When asked in the past which sense I would like to keep if I could only have one, I always responded with sight. I couldn’t even imagine a world where there was no possibility of viewing people’s facial expressions, the beauty of nature, or reading text on a page. In my opinion, it was far less of a loss to not be able to hear, smell, taste, or touch something. But lately I’ve been re-evaluating my decision.
Certainly, the best scenario would be to keep all five senses. However, if left with only one sense, I no longer know which one I’d choose. You see, within the last week, I’ve developed an ear infection and lost hearing in one ear and been left with only muffled sounds in the other. It’s an extremely frustrating and limiting situation, and it’s made me realize more consciously the importance of hearing. As a musical person, I always knew it would be difficult to not be able to hear well. And working with people makes hearing an absolutely vital sense to have in the emergency room.
Hearing is helpful in everyday situations as well though. For example, I was driving the other day and an ambulance crossed the intersection four cars in front of me; I couldn’t hear the sirens and it kind of freaked me out. I won’t say there aren’t any advantages to hearing loss though…lately, it’s far easier to ignore the crying kid in the back row of the movie theater or the road noise while trying to fall asleep. There are definite disadvantages though. Like not being able to hear your alarm or needing to turn my head so my right ear can hear the conversation.
I’m not too panicked about the situation yet because I still have some antibiotics to finish off, but hopefully this won’t be a prolonged effect. In the meantime, I just keep waiting and praying and hoping I’ll be able to hear clearly soon. It couldn’t come soon enough.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Friday, July 22, 2011
Baking Adventures :)
If I had to list some of the best perks of having our own apartment, they would include the following:
1. Dishwasher. No longer do we have to do all our dishes by hand as was the case in the dorms and my last apartment. Not that doing dishes by hand isn’t exactly fun…Megan and I have bonded over a dishful of soap and not-so-pristine plates and silverware, but it is wonderful to have the option of just loading up the appliance, throwing a tablet of cleaning powder in the compartment, and turning the knob to begin the transformation process :)
2. Washer and Dryer. In the same category of cleanliness, there is the washer and dryer. Although we are currently renting the appliances (therefore still having to pay for laundry), it is wonderfully convenient to have these two machines in our apartment. We can do laundry whenever we want to, as many times a week as we need to, and don’t have to lug our clothes up and down three flights of stairs anymore. I seem especially blessed to have usually lived on the third floor, and I don’t miss those treks to the laundry room at all.
3. Stove. And last but not least is the perk of having a stove/oven. I’ve not always enjoyed cooking, but for as long as I can remember I’ve loved baking. This summer, Megan and I have experimented with several different recipes. Our co-workers love us because we are constantly bringing in our latest attempt to satisfy our sugar-cravings. Since moving in, we have always had some delicious dessert lying around waiting to be eaten. And of course, we aren’t eating them all by ourselves! We’ve made coffee cake, Tiramisu layer cake, carrot cake, chocolate molten cake, peanut butter/chocolate chip cookies, cheesecake, Amish Friendship Bread, orange/maple scones, blueberry/white chocolate scones, cappuccino muffins, and cinnamon rolls just to name a few. I thought I’d share some of our successes with you. These were definitely some recipes we will make again for years to come :)
1. Dishwasher. No longer do we have to do all our dishes by hand as was the case in the dorms and my last apartment. Not that doing dishes by hand isn’t exactly fun…Megan and I have bonded over a dishful of soap and not-so-pristine plates and silverware, but it is wonderful to have the option of just loading up the appliance, throwing a tablet of cleaning powder in the compartment, and turning the knob to begin the transformation process :)
2. Washer and Dryer. In the same category of cleanliness, there is the washer and dryer. Although we are currently renting the appliances (therefore still having to pay for laundry), it is wonderfully convenient to have these two machines in our apartment. We can do laundry whenever we want to, as many times a week as we need to, and don’t have to lug our clothes up and down three flights of stairs anymore. I seem especially blessed to have usually lived on the third floor, and I don’t miss those treks to the laundry room at all.
