Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365-page book. Write a good one. —Brad Paisley
Happy New Year's Eve, all.
May your night be still ('cause I don't want to say that word that starts with q) and happy.
Adios 2013, hello 2014.
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Monday, December 30, 2013
I love research
Especially when research journal authors, like these good folks at BMJ have a sense of humor about a wonderfully seasonal PICO question.
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Sunday, December 29, 2013
Reflections on a year going past
The latest from Sunday Stealing...
Questions for a New Year’s Eve Reflection Meme:
From the archives!
What was the single best thing that happened this past year?
I travelled halfway across the country and met some really awesome people I never knew in real life.
What was the single most challenging thing that happened?
I have had to start programs without any management support (because they either quit or moved on).
What was an unexpected joy this past year?
Getting a financial windfall I didn't expect when my husband was unemployed.
What was an unexpected obstacle?
Not getting promoted. (The paperwork is still in the mail...)
Pick three words to describe 2013.
Fun, crazy, cool
What were the best books you read this year?
Biographies and stories about perseverance.
With whom were your most valuable relationships?
Certain coworkers who support me in spite of challenging environments.
What was the most enjoyable part of your work?
Making the impossible happen.
What was the most challenging part of your work?
Working with a "team" that refuses to accept reality.
What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year?
Meetings (about 90% of them anyway).
What was the best way you used your time this past year?
I am creating programs to work with rehab patients in new ways.
What was the biggest thing you learned this past year?
Some people can see into the future, and some people are happy living in the past.
Create a phrase or statement that describes 2013 for you.
Hope for the best, plan for the worst, and savor every minute of joy you're given.
Questions for a New Year’s Eve Reflection Meme:
From the archives!
What was the single best thing that happened this past year?
I travelled halfway across the country and met some really awesome people I never knew in real life.
What was the single most challenging thing that happened?
I have had to start programs without any management support (because they either quit or moved on).
What was an unexpected joy this past year?
Getting a financial windfall I didn't expect when my husband was unemployed.
What was an unexpected obstacle?
Not getting promoted. (The paperwork is still in the mail...)
Pick three words to describe 2013.
Fun, crazy, cool
What were the best books you read this year?
Biographies and stories about perseverance.
With whom were your most valuable relationships?
Certain coworkers who support me in spite of challenging environments.
What was the most enjoyable part of your work?
Making the impossible happen.
What was the most challenging part of your work?
Working with a "team" that refuses to accept reality.
What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year?
Meetings (about 90% of them anyway).
What was the best way you used your time this past year?
I am creating programs to work with rehab patients in new ways.
What was the biggest thing you learned this past year?
Some people can see into the future, and some people are happy living in the past.
Create a phrase or statement that describes 2013 for you.
Hope for the best, plan for the worst, and savor every minute of joy you're given.
Saturday, December 28, 2013
Lovin' every minute of it
Yes, there's a song about this title, but since the staycation is drawing to a close, I'm still enjoying myself.
Weather is cooperating, had my own film festival and watched lots of movies, and hung out with Bubba and Dahey whenever I could.
Back to the entertainment,or as they say back to the wheel.
More later...
Weather is cooperating, had my own film festival and watched lots of movies, and hung out with Bubba and Dahey whenever I could.
Back to the entertainment,or as they say back to the wheel.
More later...
Friday, December 27, 2013
In the news - TGIF edition
Happy Friday! Since I'm off, I'm still reading everything I can get my hands on (including stuff about drain cleaners).
The power of nursing, cultural influences, and changes ahead in 2014 were in the news this week.
How about an IV, Mrs. Park?
This NY Times article discusses the how IVs are used in the Asian community there and how infection rates related to them are having devastating results.
Changes in 2014
If you're like me and you can't keep up with everything changing due to the new healthcare laws, have a look here for more information.
The power of nursing
Sepsis may become a thing of the past in ICUs if this tool is implemented according to CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal). And yes, the power of nursing's "hunches" are coming true, and they have the data (and a system) to back it up. Wish Flo could see it now!
You can see how public service announcements can make a difference in this Stop Sepsis video:
The power of nursing, cultural influences, and changes ahead in 2014 were in the news this week.
How about an IV, Mrs. Park?
This NY Times article discusses the how IVs are used in the Asian community there and how infection rates related to them are having devastating results.
Changes in 2014
If you're like me and you can't keep up with everything changing due to the new healthcare laws, have a look here for more information.
The power of nursing
Sepsis may become a thing of the past in ICUs if this tool is implemented according to CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal). And yes, the power of nursing's "hunches" are coming true, and they have the data (and a system) to back it up. Wish Flo could see it now!
You can see how public service announcements can make a difference in this Stop Sepsis video:
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Two words, plus another two words
Bad words: tree roots + sewer line.
Staycation joy. At least, I didn't come home to this after work.
More to come...
Staycation joy. At least, I didn't come home to this after work.
More to come...
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Twas the night before Christmas
An oldie but goodie I rediscovered here. Enjoy!
twas the night before christmas -a nursing version
twas the night before christmas, and all through the floor
lasix was given, filling foleys galore.
stockings were worn to prevent emboli,
they came in two sizes, knee and thigh high.
the patients were nestled half-@$$ed in their beds,
while visions of stool softeners danced in their heads.
we in our scrubs, and they in their gowns,
fashion created to hide extra pounds.
when down in the er it became such a zoo,
they called with admissions for me and you.
they're coming, they're going, and they're all looking the same.
my patience for patients is starting to wane.
now call lights are ringing, the patient 400 pounds,
says "didnt get my pericare, send my nurse now".
and now delegation seems the best plan,
we try to send others, for the needs of this man.
when what to my wondering eyes should appear,
but santa himself and 8 tiny reindeer.
hey says he comes from central supply.
to bring us lr, ns, & d5.
the doctors then scribbled what no one could read.
orders on patients, to measure their pee.
we try to decipher illegible words,
orders for patients, to guaiac their turds.
the new shift arriving, our day is now through,
how did stool & emesis get in my shoe?
we give them report and pass on the facts,
and tell them of duoderm lining the cracks.
and the nurses exclaim as they limp out of sight,
"ativan to all, and to all a good night".
twas the night before christmas -a nursing version
twas the night before christmas, and all through the floor
lasix was given, filling foleys galore.
stockings were worn to prevent emboli,
they came in two sizes, knee and thigh high.
the patients were nestled half-@$$ed in their beds,
while visions of stool softeners danced in their heads.
we in our scrubs, and they in their gowns,
fashion created to hide extra pounds.
when down in the er it became such a zoo,
they called with admissions for me and you.
they're coming, they're going, and they're all looking the same.
my patience for patients is starting to wane.
now call lights are ringing, the patient 400 pounds,
says "didnt get my pericare, send my nurse now".
and now delegation seems the best plan,
we try to send others, for the needs of this man.
when what to my wondering eyes should appear,
but santa himself and 8 tiny reindeer.
hey says he comes from central supply.
to bring us lr, ns, & d5.
the doctors then scribbled what no one could read.
orders on patients, to measure their pee.
we try to decipher illegible words,
orders for patients, to guaiac their turds.
the new shift arriving, our day is now through,
how did stool & emesis get in my shoe?
we give them report and pass on the facts,
and tell them of duoderm lining the cracks.
and the nurses exclaim as they limp out of sight,
"ativan to all, and to all a good night".
Monday, December 23, 2013
Starting with a bang
Oh, it's the first day of vacation, so it's got to be memorable.
I took Bubba out to pick up WildDog's ashes from the vet. He and Dahey plan to inter WildDog in our yard where he worked so hard to keep a yard full of oaks squirrel-free in his prime. As consolation, we picked up a half-dozen donuts Bubba was to share with Dahey, who was at work.
Bubba ate one donut in the car. He said, "I'll share with Dad."
We came home, and I did a lot of work around the house: cleaning, decluttering, and sorting out goods to donate to charity. While doing all this, I bruised my hand, burnt myself and got a blister.
When I finally had a moment to look in the Super Donut box, there was only one left. Bubba had eaten the other five.
His response, "I'm going through puberty, so I'm hungry."
I'm going to need to fill the pantry and buy a new refrigerator if this appetite is any indication of what might happen in high school.
Stay tuned.
I took Bubba out to pick up WildDog's ashes from the vet. He and Dahey plan to inter WildDog in our yard where he worked so hard to keep a yard full of oaks squirrel-free in his prime. As consolation, we picked up a half-dozen donuts Bubba was to share with Dahey, who was at work.
Bubba ate one donut in the car. He said, "I'll share with Dad."
We came home, and I did a lot of work around the house: cleaning, decluttering, and sorting out goods to donate to charity. While doing all this, I bruised my hand, burnt myself and got a blister.
When I finally had a moment to look in the Super Donut box, there was only one left. Bubba had eaten the other five.
His response, "I'm going through puberty, so I'm hungry."
I'm going to need to fill the pantry and buy a new refrigerator if this appetite is any indication of what might happen in high school.
Stay tuned.
Sunday, December 22, 2013
Seasons Greeterings
As Homer used to say, here's the latest and greatest.
The Christmas Meme from Sunday Stealing.
1.The Christmas song I can listen to even in June is...
Go tell it on the Mountain
2.Hot Chocolate, Egg Nog or Mulled wine?
Mostly hot chocolate.
3.When do you put your decorations up?
Usually by December 15 (it depends).
4. What are you having for Christmas dinner?
Ham. Always.
5.What is your favorite Christmas tradition?
I get up early, make a big breakfast after filming Bubba opening all his gifts.
6. Have you ever gone Carol singing?
Yes, a very LONG time ago.
7. When did you learn the truth about Santa?
I was about 8 or 9 years old.
8. How do you decorate your Christmas tree?
Very simply.
9. What's the best thing about Christmas?
After my birthday, the end of the year, seeing friends and family you haven't seen much during the year.
