It's that time again folks!
Head on over to Medic999's blog
and read up on some fantastic stories.
Friday, August 28, 2009
The Handover
It's that time again folks!
Head on over to Medic999's blog
and read up on some fantastic stories.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Cuteness Defined
27 years ago today, my mother experienced a whole new version of childbirth. Her stubborn "Steven" wouldn't budge. When that baby decided SHE wanted to make her debut she arrived sunny side up.
You know, just to be different.
Of course she didn't always resemble a primate so much.
Eventually she got even more adorable.
She had a few more trips around the sun - made her fair share of mistakes and perfected the eye-roll. But she has always done what she wants...
Wait for the singing? No way!
This child was not only cute as a button, she was a budding artist. Sharpening her mad pig sculpting skills. Making her parents very proud.
So come on folks... Celebrate this painfully adorable genius child's birthday!
I know my momma is.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Routine.
What the….? Oh yeah, that’s a pager. My pager. Ripping me out of my precious and much adored sleep.
Feet on the floor. Shirt over the tank top. Swap jeans for pjs. Shake the cobwebs from your brain.
Phone… check. Radio… check. Pager… check. Shoes?! There they are…
Pause at Jo’s door. Detect no movement or light.
Grab car keys and boots. Don’t forget to lock the door.
Wipers on to clear the fog on my window. Window down to allow the cool air to chase out the spiders from my brain.
Updates… location change… doesn’t sound good.
Pull in. Phone into the pocket. Pager and radio on my hip. Grab your helmet. You always forget your helmet.
Into the ambulance and off we go.
Ration out gloves and talk game-plan. Right there. See the squad?
Wow! That looks like it hurt… don’t cringe on the outside. Gloves on… Jump kit… check. Spinal board… check.
Crap, I forgot my reflective vest.
Blood. Lots of blood. Music is blaring. Odd thoughts of musical notes floating upside down out of the car on it’s roof. Dancing to the beat on the inside. Hands are steady holding c-spine.
Frustration mounts… my questions are more important that yours. I’ll get you his info in a minute.
What? Trauma shears? Right pants pocket. Oh wait… left. Speaking of spiders, please shoo that one off my leg.
Ants? What’s with the bugs? Ick. Can’t let go. Kinda itchy.
No-Bama. Funny even in pain.
Whoa. That looks like it hurts. I’m intrigued. Memories in check. Stay there please. Thanks.
C-spine kit in a giant ant pile. More itchy. Yuck. Tease new guy about placement of gear. Surprised it wasn’t me this time.
Check the back. Roll him on my count. Straps and backboards. Out of Bug Central.
Wow… things are going smooth as silk.
Big needle… giggle. All before the BP cuff deflates. Booya. One shot. Go me.
Wait. He just asked that question 2 minutes ago. Here come the 11’s... Put your thinking cap on.
Okay, time for the mental checklist…
Anyone else? Any changes?
No, don’t get mad at us. We are helping you. I’ll smile. You take deep breaths.
There. That’s better.
What’s that? I can’t tell you one way or the other. Yes, I was holding c-spine. Sorry it’s not the answer you want to hear but I can’t say yes or no. Sassy man with a star…
Helicopter is here.
Nice Flight crew. New partners to dance with. They join effortlessly.
Recap and recheck. Switch monitors. Pack up IV’s. Pain meds mean a happy(er) patient.
Personal items nestled in between his legs.
Off to a hot load. Man… that never gets old. Rush of cool night air as they ascend into the black. Straight up sure is impressive.
A blinking star takes off into the night.
Disaster in the squad. Gloves. Blood. Wrappers. Remnants of a shirt.
Clean it up. Back to the station. So tired.
Paperwork. Restock. Clean. Don’t look at your watch. The watch I get teased for. Happy thoughts.
Windows down. Music up. Need to stay awake for 5 more minutes.
Hot. Sweaty. One hour until daily beeping.
Fan on high. Beg for sleep.
Pillows to the floor. Pillows on the bed.
Right side. Left side. Flop like a fish.
Forget it.
Time for a shower.
Feet on the floor. Shirt over the tank top. Swap jeans for pjs. Shake the cobwebs from your brain.
Phone… check. Radio… check. Pager… check. Shoes?! There they are…
Pause at Jo’s door. Detect no movement or light.
Grab car keys and boots. Don’t forget to lock the door.
Wipers on to clear the fog on my window. Window down to allow the cool air to chase out the spiders from my brain.
Updates… location change… doesn’t sound good.
Pull in. Phone into the pocket. Pager and radio on my hip. Grab your helmet. You always forget your helmet.
Into the ambulance and off we go.
Ration out gloves and talk game-plan. Right there. See the squad?
Wow! That looks like it hurt… don’t cringe on the outside. Gloves on… Jump kit… check. Spinal board… check.
Crap, I forgot my reflective vest.
Blood. Lots of blood. Music is blaring. Odd thoughts of musical notes floating upside down out of the car on it’s roof. Dancing to the beat on the inside. Hands are steady holding c-spine.
Frustration mounts… my questions are more important that yours. I’ll get you his info in a minute.
What? Trauma shears? Right pants pocket. Oh wait… left. Speaking of spiders, please shoo that one off my leg.
Ants? What’s with the bugs? Ick. Can’t let go. Kinda itchy.
No-Bama. Funny even in pain.
Whoa. That looks like it hurts. I’m intrigued. Memories in check. Stay there please. Thanks.
C-spine kit in a giant ant pile. More itchy. Yuck. Tease new guy about placement of gear. Surprised it wasn’t me this time.
Check the back. Roll him on my count. Straps and backboards. Out of Bug Central.
Wow… things are going smooth as silk.
Big needle… giggle. All before the BP cuff deflates. Booya. One shot. Go me.
Wait. He just asked that question 2 minutes ago. Here come the 11’s... Put your thinking cap on.
Okay, time for the mental checklist…
Anyone else? Any changes?