3. Stove. And last but not least is the perk of having a stove/oven. I’ve not always enjoyed cooking, but for as long as I can remember I’ve loved baking. This summer, Megan and I have experimented with several different recipes. Our co-workers love us because we are constantly bringing in our latest attempt to satisfy our sugar-cravings. Since moving in, we have always had some delicious dessert lying around waiting to be eaten. And of course, we aren’t eating them all by ourselves! We’ve made coffee cake, Tiramisu layer cake, carrot cake, chocolate molten cake, peanut butter/chocolate chip cookies, cheesecake, Amish Friendship Bread, orange/maple scones, blueberry/white chocolate scones, cappuccino muffins, and cinnamon rolls just to name a few. I thought I’d share some of our successes with you. These were definitely some recipes we will make again for years to come :)
Cappuccino Muffins
(recipe: Corrine Lowenberg)
2 cups flour
¾ cup sugar
2 ½ t. baking powder
1 T. instant coffee
½ t. salt
½ t. cinnamon
1 cup milk
½ cup melted butter, cooled
1 egg, beaten
1 t. vanilla
¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Mix the dry ingredients. Add the melted and cooled butter, egg, milk and vanilla.
Blend lightly together. Add the chocolate chips. Put in greased muffin tins. Bake at 375 degrees for 15-20 minutes. Makes 15-18 muffins.
Chocolate Molten Pudding Cake
(kraftrecipes.com)
1 pkg. (2-layer size) devil's food cake mix
1 pkg. (12 oz.) BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chunks, divided
3 cups cold milk
2 pkg. (4-serving size each) Chocolate Instant Pudding
1/3 cup Italian Cappuccino mix
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
PREHEAT oven to 350°F. Prepare cake mix as directed on package. Stir in half of the chocolate chunks. Pour into greased 13x9-inch baking dish or shallow casserole dish; set aside.
POUR milk into large bowl. Add dry pudding mixes, flavored instant coffee and cinnamon. Beat with wire whisk 1 min. or until well blended. Pour over cake batter in center of pan; sprinkle with the remaining chocolate chunks.
BAKE 1 hour or until cake appears baked in the center. Cool slightly.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
1 Peter 1:16
My heart is heavy with the hurt of those around me. Recently, I’ve been around those who are going through extremely difficult circumstances…and some don’t even know they are. It amazes me the terrible advice people give out to others and by which they live themselves. Although I can’t go into details for the protection and privacy of said people, I’ve witnessed the following: one who nearly died from drinking so much alcohol; another who advised her daughter just to live with her fiancé just to avoid making a possible mistake by marrying him; one who tolerates a live-in boyfriend who verbally destroys her self-esteem; another who is in the process of a divorce due to physical abuse; and yet another whose son wrecked his car the day he got his license and ended up as a trauma in the ER.
And these situations are only reflective of my co-workers. When it comes to patients, there are drug addicts, neglected children, women in domestic abuse rescue centers, the homeless, the hopeless, those diagnosed with cancer, couples facing miscarriages, and teenage girls with STDs. Many of these people are not responsible for the circumstances in which they find themselves; some are responsible and are either blind to the fact or in denial.
As a Christian striving to live a pure life, I feel as if I stick out like a sore thumb. My roommate and I have discussed this several times recently because she is in the same boat at her place of employment. As women who strive to live as Jesus did, we don’t have a lot in common with the world. Our experiences don’t include sex, drugs, drunkenness, rebellion, and crime. And therefore, we have little to offer in way of conversation…not that we’d care to share.
To me it’s not a badge of honor to not be able to remember a holiday because I was passed out drunk and doing things I normally wouldn’t do. It’s not a mark of pride to gamble away my money in Vegas or adopt a child with a lesbian partner or do shrooms and trip out. These are not the lofty act to which we are called. And I am not going to feel guilty that I have not gone down the rough, hard road of willful, sinful, disobedient living. We are called to be holy, even as God is holy. Some of these people claim to be heaven-bound, but there is doubt that they are striving to be all the God wants them to be.
My heart aches for them to know the fullness of Christ Jesus in their lives - to be filled to overflowing with divine purpose and joy in life. It is such a glorious thing to be reminded that amidst all the despair and darkness of the world, there is a light and a hope! God hears us when we pray; he will use us to bring glory to his name. And he’ll start right where we are.
And these situations are only reflective of my co-workers. When it comes to patients, there are drug addicts, neglected children, women in domestic abuse rescue centers, the homeless, the hopeless, those diagnosed with cancer, couples facing miscarriages, and teenage girls with STDs. Many of these people are not responsible for the circumstances in which they find themselves; some are responsible and are either blind to the fact or in denial.
As a Christian striving to live a pure life, I feel as if I stick out like a sore thumb. My roommate and I have discussed this several times recently because she is in the same boat at her place of employment. As women who strive to live as Jesus did, we don’t have a lot in common with the world. Our experiences don’t include sex, drugs, drunkenness, rebellion, and crime. And therefore, we have little to offer in way of conversation…not that we’d care to share.
