It's that time again! Another 13 weeks came and went, with a brand new adventure finally taking flight. While Reston was extremely gracious to us, it was time to make a move. Scoping out our prospects, we landed on a small town in Berlin, VT. Vermont, known for its maple syrup and ciders, is quite small. In fact, it is home to the smallest capitol in the United States with a whopping 7,000 people making up Montpelier. Not only were we looking for a place close by, but we wanted to find a place that was filled with multiple outdoors activities and minimal people. Being in the city for 13 weeks was taxing to say the least. So, Mike and I packed up and drove North. 

The drive from Reston to Montpelier is about 9.5 hours. However, Mike and I thought it would be disrespectful to drive past Gettysburg without stopping. In conclusion, our 9.5 hour drive ended up being about 12 hours, but it was a stop worth taking. Thinking back, I would gladly go spend a weekend in Gettysburg. The history there is too incredible not to enjoy and the town is small-town chic to say the least. With small shops, fun restaurants and bistros, and the history behind each building, everyone's happy (especially me with the bistros). After fueling up on bagels and coffee, we headed on towards our destination. 

Arriving in Montpelier, I wasn't sure what to expect. I figured we would see beautiful mountains, but that was about all I had in mind... mountains and maybe bears. Montpelier in itself is a quaint town. As mentioned before, and I don't think I can say this enough, it is very small. That fact alone, though, makes it homey and peaceful. Walking out of our current Airbnb, we are greeted with a bright copper dome positioned right atop the capitol building. It truly is a sight when leaving our small cabin. That being said, the downtown area is about a five minute walk from where we are, which makes it easy to navigate. So far, the town is everything we wanted: secluded and down to earth. I think that this jump from big city to small town living is a nice break. It has been an easy transition and a much slower pace. People here are very kind and hospitable as well, which makes it easier to love the beautiful State. I think the hardest part about this assignment will be transitioning out of it. 

Before I officially end this post, I wanted to talk a bit about my new work environment. So far I've been working on my own for about 2 weeks and the hospital staff have been very helpful and gracious. I really have nothing bad to say about the staff or the way they run their Emergency Department. While I really loved the friends I made and the people I worked with in Reston, their ER was not well managed. People were placed in rooms without being triaged or checked in, some sections would get slammed with no help while others were coasting through the day, and huge work ups were being done on people just because of policies in place by HCA. I in no means want to bash that hospital, but let me just say I left knowing what not to do if managing an emergency department. This current small community hospital has been the change I needed to keep me fresh as a nurse. Whenever I get a patient they are always checked in, triaged, hooked up to the monitor, and changed into a gown. Sometimes they even come back with an IV in place and blood already sent. The staff also seem to have a great relationship with paramedics because most of the paramedics also work part time in the hospital with us. Therefore, the doctors and nurses really trust the judgement of the paramedics that bring us patients. Being honest here, we should have a trusting relationship with our paramedics in all places but many facilities do not. It helps that this is a small town with our hospital being the closest one in the area. Because these paramedics mostly bring patients to us, they have time to build those relationships. I know there is still a lot of time during this contract, so I will not rush to make a judgement quite yet on this hospital. However, I can say that it has been quite the change for the better. 

With that, I will leave you for now. Don't worry though, I'm sure I'll have plenty of time to update you guys on what I'm doing. Spoiler alert: I will probably be dying on a mountain somewhere trying to reach the top. In the meantime, keep in touch, keep in mind, and COME VISIT!

To start our D.C. adventure, Mike and I took the silver line to the Smithsonian stop. There are ups and downs to the metro system here. Well... more downs than ups. The only up is that there's a stop right next to our living arrangements. However, it doesn't have very many lines. If you take the metro in Chicago, or have ever taken it in Chicago, there are multiple lines that make it easy to navigate and get as close as possible to where you're going. However, in D.C., you have about five different lines to somehow make it there. The system itself just isn't the best, but it worked. Once we got there, we hit up all of the sites: WWII Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, and Washington Monument.