No, don’t get mad at us. We are helping you. I’ll smile. You take deep breaths.
There. That’s better.
What’s that? I can’t tell you one way or the other. Yes, I was holding c-spine. Sorry it’s not the answer you want to hear but I can’t say yes or no. Sassy man with a star…
Helicopter is here.
Nice Flight crew. New partners to dance with. They join effortlessly.
Recap and recheck. Switch monitors. Pack up IV’s. Pain meds mean a happy(er) patient.
Personal items nestled in between his legs.
Off to a hot load. Man… that never gets old. Rush of cool night air as they ascend into the black. Straight up sure is impressive.
A blinking star takes off into the night.
Disaster in the squad. Gloves. Blood. Wrappers. Remnants of a shirt.
Clean it up. Back to the station. So tired.
Paperwork. Restock. Clean. Don’t look at your watch. The watch I get teased for. Happy thoughts.
Windows down. Music up. Need to stay awake for 5 more minutes.
Hot. Sweaty. One hour until daily beeping.
Fan on high. Beg for sleep.
Pillows to the floor. Pillows on the bed.
Right side. Left side. Flop like a fish.
Forget it.
Time for a shower.
Friday, August 14, 2009
One of our own...
For those that are in the field of EMS we often wonder where all the "good" people are. Stuck with partners that don't care or just don't get it, we dream every day for the elusive soul that is not only good at what they do, but you know they have your back no matter what. The same holds true for people not in EMS. When you find yourself dialing those three numbers for yourself, your mother, your friend, your child - you want someone there who can connect with you and earn your trust in seconds. So what are we to do when that person everyone wants to come running when they call 911 can't? What are we supposed to do? Well folks, this is your chance.
There is one such woman who puts her heart and soul into the job day in and day out. Her heart takes permanent residence on her sleeve while she cares for you physically and emotionally. This woman has worked her butt off to attend medic school. And wouldn't you know it has been faced with a barrier I hope we can all help her overcome. Epi has become like a sister to me. She is strong, passionate, loving and one of the coolest people I know. And she needs our help.
I know money is tight. I know we most of us don't "know" her, but I dare you to take five minutes and read through Epi's blog and tell me she doesn't deserve a chance to make her dream come true. She has worked so hard to get where she is today only to be stopped in her tracks.
I'm challenging all of you to three fives. Give five dollars, tell five friends and take five minutes to stop by Epi's blog and give her some words of encouragement.
I have put a donation button in the sidebar. Every last penny goes to Epi and getting her to medic school. I HATE asking for money but I can't think of anyone else that deserves this as much as she does.
Thank you all so much!
UPDATE: Epi gives a bit more of an explanation here. There have been several people wondering why I have been so vague as to why we are helping her out financially as well as with as much love and support we can muster and frankly as much as I would like to remove any doubt from your mind as to why she needs us, I don't want to cross lines of revealing more personal information than she is comfortable giving out. The bottom line is we have all been there at one point or another. When everything seems to fall apart and the one good thing you had your sights on gets taken away. If you have any more questions, please feel free to ask. But as I said before, I'm not sure how much I can truly share beyond what she has already.
Thank you for your understanding.
There is one such woman who puts her heart and soul into the job day in and day out. Her heart takes permanent residence on her sleeve while she cares for you physically and emotionally. This woman has worked her butt off to attend medic school. And wouldn't you know it has been faced with a barrier I hope we can all help her overcome. Epi has become like a sister to me. She is strong, passionate, loving and one of the coolest people I know. And she needs our help.
I know money is tight. I know we most of us don't "know" her, but I dare you to take five minutes and read through Epi's blog and tell me she doesn't deserve a chance to make her dream come true. She has worked so hard to get where she is today only to be stopped in her tracks.
I'm challenging all of you to three fives. Give five dollars, tell five friends and take five minutes to stop by Epi's blog and give her some words of encouragement.
I have put a donation button in the sidebar. Every last penny goes to Epi and getting her to medic school. I HATE asking for money but I can't think of anyone else that deserves this as much as she does.
Thank you all so much!
UPDATE: Epi gives a bit more of an explanation here. There have been several people wondering why I have been so vague as to why we are helping her out financially as well as with as much love and support we can muster and frankly as much as I would like to remove any doubt from your mind as to why she needs us, I don't want to cross lines of revealing more personal information than she is comfortable giving out. The bottom line is we have all been there at one point or another. When everything seems to fall apart and the one good thing you had your sights on gets taken away. If you have any more questions, please feel free to ask. But as I said before, I'm not sure how much I can truly share beyond what she has already.
Thank you for your understanding.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Because you know you want to know...
Okay, so I totally stole this from TJ. Thanks for providing my mental break for my Tuesday afternoon. So here you go folks. Enjoy watching the paint dry.
Have I:
Gone on a blind date: Nope. Never.
Skipped school: High school – no. I was a goody-goody. Well for the most part anyway. College – Yep. A person can only read/debate/dissect Hamlet so many times before you want to drink the wine yourself.
Watched someone die: I guess that is the debate. Are they already dead when I get to them or do they slip away despite our best efforts. I assume I have in fact watched someone die, but it just sounds so passive. You know, like I wasn’t busting my butt to save them. Ick. I don’t like this question.
Been to Canada: Indeed. I foresee a lot of Canada in my future.
Been on a plane: Yes. Quite a bit in the last 6 months. That’s what happens with long distance relationships.
Been lost: Never lost, just taking a detour.
Been on the opposite side of the country: Well I kind of live in the middle section, but I have been to every side at one point or another.
Swam in the ocean: Yes. I tried surfing in California and ended up sicker than sick. Do not inhale ocean water. Just sayin’. AND I went snorkeling in St John. Of course I am the freakazoid that got motion sickness from snorkeling. Go figure.
Had your booze taken away by the cops: Funny story with that one. Maybe some day I will write about it. Oh, right… the answer is yes. If you hadn’t figured that one out yet.
Cried yourself to sleep: It used to be a nightly occurrence. Not so much anymore.