To me it’s not a badge of honor to not be able to remember a holiday because I was passed out drunk and doing things I normally wouldn’t do. It’s not a mark of pride to gamble away my money in Vegas or adopt a child with a lesbian partner or do shrooms and trip out. These are not the lofty act to which we are called. And I am not going to feel guilty that I have not gone down the rough, hard road of willful, sinful, disobedient living. We are called to be holy, even as God is holy. Some of these people claim to be heaven-bound, but there is doubt that they are striving to be all the God wants them to be.
My heart aches for them to know the fullness of Christ Jesus in their lives - to be filled to overflowing with divine purpose and joy in life. It is such a glorious thing to be reminded that amidst all the despair and darkness of the world, there is a light and a hope! God hears us when we pray; he will use us to bring glory to his name. And he’ll start right where we are.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Fish Sandwiches: Just What the Doc Ordered
Sometimes I wonder if God looks down and smiles at us in our childlike desire to figure it out on our own. Like a toddler trying to open a door by banging on it with all his might, but not tall enough to reach the door knob, we may know how to get what we want, just not be able to do so in our own strength. I’ve been reflecting on the reality that our God is one of miracles. He is our provider. His heart yearns for us to love him and those around us, and he also desires for us to seek him for the very source of that love.
Recently, I have been in much thought, prayer, and conversation about the path of my life. God has placed desires in my heart that don’t make sense together; they seem in conflict with each other both with regards to time and money. Those desires: medicine and missions. Now, it doesn’t seem like these would be in opposition. There are so many options for medical missions work. But, I’m considering the less logical direction of missions before medicine. And that brings up finances….
It costs money to travel, eat, and minister. It also costs money to pay back loans, pay rent, and buy gas. The number I’m roughly calculating I will need for everything to happen as envisioned is $35,000 in one year. Seem impossible at this point? Yes.
However, as I’ve been reading through Mark’s gospel, I’ve been reminded that Jesus is the master of the impossible. Take, for example, the story of him feeding the 5,000 men (plus women and children) with one boy’s small lunch. The disciples with their natural eyes couldn’t see how that amount of food could feed that amount of people; but it did. And, in addition, there were plenty of leftovers.
Their situation is not much different from mine. I don’t have enough resources on my own – just a fraction of what is necessary. But if it’s God’s plan, then it doesn’t matter. He can and will provide. Even if I can’t see how he’ll work out the details, I know if he has his hand on the door knob, the door will open.
Recently, I have been in much thought, prayer, and conversation about the path of my life. God has placed desires in my heart that don’t make sense together; they seem in conflict with each other both with regards to time and money. Those desires: medicine and missions. Now, it doesn’t seem like these would be in opposition. There are so many options for medical missions work. But, I’m considering the less logical direction of missions before medicine. And that brings up finances….
It costs money to travel, eat, and minister. It also costs money to pay back loans, pay rent, and buy gas. The number I’m roughly calculating I will need for everything to happen as envisioned is $35,000 in one year. Seem impossible at this point? Yes.
However, as I’ve been reading through Mark’s gospel, I’ve been reminded that Jesus is the master of the impossible. Take, for example, the story of him feeding the 5,000 men (plus women and children) with one boy’s small lunch. The disciples with their natural eyes couldn’t see how that amount of food could feed that amount of people; but it did. And, in addition, there were plenty of leftovers.
Their situation is not much different from mine. I don’t have enough resources on my own – just a fraction of what is necessary. But if it’s God’s plan, then it doesn’t matter. He can and will provide. Even if I can’t see how he’ll work out the details, I know if he has his hand on the door knob, the door will open.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Truths from the Emergency Room: Part 2
Sometimes I feel like all I relate lately revolves around work, but honestly that’s where I’ve spent most of my time recently. Therefore, I think it’s appropriate to share a little about what I’ve been learning there. Keep reading to find out…
1. Complaining is not productive. You can complain and gripe and rant about the injustices of the system and you can still not achieve anything productive. This view comes from an employee/fellow co-worker stance. I work with some people who always talk as if they are the victim when it comes to what patients they see, when they see them, the time constraints, etc. However, I’ve observed much more gets accomplished when less talking and more acting occurs. At times, it’s difficult to remain positive and optimistic when surrounded by Johnny Raincloud and Debbie Downer, but I continue to try to keep a bright outlook on the situation.
