5lucky's Journal

Number 5 is ALIVE!!
I finally received my package today from good old Kansas City. better yet, it was from one of my favorite buddies, Sarah Armstrong! Ive been anticipating the arrival of this package, and I was beginning to think it was never going to come. I didnt know what it was, but I knew Sarah was pretty excited about. So, it goes without saying it was something I should be very excited about too! I never would have guessed that when I opened it up, a George Brett bobble head would be staring back at me! I busted up laughing.......but then, i was touched. Well, I always wear my heart on my sleeve, so when I got to the AMAZING card, and awesome quotable magnet, I got a little teary eyed. Im lucky to have such awesome and thoughtful friends, and sometimes I wonder why were all so far away from each other. I think it makes things stronger, though, in the end.
Anyways, back to the best part. George Brett, as I addressed in my first journal entry ever, is my favorite baseball player of all time.......for no apparent reason. When I was younger I just thought he was so good and cute, but as I grew older, people would tease me about liking a baseball player that has ass problems. I just wanted to be like my brother, jeremy, because he had a favorite player, Nolan Ryan, so I needed one too. Either way, I still love George Brett. He is still the reason why 5 is my lucky number. And the reason why I have a George Brett bobble head hanging out on my coffee table right now.
phenomenal.

I think that is my new favorite word.

ANywho, work is moving along. I had yet another class today, which was once again boring. I just havent felt good this week, so Im not in my usual "make the most of it" mood. I think Im progressing from the honeymoon stage to the shock stage right about now........(see Marlene Kramer's 4 Stages of Reality Shock model) This is the one where reality hits, and things are a little overwhelming. This Kramer lady really knows what shes talking about.
arg. Well I took a nap after work, so now Im not going to be able to sleep tonight, rendering me useless for my first of 2 twelve hours shifts this weekend.

haha. Im still on my college schedule.......damnit...

Current Mood: calm

and we're siiingiiin
So, Im very excited that The Forecast posted their new west coast dates! I have to work both morning afters.....shall we say, which will hinder my potential to kick it both nights they play. I am, however, going to do my best to mess with my schedule to allow optimum fun-times when the boys, and my favorite gal are here!
Anyways, nothing too exciting to report. Today was incredibly boring. I had to sit in a classroom, essentially, for nine hours and learn all about pediatrics. Yes, I have to deal with little ones in the ER, but they didnt teach me anything I didnt already know......which actually felt pretty good. But hey, i got paid to sit on my ass and stare off into space all day.
So the next month and a half look to be quite bitching. Sarah is coming on 9/21 and Im driving to San Diego to hang out that weekend........Im sure that will be a barrel of monkeys. Then MK is coming on the weekend of October 6th. I can pretend like Im still a carefree college student, and actually have fall break too! haahah. I do love being a big girl, though. Then The Forecast will be here. enough said......Im very stoked to see them play! THEEEEN, my momma comes later in October, and I have the whole time off. Ive planned a couple of outings she should enjoy, and Im so excited to be able to take HER out to dinner for once, and pay for things. In a weird way, Im looking forward to the akward argument about paying a bill that my family is ever famous for. My dad more or less gives in after one rebuttal, but my mom may be more persistent. what a challenge.
I got a slew of emails from LASKA.....the LA Sigma Kappa alumni.......they seem like a fun group, and theres already two events that seem up my alley......One being a brunch at the Getty Center, with an architectural tour.....which is something that is still on my list of things to do in LA. mmm architecture. The other being their monthly dinner, which happens to be at a Cuban resturant......also sounds pretty awesome. I think itll be fun to meet some peopole from all over, young or old.....with at least one thing in common with me. I'll be the first to join you in a sorority joke or two, but it really was a good thing for me in college. I could never convince some people of that, but it must be said.

anyways, enough with the babble. I need to continue with my Wednesday routine of being lazy and trying to stay awake for the new, brain cell killing, episode of Laguna Beach.
I do, in fact, get dumber each week.

alrighty, well hope all is well with everyone!!
loves..