Recently colored with crayons: YES! I made a pretty sign complete with hearts and sent a picture to JB. I’m a dork, but he loves me.
Sang Karaoke: Never. Nor will it ever.
Paid for a meal with coins only: Two words for you… dollar.menu.
Cheated on an exam: Nope. It’s just not worth the satisfaction in passing if I didn’t pass on my own.
Laughed until some kind of beverage came out of your nose: You hang out with Will and see if YOU can keep things from flying out your nose.
Caught a snowflake on your tongue: It’s the only way to go. Less odds of ground contamination if you know what I mean.
Danced in the rain: Not really “danced” persay, but we used to run around in the yard when we were kids. Then my dad would hold our heads under the downspout and call it “Chinese Water Torture”. In fact that might be one of my favorite memories from my childhood. The running around, not the face under the downspout.
Written a letter to Santa Claus: I can’t say that I did or didn’t. I remember waiting for “Santa” at my grandparents house and watching out the window. When he arrived, I freaked the hell out and ran to the safety of my mothers lap and would not release my judo death grip until the creepy man left. Funny enough, that creepy man was my uncle. Who is still, to this day creepy. Even without the Santa costume. I was a smart child.
Been kissed under the mistletoe: No! Never. What a rip off.
Watched the sunrise with someone you care about: I’m not really a sunrise kinda person if ya know what I mean.
Been arrested: Negatory. I’m a good girl.
Blown bubbles: I love doing this with the nieces and nephews. They LOVE it and it occupies them for hours. HOURS I tell you! Well if you don’t pass out first that is.
Gone ice-skating: I grew up next to a lake. I was practically born on ice skates. Just beware the TOE PICK. (100 cool points to anyone that can identify the reference.)
Been skinny dipping outdoors: Yeah.
Favorite drink?: If we are talking non-alcoholic it’s water. But room temperature water. I hate cold water. It makes my teeth hurt. As for alcoholic – it totally depends on my mood. But I do enjoy a good Woodchuck from time to time. Nummy.
Tattoos?: I have one on the small of my back that is an ivy design and another on the inside of my left wrist of a dragonfly. I’m not sure if I want any more. I feel “complete” right now.
Piercings?: Two holes in each ear. I miss my tragus piercing like crazy, but alas it does not jive with stethoscopes so I wont have it redone. Bummer.
How much do you love your job?: Which one? My full time, sit at a desk and stare at numbers one? That one is okay. I wish a few things were different, mostly the commute but for the most part I like it. I don’t love it though. The EMT thing… of course I love it. Even if I do get tired of the drama-llamas and whatnot. Few things put a smile on my face and a spring in my step like interacting with patients. When I’m on the job, it just feels right. Like it is what I was meant to do with my life. Oh and then the massage thing… I don’t love it. Well I might if it didn’t beat me up so bad. I think I would like it a whole lot more if it was more rehab/treatment based and not all Swedish boring blah massages that are exactly the same every time.
Birthplace? It’s a secret. And you don’t get to know.
Favorite vacation spot? I can’t tell you enough how much I loved St John. So laid back and the weather was perfect. It helped that I thoroughly enjoyed the company I kept while I was there too. My mom is awesomeness. Although there is something to be said for my grandparent’s house “up north”.
Ever been to Africa?: No, never.
Ever been on TV?: Yep. I was screaming bloody murder for a scenario. They didn’t use the audio though… I wonder why.
Ever been in a car accident?: Yes. One when I was 17 that has absolutely no bearing on my memory or lack thereof (love you babe!) but did produce some nasty scars (that only I see at this point) and another a few years later when I t-boned a cop. Again, a story for another day.
Favorite movie?: I love so many movies it’s ridiculous, but you really can’t go wrong with Princess Bride, Robin Hood: Men in Tights, Hope Floats, Big Fish and just about any Julia Roberts movie ever made.
Favorite holiday?: Christmas. My favorite thing ever is buying presents for other people.
Favorite food?: Have I ever mentioned I’m a mood-driven person? Ask me this tomorrow and you will get a different answer. Today… I want sushi. Bad.
Favorite flower?: Lilacs. I LOVE LOVE LOVE lilacs. The deeper the purple, the more I love them. And yellow roses because they are bright and happy and out of the ordinary. Oh and coral roses because they remind me of my cousin.
Favorite smells?: The ocean. Lilacs. Summer (a mixture of grass, flowers, fresh air and food grilling), the smell right after it snows and it is freezing cold outside… I could go on for days.
What do you do to relax? Write, run, sleep, draw, clean…
How do you see yourself in 10 years?: Can I say still hot? Ha! Happy and content.
Ever been given an engagement ring?: Yes.
Longest relationship?: Six years.
Last gift you received?: Flowers from Jo.
Ever dropped a cell phone?: They designed the Nextel construction grade phones just for me. True story.
When’s the last time you worked out?: Weeks ago. I stopped running so I would stop shrinking.
First thing you notice about the opposite sex?: Their smile and how they carry themselves. And eyes. I love it when you can see the smile in their eyes.
One favorite song?: Ra’s version of Every little thing she does is magic. It makes me giggle.
Favorite mall store: Anything with cute shoes.
Longest job you’ve had: It’s either this one at just short of 5 years or my “job” as an EMT at just about 7 years.
Biggest lie you’ve ever heard: I’m gonna go ahead and plead the 5th on this one thankyouverymuch.
Favorite place to eat with friends?: It doesn’t really matter as long as I’m hanging out with friends.
Can you cook?: Anything but pancakes.
Best kiss: Any one I can get from him.
Last time you cried?: Sunday.
Most disliked foods: Onions, beets, peanut butter, sushi with the skin still on it
Thing you like most about yourself: I always find the good in people even after they’ve done me absolutely no good.
Thing you dislike most about yourself: See above.
Longest shift you’ve worked at a job?: 18 hours I think.
Can you sing?: I don’t know if you would refer to what I do as singing. But I still do it. HA!