2. People lie. No duh! That's a no brainer, right? Well, this one has been more difficult for me to embrace and I believe I know the reason. My entire life I’ve been surrounded by my Christian family, friends, school, etc. where principles and values such as honesty and integrity are upheld and assumed. My reality thus far has proven that people have good and decent intentions and are telling the truth. But the more I’m at the ER, the more I’ve had to come to grips with the fact that people are sinners, manipulative, addicted, and violent. They come seeking relief from pain and consequences and will do whatever they deem necessary to obtain it. It’s difficult for me to change my mindset to constantly consider that someone is trying to deceive me. I’m still not incredibly successful in this area, but I’m sure I will continue to improve as I work.
3. Having initials behind your name (M.D., D.O., P.A., N.P., etc.) does not exempt you from common courtesy. Now that I’ve been at the ER for several months, I’m beginning to be able to evaluate which practioners I admire and respect and which ones I don’t want to model my career after. There is one particular doctor who is always kind to those “beneath” him. He lets you pass before him instead of running you over; he says thank you when you do something for him EVERY time instead of not even acknowledging your presence; he laughs with his patients; he comforts those who are grieving; he gracefully handles fellow co-workers’ and his own frustrations; and he doesn’t (at least publicly) indulge in the gossip circle so prevalent in any work setting.
4. Never assume anything. I’ve learned the hard way that this lesson should be taken to heart. Just when I think it’s safe to assume something, I end up wishing I hadn’t. For example, assuming that surgery knows you’re coming since the nurse just called up with a report and therefore not calling…but being directed to the wrong surgery waiting area and causing a whole lot of unnecessary chaos, panic, and stress. Or that the computer tells the truth – a room is marked clean so we move a patient there…only to find out it’s not just dirty but trashed. Or thinking someone was just correcting the pronunciation of their name when you call them back…only to learn that the wrong patient answered and was mistakenly roomed. All of the tedious, detailed protocol that we have to follow saves us from making these careless mistakes. There are no corners to cut when it comes to emergency medicine. And this unit only functions well when everyone works together this way.
So, there you have it: my latest revelations about life. There are so many things that I’m learning. Although, at times, it seems like I’m so far away from what I actually enjoy (the medicine part), I am learning highly valuable interpersonal skills such as teamwork, communication, conflict resolution, effective resource utilization, and good patient interaction. And, on that note, I’m going to wrap this post up. I have one more day at work before having a much needed break, so I must catch some sleep.
1. Complaining is not productive. You can complain and gripe and rant about the injustices of the system and you can still not achieve anything productive. This view comes from an employee/fellow co-worker stance. I work with some people who always talk as if they are the victim when it comes to what patients they see, when they see them, the time constraints, etc. However, I’ve observed much more gets accomplished when less talking and more acting occurs. At times, it’s difficult to remain positive and optimistic when surrounded by Johnny Raincloud and Debbie Downer, but I continue to try to keep a bright outlook on the situation.
2. People lie. No duh! That's a no brainer, right? Well, this one has been more difficult for me to embrace and I believe I know the reason. My entire life I’ve been surrounded by my Christian family, friends, school, etc. where principles and values such as honesty and integrity are upheld and assumed. My reality thus far has proven that people have good and decent intentions and are telling the truth. But the more I’m at the ER, the more I’ve had to come to grips with the fact that people are sinners, manipulative, addicted, and violent. They come seeking relief from pain and consequences and will do whatever they deem necessary to obtain it. It’s difficult for me to change my mindset to constantly consider that someone is trying to deceive me. I’m still not incredibly successful in this area, but I’m sure I will continue to improve as I work.
3. Having initials behind your name (M.D., D.O., P.A., N.P., etc.) does not exempt you from common courtesy. Now that I’ve been at the ER for several months, I’m beginning to be able to evaluate which practioners I admire and respect and which ones I don’t want to model my career after. There is one particular doctor who is always kind to those “beneath” him. He lets you pass before him instead of running you over; he says thank you when you do something for him EVERY time instead of not even acknowledging your presence; he laughs with his patients; he comforts those who are grieving; he gracefully handles fellow co-workers’ and his own frustrations; and he doesn’t (at least publicly) indulge in the gossip circle so prevalent in any work setting.