10. All I want for Christmas is... to be happy and healthy enough to celebrate with family and friends.
Nipple Michelangelo?
We talk a lot about the psychosocial aspects of rehabilitation. Making people feel real, and comfortable in their own skin after devastating accidents and diseases is one thing nurses are good at working with patients.
Another aspect of this is feeling good about your body afterwards.Vinnie Myers helps women during breast reconstruction by giving them tattoos.
It's an article you don't want to miss.
Another aspect of this is feeling good about your body afterwards.Vinnie Myers helps women during breast reconstruction by giving them tattoos.
It's an article you don't want to miss.
Saturday, December 21, 2013
Manglement misadventures
Mediocrity can talk, but it is for genius to observe.~ Benjamin Disraeli
I really like some of the medical staff I work with at the Hotel. We have some folks with a lot of experience and wonderful patient rapport.
But, as usual, the Manglement are clueless. The Hotel is part of a reactionary hospital system, that just doesn't seem happy unless there is chaos. Evidence based practice? What's that? Or this discourse when I asked for a flexible schedule, even though, we already have them.
"If I let you do x, I'll have to let others do y."
Keeping employees happy is not part of their business plan. They get more clueless by the day.
I'm counting down the days. I'm glad my Christmas vacation is coming.
I really like some of the medical staff I work with at the Hotel. We have some folks with a lot of experience and wonderful patient rapport.
But, as usual, the Manglement are clueless. The Hotel is part of a reactionary hospital system, that just doesn't seem happy unless there is chaos. Evidence based practice? What's that? Or this discourse when I asked for a flexible schedule, even though, we already have them.
"If I let you do x, I'll have to let others do y."
Keeping employees happy is not part of their business plan. They get more clueless by the day.
I'm counting down the days. I'm glad my Christmas vacation is coming.
Thursday, December 19, 2013
All I want for Christmas...
Is a new boss...again this year. So here's the letter I'd write if I could.
Dear Santa:
This request is getting really old, not just for me, but for everyone else. It's so bad that people are quitting or retiring in the interim.
If a new boss is too much, I'd be happy to take a new job or department reorganization for the new year.
Whatever fits in the bag easier for you.
Sincerely, your favorite nurse ('cause I'd fix Rudolph's shiny nose if you asked),
RehabRN
Dear Santa:
This request is getting really old, not just for me, but for everyone else. It's so bad that people are quitting or retiring in the interim.
If a new boss is too much, I'd be happy to take a new job or department reorganization for the new year.
Whatever fits in the bag easier for you.
Sincerely, your favorite nurse ('cause I'd fix Rudolph's shiny nose if you asked),
RehabRN
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
This week's In the news
I've got a personal connection to some of the items I've found this week. Hope you all enjoy
I knew it!
Ever have horrible migraines when it's ready to storm? You're not alone. Researchers have correlated migraines to all sorts of things, including lightning strikes, according to this CNN story.
Sad story
A teenager gets an elective surgery to stop sleep apnea and some other things, then ends up brain dead, according to this CNN story. It may be simple, but as a parent, so sad.
Throwing your money away?
You may be if you believe this Medscape article on multivitamins and cognition.
Were you hoodwinked?
Maybe once or twice? Mashable tallies up these social media hoaxes which got a lot of mileage this year.
Finally...
And last, but not least, just in case I win the Mega Millions prize (even a sliver of it) tonight, I may play hooky tomorrow from work, but I just want to let you know I won't stop blogging. It's too much fun.
That is all...more to come.
I knew it!
Ever have horrible migraines when it's ready to storm? You're not alone. Researchers have correlated migraines to all sorts of things, including lightning strikes, according to this CNN story.
Sad story
A teenager gets an elective surgery to stop sleep apnea and some other things, then ends up brain dead, according to this CNN story. It may be simple, but as a parent, so sad.
Throwing your money away?
You may be if you believe this Medscape article on multivitamins and cognition.
Were you hoodwinked?
Maybe once or twice? Mashable tallies up these social media hoaxes which got a lot of mileage this year.
Finally...
And last, but not least, just in case I win the Mega Millions prize (even a sliver of it) tonight, I may play hooky tomorrow from work, but I just want to let you know I won't stop blogging. It's too much fun.
That is all...more to come.
Sunday, December 15, 2013
It's BAAACK! Sunday stealing
This one was interesting. The Blerp Meme from Sunday Stealing. Hope you are enjoying the last of your weekend, wherever you are!
When you get a headache do you take painkillers right away or try to wait it out?
Depends.
Did you watch Sesame Street when you were little?
Yes.
What’s the last thing you touched, other than your computer?
Rubber bands.
When was the last time you talked to your best friend?
Yesterday.
How often do you listen to music?
Daily.
What color is your cell phone?
White.
What is the last non-alcoholic beverage you drank?
Coffee.
Do you like to wear sweatpants?
No.
What song are you currently listening to? Who sings it?
Anyone who had a heart by Dionne Warwick on the Very Best of Burt Bacharach (I got a lot of collections from Dahey).
Have you ever gotten a black eye?
No.
How many times have you checked up on your ex?
Not many. He's dead.
If you had to get a tattoo what would it be?
My college mascot.
How many tabs are open right now?
Three.
Are you scared of needles?
Only in the hands of inexperienced nurses or phlebotomists. No doctor is going to touch me unless he/she's an anesthesiologist.
Do you believe love can last forever?
If you work really hard.
Are good-byes easy or hard for you?
Depends on who it is. Those eternal good-byes are doozies.
Would you rather sing or dance?
Depends on the song. Some are for singing, others, dancing.
When you get a headache do you take painkillers right away or try to wait it out?
Depends.
Did you watch Sesame Street when you were little?
Yes.
What’s the last thing you touched, other than your computer?
Rubber bands.
When was the last time you talked to your best friend?
Yesterday.
How often do you listen to music?
Daily.
What color is your cell phone?
White.
What is the last non-alcoholic beverage you drank?
Coffee.
Do you like to wear sweatpants?
No.
What song are you currently listening to? Who sings it?
Anyone who had a heart by Dionne Warwick on the Very Best of Burt Bacharach (I got a lot of collections from Dahey).
Have you ever gotten a black eye?
No.
How many times have you checked up on your ex?
Not many. He's dead.
If you had to get a tattoo what would it be?
My college mascot.
How many tabs are open right now?
Three.
Are you scared of needles?
Only in the hands of inexperienced nurses or phlebotomists. No doctor is going to touch me unless he/she's an anesthesiologist.
Do you believe love can last forever?
If you work really hard.
Are good-byes easy or hard for you?
Depends on who it is. Those eternal good-byes are doozies.
Would you rather sing or dance?
Depends on the song. Some are for singing, others, dancing.
Saturday, December 14, 2013
When you pull out the crash cart...
You should think of this guy.
The drug he helped invent is included on most crash carts. I wish I could say we never use it in rehab, but because people are on pain meds, we do. Opiate titration can be difficult, especially in the types of patients we see at the Hotel.
Thank you Dr. Fishman. Rest in peace.
The drug he helped invent is included on most crash carts. I wish I could say we never use it in rehab, but because people are on pain meds, we do. Opiate titration can be difficult, especially in the types of patients we see at the Hotel.
Thank you Dr. Fishman. Rest in peace.
Friday, December 13, 2013
Enjoy a long weekend
No, it's not a holiday, but I decided to make it one. Visited a few friends, then the weather changed some of my plans, but here I am, relaxing and now surfing the internet for fun.
I was reading an article which discussed how if James Bond were real, he would be an alcoholic with impotence. I really enjoyed this article, because scientists had to read the Ian Fleming novels and count the quantity of alcohol that 007 drank. According to the books, he even had a DUI with injuries. (Good thing he wasn't looking for car insurance!)
So after that stunning study, there was this article about the real diseases named after literary characters. I had recognized a couple of them, so it was enlightening. I also did not know that the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation did a story in 2012 on favorite fictional nurses.
Finally, two articles stood out about characters. One interesting article was called "You are what you read." The last one is about fictional characters based on real people.
In light of the article "You are what you read", just remember there are some fictional characters you should not emulate.
That is all. TGIF and enjoy your weekend, wherever you are.
I was reading an article which discussed how if James Bond were real, he would be an alcoholic with impotence. I really enjoyed this article, because scientists had to read the Ian Fleming novels and count the quantity of alcohol that 007 drank. According to the books, he even had a DUI with injuries. (Good thing he wasn't looking for car insurance!)
So after that stunning study, there was this article about the real diseases named after literary characters. I had recognized a couple of them, so it was enlightening. I also did not know that the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation did a story in 2012 on favorite fictional nurses.
Finally, two articles stood out about characters. One interesting article was called "You are what you read." The last one is about fictional characters based on real people.
In light of the article "You are what you read", just remember there are some fictional characters you should not emulate.
That is all. TGIF and enjoy your weekend, wherever you are.
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
The latest in the news
This is the etiquette edition (aka don't do this). Enjoy!
They've got it right...and funny
Top 10 things not to say to someone in a wheelchair is a great article from the good folks at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta.
Not exactly a funeral in a stadium, but...
Don't take selfies at a funeral is the point of this Mashable post.
Don't emit noxious fumes
In the ongoing saga, Huy Fong Foods, manufacturers of the famous "Rooster" sriracha sauce have halted shipments.
Not necessarily a no-no anymore...
In the old days, no one in their right mind would bring their dog to the hospital. This AJN article talks about how your pet can help you just by visiting.
They've got it right...and funny
Top 10 things not to say to someone in a wheelchair is a great article from the good folks at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta.
Not exactly a funeral in a stadium, but...
Don't take selfies at a funeral is the point of this Mashable post.
Don't emit noxious fumes
In the ongoing saga, Huy Fong Foods, manufacturers of the famous "Rooster" sriracha sauce have halted shipments.
