-03T22:07:00.001-07:002010-03-03T22:21:26.993-07:00I can't believe I forgot my blog's birthday!!Blog is four years old... geesh!! <br /><br /><a href="http://www.doobix.com/" title="Blogger Graphics"><img src="http://www.doobix.com/images/graphics/blogger/happy-birthday/animated/happy-birthday_animated_136.gif" width="221" height="216" alt="Blogger Graphics" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.doobix.com/" target="_blank" title="Blogger Graphics">Blogger Graphics</a>Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-42033287946211946222010-03-03T21:12:00.002-07:002010-03-03T21:39:24.747-07:00Did you know? You have the power to choose your attitude.For tonight, I was having a wide range of emotions for how I was going to create my post. A stressful event happened at work, and it left me and my sensitive feelers in a spastic frenzy. One second I'm irate, the other I'm feel as if I've been stomped on by an evil monster who is wearing 1 inch track spikes (aka hurt), not to mention the emotions of embarrassment, guilt, and vengeance were all lurking around. For this post, I thought I would be snide and say all of the evil things floating in my head about this other person that I'm not. However, that doesn't fit very well with the attitude I want to have. So, instead of being snide, I'm going to be proud of the good characteristics I do possess somewhere inside my trampled body. <br /><br />I am grateful that I have empathy for people who's lives impact mine. <br /><br />I am grateful for being able to remain calm in even the most stressful situations.<br /><br />I am grateful that I am learning how to more easily admit my mistakes and listen when I am wrong. <br /><br />I am grateful for everyday experiences that seem so insignificant at the time, but those repeating experiences over time morph into a beautiful synergistic energy we can use to help us through the major pitfalls. <br /><br />I am always grateful for the listening ears of friends who truly care. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.projectalan.com/MovieReviews/photo/pianist.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 485px; height: 325px;" src="http://www.projectalan.com/MovieReviews/photo/pianist.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-73283186327609910792010-03-02T22:08:00.002-07:002010-03-02T22:22:47.698-07:00No Excuse This TimeDay 6 3-2-10<br />I am grateful for sunny and bluebird 50 degree days in February. <br /><br />I am grateful for lattice and the ambition to create something from relatively nothing.<br /><br />I am grateful for seemingly unrealisticly large bags of frozen blueberries from Costco - they help make great tasting smoothies! <br /><br />I am grateful for the courage of others to research information and present this information to many people through different medias to help solve a national problem. <br /><br />I am grateful for good friends to have subtle but meaningful debates with over delicious beverages. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://static.oprah.com/images/200909/omag/200909-omag-reid-220x312.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 220px; height: 312px;" src="http://static.oprah.com/images/200909/omag/200909-omag-reid-220x312.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-70225203612962106882010-02-24T09:37:00.002-07:002010-02-24T10:07:47.653-07:00Starting a new project is difficult while on vacationDay 3 2-21-10<br />I am grateful for good music to ease driving.<br /><br />I am grateful for caffeine.<br /><br />I am grateful for blue skies.<br /><br />Day 4 2-22-10<br />I am grateful for phone cameras and messaging so I can stay in touch better with my mom.<br /><br />I am grateful for remote ski areas with feet of snow.<br /><br />I am grateful for being able to give Santo the opportunity to leap through said feet of snow. <br /><br />Day 5 2-23-10<br />I am grateful for mechanics that run a diagnostic check free of charge since we've already spent $1000+ there.<br /><br />I am grateful for the courage to try a restaurant even though it wasn't what I initially wanted to eat; the experience ended up being much better than I could have gotten at the chain restaurant.<br /><br />I am grateful for the patience to watch professional pool players playing at their best just feet away from me.<br /><br />I am grateful to the professional pool players for reigniting my passion to play pool. <br /><br />I am grateful for canned dog food that my emaciated pup eats so he doesn't get any skinnier. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.insidepoolmag.com/wp-content/uploads/thorsten-hohmann-lucasi1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 324px; height: 339px;" src="http://www.insidepoolmag.com/wp-content/uploads/thorsten-hohmann-lucasi1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Thorsten Hohmann<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.onepocket.org/images/VanBoening242669146-480.