4. Never assume anything. I’ve learned the hard way that this lesson should be taken to heart. Just when I think it’s safe to assume something, I end up wishing I hadn’t. For example, assuming that surgery knows you’re coming since the nurse just called up with a report and therefore not calling…but being directed to the wrong surgery waiting area and causing a whole lot of unnecessary chaos, panic, and stress. Or that the computer tells the truth – a room is marked clean so we move a patient there…only to find out it’s not just dirty but trashed. Or thinking someone was just correcting the pronunciation of their name when you call them back…only to learn that the wrong patient answered and was mistakenly roomed. All of the tedious, detailed protocol that we have to follow saves us from making these careless mistakes. There are no corners to cut when it comes to emergency medicine. And this unit only functions well when everyone works together this way.
So, there you have it: my latest revelations about life. There are so many things that I’m learning. Although, at times, it seems like I’m so far away from what I actually enjoy (the medicine part), I am learning highly valuable interpersonal skills such as teamwork, communication, conflict resolution, effective resource utilization, and good patient interaction. And, on that note, I’m going to wrap this post up. I have one more day at work before having a much needed break, so I must catch some sleep.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Operation "Life Organization"
My day got off on the wrong track from the moment I awoke....to the sound of a text message from my sister asking me if I was at church yet. I was still in bed.
Recently, I've been re-evaluating the direction of my life. You know, facing those hard questions we all know are there but don't really want to look in the face. Like 1) What is my purpose? 2) Am I making a difference in the world? 3) Do I like who I am becoming? 4) What are my priorities and what should they be?
After much soul-searching, thoughtful prayer, and conversations with some trusted friends and family members, I'm beginning to see the next steps I need to be taking.
Thus, Operation "Life Organization" has begun. I've always been one for organizing anything and everything. I wouldn't label myself as OCD, but ever since I was 3 years old, my parents have caught me secretly cleaning my room, organizing our desk drawers, and helping clean out all my family members' closets if requested :)
The first step tonight was to organize my room. This includes the storage containers, the books shelves, and the folders of mementos from every major vacation/trip in the last 4 years. There's something freeing about purging the trash, keeping the good, and knowing where things are.
The next step is to organize my finances. Continue keeping track of my expenses and income, setting money aside to pay off my student loans as quickly as possible, and reserving funds for missions giving. It's important to keep track of my money - we're called to be good stewards of our money, therefore I need to be vigilant in this area.
Continuing down the list to academic organization, I have decided to take the GRE and the MCAT. Tonight I'll make a study plan to prepare for these 2 life-directing tests. My goal is to have all my PA application stuff organized by the middle of May and take the GRE then. The MCAT will require more time and I'm aiming toward the end of July/beginning of August.
Spiritually, I haven't been the most diligent. And I can tell it's affecting every part of me. So, I'm going to plan to read through the New Testament a book at a time. There have also been a couple of biographies I've been wanting to read of great Christian leaders that I will make an effort to finish. I consider reading these biographies a form of mentorship from those who have persevered and made a difference for Jesus during their lives. Finally, I am making a prayer list for needs of those around me as well as hurting people in the world. By focusing on others rather than myself, I will be able to become more like Jesus.
With regards to music, I am striving to be faithful to practicing for the students I accompany. They deserve only my best and it's important for me to keep that standard in mind. It's so easy for me to become overwhelmed with the demands of life and work, but I'm going to make an effort not to become so.
And lastly, I'm organizing memories from my college years for graduation. I think it's helpful to see where you've come from so you can know where you're going. It's incredible the opportunities I've had while at Evangel to grow, learn, and experience things I never knew or had done before. The impact of my time there has made a huge impression on me lately.
My priorities are shifting.
I'm learning that it's more important to
-glorify God
-be financially responsible
-pursue education
-be physically fit
than to
-live for myself
-splurge on materialistic items
-be entertained by media
-not give thought to things that affect my body
As I was cleaning out my papers tonight, I ran across a fortune from a fortune cookie I had saved; I guess I thought it was intriguing. Want to know what it said? "A bold and dashing adventure is in your future." I'm excited to see where these changes will take me in the next couple weeks.
Recently, I've been re-evaluating the direction of my life. You know, facing those hard questions we all know are there but don't really want to look in the face. Like 1) What is my purpose? 2) Am I making a difference in the world? 3) Do I like who I am becoming? 4) What are my priorities and what should they be?
After much soul-searching, thoughtful prayer, and conversations with some trusted friends and family members, I'm beginning to see the next steps I need to be taking.