Last concert you attended?: Shinedown.
Last movie rented: I have no idea. I have had Netflix forever and I don’t even have that anymore. Like I have time to watch movies. Pshaw!
One thing you never leave the house without: Keys or my cell phone.
Laptop or Desktop?: Laptop
Favorite comedian?: Me of course.
Do long distance relationships work?: Yes, to a point. There comes a time where something definitely has to change.
How many times have you been pulled over by the police?: Seven? Eight? Twenty?
How do you like your eggs?: Over medium. Cooked whites, runny yolks and a piece of toast. Or scrambled with cheese and peppers and hot sauce.
Number of pillows?: When he is here, one. When he is gone, 7.
Can you play pool?: I can, but it sure isn’t pretty.
Favorite season?: They all have their perks, but I think fall is my favorite.
Best thing about winter?: The smell of fresh snow and Christmas.
Name of your first pet?: Skipper – an English Setter
Birthday?: August 26! Mark your calendars people!
What do you want to be?: Happy.
Smiling right now?: Actually I am. I just remembered something wonderful and had to take a minute to just sit here and enjoy it.
Do you miss somebody right now?: Yes! A thousand times YES! :(
If you could go anywhere in the world where would you go?: Canada. Ontario to be precise.
Are you in high school?: Sometimes I wonder.
Do you have a harmless crush on anyone?: Hmm, I don’t know if that can be classified as a crush. And now I have Paramore stuck in my head. Thanks a lot.
Ever been on a cruise?: No. Apparently I will be going on one next October though. Ha!
What jewelry are you wearing?: Just diamond studs in my ears. Need to replace the chain for my necklace… again.
What are you going to do after this questionnaire?: Um, get back to work.
Have I:
Gone on a blind date: Nope. Never.
Skipped school: High school – no. I was a goody-goody. Well for the most part anyway. College – Yep. A person can only read/debate/dissect Hamlet so many times before you want to drink the wine yourself.
Watched someone die: I guess that is the debate. Are they already dead when I get to them or do they slip away despite our best efforts. I assume I have in fact watched someone die, but it just sounds so passive. You know, like I wasn’t busting my butt to save them. Ick. I don’t like this question.
Been to Canada: Indeed. I foresee a lot of Canada in my future.
Been on a plane: Yes. Quite a bit in the last 6 months. That’s what happens with long distance relationships.
Been lost: Never lost, just taking a detour.
Been on the opposite side of the country: Well I kind of live in the middle section, but I have been to every side at one point or another.
Swam in the ocean: Yes. I tried surfing in California and ended up sicker than sick. Do not inhale ocean water. Just sayin’. AND I went snorkeling in St John. Of course I am the freakazoid that got motion sickness from snorkeling. Go figure.
Had your booze taken away by the cops: Funny story with that one. Maybe some day I will write about it. Oh, right… the answer is yes. If you hadn’t figured that one out yet.
Cried yourself to sleep: It used to be a nightly occurrence. Not so much anymore.
Recently colored with crayons: YES! I made a pretty sign complete with hearts and sent a picture to JB. I’m a dork, but he loves me.
Sang Karaoke: Never. Nor will it ever.
Paid for a meal with coins only: Two words for you… dollar.menu.
Cheated on an exam: Nope. It’s just not worth the satisfaction in passing if I didn’t pass on my own.
Laughed until some kind of beverage came out of your nose: You hang out with Will and see if YOU can keep things from flying out your nose.
Caught a snowflake on your tongue: It’s the only way to go. Less odds of ground contamination if you know what I mean.
Danced in the rain: Not really “danced” persay, but we used to run around in the yard when we were kids. Then my dad would hold our heads under the downspout and call it “Chinese Water Torture”. In fact that might be one of my favorite memories from my childhood. The running around, not the face under the downspout.
Written a letter to Santa Claus: I can’t say that I did or didn’t. I remember waiting for “Santa” at my grandparents house and watching out the window. When he arrived, I freaked the hell out and ran to the safety of my mothers lap and would not release my judo death grip until the creepy man left. Funny enough, that creepy man was my uncle. Who is still, to this day creepy. Even without the Santa costume. I was a smart child.
Been kissed under the mistletoe: No! Never. What a rip off.
Watched the sunrise with someone you care about: I’m not really a sunrise kinda person if ya know what I mean.
Been arrested: Negatory. I’m a good girl.
Blown bubbles: I love doing this with the nieces and nephews. They LOVE it and it occupies them for hours. HOURS I tell you! Well if you don’t pass out first that is.
Gone ice-skating: I grew up next to a lake. I was practically born on ice skates. Just beware the TOE PICK. (100 cool points to anyone that can identify the reference.)
Been skinny dipping outdoors: Yeah.
Favorite drink?: If we are talking non-alcoholic it’s water. But room temperature water. I hate cold water. It makes my teeth hurt. As for alcoholic – it totally depends on my mood. But I do enjoy a good Woodchuck from time to time. Nummy.
Tattoos?: I have one on the small of my back that is an ivy design and another on the inside of my left wrist of a dragonfly. I’m not sure if I want any more. I feel “complete” right now.
Piercings?: Two holes in each ear. I miss my tragus piercing like crazy, but alas it does not jive with stethoscopes so I wont have it redone. Bummer.
How much do you love your job?: Which one? My full time, sit at a desk and stare at numbers one? That one is okay. I wish a few things were different, mostly the commute but for the most part I like it. I don’t love it though. The EMT thing… of course I love it. Even if I do get tired of the drama-llamas and whatnot. Few things put a smile on my face and a spring in my step like interacting with patients. When I’m on the job, it just feels right. Like it is what I was meant to do with my life. Oh and then the massage thing… I don’t love it. Well I might if it didn’t beat me up so bad. I think I would like it a whole lot more if it was more rehab/treatment based and not all Swedish boring blah massages that are exactly the same every time.
Birthplace? It’s a secret. And you don’t get to know.