Not necessarily a no-no anymore...
In the old days, no one in their right mind would bring their dog to the hospital. This AJN article talks about how your pet can help you just by visiting.
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Goodnight WildDog
I read this article recently about pet hospice and realized I was already doing it. WildDog, our elderly sheepdog was a funny, orderly, mischievous devil of a dog.
We got WildDog from a rescue, by accident. He was supposed to go to someone else, and they decided they didn't want him. We were looking at another dog when they told us he was ready for us. Dahey knew he was the dog for him as soon as he saw him, so we hurried down the highway on a cold, snowy day and picked him up.
The foster family told us he got queasy in cars. Dahey held him all the way home in his lap. He did just fine as long as he was petted while he was riding in a car. This always made going to the groomer and the vet an adventure. I told WildDog, "If you are good, you'll get a cookie," and he'd watch me put the cookie in my purse or pocket. He'd try to get at it, if he thought he could get it. However, he could be a perfect gentleman. It just varied.
WildDog was famous for flying through the air and snatching things off counter tops. Dahey was an eyewitness or I never would have believed that he really did eat all those blueberry muffins I wrapped up for my sister for breakfast from the MegaWarehouseStore. He also loved good loaves of bread. Not those artisanal ones Grumpy may talk about, but good, slightly soft, bread that is not cheap. I cannot count the number of loaves that he "opened" (i.e. chewed a hole in) to eat a couple of slices and leave the remaining loaf lying on the living room floor (since this is where he liked to eat his snacks.)
He was a great companion. He came from a breed known for herding, guarding and sticking close to humans. He was really my dog, because he picked me, but Dahey was his alpha dog. When Dahey travelled for work, he didn't always listen to me. It would take a couple of weeks. Sometimes, I had to put Dahey on speakerphone for the dog to listen. Occasionally, he relented.
When Bubba came along, he bonded with him over fistfuls of spaghetti. Bubba loved launching handfuls from his high chair and watching WildDog run. They had their spats (he even bit Bubba once), but the boys got along well.
Tonight, even after the gentle warnings, I had given Bubba about WildDog dying for months, Bubba cried and cried. WildDog was the only dog he'd ever had his entire life. He was his furry brother.
We will miss the pet, but character and spirit of WildDog, the charming little herding dog, will live on in our hearts.
Good night WildDog. See you at the Rainbow Bridge.
We got WildDog from a rescue, by accident. He was supposed to go to someone else, and they decided they didn't want him. We were looking at another dog when they told us he was ready for us. Dahey knew he was the dog for him as soon as he saw him, so we hurried down the highway on a cold, snowy day and picked him up.
The foster family told us he got queasy in cars. Dahey held him all the way home in his lap. He did just fine as long as he was petted while he was riding in a car. This always made going to the groomer and the vet an adventure. I told WildDog, "If you are good, you'll get a cookie," and he'd watch me put the cookie in my purse or pocket. He'd try to get at it, if he thought he could get it. However, he could be a perfect gentleman. It just varied.
WildDog was famous for flying through the air and snatching things off counter tops. Dahey was an eyewitness or I never would have believed that he really did eat all those blueberry muffins I wrapped up for my sister for breakfast from the MegaWarehouseStore. He also loved good loaves of bread. Not those artisanal ones Grumpy may talk about, but good, slightly soft, bread that is not cheap. I cannot count the number of loaves that he "opened" (i.e. chewed a hole in) to eat a couple of slices and leave the remaining loaf lying on the living room floor (since this is where he liked to eat his snacks.)
He was a great companion. He came from a breed known for herding, guarding and sticking close to humans. He was really my dog, because he picked me, but Dahey was his alpha dog. When Dahey travelled for work, he didn't always listen to me. It would take a couple of weeks. Sometimes, I had to put Dahey on speakerphone for the dog to listen. Occasionally, he relented.
When Bubba came along, he bonded with him over fistfuls of spaghetti. Bubba loved launching handfuls from his high chair and watching WildDog run. They had their spats (he even bit Bubba once), but the boys got along well.
Tonight, even after the gentle warnings, I had given Bubba about WildDog dying for months, Bubba cried and cried. WildDog was the only dog he'd ever had his entire life. He was his furry brother.
We will miss the pet, but character and spirit of WildDog, the charming little herding dog, will live on in our hearts.
Good night WildDog. See you at the Rainbow Bridge.
Sunday, December 8, 2013
Who knew they made a show out of a song?
Bubba was watching some cartoons,and this came on the TV. There is no way Disney or Hanna-Barbera would have done such a thing.
Sacrilege!
Sacrilege!
Saturday, December 7, 2013
Brrr!
It's freaking cold as one of my young hip patients says. This is the same guy who was rolling around in a very huge jacket and asked me if he had any wrinkles.
"No," I told him, "No wrinkles, but are you doing the gangsta look?" (He likes to look hip, even if he is in a wheelchair.
Hipster Dude of course said no. He did have a good chuckle, though.
The snow and sleet are sticking around since it won't get above freezing for a few days.
The joys of winter...
"No," I told him, "No wrinkles, but are you doing the gangsta look?" (He likes to look hip, even if he is in a wheelchair.
Hipster Dude of course said no. He did have a good chuckle, though.
The snow and sleet are sticking around since it won't get above freezing for a few days.
The joys of winter...
Thursday, December 5, 2013
RIP Nelson Mandela
There is no passion to be found playing small - in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.~ Nelson Mandela
So many decisions to make...
So many decisions to make...
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
In the news
Since I haven't done one of these in a while...why not?
Here are a few goodies I've encountered in my meanderings on the internet. Hope you enjoy!
Surprise, surprise
I guess we shouldn't really be surprised that a reality show producer would try to get some free publicity for a new story idea via Twitter, should we?
I know a couple of my friends were crowing that they figured him out right away. I just thought it was funny.
A hot ride
The good folks at the BBC gave an account of some stolen cobalt-60 in Mexico. The authorities are looking for the thieves, since they have been exposed to radiation.
My expert, Dahey, says there's no such thing as a little, harmless cobalt-60. Nice.
Finally, if that wasn't scary enough...
This may be. Millions of passwords compromised. All you need for Christmas is a new one. Change yours accordingly, so the bad guys can't masquerade as you on social media.
Cross this off your Christmas list
23andme, the genetic testing firm got in trouble with the FDA this week. So much for my brother and Aunt Martha's Christmas gifts.
Here are a few goodies I've encountered in my meanderings on the internet. Hope you enjoy!
Surprise, surprise
I guess we shouldn't really be surprised that a reality show producer would try to get some free publicity for a new story idea via Twitter, should we?
I know a couple of my friends were crowing that they figured him out right away. I just thought it was funny.
A hot ride
The good folks at the BBC gave an account of some stolen cobalt-60 in Mexico. The authorities are looking for the thieves, since they have been exposed to radiation.
My expert, Dahey, says there's no such thing as a little, harmless cobalt-60. Nice.
Finally, if that wasn't scary enough...
This may be. Millions of passwords compromised. All you need for Christmas is a new one. Change yours accordingly, so the bad guys can't masquerade as you on social media.
Cross this off your Christmas list
23andme, the genetic testing firm got in trouble with the FDA this week. So much for my brother and Aunt Martha's Christmas gifts.
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Changes
It is not strange... to mistake change for progress.~ Millard Fillmore
I would embed the famous (or infamous) David Bowie video here, but I'm just not in the mood.
This quote pretty much sums up what Manglement is doing to our unit at the Hotel. Changing things. Breaking promises.
It's very, very upsetting.
I feel like a base jumper whose parachute may or may not deploy upon jumping. Scary.
I would embed the famous (or infamous) David Bowie video here, but I'm just not in the mood.
This quote pretty much sums up what Manglement is doing to our unit at the Hotel. Changing things. Breaking promises.
It's very, very upsetting.
I feel like a base jumper whose parachute may or may not deploy upon jumping. Scary.
Uncorked
It's not what you think. This mechanic (and father of five) invented a device being used during childbirth, after he won a bet with a friend to get a cork out of a bottle.
Necessity and mothers are really helpful for inventions, as Jorge points out.
More to come.
Necessity and mothers are really helpful for inventions, as Jorge points out.
More to come.
Monday, December 2, 2013
Dr. Grumpy's gift guide
Yes, Dr. G. is getting into the spirit of the season.
Deal with a lot of a^&sholes (and they're not in the GI lab) at work? You might need a gift from these folks.
I'm really tempted to tell my sister-in-law about these so she can take them in to the lab she works in.
Priceless!
Deal with a lot of a^&sholes (and they're not in the GI lab) at work? You might need a gift from these folks.
I'm really tempted to tell my sister-in-law about these so she can take them in to the lab she works in.
Priceless!
Surprise!
I won a trip today!
The good news: it's far away. It occurs over a weekend, and I won't miss any work.
The bad news: it's gonna be a little cold.
I hope I can find my long underwear.
Stay tuned.
The good news: it's far away. It occurs over a weekend, and I won't miss any work.
The bad news: it's gonna be a little cold.
I hope I can find my long underwear.
Stay tuned.
Sunday, December 1, 2013
Sunday Stealing
The latest from Sunday Stealing, but I'm not sure why they picked the name...
What would you totally eat right now?
A salad.
Do you always wear a certain piece of jewelry?
My wedding ring.
What kind of jeans do you like?
Depends on the situation.
What's something on your want list?
A lawn service, so I don't have to rake leaves or garden (won't happen anytime soon though).
Do you bite your nails?
No. Never have.
What kind of smells do you like?
Lemon, peppermint, cinnamon
Would you change your eye color if you could?
No.
And what are your goals for the remainder of this year?
Get everything done before I go on vacation (at the end of the month).
When is the last time you were at the hospital?
Wednesday.
What would you totally eat right now?
A salad.
Do you always wear a certain piece of jewelry?
My wedding ring.