Current Mood: content
Current Music: The Forecast

Back in Black
Well, I think after a couple of months, I miss my LJ a little bit. Its a little like talking to myself, but hey, that's ok! Since graduation, I'll assume that I have lost some readers, but Im sure there are still a few of you out there. So, since my last update, here are a few things that I have done:
*Graduated May 13th with drinking honors.
*Had three weeks of craziness with high school/college friends.
*Went out every night.
*Sat on my parents couch, unemployed, hungover, watching TV and eating deer salami and crackers every day.
*Roadtripped from Peoria, to Los Angeles via I-70/15 with my buddy shannon.
*totally had the time of my life, by the way.
*Move into my fabulous new apartment, and somehow managed to finally furnish it along with Courtney.
*Reunited with C-Kapps.
*started my new job in the ER
*realized how much I DONT know about nursing
*rocked out in LA!

So I guess that pretty much brings us up to present day. I love my job, though its a little insane sometimes. Ive been able to do some really fun stuff here so far, but theres plenty more on my list! I had originally planned on converting these self absorbed live journal entries into a Stories from the ER thing, as many requested, but Im goign to try and mesh the two together. Ill try to add in the interesting things I see at work on a daily basis:) never a dull moment. That is my mantra regarding work.
Making friends in LA isnt the easiest thing in the world, but Ive had fun so far. I need to find a church to go to, at least once in a while.......and I just emailed the head of the SK alumi group here in Los Angeles. I felt really motivated today, like I needed to start contributing something other than cigarette butts to the garbage.......as if helping people vomit, saving lives, and getting physically and verbally abused by crazy people isnt enough of a contribution to society.......haha. I have retained my sense of humor thus far though......well, until someone sues me.
Alright, well I feel as though Im rambling now......but I hope to keep updating!
love you all!
and hey, if you are reading this, leave a comment so I know Im not writing to no one! hahaha. Dont be shy!
jen...

Current Mood: productive
Current Music: Simon and Garfunkel.....playing in my head

ImpossibleTofindAGoodApartmentInLA.com
That is the website I should be searching on to find a place. We will have an English Bulldog that weighs over 50 lbs most likely so thats a double ding. Most places have a weight limit of 50 lbs and breed restrictions which apparently include English Bulldogs. This is all very frustrating to me, however, I did give the OK to get a dog. I guess I didnt realize what a hinderance it would be. It's lovely to look at, and dream about, all of the other options if we were without animal. Dont get me wrong, Im very excited to meet Tank (thats his name), bond with him, and clean up his vomit and poop. :) Hey, its what Ill do all day at work!
So, yeah, the LA apartment search is in full swing. I sent away my money and application for the NCLEX licensing exam for California. Next, I have to apply nationally and get the OK to test! I'm glad I have one step of the process done at least........well and I have a job. yay. Im going new car shopping on sat. with my dad. Just to get a good idea of what im going to sign my life away for. Probably a honda civic or toyota corolla. I would rather not drive a toyota, but they're not bad. I want to at least get something I sort of like. If I cant get a loan though, I suppose I'll be riding the Red or Blue to work. (LA's crappy bus system) Subsequently, you will never see me again because I will get kidnapped or murdered.....or both! So, lets all pray that the lovely bank will let my papa cosign on a loan for me at least. Then I can have my car that I will pay for the rest of my young days.
I'm glad welker will be in LA and I'm hoping Joe will be moving too. He isnt really big on planning though, so who knows. Personally, I need to have direction, so I'm happy that Ive made my decisions.
School is jampacked. My last month of college is going to fly by so fast I wont even know where it went. I swear, it seems like I have so many articles, projects, tests, presentations etc to do before May. After May 1st its smooth sailing. I get to go up to Chicago on May 7-8 to party with Jeremy, my fam, joe and all of the pharmacists on Navy Pier, then go to his graduation the following night. It should be a good time. A nice excuse to get away at the last minute before my own graduation. Its going to be quite the stressful time too, because Ill probably be wanting to move out of my Bradley house around then too. Home is looking pretty good at this point. I have so much junk and clutter to get rid of, not to mention I'm just ready to move on...for sure. Im looking forward to spending my last few months at home with mom, keeping in perspective my numbered days in Illinois. Even now, each time i start to get impatient with her......I remember how much I'm going to miss her!