Favorite vacation spot? I can’t tell you enough how much I loved St John. So laid back and the weather was perfect. It helped that I thoroughly enjoyed the company I kept while I was there too. My mom is awesomeness. Although there is something to be said for my grandparent’s house “up north”.
Ever been to Africa?: No, never.
Ever been on TV?: Yep. I was screaming bloody murder for a scenario. They didn’t use the audio though… I wonder why.
Ever been in a car accident?: Yes. One when I was 17 that has absolutely no bearing on my memory or lack thereof (love you babe!) but did produce some nasty scars (that only I see at this point) and another a few years later when I t-boned a cop. Again, a story for another day.
Favorite movie?: I love so many movies it’s ridiculous, but you really can’t go wrong with Princess Bride, Robin Hood: Men in Tights, Hope Floats, Big Fish and just about any Julia Roberts movie ever made.
Favorite holiday?: Christmas. My favorite thing ever is buying presents for other people.
Favorite food?: Have I ever mentioned I’m a mood-driven person? Ask me this tomorrow and you will get a different answer. Today… I want sushi. Bad.
Favorite flower?: Lilacs. I LOVE LOVE LOVE lilacs. The deeper the purple, the more I love them. And yellow roses because they are bright and happy and out of the ordinary. Oh and coral roses because they remind me of my cousin.
Favorite smells?: The ocean. Lilacs. Summer (a mixture of grass, flowers, fresh air and food grilling), the smell right after it snows and it is freezing cold outside… I could go on for days.
What do you do to relax? Write, run, sleep, draw, clean…
How do you see yourself in 10 years?: Can I say still hot? Ha! Happy and content.
Ever been given an engagement ring?: Yes.
Longest relationship?: Six years.
Last gift you received?: Flowers from Jo.
Ever dropped a cell phone?: They designed the Nextel construction grade phones just for me. True story.
When’s the last time you worked out?: Weeks ago. I stopped running so I would stop shrinking.
First thing you notice about the opposite sex?: Their smile and how they carry themselves. And eyes. I love it when you can see the smile in their eyes.
One favorite song?: Ra’s version of Every little thing she does is magic. It makes me giggle.
Favorite mall store: Anything with cute shoes.
Longest job you’ve had: It’s either this one at just short of 5 years or my “job” as an EMT at just about 7 years.
Biggest lie you’ve ever heard: I’m gonna go ahead and plead the 5th on this one thankyouverymuch.
Favorite place to eat with friends?: It doesn’t really matter as long as I’m hanging out with friends.
Can you cook?: Anything but pancakes.
Best kiss: Any one I can get from him.
Last time you cried?: Sunday.
Most disliked foods: Onions, beets, peanut butter, sushi with the skin still on it
Thing you like most about yourself: I always find the good in people even after they’ve done me absolutely no good.
Thing you dislike most about yourself: See above.
Longest shift you’ve worked at a job?: 18 hours I think.
Can you sing?: I don’t know if you would refer to what I do as singing. But I still do it. HA!
Last concert you attended?: Shinedown.
Last movie rented: I have no idea. I have had Netflix forever and I don’t even have that anymore. Like I have time to watch movies. Pshaw!
One thing you never leave the house without: Keys or my cell phone.
Laptop or Desktop?: Laptop
Favorite comedian?: Me of course.
Do long distance relationships work?: Yes, to a point. There comes a time where something definitely has to change.
How many times have you been pulled over by the police?: Seven? Eight? Twenty?
How do you like your eggs?: Over medium. Cooked whites, runny yolks and a piece of toast. Or scrambled with cheese and peppers and hot sauce.
Number of pillows?: When he is here, one. When he is gone, 7.
Can you play pool?: I can, but it sure isn’t pretty.
Favorite season?: They all have their perks, but I think fall is my favorite.
Best thing about winter?: The smell of fresh snow and Christmas.
Name of your first pet?: Skipper – an English Setter
Birthday?: August 26! Mark your calendars people!
What do you want to be?: Happy.
Smiling right now?: Actually I am. I just remembered something wonderful and had to take a minute to just sit here and enjoy it.
Do you miss somebody right now?: Yes! A thousand times YES! :(
If you could go anywhere in the world where would you go?: Canada. Ontario to be precise.
Are you in high school?: Sometimes I wonder.
Do you have a harmless crush on anyone?: Hmm, I don’t know if that can be classified as a crush. And now I have Paramore stuck in my head. Thanks a lot.
Ever been on a cruise?: No. Apparently I will be going on one next October though. Ha!
What jewelry are you wearing?: Just diamond studs in my ears. Need to replace the chain for my necklace… again.
What are you going to do after this questionnaire?: Um, get back to work.
Brain Child.
It is a bad idea to tie the corners of a blanket to a rope suspended from a 40 foot tree. Climb up with said blanket in hand to about the 25 foot mark. At which point to encase yourself in the blanket and jump.
Fact: Knots fail.
Fact: 25 foot fall means several broken bones.
Fact: Youtube videos are not worth the surgery or the cast for the remainder of your summer.
Fact: Your mother will ground you until your dying day.
Fact: You cannot be a shadow ninja if you glow in the dark.
The antics of teenagers will never cease to amaze me.
Fact: Knots fail.
Fact: 25 foot fall means several broken bones.
Fact: Youtube videos are not worth the surgery or the cast for the remainder of your summer.
Fact: Your mother will ground you until your dying day.
Fact: You cannot be a shadow ninja if you glow in the dark.
The antics of teenagers will never cease to amaze me.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Lights! Camera! Action!
So I had a little date with my mom last night. We ran a bunch of errands and then grabbed some dinner at Subway. Mmmm... yum. I've got to tell you, The Ugly Truth was funny. Overly crass in parts I'm sure to appeal the men that were drug along to a girly chick flick, but over all it was funny. There were mushy 'aw' inducing parts for the women-folk and girls in jello for the other gender.