What kind of jeans do you like?
Depends on the situation.
What's something on your want list?
A lawn service, so I don't have to rake leaves or garden (won't happen anytime soon though).
Do you bite your nails?
No. Never have.
What kind of smells do you like?
Lemon, peppermint, cinnamon
Would you change your eye color if you could?
No.
And what are your goals for the remainder of this year?
Get everything done before I go on vacation (at the end of the month).
When is the last time you were at the hospital?
Wednesday.
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Ethical considerations
My boss's boss wasn't sure I encountered any of these in my job in the SU, so she left them off the requirement for my performance review. Consequently, they sent it back and did not review me.
Luckily, she was able to unearth the review this past week and send it back. Of course, it was late. Even more BS to put up with....
Nevertheless, I was not at all surprised when I saw this article about a little boy awaiting a heart transplant.
I have encountered this attitude much more than I'd like at the Hotel and our sister hospitals.
It really makes me sad.
Luckily, she was able to unearth the review this past week and send it back. Of course, it was late. Even more BS to put up with....
Nevertheless, I was not at all surprised when I saw this article about a little boy awaiting a heart transplant.
I have encountered this attitude much more than I'd like at the Hotel and our sister hospitals.
It really makes me sad.
Friday, November 29, 2013
The perils of modern technology
This article on cnn was interesting, because it talks about a variety of ailments that never existed when my parents and grandparents were growing up.
I can almost hear those sage characters laughing when I read about...
Tablet neck and BlackBerry thumb
Grandma L: (on tablet neck) Hunched over? Sit up straight! (on Blackberry thumb) It has a speakerphone? I need one of those. Who cares about typing? I never wanted to be a secretary anyway!
Grandma L. was a housewife who raised 7 kids and called everyone of them (including my mother) every morning. If she could have had a cell phone, she would have had one.
Earbud-induced hearing loss
Grandpa K: (great-grandpa --GG--actually): GET THOSE F**&^% out of your ears, you moron!
NOTE: GG was a foreman in a brewery back in the day. You had to yell for people to hear you on the production line. Another fun part of his job: wake up drunks who fell asleep. He was known for speaking his mind. Ahem...
Screen-related sleep disorder
Grandpa L: Turn off the lights. They're not free.
Grandpa worked nights, and he was not a big light fan. He was retired by the time I was born, and while I don't remember him much, he spoiled me (and my sister) rotten according to reports.
Stiletto strain
My mother: This is why you carry a big purse (so you can stash a pair of flats).
I have lots of photos of my mother in high heels in her youth.
Offbeat biorhythms
Grandma R: It's not good to eat after 6PM.
Grandma R was a tenacious survivor: married three times (first was a youthful romance gone bad, except for my dad) second was the love of her life (widowed) and third was a complete idiot (divorced after 3 years and infidelity on his part).
She worked as a real estate agent and died when I was a little girl. I read a few of her letters my father had, and I admire all she had to deal with in life. I'm sure my tenacity comes from her German-Anglo-Irish background.
I can almost hear those sage characters laughing when I read about...
Tablet neck and BlackBerry thumb
Grandma L: (on tablet neck) Hunched over? Sit up straight! (on Blackberry thumb) It has a speakerphone? I need one of those. Who cares about typing? I never wanted to be a secretary anyway!
Grandma L. was a housewife who raised 7 kids and called everyone of them (including my mother) every morning. If she could have had a cell phone, she would have had one.
Earbud-induced hearing loss
Grandpa K: (great-grandpa --GG--actually): GET THOSE F**&^% out of your ears, you moron!
NOTE: GG was a foreman in a brewery back in the day. You had to yell for people to hear you on the production line. Another fun part of his job: wake up drunks who fell asleep. He was known for speaking his mind. Ahem...
Screen-related sleep disorder
Grandpa L: Turn off the lights. They're not free.
Grandpa worked nights, and he was not a big light fan. He was retired by the time I was born, and while I don't remember him much, he spoiled me (and my sister) rotten according to reports.
Stiletto strain
My mother: This is why you carry a big purse (so you can stash a pair of flats).
I have lots of photos of my mother in high heels in her youth.
Offbeat biorhythms
Grandma R: It's not good to eat after 6PM.
Grandma R was a tenacious survivor: married three times (first was a youthful romance gone bad, except for my dad) second was the love of her life (widowed) and third was a complete idiot (divorced after 3 years and infidelity on his part).
She worked as a real estate agent and died when I was a little girl. I read a few of her letters my father had, and I admire all she had to deal with in life. I'm sure my tenacity comes from her German-Anglo-Irish background.
Thursday, November 28, 2013
Happy Thanksgiving
Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow. ~Melody Beattie
May you enjoy your day wherever you are.
May you enjoy your day wherever you are.
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
A classic FML
Doc, you are the best. Please don't tase me, though! Enjoy!
Today, my boss's obese bully of a grandson had a seizure. Being the only physician around, I had to rush in to tend to him. Except it wasn't a seizure as such. My daughter had found my taser and used it on him. FML
Today, my boss's obese bully of a grandson had a seizure. Being the only physician around, I had to rush in to tend to him. Except it wasn't a seizure as such. My daughter had found my taser and used it on him. FML
Bubba in public health?
Who knows?
As I had correctly guessed, there was no call from the teacher, etc., because Bubba decided to show off the infamous teen book at the end of the day. Apparently, it sat on his desk all day, untouched.
He decided to show a friend one of the drawings. There really aren't that many in the book, but there is one that shows a circumcised penis and an uncircumcised one and the changes in puberty.
He was written up and had to spend two hours in the Principal's office doing work. His offense: "Not respecting other's body parts". Even if the "other" was a book illustration. (The boys pointed at the drawing and laughed.)
Ah, growing up is full of all sorts of adventures.
More to come...
As I had correctly guessed, there was no call from the teacher, etc., because Bubba decided to show off the infamous teen book at the end of the day. Apparently, it sat on his desk all day, untouched.
He decided to show a friend one of the drawings. There really aren't that many in the book, but there is one that shows a circumcised penis and an uncircumcised one and the changes in puberty.
He was written up and had to spend two hours in the Principal's office doing work. His offense: "Not respecting other's body parts". Even if the "other" was a book illustration. (The boys pointed at the drawing and laughed.)
Ah, growing up is full of all sorts of adventures.
More to come...
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
Never a dull moment
Bubba likes to tell me he's a "preteen". He's growing up.
So to get ready for the those awkward years, I bought this book, geared to 10-12 year olds. He was not even remotely interested in it. It's written by folks from the American Medical Association, who have over 2600 other titles there.
Today he decided to take it to school, and it was promptly confiscated, after he showed it to another kid.
I explained that it was not his job to educate his classmate. My job is to educate him, and that was not a choice I would have made.
We shall see how this goes. So far, no note from the teacher or phone call.
The movie in health class is scheduled for March right before spring break.
More later...
So to get ready for the those awkward years, I bought this book, geared to 10-12 year olds. He was not even remotely interested in it. It's written by folks from the American Medical Association, who have over 2600 other titles there.
Today he decided to take it to school, and it was promptly confiscated, after he showed it to another kid.
I explained that it was not his job to educate his classmate. My job is to educate him, and that was not a choice I would have made.
We shall see how this goes. So far, no note from the teacher or phone call.
The movie in health class is scheduled for March right before spring break.
More later...
Monday, November 25, 2013
TGMG (Thank goodness Monday's nearly Gone)
Every day begins with an act of courage and hope: getting
out of bed.~ Mason Cooley
Yes, it was courageous in RehabLand today because it's cold again. I am happy it was not as cold as Sunday, or that my sister-in-law's holiday wish (snow) did not come true. Bubba needs to go to school as long as possible.
I worked on a lot of weird stuff because I may be relocating soon due to construction. Our business manager returned from medical leave recently, so I'm hoping the construction manager will give her information on when that might take place.
I just love being in limbo.
Stay tuned...
Sunday, November 24, 2013
Sunday Stealing, Thanksgiving edition
The Thanksgiving edition of Sunday Stealing. Enjoy it!
1. What do you have for breakfast on Thanksgiving?
Depends on when I get up. Usually something light.
2. Do you go to a Thanksgiving parade or watch one on TV?
Watch on TV.
3. Do you serve appetizers, lunch, or snacks during the day?
We eat around lunchtime and nibble the rest of the day. If I'm really prepared, I have appetizers (nothing too big or heavy.)
4. What are the traditional favorites?
Turkey, bread stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy (all scratch), green bean casserole, cranberry sauce and pumpkin (and other) pies.
5. What new recipes will you try this year?
Maybe a dessert.
6. What part of the meal do you never compromise?
Stuffing.
7. Who gets to carve the turkey?
Usually my husband.
8. Family style around the table or buffet style and everyone sits wherever there’s room?
Combo. We have a small kitchen.
9. How many will be at your table this year?
Under a dozen.
10. Once you're at the table, do you say grace or a toast or does everyone go around and say what they're thankful for?
We say grace, then the race begins.
11. Cranberry sauce… yay or nay?
Yes, my husband would have a coronary without it.
12. What time do you eat Thanksgiving Dinner?
We like lunchtime or early afternoon.
13. Three best pies for Thanksgiving dessert?
Pumpkin, pecan and chocolate (although Dahey doesn't think it's a holiday without mincemeat)
14. Do you have dessert right after the main meal or later on?
Depends. I try to wait a bit before I serve it.
15. Favorite leftover?
Everything.
Doctor data?
You may very well see one, as personalized medicine becomes more common, according to this BBC article.
Having seen how far in the dark ages we are using the technology around us in healthcare in my own family, I am not surprised.
Enjoy!
Having seen how far in the dark ages we are using the technology around us in healthcare in my own family, I am not surprised.
Enjoy!
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Gender bender
A sad story about an upcoming clinical trial to fight cancer.