Wow, I do a whole lot of talking about the future. The here and now. I'm tired, hungry, my eyeball is all itchy and swollen. But I'm content. Got a full day of class, lunch with dad, getting my eyeball prescription filled and a visit to the Aids clinic tomorrow. ITs cool though, business keeps me sane...to a certain threshold. well Im going to try and sleep, though it usually doesnt work very well when Im hungry!!
lovins
jenny

Current Mood: contemplative

Elizabethtown
So, I just watched the movie, and well I havent updated in a while so what the heck. Great flick, by the way. It really makes me want to go on a roadtrip.....possibly when I drive to California. Speaking of, I will no longer have confused and ranting entries about that matter. I took the job in the UCLA medical Center in their emergency department. Im thrilled, scared, nervous,flattered, pleased, heartbroken all at the same time. Heartbroken? Yeah, I am going to miss home. Its just a fact. Ive spent 22 years now exclaiming how much Peoria sucks and how I cant wait to finally get out. Well, when "finally getting out" is a few short months away, you start to see things a bit differently. I took the job Tuesday and its only Thursday (Friday morning).......but I knew I was going to do it so these feelings have been a long time coming. I have to go. I have to see what else there is, even if it is 2000 miles away from the place I call home. Thinking ahead, Autumn is probably going to be the hardest time to get through. Lets be honest, you just CANT beat the weather in Southern california. Not in my opinion anyways. A place where you can lay on the beach all day pretty much year round, but at night you better have a sweater for that cool breeze. Autumn in Illinois is my favorite though. I will get married in Autumn. I have even considered Autumn for the name of my first daughter. Haha. Now, thats weird to think about!! So when Im soaking up the rays out on the beach, maybe, just maybe I'll miss the weather here. Well, I KNOW I will. But soon after, I'll laugh all the way to the beach when the winter months come. So, I'll just have to get through the time I love so much to be in Illinois. I think I could be worse off :)
Im sure from now on my livejournal will be filled with sappy, sentimental entries when I have the time. (or some good movie gets to me).
Im so ready to graduate and move. But I'm SO not at the exact same time.
What a feeling. But the excitement overwhelms me.

well, time for some California Dreamin'

love you friends.

Current Mood: content
Current Music: tom petty

These are fun! (stolen from armstrong!) :)
1. Who was your first kiss?
Rick Doty, metamora football game baby.......on the big hill. It was a kiss on the cheek :)

2. Who was your first prom date?
Chris Mohn, sophomore year........we were cool. haha.

3. Who was your first roommate?
ohhh my Heather Role....U-hall freshmen year.......who was later medically discharged from the University....what a fabulous experience.....right. I wonder what ever happened to her...

4. What alcoholic beverage did you drink when you got drunk the first time?
Keg beer....i beleive. Kasey Krus took me to some Halloween party junior year of high school...it was in the woods. hahaha.

6. What was your first job?
CHeddars Casual Cafe, shortly after I turned 16. That place sucked, but such a great place to dine!

7. What was your first car?
1989 Maroon Chevy Camaro. i LOVED that trashy car.

8. When did you go to your first funeral?
wow, i think it was my Aunt Lunelle WAY back when........I just remember people crying.

9. How old were you when you first moved away from your hometown?
18 I guess, but i just moved to peoria. I suppose it counts.

10. Who was your first grade teacher?
Mrs. Mallory. She always let us come up to her desk for hugs (which may sound creepy now-days) and she always had to wrists full of shiny bracelets.

11. Where did you go on your first ride on an airplane?
Fort Myers beach, FL. My grandparents had a summer house down there up until a few years ago, and we went down a lot as kids. I dont really specifically remember my first plane ride though.

13. When you snuck out of your house for the first time, who was it with?
I never really "snuck" out, but I suppose there were a few times when Erinn Setterlund would come knocking at my window and we would go on walks. Im pretty sure I alwasy went out the door though? maybe i did sneek out, i cant remember.

14. Who was your first best friend and are you still friends with them?
Possibly Erinn Setterlund. We used to sweep up fake dirt in preschool. we were really buddy buddy. We have remained friends all these years, and we still have a blast whenever our whole group of friends gets together.

