Valentine’s Day: a Hallmark holiday that everyone should celebrate. A day about giving love, receiving love, and spreading love. I have grown to truly love this seemingly pointless holiday - and not just because I can get free chocolate. I like having a day to appreciate the people I hold closest to me, including the people I can no longer send a card to. One of my favorite Valentine’s Day memories is when Mike and I made dinner together. It was such a simple thing, but so enjoyable just to be around each other and spend some time quality with each other. This year, since I was unable to be with Mike, he set up an entire day spa appointment for me. So thoughtful and genuine, which really makes me miss him. However, it will just make it that much better when I do finally get to see him again. Absence makes the heart fonder!
​
Speaking of, I have officially found yet another coffee shop and am typing away. I haven’t been to a coffee shop here yet, and I am a little disappointed in myself for not finding one sooner. My heart is always happier with a little caffeine. Today’s weather has finally brought some life into, bringing me out of my reclusive nature. I have noticed that the weather really does impact my motivation - something that I’ve tried so hard to change. I want to be motivated and energetic every day but when the weather is gloomy and cold I tend to follow suit. I mean, who doesn’t want to cuddle up with a warm cup of tea, a fluffy blanket, and just lounge all day when the weather sucks? Anyway, hopefully the sunshine will continue throughout the next few weeks, keeping me happy and motivated. It’s time to get my life together. 
Until next time, keep in touch, keep in mind, and keep moving. 

New year, new me, or whatever the kids are saying these days. When it comes to the new year I never trust myself enough to create new year’s resolutions because 1. it gives me an impossible standard to hold myself to for an entire year and 2. I believe resolutions should be constantly changing based on circumstances. I feel as though people use new year’s resolutions to make themselves better versions of themselves even though that is something done constantly throughout the year - not just at the beginning of the year. Regardless, if you want to partake I say go for it. Just know, this post is not going to be more promises to myself that I cannot keep… i.e. a new years resolution. 

So far, for me, the New Year has not been bringing me the most fortune. Instead, it has started with my I.D. expiring in another state, many long, tedious days at work, and sleeping most of my days away in Tennessee. I find myself more and more feeling exhausted after a work day or work week. I think that the 12-hour shifts are taking a toll on my physical and mental health. Luckily, there have been more pleasant experiences this year than unpleasant ones. It is times like these, though, that force me to reflect on the good things that have happened instead of the bad. It can be so easy to only focus on the bad things or the things that we can’t change immediately. Yes, my I.D. expiring is a pretty big problem especially since I would prefer not driving the 13 hours home with an expired license. However, I can’t only focus on that since I will not be able to change it until I am back in Kansas. Instead, I can enjoy the people that I have met, the areas that I have yet to explore in Tennessee, and the amount I really am learning at this hospital. 

With regards to the hospital, I will keep it short and simple. I was taught that if you don’t have nice things to say, keep them to yourself. However, I was also taught to stand up for myself when something is unfair or wrong (in a respectful way of course). These grade school teachings can and have butt heads in the past. This hospital is an example of that. I don’t like the triage system, the amount of holds they have, or the charting system. The people are nice and helpful, but there are a few that I hope I never get on their bad side. The atmosphere is slightly toxic depending on what shift you work as well. Clearly, my time here will be limited and not because of my travel plans (even though that is also a factor). I won’t bore you with the details, but, long story short, I would not recommend JCMC to any new traveling RN’s. 
​
2023 really is playing out to be a spectacular year, all problems aide. Ignoring the problems my job persistently offers me, the plans I have created and are attempting keep me excited every day and up every night. In mid-March my best friend and I are going to Europe for TWO MONTHS. Two months of intoxicating food, vibrant atmospheres, and exploring a completely new continent. Now, after I get back from Europe is when it gets a little dicey. I have one single day, a full 24 hours, and then I’m getting in a car with 3 other young women and heading to Nashville for my cousins bachelorette party. Finally, my hope is that I will have a contract in Alaska awaiting my return. So, needless to say I have a pretty stacked 2023. I think it will be one for the books regardless of how dull the beginning looked. As Adelle said: it is darkest before the dawn. 
Keep in mind, keep in touch, and carry on.