After walking through all of those, we needed some food and to make our way to the White House and Capitol (even though we assumed we wouldn't get close to any of those). Mike and I decided on a tapas place not too far away. What we didn't realize, though, was how fancy it was. We ended up looking like homeless people just stopping by for bread crumbs, but it was one of the best tapas/Spanish places I've ever been to. Everything was delectable. Taberna del Alabardero was the name of it if ya'll want to look it up. Definitely recommended if dressed appropriately. After lunch we made our way to the Capitol since the White House was blocked off for about 3 blocks in each direction. The Capitol was also fenced off and guarded by the National Guard. Turns out, we decided on a Washington trip during the second impeachment trial (who knew). Finally, it was time to head home. Overall mileage for that trip was 8 miles, so we were exhausted. 

Washington D.C. will always be an amazing expirience. Whether you live there for a short while or simply take a weekend, it's full of culture, great cuisine, and moving historical sites. I loved my trip and have since gone back to explore. Always fun and always interesting. 

As always, stay in touch, stay in mind, and stay safe out there!

So, it seems that I've gotten increasingly worse at updating this blog. Not that it should surprise anyone, really, but I bought this site for a reason and I need to hold myself to a higher standard here. Luckily, I have a snowy Sunday all to myself to type out my adventures and actually upload some pictures of the BEAUTIFUL Virginia that I still reside at. In the meantime, since I'm feeling full of lazy energy, I'll whip out a monthly update (or month and a half update since I haven't posted since before Christmas). 

December:
Christmas was quiet this year since our ever so anticipated Christmas celebration was cancelled. A few family members got together, but I needed to keep my distance due to my profession. However, I did receive the first dose of the Pfizer vaccine prior to catching my flight - by the way the first and second dose kicked my ass. 
After Christmas the rest of December was pretty boring and consisted of me working, sleeping, and eating. Mostly sleeping... I did officially get fully vaccinated and, again, the vaccine kicked my ASS. 

January:
January held a lot more action, in which I plan to dedicate a couple of sections entirely towards. Mike and I finally tried out the train station and took a day trip to Washington. It was Mike's first time in DC, which was interesting to say the least. Unfortunately the Capitol and the White House were entirely blocked off since our Country is falling apart, but the rest of the monuments stood proud and hardly had any visitors. 
The next week was my birthday and somehow Mike and I acquired 5 days off. In that time we traveled to Charleston, SC. Definitely worth the trip! There were so many fun places to go to, history to learn about, and plenty of alcohol to drink. The weather was colder than expected, but very sunny each day. Hopefully we get an assignment close to there soon because I am HOOKED. 
The end of January consisted mostly of me inviting myself places because that's the only way travelers can make friends. I went to both a winery and a brewery, visited Washington once again, and met a couple new people in the process. This area really is unique. I love being close to a city in which I can busy myself for a day and then retreat back to the outskirts, away from the hustle and bustle. I don't ever see myself living in a full-fledged city like NYC or Washington DC, but being close to it all has been an eye opener. 

All in all, it has been a fantastic time here in Virginia. Not that ya'll would know because I've been doing a TERRIBLE job writing. However, one of my many New Years resolutions is to update this more often, so fingers crossed that happens.
​As always, stay in mind, stay in touch, and stay safe out there!