If you can get past some mediocre acting, a predictable plot and the crude language and innuendo's then you will probably enjoy it. I mean, it's no Borat (blehck) but still... a couple eyebrow raising lines in there.
Oh and one more thing... Gerard Butler has massively massive mitts and he talks out the side of his mouth. BUT if you happen to not like him in his role in this movie, you will adore him in P.S. I love you.
I will stop being overtly girly now before I start to scare people.
If you can get past some mediocre acting, a predictable plot and the crude language and innuendo's then you will probably enjoy it. I mean, it's no Borat (blehck) but still... a couple eyebrow raising lines in there.
Oh and one more thing... Gerard Butler has massively massive mitts and he talks out the side of his mouth. BUT if you happen to not like him in his role in this movie, you will adore him in P.S. I love you.
I will stop being overtly girly now before I start to scare people.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Unexpected
I pulled my old pickup into the drive. Today was one of the first days of fall where the weather was neither hot nor cold. I paused as I opened my door to inhale the sweet smell of aging corn stalks and falling leaves. I knew today was a good day. I cheerfully pulled my bags of groceries from the back seat and headed up the stairs to my apartment. My tiny kitchen was warm and welcoming as I laid out the ingredients for dinner. Before I could even set a pan on the stove, my heart jumped into my chest as the now-familiar tones broke the silence. My heart immediately started racing. After all, I was the sparky newbie. Actually, to say I was sparky was an understatement. I was full on blazing for this job. I was truly enjoying my new responsibilities as a baby EMT. Of course, my service was nothing like what people described in class. Rarely did I go to the station. When we were paged, my vehicle was transformed into a first responder vehicle with a willing and mostly capable EMT inside.
Down the stairs I went, ignoring the fact that I was still in heels and a skirt, a byproduct of my full time job. As I pulled on scene, I was relieved to see AC's truck on scene. As I swapped heels for steel toes, I heard a voice over my shoulder.
"Here. You are going to need this." It was Jay, the AC's son handing me the big, scary orange defibrillator.
I peeked around the front of my truck and sure enough, there is a crowd around the patient... and a cop doing CPR. My heart dropped to my feet to the beat of a million a minute. Cold sweat stung my forehead and the pinch of anxiety knotted my stomach. I grabbed my coat and the d-fib and jogged to the ever-growing crowd.
I knelt to the right side of the patient, hid my shaking fingers in purple latex and lowered my ear to the patient's face. Nothing. My heart raced faster. I placed my two fingers on the neck of the patient and counted... and waited... and realized I was holding my breath. With the exhale I grabbed the BVM and placed it on the burly man's face. A shiver of discomfort and reluctance vibrated up my arms as the mask failed to seal to the shattered structures coated in broken, bleeding skin. I looked up to the faces staring expectantly back at me. The deputy to my left fumbled with the pads, bystanders randomly fussed with the patient's limbs and circled like vultures casting doom down on my head. I wasn't thinking, I was only reacting. It was almost like those dreams where you are floating somewhere above your body watching your own actions, unable to reason with your own muscles. Then, a face. A face I didn't know, but a face that topped black turn out gear that boasted my department's name. Never in my life have I been so happy to hear, "I'll take care of the airway." With renewed vision and strength, I pulled the pads from the trembling hands of the deputy and placed them neatly on the patient's chest. With an authority to my voice I didn't know I had, I demanded all hands be off the patient.
*No shock advised.*
Hand over hand, my palm met the sternum. I hesitated, expecting the crack of bone to reverberate up my forearms. Instead the chest caved to the left with no resistance. Fire rose up my throat. I gulped it back breathing in the scent of blood and soil. As if we were a well oiled machine, we gave the best CPR we could. All the while I prayed for the sound of a siren to signal my relief. It may have been 5 minutes but it felt like 5 years. The rest blurred by. I spit out a report of what happened and watched as the crew wheeled the patient to the ambulance. I stood there unsure of what my role had turned into. I tip-toed through the debris to the engine that had arrived and peeled off my gloves. Someone sat me down on the front bumper, revealing a perfect view of the flurry of activity inside the ambulance. I was shocked. I wasn't sad. I wasn't angry. I was optimistic. And happy. Surely survival would occur. It had to. We were EMT's, and damn good ones. We save lives and I just put on one hell of a show.
It was in that moment that I realized I loved this job. Until that point it was basic transports on which I was pushed into the corner and told to watch. I had made decisions. Heck, I had remembered what to do and I did it. In the right order even. I wondered if I should have felt worse, even if the patient lived, it wouldn't be any sort of quality of life one would hope for. Would I be this uncaring about all my patients? Would I ever feel badly about poor outcomes? My mind was in warp speed with no signs of slowing. Little did I know that this patient was the first of three I would see pronounced on scene in the next four weeks.
Looking back and knowing better how I respond to patients and their outcomes, I am surprised that I was so numb to the events that occurred. I don't know if it was the shock of it being my first call I was "in charge of" or my first patient to be called on scene. I can't really tell you. What I can tell you though, that the years and stories can and do change us. Sometimes it is positive, and sometimes it is negative and cause us to pause and wonder why we do what we do.
Down the stairs I went, ignoring the fact that I was still in heels and a skirt, a byproduct of my full time job. As I pulled on scene, I was relieved to see AC's truck on scene. As I swapped heels for steel toes, I heard a voice over my shoulder.
"Here. You are going to need this." It was Jay, the AC's son handing me the big, scary orange defibrillator.
I peeked around the front of my truck and sure enough, there is a crowd around the patient... and a cop doing CPR. My heart dropped to my feet to the beat of a million a minute. Cold sweat stung my forehead and the pinch of anxiety knotted my stomach. I grabbed my coat and the d-fib and jogged to the ever-growing crowd.