We are going places in healthcare we never dreamed of going and sometimes we can't keep up.
We are going places in healthcare we never dreamed of going and sometimes we can't keep up.
A little light reading
I was reading this funny article about hair dye gone bad when I found out about butter "bulletproof" coffee.
Interesting concept, but I really like my butter with a side of toast, coffee made in a cup (not a blender) and two fried eggs over easy, with two sausage patties.
BTW I eat eggs every day. My cholesterol is good and so is my skin.
Now I'm hungry...stay tuned!
Interesting concept, but I really like my butter with a side of toast, coffee made in a cup (not a blender) and two fried eggs over easy, with two sausage patties.
BTW I eat eggs every day. My cholesterol is good and so is my skin.
Now I'm hungry...stay tuned!
Friday, November 22, 2013
Give life
I've been thinking more about organ donation this week because Rexie lost her son in an accident. While they couldn't donate all his organs, Rexie made sure his family donated the ones they could.
So many things are done now for organ donation that were not even possible a few years ago. Today the HOPE Act was signed into law (HIV Organ Policy Equity), so research can begin so HIV positive patients can receive viable organs from other HIV patients.
Hep C patients can also receive organs from Hep C positive donors as UC Davis advises patients in this article.
Don't wait. Let your family know that you want to donate. Give the gift of life.
So many things are done now for organ donation that were not even possible a few years ago. Today the HOPE Act was signed into law (HIV Organ Policy Equity), so research can begin so HIV positive patients can receive viable organs from other HIV patients.
Hep C patients can also receive organs from Hep C positive donors as UC Davis advises patients in this article.
Don't wait. Let your family know that you want to donate. Give the gift of life.
Thursday, November 21, 2013
Weird uses for alcoholic beverages
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
What not to do as a nurse postscript
Normal nurse: you obey the law, because your state can (and will) revoke your license if you don't.
Our nurse: was dodgy and always on his/her cell phone. Now we know why. Must have been to the lawyer or the bail bondsman or someone else.
Security came recently and escorted him/her off the premises.
Never a dull moment at the Hotel.
Our nurse: was dodgy and always on his/her cell phone. Now we know why. Must have been to the lawyer or the bail bondsman or someone else.
Security came recently and escorted him/her off the premises.
Never a dull moment at the Hotel.
Monday, November 18, 2013
Pain at a distance
I talk to a lot of people I don't normally get to see through Facebook. Yes, I know Facebook is now for old people, but in terms of socializing, with the crazy life I sometimes have, it's the only way to be a part of someone's life.
Most of my friendships are cemented by life events. Kindergarten. High school. College. Nursing school. Rexie and I met in nursing school. The knockdown drag out year that was accelerated nursing.
We decided to sit near each other. Being creatures of habit, we gravitated to the same spot with our friends, D and J. We anchored our section in the lecture hall, and we bonded. We collected papers for each other. We called each other if anyone got sick. We commiserated after exams at the local coffee shop.
Rexie has been teaching since we got out of nursing school. She had another interesting life before nursing school which helped her land that job. It also helped that the professor wanted to train someone before she retires.
But today, Rexie is back in the town she grew up in, and I can't help her. I can't make anything better, because Rexie's son died in a terrible accident. It was supposed to be fun: the men out for the weekend. It wasn't supposed to end like this.
As her friend, I can only see her pain from a distance; an uncomfortable space I have only travelled reluctantly in my life. I watch from afar. And pray. Pray she makes it through everything in the coming days.
More later...
Most of my friendships are cemented by life events. Kindergarten. High school. College. Nursing school. Rexie and I met in nursing school. The knockdown drag out year that was accelerated nursing.
We decided to sit near each other. Being creatures of habit, we gravitated to the same spot with our friends, D and J. We anchored our section in the lecture hall, and we bonded. We collected papers for each other. We called each other if anyone got sick. We commiserated after exams at the local coffee shop.
Rexie has been teaching since we got out of nursing school. She had another interesting life before nursing school which helped her land that job. It also helped that the professor wanted to train someone before she retires.
But today, Rexie is back in the town she grew up in, and I can't help her. I can't make anything better, because Rexie's son died in a terrible accident. It was supposed to be fun: the men out for the weekend. It wasn't supposed to end like this.
As her friend, I can only see her pain from a distance; an uncomfortable space I have only travelled reluctantly in my life. I watch from afar. And pray. Pray she makes it through everything in the coming days.
More later...
The pain of misdiagnosis
Trigeminal neuralgia is not uncommon in the patients we see at the Hotel. How this lady was treated is unusual.
Thank goodness we do not do this as a common treatment.
Thank goodness we do not do this as a common treatment.
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Dear Mother Nature
Please stop the tornado/severe weather crap. Tornado season officially ended November 1.
Yours truly (because I would like the SU to be standing tomorrow, so I can go to work),
RehabRN
Yours truly (because I would like the SU to be standing tomorrow, so I can go to work),
RehabRN
Ask me...
That's what this week's version is called at Sunday Stealing. Enjoy!
The ASK Meme, part one
What’s your favorite candle scent?
Vanilla
Do you know a hoarder?
Yes. Dahey is one.
Can you do a split?
Regular = no. Chinese = back in the day I could!
How old were you when you learned how to ride a bike?
Six
How many oceans have you swam in?
None. Have waded into two.
How many countries have you been to?
Six.
Is anyone in your family in the military?
Yes.
What’s the worst grade you got on a test?
I've flunked a few tests. (I have always passed the classes, though.)
What was your favorite TV show when you were a child?
Emergency.
What did you dress up as on Halloween when you were eight?
Don't remember. Went as a hobo more years than I can count.
Have you read any of the Harry Potter, Hunger Games or Twilight series?
No.
Would you rather have an American accent or a British accent?
I am fine with my accent (American) thank you very much.
Do you know who Kermit the frog is?
Yes...why are there so many songs about rainbows? And now that you have that song in your head, see the bottom of this page.
What language, besides your native language, would you like to be fluent in?
Chinese
Do you spell the color as grey or gray?
Depends. Earl Grey tea and a gray sweater are fine and dandy, as my old sales manager used to say.
Is your father bald?
Nope.
The classic song that question made me think of...
The ASK Meme, part one
What’s your favorite candle scent?
Vanilla
Do you know a hoarder?
Yes. Dahey is one.
Can you do a split?
Regular = no. Chinese = back in the day I could!
How old were you when you learned how to ride a bike?
Six
How many oceans have you swam in?
None. Have waded into two.
How many countries have you been to?
Six.
Is anyone in your family in the military?
Yes.
What’s the worst grade you got on a test?
I've flunked a few tests. (I have always passed the classes, though.)
What was your favorite TV show when you were a child?
Emergency.
What did you dress up as on Halloween when you were eight?
Don't remember. Went as a hobo more years than I can count.
Have you read any of the Harry Potter, Hunger Games or Twilight series?
No.
Would you rather have an American accent or a British accent?
I am fine with my accent (American) thank you very much.
Do you know who Kermit the frog is?
Yes...why are there so many songs about rainbows? And now that you have that song in your head, see the bottom of this page.
What language, besides your native language, would you like to be fluent in?
Chinese
Do you spell the color as grey or gray?
Depends. Earl Grey tea and a gray sweater are fine and dandy, as my old sales manager used to say.
Is your father bald?
Nope.
The classic song that question made me think of...
Saturday, November 16, 2013
Animal adventures
WildDog is a typical senior citizen dog. He eats, he sleeps. He goes outside.
Lately, his "going" outside is turning into "going" inside. Thank goodness for protective finishes on floors, but I think the carpet cleaning firm is going to send me a thank you card this year for all the business WildDog has made for them. Scotchgard or not, we still have to have them cleaned regularly.
WildDog is very attached to the carpets Dahey has on some of our floors, because he sleeps on them.
He's getting better. Most of the time he's having accidents on the reasonably priced (and easy to clean) doormats my friend F. told me about at the hardware store where she works. They also keep him from sliding on the shiny parts of the floor.
Bubba is having adjustment issues to his braces. He's wearing some interesting spacing appliance now that has to be tightened each day. He's keeping his mind off the soreness right now by watching animal shows.
Maybe he'll be a doctor after all, like some of his relatives, but a doctor for pets instead.
For me, I just want to go here and see these animals as I slide down the water slide.
Hope you enjoy your weekend wherever you are!
Lately, his "going" outside is turning into "going" inside. Thank goodness for protective finishes on floors, but I think the carpet cleaning firm is going to send me a thank you card this year for all the business WildDog has made for them. Scotchgard or not, we still have to have them cleaned regularly.
WildDog is very attached to the carpets Dahey has on some of our floors, because he sleeps on them.
He's getting better. Most of the time he's having accidents on the reasonably priced (and easy to clean) doormats my friend F. told me about at the hardware store where she works. They also keep him from sliding on the shiny parts of the floor.
Bubba is having adjustment issues to his braces. He's wearing some interesting spacing appliance now that has to be tightened each day. He's keeping his mind off the soreness right now by watching animal shows.
Maybe he'll be a doctor after all, like some of his relatives, but a doctor for pets instead.
For me, I just want to go here and see these animals as I slide down the water slide.
Hope you enjoy your weekend wherever you are!
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Things not to do as a nurse
Yes, I got my quarterly newsletter from RehabLand Board of Nursing, and yes, they do have a fine list of things not to do if you want to keep your license to practice.
Some of them were (are) frankly pretty scary, and I only wonder how long they went on before they were reported.
1. Patient in wheelchair wants to go to bed (common Hotel scenario) and comes to nurses station.
Normal nurse: talks to the patient and then assists the patient to bed.
Our nurse: pushes patient forcibly out of the nurses' station and give a Haldol shot where the needle gets stuck in the patient. License suspended.
2. Nurse gets a tax return and 'forgets' to pay the state taxes.
Normal nurse: gets the taxes paid.