As I sit by my freshly lit candle and smell in the sweet aroma of "poached pears" I can't help but reflect on the spirit of Christmas. With the stress of life, including the added stress of our ever-growing pandemic crisis, the meaning and spirit of Christmas can easily be overlooked. While I personally get distracted by the twinkling lights, bright snow, and jolly Christmas tunes, I can also get distracted with every day struggles. Doing the laundry, cleaning the apartment, going to work, needing to work out... everything just piles up and I never know what to do with it. For that matter, I am notoriously bad at buying Christmas presents early enough, so I've been running around attempting to make sure all of my presents will get in on time. For an Emergency Department nurse you think I would be better at planning things (mental eye roll). This year, though, I've been thinking about family (mostly), God, and humanity. Praying for the safety of my family, willing myself to strengthen my relationship with God, and pouring every ounce of faith I can into humanity in hopes that everyone can get along. I know the world has many problems that won't be fixed easily, but I'm hoping that if I spread kindness and have faith that maybe, just maybe, the stress and hatred revolving around the world will dissipate - for the holiday spirit of course. 

Enough about Christmas spirit, though, I'll tell you a bit about settling down in at Reston! So far, the hospital has been very welcoming and fast paced. The demand can be heavy some days but overall they have a great work ethic and cohesive atmosphere. I will say there are some downsides like with any place we've been at. One thing in particular that bugs me is that they do not run their department with a triage nurse. For those of you who don't know what that means, most all Emergency Departments have a triage nurse to greet each patient. They are the first nurse you see when checking in and they usually take your vital signs, get your story, and determine how sick you are. Once they do this, they'll give you a number - 1, being CPR is in progress, to 5, meaning that they need a prescription refill or an xray. This is essential because it will get the sickest people back faster than the others. However, at this facility, they just place people in rooms without triaging them and expect the nurse in that section to do it. So far it's been okay, but in hindsight this is pretty irresponsible and unsafe. As Mike has pointed out before, the sickest patient in the ER is the one that hasn't been triaged. But what do we know? ;)

As for our living situation, the apartment is as cozy as ever. We have been able to stay warm in these tight quarters for sure. On the bright side, I have officially decorated around the house - hanging lights and finding a small replacement for a Christmas tree that we have no room for. It's been easy moving in and this place feels like home. I have never lived in a big city or even in an apartment complex that had an elevator, so it's been quite the change. I am still not used to having to leave 10 minutes earlier to account for potentially missing the elevator. Regardless, traffic isn't as bad as I thought it would be and the people aren't as scarily harsh as I anticipated.

The funny thing about living in a city out here is that you still feel as though you are in a rural area because of the foliage surrounding you. It is almost as if you are one city in the middle of a forest, and that is why I think Mike has been okay living in a city. If it wasn't for the numerous outdoors activities, both Mike and I might go mad! It has been quite a difference from Corpus Christi with regards to healthy lifestyles as well. Since there are so many activities to do here that keep you active, everyone is fairly healthy. Not to mention the excessive amount of Whole Foods stores down here. Since I refuse to spend 20 dollars on a carrot, it takes me about 15-20 minutes to find a grocery store around here. Downside to living in a wealthy area where everything is organic... Upside? I'm forced into a healthy diet. There's a Yin and Yang for everything it seems. Anyway, after about 3 weeks here I feel officially settled in, which was way faster than our first assignment. I think I'm finally getting the hang of this lifestyle!

So, as always, stay in mind, stay in touch, and have a merry Christmas! (or happy holidays for all other religions :)) P.S. pictures are coming! I just have to download them and it takes a minute for my non-technological self. 

A REFLECTION
As previously mentioned before, time is a wild and wonderful thing. It escapes you when you most need it, and engulfs you in times you most want its absence. While I have been traveling and blogging, I have found myself getting lost in time. I can forget my obligations as a daughter, as a traveler, and as a blogger. Even though I try my best, time flies by and makes the simplest tasks feel as though they are the hardest things in the world. I've met and loved so many people these past few years and I always feel bad about losing touch with some of my closest friends. But, that is how time works. It makes me make mistakes, but also makes me realize who I truly want to be as a person, friend, and nurse. I owe my life to time and sooner or later I will pay back my debt. 