I knelt to the right side of the patient, hid my shaking fingers in purple latex and lowered my ear to the patient's face. Nothing. My heart raced faster. I placed my two fingers on the neck of the patient and counted... and waited... and realized I was holding my breath. With the exhale I grabbed the BVM and placed it on the burly man's face. A shiver of discomfort and reluctance vibrated up my arms as the mask failed to seal to the shattered structures coated in broken, bleeding skin. I looked up to the faces staring expectantly back at me. The deputy to my left fumbled with the pads, bystanders randomly fussed with the patient's limbs and circled like vultures casting doom down on my head. I wasn't thinking, I was only reacting. It was almost like those dreams where you are floating somewhere above your body watching your own actions, unable to reason with your own muscles. Then, a face. A face I didn't know, but a face that topped black turn out gear that boasted my department's name. Never in my life have I been so happy to hear, "I'll take care of the airway." With renewed vision and strength, I pulled the pads from the trembling hands of the deputy and placed them neatly on the patient's chest. With an authority to my voice I didn't know I had, I demanded all hands be off the patient.
*No shock advised.*
Hand over hand, my palm met the sternum. I hesitated, expecting the crack of bone to reverberate up my forearms. Instead the chest caved to the left with no resistance. Fire rose up my throat. I gulped it back breathing in the scent of blood and soil. As if we were a well oiled machine, we gave the best CPR we could. All the while I prayed for the sound of a siren to signal my relief. It may have been 5 minutes but it felt like 5 years. The rest blurred by. I spit out a report of what happened and watched as the crew wheeled the patient to the ambulance. I stood there unsure of what my role had turned into. I tip-toed through the debris to the engine that had arrived and peeled off my gloves. Someone sat me down on the front bumper, revealing a perfect view of the flurry of activity inside the ambulance. I was shocked. I wasn't sad. I wasn't angry. I was optimistic. And happy. Surely survival would occur. It had to. We were EMT's, and damn good ones. We save lives and I just put on one hell of a show.
It was in that moment that I realized I loved this job. Until that point it was basic transports on which I was pushed into the corner and told to watch. I had made decisions. Heck, I had remembered what to do and I did it. In the right order even. I wondered if I should have felt worse, even if the patient lived, it wouldn't be any sort of quality of life one would hope for. Would I be this uncaring about all my patients? Would I ever feel badly about poor outcomes? My mind was in warp speed with no signs of slowing. Little did I know that this patient was the first of three I would see pronounced on scene in the next four weeks.
Looking back and knowing better how I respond to patients and their outcomes, I am surprised that I was so numb to the events that occurred. I don't know if it was the shock of it being my first call I was "in charge of" or my first patient to be called on scene. I can't really tell you. What I can tell you though, that the years and stories can and do change us. Sometimes it is positive, and sometimes it is negative and cause us to pause and wonder why we do what we do.
Monday, August 3, 2009
and his grace to me was not without effect.
1 Corinthians 15:10
A simple post by Meester Detzel ala This is Reverb.
It hit me and in a good way.
Go check him out.
Misinterpretation.
There is a distinct odor that surrounds certain events. Various foods that have been submerged in oil that may or may not be from 7 fairs ago, burning rubber mixed with the distinct smell of oil laced Earth, sweat, blood and animals... they all combine to form a distinct scent that could never be mistaken for anything other than the county fair. That is exactly what I inhaled for no more and no less than six hours yesterday. The shift started off all well and good. Various bumps, bruises and requests for band-aids later, my stomach told me it was time to seek out something deep-fried. I set out wandering through the crowds growing ever so thankful for all my teeth and remembering the radio on my hip which prevented me from shaking various patrons. I settled for something not so fried, but still served on a stick. Mmmm... pork chops. As I headed back to the EMS station my radio crackled to life. "Sheriff to EMS." Crap. "Respond to the pitts for a person with an injured knee." I picked up the pace knowing Jo, who was standing by while I went to find sustenance, wasn't in any sort of mood to go and "play". I called over advising I was 100 yards out. I handed off my oinker on a stick and hopped onto the six-wheeler. Away we went.
Now, I don't know if this is some sort of natural phenomenon or just something ingrained in all mouth-breathers, but what is it about red lights that causes people to turn and stare. No amounts of "excuse me" or "please step aside" snaps them out of it either. Just sweat-stained lumps of cells standing with their mouths even more agape, almost to the point of jaw dislocation. Some crafty driving and plenty of patience later we arrived safely at the side of the patient. His pant leg was rolled up and he was icing his knee. I introduced myself and put on my detective hat. Good CMS. Not noted deformities or bruising. 10/10 pain. No I don't have an ace bandage. No I don't have pain killers. Yes, I can get you to the hospital. Oh and I have more ice. That's about it as of right now. My debate team skillz came in handy, convincing him he should at least come back with us so we could fill out some paperwork and take a better look. AKA not breathe dust and exhaust.
Back at the EMS station, we had a conundrum. How to get this person inside? What better than human crutches? Knee injuries make a fireman's carry quite uncomfortable so with one arm around me and another around Neighboring Department EMT, we slowly made our way inside. Time lapse at this point is perhaps 10 minutes. I removed the bag of ice and noted the knee had grown from an orange to a grapefruit and was starting to show hues of a blueberry. Ruh roh Raggy.
I started the paperwork and offered to call rescue to respond and take the patient to the hospital. At the mention of an ambulance the already misty eyes about popped out of their sockets. "I don't have insurance!" Hmmm. Conundrum. I explained the importance of having the knee checked by a doctor and eventually it was decided a personal vehicle to the ER would be sufficient. A wheelchair and some grunts and groans later, the patient was on the way to Big Hospital.
While wiping down the table, Tank asks me if I saw the patient's shirt. Of course, I hadn't read the shirt. To which he enlightened me...
"If I don't get laid soon, someone's gonna get hurt."
I don't think they were hoping for the hurt.
*************************************************************
Jo and I were having conversation about an EMT from Neighboring Department who was throwing out some serious stink eye for at least an hour or two. Now in order to truly appreciate thefunneh, both of us were engaging in this conversation with total seriousness.