Our nurse: doesn't bother, so license is suspended.
3. Nurse is asked yes or no questions re: felony history.
Normal nurse: knows better than to do that. Nurses are one of the most trusted health professionals for a reason.
Our nurse: just fibs, gets found out, and gets license suspended
4. Nurse takes patient into a video monitored room in ER and examines his "groin pain"
Normal nurse: takes information and completes assessment.
Our nurse: fondles, kisses the patient, compliments his eyes and shares personal details. After this performance, our nurse is put on probation for two years.
And finally, for another technology related story:
5. Nurse remotely monitors patients as part of his/her job.
Normal nurse: does work, makes phone calls to patients, providers and case managers.
Our nurse: doesn't do any of those things for over a month and fabricates documentation,and gets license suspended.
Some of them were (are) frankly pretty scary, and I only wonder how long they went on before they were reported.
1. Patient in wheelchair wants to go to bed (common Hotel scenario) and comes to nurses station.
Normal nurse: talks to the patient and then assists the patient to bed.
Our nurse: pushes patient forcibly out of the nurses' station and give a Haldol shot where the needle gets stuck in the patient. License suspended.
2. Nurse gets a tax return and 'forgets' to pay the state taxes.
Normal nurse: gets the taxes paid.
Our nurse: doesn't bother, so license is suspended.
3. Nurse is asked yes or no questions re: felony history.
Normal nurse: knows better than to do that. Nurses are one of the most trusted health professionals for a reason.
Our nurse: just fibs, gets found out, and gets license suspended
4. Nurse takes patient into a video monitored room in ER and examines his "groin pain"
Normal nurse: takes information and completes assessment.
Our nurse: fondles, kisses the patient, compliments his eyes and shares personal details. After this performance, our nurse is put on probation for two years.
And finally, for another technology related story:
5. Nurse remotely monitors patients as part of his/her job.
Normal nurse: does work, makes phone calls to patients, providers and case managers.
Our nurse: doesn't do any of those things for over a month and fabricates documentation,and gets license suspended.
My dog would love it
Bacon toothpaste? I heard a story about this on the news, and didn't really believe it.
Yes, it really exists. I like bacon, but will stick with my mint flavored stuff, thankyouverymuch!
Yes, it really exists. I like bacon, but will stick with my mint flavored stuff, thankyouverymuch!
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Enduring manglement
Yes, that's the game we've been playing at the Hotel.
Bigwigs come and go, but power struggles last forever.
This week: the Manglement tried to suspend our boss, because he/she was one calendar day late on producing a document to his/her boss. It didn't matter that he/she couldn't take the class the day it was due because they had him/her doing something else "important" (as if 7 hours a week minimum of meetings isn't enough).
His/her PHB, our feckless chief nurse, got HR to send a letter of reprimand over, with requirements they figured he/she'd never fulfill.
At the behest of the Hotel MD chief, he/she sent over the missive to the hospital director and his second in command. It was lengthy, and told a story of an LPN who became an RN, who now as a nurse manager, took over the position at the Hotel after several other people said it would never work.
He/she knows us. He/she was one of us on the floor, and us old timers remember that. The nurse who never said, "I'm too busy to wash Mr. Z's hair," or "I don't want to do x, y , or z." This is the nurse who got certified in rehab, worked hard to keep patients and their rooms immaculate, to really CARE about what happened to them. The nurse who is proud to be a nurse .
So now we endure as he/she awaits the results of the appeal. Here's hoping they see the light before they screw up something else. The dim view of the Hotel could very well get worse.
More later...
Bigwigs come and go, but power struggles last forever.
This week: the Manglement tried to suspend our boss, because he/she was one calendar day late on producing a document to his/her boss. It didn't matter that he/she couldn't take the class the day it was due because they had him/her doing something else "important" (as if 7 hours a week minimum of meetings isn't enough).
His/her PHB, our feckless chief nurse, got HR to send a letter of reprimand over, with requirements they figured he/she'd never fulfill.
At the behest of the Hotel MD chief, he/she sent over the missive to the hospital director and his second in command. It was lengthy, and told a story of an LPN who became an RN, who now as a nurse manager, took over the position at the Hotel after several other people said it would never work.
He/she knows us. He/she was one of us on the floor, and us old timers remember that. The nurse who never said, "I'm too busy to wash Mr. Z's hair," or "I don't want to do x, y , or z." This is the nurse who got certified in rehab, worked hard to keep patients and their rooms immaculate, to really CARE about what happened to them. The nurse who is proud to be a nurse .
So now we endure as he/she awaits the results of the appeal. Here's hoping they see the light before they screw up something else. The dim view of the Hotel could very well get worse.
More later...
Monday, November 11, 2013
It's always something, part 22
Yes, it is always something. I'm tired from running around, doing housework and cooking. I cooked so Dahey did not have to stand in line at the restaurants in town offering free food to veterans today.
I noticed something odd, and even though it's not birch pollen season, I guess I'll just have to watch out that I am not having OAS due to the lovely apple pie I made for dessert.
I'm going to relax and get ready for bed. More to come...
I noticed something odd, and even though it's not birch pollen season, I guess I'll just have to watch out that I am not having OAS due to the lovely apple pie I made for dessert.
I'm going to relax and get ready for bed. More to come...
Sunday, November 10, 2013
Gotta love the pharmacist
The Cynical Pharmacist, that is. I follow him on Facebook, and I enjoy many a rant, er, post about the vagaries of serving the public from behind the counter.
This post was there today (see below). Since I deal with specialists regularly in the SU, it was quite entertaining. Unfortunately, the infectious disease, renal and transplant folks were left out. Sorry docs! (I love you, but many folks never know you exist until they get superbugs, bad kidneys or need a liver).
CP, I am thankful you are here. Here in RehabLand, we love our pharmacy folks. They are the only ones with a sense of humor as macabre as ours.
Enjoy!
=======================================================================
Thanks to Shiraz for sharing...
The American Medical Association has weighed in on Obama's new health care package.
The Allergists were in favor of scratching it, but the Dermatologists advised not to make any rash moves.
The Gastroenterologists had sort of a gut feeling about it, but the Neurologists thought the Administration had a lot of nerve.
Meanwhile, Obstetricians felt certain everyone was laboring under a misconception, while the Ophthalmologists considered the idea shortsighted.
Pathologists yelled, "Over my dead body!" while the Pediatricians said, "Oh, grow up!"
The Psychiatrists thought the whole idea was madness, while the Radiologists could see right through it.
Surgeons decided to wash their hands of the whole thing and the Internists claimed it would indeed be a bitter pill to swallow.
The Plastic Surgeons opined that this proposal would "put a whole new face on the matter."
The Podiatrists thought it was a step forward, but the Urologists were pissed off at the whole idea.
Anesthesiologists thought the entire idea was a gas, and those lofty Cardiologists didn't have the heart to say no.
In the end, the Proctologists won out, leaving the entire decision up to the assholes in Washington.
This post was there today (see below). Since I deal with specialists regularly in the SU, it was quite entertaining. Unfortunately, the infectious disease, renal and transplant folks were left out. Sorry docs! (I love you, but many folks never know you exist until they get superbugs, bad kidneys or need a liver).
CP, I am thankful you are here. Here in RehabLand, we love our pharmacy folks. They are the only ones with a sense of humor as macabre as ours.
Enjoy!
=======================================================================
Thanks to Shiraz for sharing...
The American Medical Association has weighed in on Obama's new health care package.
The Allergists were in favor of scratching it, but the Dermatologists advised not to make any rash moves.
The Gastroenterologists had sort of a gut feeling about it, but the Neurologists thought the Administration had a lot of nerve.
Meanwhile, Obstetricians felt certain everyone was laboring under a misconception, while the Ophthalmologists considered the idea shortsighted.
Pathologists yelled, "Over my dead body!" while the Pediatricians said, "Oh, grow up!"
The Psychiatrists thought the whole idea was madness, while the Radiologists could see right through it.
Surgeons decided to wash their hands of the whole thing and the Internists claimed it would indeed be a bitter pill to swallow.
The Plastic Surgeons opined that this proposal would "put a whole new face on the matter."
The Podiatrists thought it was a step forward, but the Urologists were pissed off at the whole idea.
Anesthesiologists thought the entire idea was a gas, and those lofty Cardiologists didn't have the heart to say no.
In the end, the Proctologists won out, leaving the entire decision up to the assholes in Washington.
What's what: this week's Sunday Stealing
Getting ready for the week and Veterans' Day. Here's the latest meme from Sunday Stealing. Enjoy!
What is on your bed right now?
Dahey. He's asleep.
What is the best ice cream flavor?
Hmm...pistachio
Did you wake up smiling this morning?
I woke up in a hurry, so I don't remember.
What time do you wake up on a typical morning?
Between 4 and 7 a.m. (varies, but alarm assisted during the week.)
What holiday makes you sad?
It depends on who is with (or not) with you.
Where does a good night’s sleep rank on your priorities?
Top 2. Must have sleep!
One song that makes you cry?
"I drive your truck" is one that gets me.
What food do you find disgusting?
Liver. Just don't like it.
What is on your bed right now?
Dahey. He's asleep.
What is the best ice cream flavor?
Hmm...pistachio
Did you wake up smiling this morning?
I woke up in a hurry, so I don't remember.
What time do you wake up on a typical morning?
Between 4 and 7 a.m. (varies, but alarm assisted during the week.)
What holiday makes you sad?
It depends on who is with (or not) with you.
Where does a good night’s sleep rank on your priorities?
Top 2. Must have sleep!
One song that makes you cry?
"I drive your truck" is one that gets me.
What food do you find disgusting?
Liver. Just don't like it.
Friday, November 8, 2013
A robot in every room
I'm sure every patient will have one of their own if they only have to power it with urine.
Gives new meaning to drug testing and economical helpers at home.