DECEMBER 
Hello to all and happy December! I apologize for a month-long absence, but it was much needed. Not to worry though, because you haven't missed much. After our adventure in south Texas, Corpus Christi to be exact, Mike and I decided a month-long hiatus was necessary. We headed back to Kansas and lounged about meeting up with old friends and visiting family. Thanksgiving rolled around and shortly after it was time to start our venture out East. This next assignment brought us to Reston, Virginia. Reston is about 30 minutes outside of Washington, D.C. It is a very wealthy area with beautiful homes and lush forests surrounding it. Mike and I found a place in Tysons Corner, VA, which is about half way between Reston and Washington. While our apartment is about the size of my parent's living room, it is in a great location. So far the hospital staff have been amazing as well - very welcoming and kind. While I have had no problems with any of the staff, I have over worked myself a touch these first couple of weeks. Not to worry, though, because a 5-day break is headed my way after my next few days working. Regardless, our adventure out here has only just begun and  I can't wait to tell you all about it! As always, stay in touch, stay in mind, and stay safe out there!

These past couple of weeks down here in Texas have been ABSOLUTELY nuts. In fact, I never realized that staying busy could be so easy. After getting comfortable with the town and some of the people I work with, I have been able to really explore what Corpus has to offer. Unfortunately, there's not much to do here besides go to the beach and eat good food. Which, in all honesty, is what I came down here to do. However, Mike and I did visit the USS Lexington, which happens to be haunted, visited Fredericksburg and Houston (though only I went to Houston), and have been able to hangout with a few newly-made friends. Game nights are a big deal here... as are beach bonfires. Who knew?  Regardless, we've really been able to engulf ourselves in Corpus Christi and that is hands down the best part of travel nursing. As a travel nurse it can be scary and enticing to enter a new town or city and a new hospital. While many hospitals work the same, there are vast differences on other providers, how their ER is set up, and the patients that they see. So, while running around trying to figure all of that out, the people really make a difference. Luckily for us, we have met some amazing people. They have shown us Corpus for all it's worth and have been patient with us during our learning curve. It really will be bitter sweet when we leave here in about a month. 

I'll post a few pictures so ya'll can see what we've been up to! Fredericksburg, Houston, and the USS Lexington will ALL be posted in their very own blog post. 

As always, stay in touch, stay in mind, and live a little!

DAY ONE
From German beer to French wine, Fredericksburg did not disappoint. After staying in Corpus Christi for these past few weeks, Mike and I were ready for an escape (even though I just came back from Houston the weekend prior). After talking around to a few people we stumbled upon Fredericksburg, which happens to be Texas wine country. Being 2 wine lovers ourselves it only seemed reasonable to spend a few nights. I ended up finding an adorable bed and breakfast simply a walk away from the main drag, and Mike found an all-day wine tour officially booking our trip.

The drive was about 3.5 hours from Corpus Christi and we truly discovered “hill country.” Once we broke off of the main highway all we could see were beautifully grassy hills along the drive. Quite scenic if you ask me. The hours flew by and before we knew it we were entering the most German looking town I have seen in a while. Diners, bed and breakfasts, motels, and breweries speckled the road with waving German flags alongside each of them. All of the shops we passed looked inviting and colorful. Many people were walking around with beverages, hopping from one bar to the next or simply enjoying the sunshine. Arriving too early to check in, we thought it only best to see what the main drag had to offer. We parked the car next to the B&B and began an afternoon stroll.

While walking through the town we came across a patio with live music playing and a relaxed atmosphere that deemed necessary after a long drive. We ordered some drinks and people watched while a guitarist played in the background. Lets just say it set the bar high for the rest of the trip. Some German bratwursts and a drink or two later we headed back to the B&B to check in. The place we stayed at was called the Inn Above Town Creek. The house is not even a block away from Main street. It has about 5 rooms to choose from, all of which looked very cozy and sweet. Our room was amazing. It was comfortable, elegant, and exactly what I would want from a bed and breakfast. However, you don’t go to a new town just to stay in the room! Mike and I checked in, freshened up, and headed out to do some exploring and maybe find some food - I'm always looking for the food.