I turned to Jo and stated, "I think that girl keeps giving me the stink eye." To which she turned and dead-pan "I think that is just her face."
*blank stare*
It took a moment for both of us to absorb and truly appreciate the genius of what had transpired. What followed was leg-crossing, gut-clenching hysterics.
No wonder I love her so much!
*************************************************************
Jo sat in a folding chair laptop in it's appropriate place and me laying on the cot. We were in the midst of cementing our plans for taking over the world, or just discussing our feelings on the new guy, and in walks a man in a button up shirt which was tucked into the typical wranglers. Judging by his attire and lack of offending stench, I presumed he was someone of some sort of significance around these parts. I surmised correctly. Dirt and mud caked his arms in splotches that gave his previous location away. He was holding his forearm with his opposite hand. Before we could really assimilate what was going on, he blurts, "Bitch bit me!" Jo and I exchange a look and suppress the laughter. My eyebrow has now started to orbit from shooting up so fast.
"I'm sorry, what is the problem?"
"I was in the grandstands breaking up a fight and the bitch bit me! What can you do for me?"
I can't lie. I let out a chuckle.
"Did her teeth break the skin?"
"No. But you never know where a mouth like that has been."
I think I may have convulsed from the effort it took to hold back the BWAH! that came screeching to my lips.
I offered the gentleman an alcohol wipe. The 1x1 square was black with demo-derby dirt with one swipe but he kept on scrubbing.
He refused any additional medical "intervention." With a smile and a wave he was off. Heading back into the crowd of crayzees.
Not five minutes later a little 5 foot nothin comes in spouting something about a fight in the grandstands. Jo and I wondered silently if this was The Biter. We were right.
*************************************************************
Six hours was more than enough time at the fair. Between hearing the screams from the rides for 5 days straight and the horrendous traffic, I for one am not sad that it is over. Sure enough come July next year I will be craving processed leftovers wrapped in corn batter and deep fried to a golden sheen. Until then I'll just enjoy the normal small town crayzees.
Now, I don't know if this is some sort of natural phenomenon or just something ingrained in all mouth-breathers, but what is it about red lights that causes people to turn and stare. No amounts of "excuse me" or "please step aside" snaps them out of it either. Just sweat-stained lumps of cells standing with their mouths even more agape, almost to the point of jaw dislocation. Some crafty driving and plenty of patience later we arrived safely at the side of the patient. His pant leg was rolled up and he was icing his knee. I introduced myself and put on my detective hat. Good CMS. Not noted deformities or bruising. 10/10 pain. No I don't have an ace bandage. No I don't have pain killers. Yes, I can get you to the hospital. Oh and I have more ice. That's about it as of right now. My debate team skillz came in handy, convincing him he should at least come back with us so we could fill out some paperwork and take a better look. AKA not breathe dust and exhaust.
Back at the EMS station, we had a conundrum. How to get this person inside? What better than human crutches? Knee injuries make a fireman's carry quite uncomfortable so with one arm around me and another around Neighboring Department EMT, we slowly made our way inside. Time lapse at this point is perhaps 10 minutes. I removed the bag of ice and noted the knee had grown from an orange to a grapefruit and was starting to show hues of a blueberry. Ruh roh Raggy.
I started the paperwork and offered to call rescue to respond and take the patient to the hospital. At the mention of an ambulance the already misty eyes about popped out of their sockets. "I don't have insurance!" Hmmm. Conundrum. I explained the importance of having the knee checked by a doctor and eventually it was decided a personal vehicle to the ER would be sufficient. A wheelchair and some grunts and groans later, the patient was on the way to Big Hospital.
While wiping down the table, Tank asks me if I saw the patient's shirt. Of course, I hadn't read the shirt. To which he enlightened me...
"If I don't get laid soon, someone's gonna get hurt."
I don't think they were hoping for the hurt.
*************************************************************
Jo and I were having conversation about an EMT from Neighboring Department who was throwing out some serious stink eye for at least an hour or two. Now in order to truly appreciate thefunneh, both of us were engaging in this conversation with total seriousness.
I turned to Jo and stated, "I think that girl keeps giving me the stink eye." To which she turned and dead-pan "I think that is just her face."
*blank stare*
It took a moment for both of us to absorb and truly appreciate the genius of what had transpired. What followed was leg-crossing, gut-clenching hysterics.
No wonder I love her so much!
*************************************************************
Jo sat in a folding chair laptop in it's appropriate place and me laying on the cot. We were in the midst of cementing our plans for taking over the world, or just discussing our feelings on the new guy, and in walks a man in a button up shirt which was tucked into the typical wranglers. Judging by his attire and lack of offending stench, I presumed he was someone of some sort of significance around these parts. I surmised correctly. Dirt and mud caked his arms in splotches that gave his previous location away. He was holding his forearm with his opposite hand. Before we could really assimilate what was going on, he blurts, "Bitch bit me!" Jo and I exchange a look and suppress the laughter. My eyebrow has now started to orbit from shooting up so fast.
"I'm sorry, what is the problem?"
"I was in the grandstands breaking up a fight and the bitch bit me! What can you do for me?"
I can't lie. I let out a chuckle.
"Did her teeth break the skin?"
"No. But you never know where a mouth like that has been."
I think I may have convulsed from the effort it took to hold back the BWAH! that came screeching to my lips.
I offered the gentleman an alcohol wipe. The 1x1 square was black with demo-derby dirt with one swipe but he kept on scrubbing.
He refused any additional medical "intervention." With a smile and a wave he was off. Heading back into the crowd of crayzees.
Not five minutes later a little 5 foot nothin comes in spouting something about a fight in the grandstands. Jo and I wondered silently if this was The Biter. We were right.
*************************************************************
Six hours was more than enough time at the fair. Between hearing the screams from the rides for 5 days straight and the horrendous traffic, I for one am not sad that it is over. Sure enough come July next year I will be craving processed leftovers wrapped in corn batter and deep fried to a golden sheen. Until then I'll just enjoy the normal small town crayzees.
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