Technology...who would have thought?
TGIF everyone! Enjoy every moment of this weekend. The fall leaves are still falling here in RehabLand.
Gives new meaning to drug testing and economical helpers at home.
Technology...who would have thought?
TGIF everyone! Enjoy every moment of this weekend. The fall leaves are still falling here in RehabLand.
Thursday, November 7, 2013
Toppers
I was talking to my friend recently, and since she lives on a coast, she lives in a major metropolitan city. A city lots of tourists from all over the world come to visit: a town celebrated in song and verse.
So when I thought I had a bad week, we discussed her week. She topped me. When I was looking at the news, it went from spectacular to excrement covered really quickly.
Here's the list.
My life is really boring in contrast. Frankly, I like it that way.
More later...
So when I thought I had a bad week, we discussed her week. She topped me. When I was looking at the news, it went from spectacular to excrement covered really quickly.
Here's the list.
- Minding her own business, Friend, her husband and two kids take a walk on a beautiful weekend day. They go to the beach. The moment they get there, a woman's body washes ashore. Police are called and say, "We've been looking for her--she's a suicide victim. We're on our way." Kids are herded off while they wait a safe distance away.
Thirty minutes later, they show up, and an hour later, her husband is released after a statement. Needless to say, the weekend really was a washout. - I thought I was being harassed until I saw this article. No, I'm really not nearly as harassed as this guy.
My life is really boring in contrast. Frankly, I like it that way.
More later...
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Twilight zone
"Help! I'm stepping into the twilight zone!"--Golden Earring (thanks Grumpy for that post! Another earworm.)
Signs your entering the Twilight Zone:
1. Was really annoyed when BoyWonder from my enterprise performance improvement committee decided to take credit for my work with the network cheese.
Thankfully, my cohort stepped in with the cheese and set him straight. Thanks, Zeus! I owe you one very large caffeinated beverage.
2. I'm trying to help the governance council, but it's surely a twilight zone I really don't want to step in. A group of strong personalities is an understatement.
You'll come to know...I hope. Stay tuned...
Signs your entering the Twilight Zone:
1. Was really annoyed when BoyWonder from my enterprise performance improvement committee decided to take credit for my work with the network cheese.
Thankfully, my cohort stepped in with the cheese and set him straight. Thanks, Zeus! I owe you one very large caffeinated beverage.
2. I'm trying to help the governance council, but it's surely a twilight zone I really don't want to step in. A group of strong personalities is an understatement.
You'll come to know...I hope. Stay tuned...
Choices
My travelling partner was not feeling well Monday. Her blood pressure was up when I checked it the other day, by machine and manually. She came in because we are short of staff. "This vertigo won't go away." she said. Yesterday, it was so bad, she went to the ER. They admitted her.
He was one of our regulars. A mustachioed man with a syrupy accent so heavy, I was occasionally called in to translate (because I'm good at translating) for the new nurses who don't recognize the cadence and drawl from his part of the South. One nurse I worked with had known from the time he was injured. He knew our programs so well he could have taught them, she said. We were the safety net: if he got sick, he always came to us (even drove himself this time).
But he was more than sick: he was septic, so the Hotel was not the place for him. We sent him on to Washington for more acute care, and he got worse. He survived some crazy cardiac stunts, but the last procedure set off a cascade from which he did not survive. His car sat on the parking lot when I arrived the other morning. The family came and picked it up yesterday.
Today, I read this story, passed along from one of my coworkers. He didn't want to live like many folks do at the Hotel. He just wanted to die, and with his family, he did. It was so sad because he chose to leave when his wife was pregnant with his first child. "He'll never hold their child.", the article said.
He'll never see that child, either, or make a difference in his/her life. That is the part, to me, which is the saddest. I have worked with rehab patients who have raised children (yes, they need help), and they do parent them. They do discipline them. They do care, even if they cannot lift a finger.
The choices we make can change things forever.
He was one of our regulars. A mustachioed man with a syrupy accent so heavy, I was occasionally called in to translate (because I'm good at translating) for the new nurses who don't recognize the cadence and drawl from his part of the South. One nurse I worked with had known from the time he was injured. He knew our programs so well he could have taught them, she said. We were the safety net: if he got sick, he always came to us (even drove himself this time).
But he was more than sick: he was septic, so the Hotel was not the place for him. We sent him on to Washington for more acute care, and he got worse. He survived some crazy cardiac stunts, but the last procedure set off a cascade from which he did not survive. His car sat on the parking lot when I arrived the other morning. The family came and picked it up yesterday.
Today, I read this story, passed along from one of my coworkers. He didn't want to live like many folks do at the Hotel. He just wanted to die, and with his family, he did. It was so sad because he chose to leave when his wife was pregnant with his first child. "He'll never hold their child.", the article said.
He'll never see that child, either, or make a difference in his/her life. That is the part, to me, which is the saddest. I have worked with rehab patients who have raised children (yes, they need help), and they do parent them. They do discipline them. They do care, even if they cannot lift a finger.
The choices we make can change things forever.
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Another week on the way...
Thank goodness the big visit came and went. The team that showed up loves the work we do. Some things need improvement, but we already knew that. My boss was happy I was around to answer questions.
We just hope they can convince the Manglement to keep their word as promised a while ago. They all showed up en masse in our building for the big wrap up meeting.
Because the day of reckoning for that will come soon enough.
Back to our regularly scheduled program, with a dash of rain.
We just hope they can convince the Manglement to keep their word as promised a while ago. They all showed up en masse in our building for the big wrap up meeting.
Because the day of reckoning for that will come soon enough.
Back to our regularly scheduled program, with a dash of rain.
Monday, November 4, 2013
Monday's back
Awake. Alert (thanks to those 2 large espressos already). As ready as I'll get for now before meeting-o-rama and one of the biggest sales pitches of my life for the SU.
This quote sums it up:
Opportunity does not knock, it presents itself when you beat down the door.~ Kyle Chandler
Here I go to knock on some doors, er beat on them...more later!
This quote sums it up:
Opportunity does not knock, it presents itself when you beat down the door.~ Kyle Chandler
Here I go to knock on some doors, er beat on them...more later!
Sunday, November 3, 2013
If it's Sunday...
Here in RehabLand, it's time for Sunday Stealing. This week's meme is about time (and will cause you another earworm, if you're not careful).
Here are my responses, which I would have posted earlier, but hey, with that extra hour, I've already gotten lots of work done. It will get dark soon enough, so I'll be turning in early for all the excitement as the week starts tomorrow.
Enjoy! ============================================================================================================================== 1) Do you think Daylight Saving Time is still necessary?
To sell lightbulb and batteries, yes. For me personally, no. I just like it to be light in the morning, which will last for a bit, so...not really.
2) How long does it take you to adjust to the time change?
Not long on fall back. That spring forward messes me up.
3) What's the hardest part of the time change?
None.
4) How many clocks are in your house?
Too many. I'm really enjoying the auto-set ones.
5) Are you generally early, late, or on time?
I hate being late, so I am most often early or on time.
6) If an invitation to an event listed the time as 8-11pm, what time would you arrive?
By 8, and be gone by 11.
7) Do you wear a watch?
Yes, every day.
8) Have you ever glanced at the time and had to glance again because you didn't pay attention the first time?
Of course!
9) Are most of your clocks digital or dial?
Mixed.
10) What does your alarm clock sound like?
A foghorn. It's ancient, but the new ones are too nice, and I sleep right through them.
11) Do you use the snooze feature on your alarm clock?
No. I purposely put the alarm far enough away that I have to get up to turn it off.
12) Does clock ticking drive you nuts?
Yes, this is why I don't have a clock in the room I work in (SU). If it's quiet (after all the patients are going while I'm charting) and it ticks, it drives me crazy.
Here are my responses, which I would have posted earlier, but hey, with that extra hour, I've already gotten lots of work done. It will get dark soon enough, so I'll be turning in early for all the excitement as the week starts tomorrow.
Enjoy! ============================================================================================================================== 1) Do you think Daylight Saving Time is still necessary?
To sell lightbulb and batteries, yes. For me personally, no. I just like it to be light in the morning, which will last for a bit, so...not really.
2) How long does it take you to adjust to the time change?
Not long on fall back. That spring forward messes me up.
3) What's the hardest part of the time change?
None.
4) How many clocks are in your house?
Too many. I'm really enjoying the auto-set ones.
5) Are you generally early, late, or on time?
I hate being late, so I am most often early or on time.
6) If an invitation to an event listed the time as 8-11pm, what time would you arrive?
By 8, and be gone by 11.
7) Do you wear a watch?
Yes, every day.
8) Have you ever glanced at the time and had to glance again because you didn't pay attention the first time?
Of course!
9) Are most of your clocks digital or dial?
Mixed.
10) What does your alarm clock sound like?
A foghorn. It's ancient, but the new ones are too nice, and I sleep right through them.
11) Do you use the snooze feature on your alarm clock?
No. I purposely put the alarm far enough away that I have to get up to turn it off.
12) Does clock ticking drive you nuts?
Yes, this is why I don't have a clock in the room I work in (SU). If it's quiet (after all the patients are going while I'm charting) and it ticks, it drives me crazy.
Saturday, November 2, 2013
I don't wanna
Get ready and start doing my homework.
Need more coffee...or something to start me up.
Need more coffee...or something to start me up.
Friday, November 1, 2013
TGIF...fifty, fifty
TGIF all. I needed it to be Friday really, really bad, even though, I'll just have to do work and homework this weekend getting ready for the bigwig visit to the Hotel next week.
The day was 50/50. Win some, lose some.
This site about autocorrecting while texting made my day, especially since I often have to text our techs to get things done at the Hotel.
Have a wonderful, fall weekend wherever you are!
The day was 50/50. Win some, lose some.
This site about autocorrecting while texting made my day, especially since I often have to text our techs to get things done at the Hotel.