Wandering around, we stumbled upon what seemed like a nice-looking bar. Walking in, you immediately got a speakeasy vibe, which was not what we were prepared for. You were met with red drapes immediately entering the door, which opened to a large room. The space was speckled with couches and low tables inviting for groups or even two people. Two bars were designated and individualized for the drinker’s choice. One was for all wine selections, while the other was for liquor. Low lighting and calm music, along with old-time movies playing on the TV, gave off a unique and relaxing atmosphere. Having a cocktail or two, we finally decided to look for some grub.

With food on the mind, Mike and I found a pizza parlor named Sozial Haus. Instead of being seated inside, we agreed to grab  beer and wait for a patio spot. One beer later we were ordering another while glancing at the extensive menu. Finally deciding on our pizza we toasted to another blissful night and a wonderful weekend to come. On our way home, still not quite ready to go to bed, we walked past live music. Intrigued, we walked along an ally that led us to an open patio where many people were drinking, eating, and listening to the live band. We grabbed a drink and found a spot enjoying the cool night air. Once the show was over, we were more than ready to call it a night, excited for our adventures tomorrow. 

​DAY TWO
The next morning we awoke early enough to find breakfast before our wine tour picked us up at 11. We found a spot not too far away that quenched Mike’s craving for biscuits and gravy. Once completely stuffed with a hardy meal, we were ready to start drinking. The bus picked us up from our B&B for our “Crown Royal” wine tour. There ended up being about 10 people, us included. One group consisted of four very big personalities and two other couples just as eager to try some wine joined us for our adventure. Let me tell you, this group was fantastic. Everyone was excited to try wines and simply have a good time. I could go on and on about the wineries we visited but, instead, will limit it to the one everyone needs to stop at. Named after the owner’s daughter made fun of him for knowing nothing about wine, Slate Theory Winery is new to the Texas Wine area. The owner himself gave us our tour and enticed us with stories of his life and how he started in the wine business. In fact, he started as a chemical engineer working and owning his family oil company. Not wanting his 7 kids following in his footsteps and having his business given to them, he sold his company and bought land for a winery. The winery itself launched at the beginning of this year, which was unfortunate timing due to the ongoing pandemic. After being shut down for a few months, we were one of the first few tours permitted. The wine was incredible. I loved every glass we tried, including the whites (which, most of you know, I’m a reds gal). They each had their own individuality and tickled your tastebuds. Definitely a winery I would be happy to visit again and one that everyone should stop by if visiting Fredericksburg.

​The wine tour finally dropped us off around 5ish. We made plans with some of the people we met on the tour and went back to the room to freshen up. Afterwards, we walked around and dashed into a few shops just to see what they had to offer. Finally, we met a couple for some drinks, only to be joined by those four outrageously amazing women later on. We ended the night across the street at a German bar and grill for a late night snack and some needed beer (Mike was all wined-out). It was a great end to an eventful day.

DAY THREE
Our last and final day began as a lazy one. We grudgingly got out of our room around 1045 and headed into town for a small bite and some coffee. We ended up at a placed called Vaudeville, as recommended by my cousin. This place is definitely on the fancier end. When you first walk in, you are greeted with a high-end store selling jewelry, cook books, glassware… really anything you can imagine. Sauntering downstairs is where you’ll find the dining area. Open for breakfast, brunch and lunch, this upscale eatery was grandeur. Mike and I found bar seats, which are arguably the best in the house. While there we were in awe watching the cooks and baristas at work. We ordered one order of their famous fried chicken and each got a glass of something bubbly and alcoholic. I would indulge you on the name of it, but quite frankly I don’t remember. There was bubbles and peach, and I also got an espresso and a water because I was about to topple over of exhaustion. The fried chicken was astonishing. I can only remember having fried chicken this delectable one other time and that was in Jackson Hole. The meat was so tender and the breading was filled with spices giving it an authentic taste. However, I am glad we split it because the plate was very large.

