Moving like there's no Tomorrow

As I sit out in the sunshine, enjoying a beer on one of the few patios found in downtown Spokane Washington, I can only reflect on all of the things I’ve seen and experienced this past year. Through thick and thin, poorly managed hospitals to well-managed ones, I can only be grateful for the opportunity God has given me to provide care and travel the United States simultaneously. Not once have I regretted my decision to become a travel nurse, while I have questioned my sanity in becoming a nurse in general - Pandemics really bring the worst out of people I guess. Regardless, this experience has shaped my nursing career, my worldly thoughts, and my confidence as a person. For that, I can only be grateful.


In the past few months I have been on the move constantly. So much so, that I feel I haven’t been able to, and probably won’t be able to, express and describe the things I’ve seen. From hiking the various trails in Vermont, to visiting 4 states in 8 days, to taking a much needed break in Kansas, to finally making my way to the next assignment, I’ve barely had time to breathe! Not to mention the trips taken in between moving. I guess that is something I just have to get used to… living out of a suitcase and driving everywhere. Luckily, though, the drives have been far from boring.


Whenever someone asks me if I ever plan on leaving the country, my answer is always the same: The United States is where I am born and raised, so I want to see what it has to offer. I will gladly visit other countries, but many people visit the United States claiming it is one of the most amazing places. I want to see what they’re talking about. That being said, after driving from quite literally coast to coast, I’m beginning to see what is so amazing about this vast country. The differences in landscape, people, cities and towns, and animals are INSANE. A mountain isn’t just a mountain around here. For instance, the mountain ranges in Vermont are nothing compared to the mountain ranges in the Pacific Northwest. Mount Mansfield, Killington Peak, and Camels Hump all range from 4000 ft to 4500 ft, all located in the Vermont area. The forests in Vermont are dense consisting of Maple, Birch, and Spruce trees primarily. (I’m sure ya’ll could’ve guessed the Maple tree since Maple syrup is a staple there.) Whereas in Northern Idaho I’m around the Rocky Mountains, with the highest range in the Idaho area reaching 12,662 ft. These mountains are surrounded by forests consisting of white pines, which make the forests feel less dense. My point being that I never fully understood how different each place and landmark could be. I always classified mountains as mountains and beaches as beaches, but that is far from the truth.


Continuing with comparisons, the cities and people fluctuate with each place. While Kansas will always hold a spot in my heart, I have to say that some of these places have brought great friends and a beautiful atmosphere. I’ve always described Kansas as friendly with the feeling of a town rather than a city. The people are inviting, considerate, and always wearing Kansas gear. Around Vermont there was a sense of mountainous pride. The people there were friendly but more blunt. Their personalities were strong and everyone did some type of outdoorsy activity whether it was kayaking, skiing, hiking, or biking. So far, in Idaho, the people are more reserved it seems. They are confident, but not as outgoing as other places unless stimulated. The city itself has been the most city-like place I’ve lived so far. I’m right downtown, making any place accessibly by walking. I’ve absolutely loved the convenience, but am missing the suburb-like atmosphere. Regardless, these are only my observations. So far, though, seeing the differences only makes me more interested to see what other States bring to the table. Don’t worry, I’ll keep you posted ;)
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That being said, keep in touch, keep in mind, and keep being curious!