Have a wonderful, fall weekend wherever you are!
News flash
Yes, if you needed documentation on this very important subject, here it is:
Scientists decipher dog-tail wags (from bbc.co.uk)
Thank goodness WildDog has a long enough tail to really read!
That is all.
Scientists decipher dog-tail wags (from bbc.co.uk)
Thank goodness WildDog has a long enough tail to really read!
That is all.
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Scary Halloween
Things that are scary on Halloween at the Hotel Rehab:
1. Doll eyes on a patient.
2. Change management strategies as cuts loom on the horizon.
3. Rain.
Tomorrow is another day. Hope your day is goblin-free!
1. Doll eyes on a patient.
2. Change management strategies as cuts loom on the horizon.
3. Rain.
Tomorrow is another day. Hope your day is goblin-free!
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Your sense of smell
Some things just stink. Your favorite team doesn't win a football, baseball or soccer game.
However these recent news stories had me wondering where the bad odors could be coming from.
Think the litter box needs emptying? Maybe it's just your laptop according to Dell. (courtesy of the BBC)
Can the smell of the famous "rooster sauce" (aka sriracha) cause headaches? Some people think so. (from the LA Times).
And you thought things were rough listening to Grandma's Lawrence Welk. Those darned Somali pirates can't handle this woman's music. (from www.military.com --thanks to my astute active duty brother-in-law).
Enjoy! More to come...
However these recent news stories had me wondering where the bad odors could be coming from.
Think the litter box needs emptying? Maybe it's just your laptop according to Dell. (courtesy of the BBC)
Can the smell of the famous "rooster sauce" (aka sriracha) cause headaches? Some people think so. (from the LA Times).
And you thought things were rough listening to Grandma's Lawrence Welk. Those darned Somali pirates can't handle this woman's music. (from www.military.com --thanks to my astute active duty brother-in-law).
Enjoy! More to come...
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Friends don't let friends...
- Name their children after yeast infections. (courtesy of FML)
- Throw temper tantrums at work. (thank you WSJ)
- Suffer from foodborne illnesses. (courtesy of the University of Minnesota)
- Drink while doing homework (after yes, but during, no.)
Monday, October 28, 2013
Oh, it's Monday
Since I had an earworm the other day, I very well could have had this as one today. It really was a Manic Monday.
When competent (but lazy) RNs refuse assignment, you just have to wonder.
OMG.
Where are the Magliozzi Brothers when we need them?
Blame it on the train/But the bus is already there...
When competent (but lazy) RNs refuse assignment, you just have to wonder.
OMG.
Where are the Magliozzi Brothers when we need them?
Blame it on the train/But the bus is already there...
Sunday, October 27, 2013
Got an earworm?
You will with this Sunday Stealing.
This is the latest meme available this week at Sunday Stealing, since it's almost someone's birthday over there.
1. as you get older, are you jazzed about your birthday?
Yes,and no.
2. do people usually remember your birthday?
Most people do.
3. an ex-coworker used to begin 3 mos. before her birthday flat-out reminding us that it was coming up. it's amazing what no self-esteem does for you. anyway, do you know anyone who pre-announces their birthdays?
I don't preannounce, but I try to take a vacation day every year on my birthday. If it follows close to or on a weekend (like this year), I make it a three day weekend. (Only Bubba can make it four. His falls very often on a Federal holiday).
4. what was your best birthday? why?
I had a party as a kid (I think I was 7) with tons of people and lots of food in our little house. Not sure how my mother did it, but we had fun.
5. what was your worst birthday? why?
Can't recall any. Some are better than others.
6. name your best birthday gift.
Hmm...hard one. One year I got an engagement ring right after my birthday.
7. name the best birthday gift you've gotten for someone else.
I like surprises. Totally throws people off.
8. as i age, i value SLEEP as a priceless commodity. i didn't get any for my birthday, however. what do you want this year for your birthday?
Sleep is good, so is a trip to the spa for a day, and a relaxing evening with Dahey and something fun for Bubba to do.
A raise would also be nice. I'm hoping that really happens, since I'm up for a promotion.
Yes, that Beatles Birthday song is going through my head...
This is the latest meme available this week at Sunday Stealing, since it's almost someone's birthday over there.
1. as you get older, are you jazzed about your birthday?
Yes,and no.
2. do people usually remember your birthday?
Most people do.
3. an ex-coworker used to begin 3 mos. before her birthday flat-out reminding us that it was coming up. it's amazing what no self-esteem does for you. anyway, do you know anyone who pre-announces their birthdays?
I don't preannounce, but I try to take a vacation day every year on my birthday. If it follows close to or on a weekend (like this year), I make it a three day weekend. (Only Bubba can make it four. His falls very often on a Federal holiday).
4. what was your best birthday? why?
I had a party as a kid (I think I was 7) with tons of people and lots of food in our little house. Not sure how my mother did it, but we had fun.
5. what was your worst birthday? why?
Can't recall any. Some are better than others.
6. name your best birthday gift.
Hmm...hard one. One year I got an engagement ring right after my birthday.
7. name the best birthday gift you've gotten for someone else.
I like surprises. Totally throws people off.
8. as i age, i value SLEEP as a priceless commodity. i didn't get any for my birthday, however. what do you want this year for your birthday?
Sleep is good, so is a trip to the spa for a day, and a relaxing evening with Dahey and something fun for Bubba to do.
A raise would also be nice. I'm hoping that really happens, since I'm up for a promotion.
Yes, that Beatles Birthday song is going through my head...
Saturday, October 26, 2013
You thought life was rough
Go have a look at FML and this critter story.
Oh.My.Heavens.
I'd be ready to run away...and quick!
That is all...stay tuned!
Oh.My.Heavens.
I'd be ready to run away...and quick!
That is all...stay tuned!
Friday, October 25, 2013
Sending him off
Unable are the loved to die. For love is immortality. ~Emily Dickinson
Little Colin was buried today. I took Bubba to his wake. They buried him in his Halloween costume and a bucket to hold the candy was in the casket.
"Mom, his lips looked funny." Bubba said. I thought he'd be afraid to look at the little boy he knew from school.
"Yes, Bubba, he was probably wearing makeup, too. They do that sometimes when people die." I told him.
The sight of a little kid in a casket in church was bad, but not nearly as bad as the sobs his father cried as we went through the line.
Heartbreaking.
More later...
Little Colin was buried today. I took Bubba to his wake. They buried him in his Halloween costume and a bucket to hold the candy was in the casket.
"Mom, his lips looked funny." Bubba said. I thought he'd be afraid to look at the little boy he knew from school.
"Yes, Bubba, he was probably wearing makeup, too. They do that sometimes when people die." I told him.
The sight of a little kid in a casket in church was bad, but not nearly as bad as the sobs his father cried as we went through the line.
Heartbreaking.
More later...
Thursday, October 24, 2013
What awaits...
I keep telling myself that when all this construction is over at the Hotel, things will get better.
Well, the construction (and power outages) still keeps messing up my rooms and the devices we use every day.
How many more days are left? I keep counting...
Well, the construction (and power outages) still keeps messing up my rooms and the devices we use every day.
How many more days are left? I keep counting...
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
This week's In the news
Oh, the full moon's almost over, but that doesn't mean it can't be crazy.
They say everyone says "sorry" in Canada, but obviously not everyone really IS sorry about this topiary in Windsor.
The folks in this train station surely would have gotten an eyeful had they seen these two.
This is a cult I'd really like to join: Cult of the French Pastry Chef.
Some call this store "Whole Paycheck" and boy, did these robbers run off with quite a few paychecks.
Stay tuned...always something new (and even sillier) on the horizon.
They say everyone says "sorry" in Canada, but obviously not everyone really IS sorry about this topiary in Windsor.
The folks in this train station surely would have gotten an eyeful had they seen these two.
This is a cult I'd really like to join: Cult of the French Pastry Chef.
Some call this store "Whole Paycheck" and boy, did these robbers run off with quite a few paychecks.
Stay tuned...always something new (and even sillier) on the horizon.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Dear Google
I got this nice e-mail below because you have an algorithm that doesn't work.
That's right.
I only link to products I actually use so people know what I'm talking about.
I don't sell space or advertise. Whatever shows up here, shows up because you make it pop up in your templates, or I put it in myself for illustration.
Consequently, I'm not removing any Allegro Medical links to any old posts I've made.
You and your engineers need to fix the problem.
Good luck! I love Blogger and have been here for years. Hope your efforts are fruitful.
Yours truly,
RehabRN
======================================================================
That's right.
I only link to products I actually use so people know what I'm talking about.
I don't sell space or advertise. Whatever shows up here, shows up because you make it pop up in your templates, or I put it in myself for illustration.
Consequently, I'm not removing any Allegro Medical links to any old posts I've made.
You and your engineers need to fix the problem.
Good luck! I love Blogger and have been here for years. Hope your efforts are fruitful.
Yours truly,
RehabRN
======================================================================
Subject: A question about a link pointing to
Allegromedical.com
Hi
Hi
My name is Marie Haynes and I am working with AllegroMedical.com.
Unfortunately AllegroMedical has been given an unnatural links penalty from Google and as a result is not ranking well on Google. We are writing to you because your site links to ours and we would like to have this link removed (or nofollowed). Please know that this is no reflection on the quality of your website. Our unnatural links penalty was not given because of spammy linkbuilding but rather because we have placed too many self made links.
This looks to Google like an attempt to manipulate their
search results as they only want naturally earned links to be counting towards
PageRank.
Here is one or more example of a link from your site that
points to ours:
If you need a full list of links from your site to ours
then please let me know.
Also, if you feel that you yourself placed this link and no one from this website was involved in its creation then please let me know and we will keep it up and tell Google that this was not a self-made link.
Thank you,
Marie Haynes
HISWebMarketing.com
Specializing in Google Penalties
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