We walked around the store upstairs for a bit, itching to move after our large brunch, and then began strolling the street. I pulled Mike into a candle store, and after smelling every scent in there, I left triumphantly with a bag full. At this time, we thought it best to split up and reconvene for an early dinner. What can I say? Shopping isn’t really Mike’s cup of tea. After hitting a few stores and buying more than necessary, we went back to our room and got ready for dinner.

Otto’s is a German restaurant only available for reservations. I would describe it as a small space with large flavor. This restaurant, like Vaudeville, is upscale. However, it has a very relaxed aura about it. Mike and I sat at a hightop table indoors, in which I was able to people watch the entire restaurant. We were apart of the first few people there, so it was interesting to watch as the place filled up throughout our meal. We started with some wine and roast beef, ending with another glass of wine and a delicate chocolate dessert. Our meals were decadent and full of flavor. I got pasta while Mike indulged in schnitzel. Both were amazing, and both are recommended. Afterwards, we changed and walked around again, drinks in hand. What? We were on vacation! Finally, we enjoyed a beer at Fredericksburg Brewery in order to watch football. Sunday night football is nothing to mess around with! Ending the night at this outdoor German sports bar was definitely the way to do it. After the game ended we hung around a little longer, making friends with another couple at the bar. Exhausted and ready to sleep, we found our way back to our B&B. Overall, our experience in Fredericksburg was different every day. We indulged in the finer things, but stayed true to our laid back and casual style. I loved how easy and accessible everything was for us to walk to and how inviting everyone was. For any and all types of people, Fredericksburg offers a lot to the table. Just be ready to drink like the Germans do ;)

​As always, stay in touch, stay in mind, and stay safe out there!

Wow guys, it has been some time since I've posted ANYTHING! Not even a teaser. Worst blogger ever - it's okay. You can say it. These past few weeks have just been insane. I've taken a couple trips, worked my little butt off, and have drank a few more beers than I'd care to admit. Luckily, Mike and I are finally getting in the groove of things and have been able to hangout with some people outside of the mundane work life. That being said, we only have a month left, so just a tad late to the game. However, I see a lot more late-night bonfires and game nights in our short future here in Corpus Christi. Below I've posted a few pictures, but more posts and photos are to come I promise! I can't wait to tell ya'll about the small weekend getaways and other trouble I've been getting into down South. As always, stay in mind, stay in touch, and stay tuned!

My living situation is interesting to say the least. Driving down Ocean Drive you will find million dollar homes nestled along the shoreline. Even though the road might throw your car out of alignment, the extravagant, old homes will wow you. The houses are all differently unique. One house resembles the Southern comfort stereotype we all know and love. White pillars speckle the wrap-around porch and multiple swings hang around the lush, green lawn. Another house is more modern with large windows spread across the front and a beautiful drive-way leading up to the entrance. Then, you turn down my street and we get further into my pay-grade. Houses are withered but sturdy. Kids play along the road while parents stand watch. It is a good environment, but nothing like the extravagant Ocean Drive.
    My house sits on a corner near a stop sign, just minutes away from “millionaire row.” While the location of my house really is ideal, the structure itself is far from extravagant. The listing on airbnb states that the owners called this place a “tiny castle.” Well let me tell you, Cinderella technically lived in a tiny castle too before she found prince charming. However, I still wasn’t dying to live in Cinderella’s part of the house. The structure, like all of my neighborhood, is worn down. It stands tall with approximately 5 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms inside. Right when you walk in, you are greeted with an unfinished staircase and a well-furnished living room. Staying on the ground floor there are 2 bedrooms and one bathroom off of the living room. Further back sits the dining room and the kitchen. To give you an accurate depiction of the kitchen, let me just say that I can only use the back burners on the stove because the front two scare me. No dishwasher, but I can live with that (doing dishes is trending). Lastly, the washer and dryer are out the back door.
    Going upstairs is where yours truly lives. There are three bedrooms (I think) and one bathroom. My room is very spacious with a mini fridge, TV, and large closet. The bathroom is off of my room. Because I’ll be here longer than most, I locked the bathroom door leading to the hallway and kept the one open that leads to my room. Luckily I have only had one roommate up here that stayed for about a week. He was a doctor at the local children’s hospital down the street. Very nice, but also I hardly ever talked to him. To be fair, I’m hardly ever home. My roommates have been very kind and easy to talk to. Unfortunately, one of them just left to move into an apartment she remodeled. She was an artist and quite possibly the nicest person I’ve ever met. My other roommate is one that can have a conversation with himself for hours. I only engage in conversation if I have a lot of time because he really does talk for days (but is too very nice). I will say the best part of this house has been the people. They all have their quirks, but that’s what makes them interesting.
    Overall, my housing situation could be better, but could be way worse. I like the people here and still feel safe, which is the most important part. No matter what I can always return to Ocean Drive and pretend I live an extravagant life in one of those houses. Also, I can always go over to Mike’s house in which he is the only occupant. So handy having him around. In the meantime, stay in touch, stay in mind, and stay safe out there!