Thus, Operation "Life Organization" has begun. I've always been one for organizing anything and everything. I wouldn't label myself as OCD, but ever since I was 3 years old, my parents have caught me secretly cleaning my room, organizing our desk drawers, and helping clean out all my family members' closets if requested :)
The first step tonight was to organize my room. This includes the storage containers, the books shelves, and the folders of mementos from every major vacation/trip in the last 4 years. There's something freeing about purging the trash, keeping the good, and knowing where things are.
The next step is to organize my finances. Continue keeping track of my expenses and income, setting money aside to pay off my student loans as quickly as possible, and reserving funds for missions giving. It's important to keep track of my money - we're called to be good stewards of our money, therefore I need to be vigilant in this area.
Continuing down the list to academic organization, I have decided to take the GRE and the MCAT. Tonight I'll make a study plan to prepare for these 2 life-directing tests. My goal is to have all my PA application stuff organized by the middle of May and take the GRE then. The MCAT will require more time and I'm aiming toward the end of July/beginning of August.
Spiritually, I haven't been the most diligent. And I can tell it's affecting every part of me. So, I'm going to plan to read through the New Testament a book at a time. There have also been a couple of biographies I've been wanting to read of great Christian leaders that I will make an effort to finish. I consider reading these biographies a form of mentorship from those who have persevered and made a difference for Jesus during their lives. Finally, I am making a prayer list for needs of those around me as well as hurting people in the world. By focusing on others rather than myself, I will be able to become more like Jesus.
With regards to music, I am striving to be faithful to practicing for the students I accompany. They deserve only my best and it's important for me to keep that standard in mind. It's so easy for me to become overwhelmed with the demands of life and work, but I'm going to make an effort not to become so.
And lastly, I'm organizing memories from my college years for graduation. I think it's helpful to see where you've come from so you can know where you're going. It's incredible the opportunities I've had while at Evangel to grow, learn, and experience things I never knew or had done before. The impact of my time there has made a huge impression on me lately.
My priorities are shifting.
I'm learning that it's more important to
-glorify God
-be financially responsible
-pursue education
-be physically fit
than to
-live for myself
-splurge on materialistic items
-be entertained by media
-not give thought to things that affect my body
As I was cleaning out my papers tonight, I ran across a fortune from a fortune cookie I had saved; I guess I thought it was intriguing. Want to know what it said? "A bold and dashing adventure is in your future." I'm excited to see where these changes will take me in the next couple weeks.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
I am 22, Going on 23...
April. 10. 2011.
To celebrate my 22nd birthday, some friends and I went to one of the best places in Springfield for sushi – Kai. Its downtown location makes the restaurant unique, and the funky, techno atmosphere makes it fun. I loved what I ate and was happy to have taken the plunge into trying raw seafood.
This past summer I roomed with one of my best friends in a one-bedroom apartment. We had many adventures living there during that time, but were glad to move out and back into the dorms once school started. After graduating from college, I moved in with 3 other girls into an apartment. This particular apartment has truly felt like a home and is certainly an upgrade from the one before it.
This one was accomplished free of charge as part of my technician requirements for working at the hospital. I’ve wanted to become certified for several years now, and loved being required to become so to work where I do.
After a year of planning, I was able to spend Christmas break with one of my best friends in Nairobi where she grew up and her family still lives. This trip in itself afforded many new opportunities and has been one of the best trips of my life. I learned so much about another culture, was able to help with medical clinics, and had a firsthand view of missionary life.
Pacific:
Atlantic:
Asked a friend to go, wore the dress, had my hair fixed, and immensely enjoyed the evening. My date was only too thoughtful to buy me a corsage, be attentive to me all night, and really be a gentleman. It was my last chance to go, and I’m glad I did.
While in Kenya, Ruthie’s family, some friends, and I made a girls' day out of visiting the tea plantation. We were able to taste the tea, tour the fields, and had a lovely luncheon on the lawn to wrap up the afternoon.
We walked all over San Francisco to save money, up and down the hills…but mostly up. On the way back to the bay, though, we were just too tired to walk any further. So, we hopped on a trolley, and in a few minutes, we were back again. I’ve always thought it would be cool to ride one…and now I have.
Our layover from Kenya to the States allowed us to explore London for a few hours. So, before we left Kenya, we mapped out all the places we wanted to see and visit. One of the main attractions was watching the guard change at the Palace. We arrived to join a huge group at the gates, struggled for a spot to see, and waited. Then they came…marching down the street like a fanfarish parade. The ceremony took about an hour. It was such an interesting experience to know I was watching something that thousands of people come to see and has such historical meaning.