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 480px; height: 480px;" src="http://www.onepocket.org/images/VanBoening242669146-480.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Shane Van BoeningAshleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-75526312172621947512010-02-20T11:21:00.002-07:002010-02-20T11:31:55.304-07:00Day 2I am grateful for big puppy paws. <br /><br />I am grateful for puppy bath wipes. <br /><br />I am grateful for good friends who help me learn how to knit. <br /><br />I am grateful for blue skies and getting to see the sun shining on snowcapped mountains.<br /><br />I am grateful for cozy yarn shops open in small towns (Camas Creek Yarn in Kalispell, MT). <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.flatheadbeacon.com/images/uploads/WRknitter.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 448px; height: 300px;" src="http://www.flatheadbeacon.com/images/uploads/WRknitter.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-8626250122225589712010-02-19T08:18:00.002-07:002010-02-19T08:53:28.818-07:00New SeriesIn the spirit of Lent, even though I am not Roman Catholic, I'm going to give up negativity and focus on the positive parts of my life and my interactions with others. So, in order for me to feel accountable to keep this up, I am putting my gratitude journal online, here, on my already created, but seldomly used blog. <br /><br />I am grateful for forgiving friends that give guidance while remaining honest even though it may not be easy for them.<br /><br />I am grateful for sweet puppy love (literally). <br /><br />I am grateful for the soft and light feeling of my down comforter. <br /><br />I am grateful for the delicious bakery genius of Wheat Montana's cream cheese cinnamon rolls.<br /><br />I am grateful for DVR service so I can multitask with more efficiency.Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-74269323736791731742009-10-11T22:51:00.002-06:002009-10-11T23:21:47.397-06:00The Fountain of Youth (or the perception thereof)In my short experience of being a real nurse, it seems that the "fountain of youth" lies in your attitude towards life and how you deal with stress. The personalities of the 90 year old's I have met amazes me at my "quarter of a century" mark. Granted, there are quirks with many different people, and this is not where I will discuss my views on death and those who die. I write to detail the personality quirks I have noticed. <br /><br />My great grandma is 97. Even though I have known her all of my life, the first real memory I have of her is at my grandpa's wake. Many family members were at her house (she was 80 and was still living by herself and to this day still is), pictures of my jovial and loving grandpa were around her house. The one picture I remember most was when my grandpa was 10ish, and he had moderately long curly hair - he even had a pronounced curl that curled on his forehead. I think I remember it the most because my mom always told me stories of how when my grandpa was a young boy he never wanted to cut his hair - stories her grandma (my great grandma) had told her as a child. <br /><br />My great grandma is the one of the most loving, most forgiving, and most laid back members of my family. She has experienced tremendous loss but still finds strength to persevere with a smile. It is this quality that I think helps you live until you're 100 with your wits about you. ALL of the 90-some year olds I have experienced working with in the hospital are incredibly "with it". (They also appear remarkably young for their age!). <br /><br />Essentially, what do you do with your stress? Do you deal with it productively? or do you dwell? I'm sure all of the patients I've dealt with in their older age have experienced traumatic events, the difference is how they deal with those events and every day events.<br /><br />(They also probably don't eat at McD's everday...)Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-42847139343724465652009-09-26T22:38:00.002-06:002009-09-26T22:45:20.529-06:00I am naughtyI've been quite the slacker. Not posting, not writing, not being creative. I've been distracted. Life is distracting at times. What do you do? Keep on keepin' on I guess. I started grad school this fall, and that is definitely very distracting, and I have a hard time not getting distracted when working on it. Maybe I get so distracted because I am trying too hard to multitask? I know I'll be on more, writing more because it seems that I write the most when I should be writing papers and such. Keep in touch.Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-36745306065835210132009-05-14T07:59:00.002-06:002009-05-14T09:22:12.060-06:00His side of the story"I can't remember how long it had been." <br /><br />"When I first saw her, the place was ours. Everyone else seemed to drift to the sidelines, muted. Her radiating smile, it was for only me. I embraced her small frame, intoxicated by her scent and feel. Oooh how I wanted more from her."<br /><br />"She touched me softly, sweetly, sincerely. We were finally alone, it had been a long time since I've felt such affection. I couldn't resist. Then she said it."<br /><br />"She said 'Now's not the time, please be patient, please wait for me'."<br /><br />"How could she do such a thing? What a tramp."<br /><br />"Did it really matter? I didn't know the full story. She's here. With me. Right now. That's what matters. She continued to show me innocent affection throughout the night. I've never felt such sweet, guiltless, touch."<br /><br />"How I wanted more."<br /><br />"And that's where we left it. I know she wanted to continue, I couldn't wait to see her again."<br /><br />"In the days and weeks that followed, it was relieving to think about her less and less. With the change of seasons comes the winds of change for man. Regardless of my feelings for her, she wasn't ready for me. I had to move on."<br /><br />"She yearns for me now. Now that she can't have me. Typical stupid girl." <br /><br />"Maybe down the road, we'll meet again. She's too quiet, she won't let her feelings be known until it's too late again. It wouldn't really change anything now."<br /><br />"Now, I'm gone."Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-55348739546482597122009-05-13T21:36:00.004-06:002009-05-13T21:42:59.553-06:00Life is a garden, dig it!!Since I'll be staying in the big house over the summer, I am going to have a real garden. No more gardens in pots, a real, growing, in-the-ground garden!! <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguSOkkx9aI/AAAAAAAAAKw/o63w2hZIoC0/s1600-h/gardenday1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguSOkkx9aI/AAAAAAAAAKw/o63w2hZIoC0/s320/gardenday1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335518962584253858" /></a><br />Day 1<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguSOZvtRvI/AAAAAAAAAKo/GzeRnNjxuao/s1600-h/garden-day-2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguSOZvtRvI/AAAAAAAAAKo/GzeRnNjxuao/s320/garden-day-2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335518959677294322" /></a><br />Day 2<br /><br />Stay tuned!Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-47673146636789988502009-05-13T21:09:00.005-06:002009-05-13T21:29:25.431-06:00Santo<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguP2bM1_5I/AAAAAAAAAKg/Rd44zxZehG8/s1600-h/santosit.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguP2bM1_5I/AAAAAAAAAKg/Rd44zxZehG8/s320/santosit.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335516348727820178" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguP2Dc-KgI/AAAAAAAAAKY/toMxi9EQ48A/s1600-h/santoheadless.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguP2Dc-KgI/AAAAAAAAAKY/toMxi9EQ48A/s320/santoheadless.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335516342353013250" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguP2LdfVUI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/6pixwZbS44U/s1600-h/santobark.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguP2LdfVUI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/6pixwZbS44U/s320/santobark.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335516344502670658" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguP1z8FcXI/AAAAAAAAAKI/kNoisLzxaNc/s1600-h/santobaby.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguP1z8FcXI/AAAAAAAAAKI/kNoisLzxaNc/s320/santobaby.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335516338188546418" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguP1yuTvUI/AAAAAAAAAKA/Vjmpt75G31M/s1600-h/santoarms.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguP1yuTvUI/AAAAAAAAAKA/Vjmpt75G31M/s320/santoarms.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335516337862327618" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguPRefmz-I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/HFW2iEe7k8M/s1600-h/lookma.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguPRefmz-I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/HFW2iEe7k8M/s320/lookma.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335515713956663266" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguPROYZFaI/AAAAAAAAAJw/3uL5CFB9vG8/s1600-h/santolight.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguPROYZFaI/AAAAAAAAAJw/3uL5CFB9vG8/s320/santolight.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335515709631436194" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguPRF_V6NI/AAAAAAAAAJo/5U5WGZLkETU/s1600-h/santorun.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguPRF_V6NI/AAAAAAAAAJo/5U5WGZLkETU/s320/santorun.