Leaving Kansas was something that I had begun to get used to. After spending four years in Illinois, I went back to Overland Park to begin my nursing journey. While I loved spending time close to family and close to those amazing Kansas sunsets, I was ready to see more of this country. Corpus Christi was never on my map of places to visit, but once I heard of the opportunity I thought it would be a perfect place to start. Going from a land-locked state to a coastal paradise? Sign me up. Not only would I be able to experience a beach-y community, but I would be able to learn new things with my nursing. New terrain does ensure new types of injuries and lifestyles. So, I accepted the position and drove 13 hours down south.

Since arriving in Corpus, everyone I’ve encountered has been nice, hospitable, and inviting - something I’m not entirely used to. While Kansas is a friendly place to be, there is just something different about southern hospitality. Even interacting with patients has been a new experience. Almost every patient I’ve talked with has been appreciative of my care. While working in an emergency department I understand the frustration of patients and families. Labs and imaging always seem to take too long, medications seem to never get passed on time, and everyone in the room is stressed. With COVID only adding to the stress of family members, it really is difficult to communicate effectively and efficiently with patients and families. However, the amount of times I have been verbally abused by patients is probably more than I’d like to say. Don’t get me wrong, I empathize with everyone, but that still doesn’t mean I need an earful when something occurs unexpectedly. That being said, almost every patient I have taken care of here in Corpus has been nice and understanding. They are not in a rush to get things done, but instead want to understand why they feel bad. Needless to say it’s been a refreshing change.
​
Aside from transitioning on a professional level, the environmental change has been a whirlwind to say the least. From moving in to my new place, meeting some interesting roomies, and figuring out how to survive a day on the beach with my pasty skin, it has been an exciting transitional period. So far, I’ve decided that coastal life fits my personality. From the beaches to the city there is a laid back vibe everywhere you look. Families out at the park or beach, young people flocking to seaside restaurants and bars, and with a plethora of activities for anyone to enjoy, Corpus Christi really is a fun place to be. So far I’ve spend almost everyday on North Padre Island soaking up the sun and finding seafood to eat. I continually talk about the beach, but that is where I find myself wanting to go everyday. I love getting there early, setting up camp, and hanging out until I get hungry. As I get further into my time here I will branch out and do some new things, but right now I’m fine with simply relaxing in the sand.

I know there are more adventures to come and places to see, especially since I still have 10 more weeks here, but so far I am loving it. We’ll see what is to come and what crazy things I can get myself into, either way I’ll keep ya’ll updated. Until then, stay in touch, stay in mind, and try to stay out of trouble.