The English Language Institute pairs up foreign-speaking students studying English at MSU with native-born speakers. For several years, I’ve been wanting to get involved, but now I actually have time. My girl is Vietnamese, and it’s been such a rewarding experience to learn about her culture, invest in her English-speaking growth, and share my American culture with her. Another new thing that’s come from this friendship is trying Vietnamese food for the first time – Pho.
It’s still a little hard to believe, but I’ve come to the end of my journey as a student at Evangel. I even have the diploma to prove it. After 4.5 years of dedicated study, learning both from books and life, and making memories, I am done. This May I will walk in the ceremony and receive honors for my work. It’s just another big change in my changing life. In another year, who knows what I’ll have been able to experience - meeting people, visiting places, learning new things. There are still so many things I want to do in life. I think I’ll be surprised where God takes me in the coming years, but I’m ready for Him to bring it on!
It’s been a year since April 10, 2010. And that’s when I decided I would try to do 22 new things throughout my 22nd year of life. This past year has been full of huge changes, but I’ve also gotten to experience many new “little” things. Some of the things I originally put on the list I wasn’t able to complete so they will roll over to my life-list, but let me relate the 22 things I did do.
1. Eat sushi.
To celebrate my 22nd birthday, some friends and I went to one of the best places in Springfield for sushi – Kai. Its downtown location makes the restaurant unique, and the funky, techno atmosphere makes it fun. I loved what I ate and was happy to have taken the plunge into trying raw seafood. 2. Get cartilage pierced.
My sister and I decided we would get our cartilages pierced. Originally, I had wanted to get it done for my 21st birthday, but the timing didn’t work out…so a year later we finally did it. We went to Kaleidoscope which offered the best type of piercing – threading – and an experienced staff of professional piercers/tattoo artists.
3. Have a manicure and pedicure done.
This one was accomplished in two settings. I had my manicure done the day of my birthday here in Springfield, and I had the pedicure done in Nairobi, Kenya at the Country Club. Both were delightfully girly and relaxing. I remember sharing with a fellow customer when I had my manicure done that I was working on experiencing 22 new things for my 22nd birthday, and she told me she thought it was a lovely idea. She just didn’t know if she should start at 40-something years old :)
4. Go tanning. 
Another thing accomplished the day of my birthday. Several friends and I signed up for a free week of tanning at Hawaiian Sun. We were impressed with their customer service and knowledge about the process so had a great experience using their facilities. All in all, it was wonderful…just one sunburn and a small amount of time shaved off my life for excess UV exposure. Haha.
5. Travel the west coast.
Multnomah Falls, OR:
Los Angeles, Walk of Fame:
Concert choir toured the western part of the United States for 3 weeks last summer and we were able to experience many amazing places, meet new people, and grow in our abilities. Some of the most memorable places we visited included the Riverwalk in San Antonio, TX; the strip in Las Vegas, NV; the Walk of Fame in Los Angeles, CA; Chinatown in San Francisco, CA; the Oregon coast and Multnomah Falls; Boise, ID; and Salt Lake City, UT.
6. Rent an apartment.
This past summer I roomed with one of my best friends in a one-bedroom apartment. We had many adventures living there during that time, but were glad to move out and back into the dorms once school started. After graduating from college, I moved in with 3 other girls into an apartment. This particular apartment has truly felt like a home and is certainly an upgrade from the one before it. 7. Engage in a prank war. 
Towards the end of spring semester, several of us girls and a few guys became wrapped up in mischievous behavior ;) This included many stunts with live animals, some glow-in-the-dark paint, and “eligibility” flyers up around campus. So. Much. Fun.
8. Become certified in CPR.
This one was accomplished free of charge as part of my technician requirements for working at the hospital. I’ve wanted to become certified for several years now, and loved being required to become so to work where I do. 9. Visit Kenya.
After a year of planning, I was able to spend Christmas break with one of my best friends in Nairobi where she grew up and her family still lives. This trip in itself afforded many new opportunities and has been one of the best trips of my life. I learned so much about another culture, was able to help with medical clinics, and had a firsthand view of missionary life. 10. Ride a motorcycle.
Thanks to another friend of mine who owns a motorcycle and loves to drive people around on it, I was able to check this one off the list. It took a little bit to get used to how to lean with the turns and jive with the driver, but it was so much fun. Highway riding was a little rough, and I learned quickly that I needed to wear a t-shirt so as not to have my more girly shirts balloon out with the wind, but I really enjoyed it overall.