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335515707378886866" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguPRPOLa0I/AAAAAAAAAJg/VSmxyoBj1u4/s1600-h/santopup.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguPRPOLa0I/AAAAAAAAAJg/VSmxyoBj1u4/s320/santopup.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335515709857033026" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguO90xnrwI/AAAAAAAAAJY/IqDp_SUWIRc/s1600-h/santonose.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SguO90xnrwI/AAAAAAAAAJY/IqDp_SUWIRc/s320/santonose.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335515376340414210" /></a><br />Golden Retriever Puppy (if you couldn't tell)Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-87212163171485181612009-02-12T15:57:00.003-07:002009-03-31T08:14:51.703-06:00Living in a RecessionGrowing up poor, I grew very ashamed of our economic status, and vowed to never to live that way of life again. All I wanted was to be able to have as many nice clothes as the popular kids and to not have to use my free lunch tickets (which I thought the other kids knew I used because I was poor). <br /><br />The Goodwill was my least favorite place to go. I remember being so ashamed because that is where we had to buy our clothes, while everyone else who went to town to buy clothes always went to the mall (a rare treat for my sisters and I). We were the poster children for the giving trees out around Christmas time. One year, I got really lucky and got so many presents. (This year, I hope to return the favor). We never got a lot of food from the food bank, but I remember going to the store with my mom's monopoly money (aka Food stamps) to get groceries. If anyone that I knew was behind me in line, I would always let them go ahead of me so they wouldn't know that I was using Food Stamps. I would also wish that the checker would go faster so this traumatic ordeal would be over quicker. <br /><br />It is funny how perceptions change when poverty is more widespread. That's why I like the fact that there is a recession. People have to adjust, and money and jobs and job losses are perceived differently. The idealist in me hopes that people affected by a recession learn to not take money and wealth for granted. However, with the success of locally funded charity programs, it seems that people were already aware of their higher socio-economic status and provided for those who were not as well off.<br /><br />Because of school, I had been holed up in the house or Hastings many days (and nights). When I went down town recently, I was shocked by the amount of buildings and office spaces that are now vacant with "For Lease" signs above their entry ways. It is almost like a sick game because I try to jog my memory and think of what used to be there... for instance, Last Best Candles on Higgins: vacant, Pumpkin Carriage on Orange: vacant, Stoverud's on Higgins: vacant (pink signs helped my memory), etc.<br /><br />With Nate's job loss, I am remembering some of those money saving strategies my mom taught me as a child, and it is surprising that I am actually proud that I know how to live on a tight budget. While I am very grateful that I have a steady job that has little risk of being impacted by a recession, I know that there are literally millions in this country that are not as fortunate. <br /><br />With my background in growing up poor and then becoming a poor college student, these are the money saving strategies I have learned over time: <br />Eat in or if you absolutely must eat out-use coupons <span style="font-weight:bold;">and</span> eat half and take the rest home for leftovers tomorrow (yes, you can survive on half of that gigantic portion of pasta). SPH sells a coupon book (for $10!) which has many buy one get one free deals in it, and I plan on using every single one. <br />Go grocery shopping often and at different stores so you learn prices<br />Buy in bulk when cheapest ($4 for 2 gallons of milk at costco!!) Cereal prices are not as cheap when in bulk (at costco) compared to some of the prices I can get elsewhere. Bulk at the Good Food Store is a little different. Watch your portion sizes. <br />Make that meal even though it feeds an army! Leftovers save you money.<br />Search the free ads and craigslist for things you absolutely need<br />Do you know that the hospital gives its patients generics whenever it can? You too will live if you buy the cheaper generic ibuprofen than Motrin. <br />'Tis the season for garage sales!<br /><br />I know I haven't posted in a long time, but here's my comeback.Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-31672234770962952912009-01-24T17:09:00.000-07:002009-01-24T17:10:28.963-07:00Happy Birthday Blog!Blog turned three this month!!! <br /><br /><span id="pyzam-graphic-start" style="display:none"></span><br /><p><a href="http://www.pyzam.com/graphics"><img src="http://content.pyzam.com/graphics/birthdays/MJZ1349.gif" alt="Happy Birthday" border="0" /></a><br>Awesome <a href="http://www.pyzam.com/graphics">MySpace Comments</a> & <a href="http://www.pyzam.com/myspacelayouts">Myspace Layouts</a></p><img style="visibility:hidden;width:0px;height:0px;" border=0 width=0 height=0 src="http://stuff.pyzam.com/misc/CXNID=1000015.68NXC.gif" /><br /><span id="pyzam-graphic-end" style="display:none"></span><br /><img style="visibility:hidden;width:0px;height:0px;" border=0 width=0 height=0 src="http://counters.gigya.com/wildfire/IMP/CXNID=2000002.0NXC/bT*xJmx*PTEyMzI4NDIxMTA5NTcmcHQ9MTIzMjg*MjE4MDc3NiZwPTM5MDEmZD1ncmFwaGljcyZnPTEmdD1iaXJ*aGRheXMmbz*wNTEyM2NmOTlkMmE*NGMzOWY1MWM*MmQ3Zjg1ZjVmMQ==.gif" />Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-85066637072456961642009-01-10T15:00:00.003-07:002009-01-10T18:13:27.445-07:00Late Christmas LetterSent these out to some people and spaced out sending them to other people for who knows why (insert own commonly used excuse here).<br />----------<br />Wow, I can’t believe it, I am done! I finally have a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from Montana State University! This final year has been extremely busy. Beginning in January, I rotated through different floors in Missoula’s bigger hospital. I really enjoyed being in the E.R. and the Intensive Care Unit.<br /><br />In May, I attended the graduation ceremony. My grandma and my dad came up from Las Vegas to celebrate with me and Nate. Also in May, I bought a motorcycle, a 1975 Yamaha 125. After I got used to riding it and riding in traffic, I upgraded to a 2009 Kawasaki 250. When gas was $4/gallon, it was relieving to fill up its gas tank for $6 and be able to ride around for two weeks.<br /><br />In July, I accompanied my dad to Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Even though Missoula’s elevation is 3500 ft, I had a hard time adjusting to the altitude which ranged from 6500 - 14,000. The course was extremely dangerous, and living in the mountains has taught me that windy mountain roads are not to be challenged by driving up them as fast as you can. Thankfully, my dad delivered me to the top of Pike’s Peak in one piece.<br /><br />August came and Nate and I ventured across the country to visit Minnesota. It was his first time there, and he loved it! However, when you spend 20 hours driving through eastern Montana<br />and North Dakota, I don’t know how anyone could think that Eastern Minnesota is not beautiful! Nate and Rob golfed at both of Giants Ridge’s courses, while my mom and I drove the carts. We also went fishing and caught several Walleyes (which we later devoured). Being a good tour guide, I gave Nate a North Shore tour, complete with stops at Split Rock Lighthouse,Betty’s Pies, Canal Park, and finishing up with a trip to Red Lobster (not very unique, but enjoyable). With the help of Emily and Maria, we also gave Nate a tour of Biwabik’s finest establishments, and made him listen to Da Yoopers “Second Week of Deer Camp”. Nate promised we could come back often – as long as we fly or take the train!<br /><br />During this last semester, I have been busy juggling school, work, and more schoolwork. I’m excited to start a more normal schedule. I plan to take adult education classes and hopefully I’ll learn how to knit, speak Spanish fluently, and become a ballerina. I also hope that Nate and I will be able to take a trip to Belize (or some other tropical location) within a year.<br /><br />Since I have been working at St. Patrick Hospital, I was able to transfer to an R.N. position on the cardiac/respiratory floor. I’m very excited to get this opportunity, and I know every day will be a learning experience. I’ll probably take the NCLEX in February, but I’ll be able to work as a Graduate Nurse from January until then while earning the same amount of money.<br />Happy Holidays!<br /><br />I also included several pictures that I have already posted on here, which you can find by searching the tags for "pictures".<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SWlFy_NkWnI/AAAAAAAAAIw/nCG5Z5xz3wc/s1600-h/nateashlight1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SWlFy_NkWnI/AAAAAAAAAIw/nCG5Z5xz3wc/s320/nateashlight1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289835979587476082" border="0" /></a><br />Nate and I at the Split Rock Lighthouse.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SWlGq1FMJRI/AAAAAAAAAJI/rf87cDR9gns/s1600-h/rob.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SWlGq1FMJRI/AAAAAAAAAJI/rf87cDR9gns/s320/rob.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289836938940654866" /></a><br />Rob bringing in the boat off of Lost Lake.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SWlGqkzJ_NI/AAAAAAAAAJA/tKaDYkg2f_c/s1600-h/momrob2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SWlGqkzJ_NI/AAAAAAAAAJA/tKaDYkg2f_c/s320/momrob2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289836934570048722" /></a><br />My mom and Rob at Giants Ridge. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SWlGqWxbGaI/AAAAAAAAAI4/LLzWRnf6h08/s1600-h/graduation.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_beKjIAr-ZbU/SWlGqWxbGaI/AAAAAAAAAI4/LLzWRnf6h08/s320/graduation.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289836930804685218" /></a>Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-81525871056304993202009-01-10T14:28:00.002-07:002009-01-10T15:00:31.182-07:00Late but relevant post(I wrote this on December 20, and yes, am posting it now.)<br /><br />Fresh from my pinning ceremony, I am experiencing so many different and overwhelming feelings. This may be the result of 5 ½ years worth of stress finally releasing from my body or the “single” shot of celebratory-tequila Heather poured for me. For the first time, I am saddened by the sudden loss of my 23 classmates. Even though I had no family at my pinning ceremony, I still felt surrounded by people that I have grown to love as if they were family. It feels so surreal, as if nothing has really changed, and we’ll all see each other again on Monday or after break. But, tonight was probably the last time that I’ll see many of my classmates.<br /><br />At these things, it is always said, “Stay in touch,” “We’ll get together,” “See you around,”….but, the likelihood of these events ever happening is very slim. It is more of a nice way of saying, "You are a good person, but I'll probably find any excuse in the book because I'm afraid of connecting up with you because I don't know what we'll talk about." I'm still every bit of a skeptic even after finishing school. Maybe this is just my own altered reality. I know I'm the one that is scared, maybe it is a bit of social anxiety, who knows.Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-40505403700348356472008-12-17T11:20:00.002-07:002008-12-17T11:42:06.442-07:00Say it isn't soIt is so. I am actually done. Finished. I have reached the end of this marathon race. I have so many mixed emotions, it is hard to start describing them.<br /><br />Elated because I don't have to worry about finishing assignments<br />Relaxed because I don't have to deal with the frustrations of school<br />Lost because I don't know what I should be doing now<br />Sad because I will miss the people that I have formed bonds with<br />Hopeful because I will get to see some of those people<br />Hesitant to celebrate because I am in the process of applying for grad school<br />Thankful for the support from my friends and family (especially Nate when he was patient with my less-than-optimally-clean ways)<br /><br />I'm taking these positive emotions and remembering what it feels like, so I can learn how to appropriately adjust my attitude during stressful times. I'm off to accomplish some other exciting things I have been pushing off until I had more time. (Finish my christmas cards, buy a couple christmas presents, sign a lease, explore puppy ads, finish class slideshow, finish NCLEX application, take a bath :) I love life. **In other news, I reconnected with an old friend today** It just keeps on getting better.Ashleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20439249.post-32387784851934923902008-12-12T01:32:00.003-07:002008-12-12T01:46:54.865-07:00Bits of self reflectionIf I have learned anything this semester, it is how to be extremely vague and wordy without getting a point across. In filling out evaluations, I found that I can talk around things without really saying much or making many points. Maybe this is just a result of too many assignments and senioritis... (should invent a med for that). My last doosey of a paper - 40 pages of text written with a partner thank goodness - was essentially loops of words. When you get to a certain length and level, as long as you throw in enough big buzz words, they just think you know what you're talking about, when really you're just trying to find enough text to fill up so many pages so they really don't want to read it.<br /><br />Reading through my stuff to find a perfect example has left me empty handed. However, I did not venture into said 40pg paper. Maybe at the time when I'm writing it, it doesn't seem to make sense when in actuality it does and I've just sat here for too long reading and trying to find the perfect words to describe how I've met Course Objectives #1-9.<br /><br />In other news, I've started an extensive "for fun" reading list that I can't wait to conquer!!! First up, Marley and Me. I've read the first four chapters at Hastings as a stress reliever, comical break, bad procrastinaiton habit. Think I'll finally give in and buy the book as a present to myself on Tuesday, December 16.<br /><br />*4 days, 15 hours, 40 minutesAshleehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747083150731156576noreply@blogger.com1