11. Read 52 books in one year.
This one I didn’t completely attain. I only read 31 books. Several were worth it, others not so much. The main goal I had was to broaden my horizons by choosing different genres as well as educating myself in other people’s experiences by reading biographies.
12. Eat Ethiopian food. 
Ruthie and I planned a trip to the nearest restaurant, which was 3 hours away, and made a day of it in Kansas City. The food was absolutely delicious although it doesn’t necessarily look so. Then when we were in Kenya, we ate Ethiopian again at her favorite place – super awesome.
Ruthie and I planned a trip to the nearest restaurant, which was 3 hours away, and made a day of it in Kansas City. The food was absolutely delicious although it doesn’t necessarily look so. Then when we were in Kenya, we ate Ethiopian again at her favorite place – super awesome. 13. Swim in the ocean.
Pacific:
Atlantic: First the Pacific in May, which was freezing. Then the Atlantic in August, which was nearly as freezing. Both were delightful though. One of the most memorable parts of these two swims was the surprise of the saltiness of the water. My eyes stung, my lungs hurt, and my mouth was parched by the end, but it was totally worth it.
14. Shadow in the ER.
This one quickly changed from “shadow” to “work.” Little did I know last year that I would be working in the ER now, but I am. And I love it. It’s always interesting, I’m never bored, and I’m surrounded by medical professionals in their element. With this position comes many new experiences: seeing angiograms, observing the organized chaos of code blues, seeing someone defibrillated, watching suturing and stapling, observing CTs, ultrasounds, and x-rays, and preparing a body for the morgue.
15. Go to Jr/Sr Banquet.
Asked a friend to go, wore the dress, had my hair fixed, and immensely enjoyed the evening. My date was only too thoughtful to buy me a corsage, be attentive to me all night, and really be a gentleman. It was my last chance to go, and I’m glad I did. 16. Ask someone to Spring Fling.
Had a wonderful time coming up with an invite, deciphering the response, brainstorming for costumes, and attending the show. The theme was Circus, and we doubled with some friends to go as Lions, Tigers, and Bears. Oh my!
On a side note, I was also asked to Harvest Fest for the first time. The theme was Out of this World and we went as constellations: Virgo and Orion.
17. Feed a giraffe from my mouth.
While in Nairobi, we visited a giraffe park. Ever since I knew you could feed a giraffe with your mouth, I had wanted to do it. So, I did. It was slightly disturbing thinking about that huge, slobbery tongue swiping nearly my entire face, but I summoned up the guts, stuck the pellet in my mouth, and braced myself for the kiss. It basically felt like a cat’s tongue – rough – only much larger. And of course I had to do it several times for a good picture ;)
18. Tour a tea plantation.
While in Kenya, Ruthie’s family, some friends, and I made a girls' day out of visiting the tea plantation. We were able to taste the tea, tour the fields, and had a lovely luncheon on the lawn to wrap up the afternoon. 19. Ride a trolley in San Francisco.
We walked all over San Francisco to save money, up and down the hills…but mostly up. On the way back to the bay, though, we were just too tired to walk any further. So, we hopped on a trolley, and in a few minutes, we were back again. I’ve always thought it would be cool to ride one…and now I have. 20. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.
Our layover from Kenya to the States allowed us to explore London for a few hours. So, before we left Kenya, we mapped out all the places we wanted to see and visit. One of the main attractions was watching the guard change at the Palace. We arrived to join a huge group at the gates, struggled for a spot to see, and waited. Then they came…marching down the street like a fanfarish parade. The ceremony took about an hour. It was such an interesting experience to know I was watching something that thousands of people come to see and has such historical meaning. 21. Get involved with the ELI program at MSU.
The English Language Institute pairs up foreign-speaking students studying English at MSU with native-born speakers. For several years, I’ve been wanting to get involved, but now I actually have time. My girl is Vietnamese, and it’s been such a rewarding experience to learn about her culture, invest in her English-speaking growth, and share my American culture with her. Another new thing that’s come from this friendship is trying Vietnamese food for the first time – Pho. 22. Graduate from college.
It’s still a little hard to believe, but I’ve come to the end of my journey as a student at Evangel. I even have the diploma to prove it. After 4.5 years of dedicated study, learning both from books and life, and making memories, I am done. This May I will walk in the ceremony and receive honors for my work. It’s just another big change in my changing life. In another year, who knows what I’ll have been able to experience - meeting people, visiting places, learning new things. There are still so many things I want to do in life. I think I’ll be surprised where God takes me in the coming years, but I’m ready for Him to bring it on!
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