15. Who was the first person to send you flowers?
Chris Mohn, I think.....for some special occassion or another.

16. Where did you live the first time you moved out of your parents' house?
University Hall.......located right between campus, and all of the parties. The best place to live your freshman year!

17. Have you ever lived with your girlfriend or boyfriend?
nope, but I do beleive its not a bad idea to live with the person you plan on marrying beforehand.

18. Whose wedding were you in the first time you were A BRIDES MAID/GROOMSMAN?
My brothers wedding the summer of 2002. that was a great night hahahhaha!

19. What's the first thing you do in the morning?
hit the snooze at least four times.......nine minute increments....so at least an extra 36 minutes+ in bed.

Now lets do the LASTS....

LAST PERSON YOU HUGGED:
my mommy or Joe technically :)

LAST CAR RIDE:
from ermels house back to my BU house.

LAST TIME YOU CRIED?:
honestly, I cant remember so it must not have been that bad...

LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED:
i guess the exorcism of emily rose at Joes house.....thats the last one all the way through at least. I NEED to purchase Walk the Line soon though!

LAST FOOD YOU ATE:
a few chocolates at Ermels house......hehehe.

LAST SHIRT WORN:
my bradley polo, BU t shirt and Bradley nursing long sleeved shirt........yup, all three together.

LAST PHONE CALL:
Linda, to discuss the possibility of buying aerosmith tickets.

LAST TEXT MESSAGE:
WELL, since my texting privleges have since been revoked, the last one was to Joe on Feb 19th.

LAST THING YOU TOUCHED:
other than my keyboard and mouse, my cell phone to check what my last text was!

LAST TIME AT THE MALL:
gosh, sometiem earlier this semester......i never go anymore, though i juts turned down a trip with Ryann about an hour ago.

LAST TIME YOU WERE EXCITED FOR SOMETHING:
i guess it would have to be valentines day because I knew I had plans, but I didnt know what they were. That was very exciting!!! :)

LAST THING YOU DRANK:
a few last dribbles from my water bottle.

Current Mood: calm
Current Music: dirty little secret in my head

Sickity Doo......
Hi there. I'm trying to get over this death-like cold that has been bugging me since Friday, so I'm just hanging around to day and relaxing. Hence, having the time to sit and update my journal. I was just sitting on the porch (even though I shouldnt have been) and Fong drove by ever so slowly on his bike. Now, forgive me for being sentimental, but we have been taunting Fong for FOUR years now. The lovable, yet horribly ignorant vietnamese man is probably one of the most well-known characters on Bradley's campus. I take that back. I would bet my money he IS the most well known. Anyways, I cant beleive college is almost over. While I really think I'm ready for it, there are little things around this place that I'm going to miss dearly. THe people I'm going to miss are a given, but its the other small things that you dont really notice until you have an impending graduation.
Anyways, the job decision is still kind of up in the air, but Im pretty sure Ill be moving west. Little baby Kaden is due on April 14th, so we'll have to see how that goes. I hosted Heathers baby shower on Saturday, and suprisingly, it went really well. We played baby trivia and The Price is Right. I do a killer Bob Barker impression, let me tell ya.
Other than that, I'm just trying to stay on top of my school work and stay healthy! Joes b-day was yesterday and Miss Sarah Armstrong's is today!! February is a busy month to be a friend/girlfriend! Plus, good old V-day is coming up. Ive been able to make the most of it for the past few years, no matter what the situation, and Im sure this year will be no different. Theres plenty of people I love to death! :) Well its time to go back to lounging/trying to get some schoolwork done/etc etc.
I already put in a sick excuse for chapter tonight, theres no way I could sit through it feeling like I do right now. But, in other news, theres a really great episode of Gilmore Girls on tonight! YAY!
I better feel better by tomorrow. My clinical group on Wednesdays meets at One World every week for breakfast at 7:30. Not so much fun when you have a cold.
Hopefully update more soon!
Love
Jenny

Current Mood: sick
Current Music: ABC Family channel music

See Update from previous entry:
"Hopefully Ill be more put together this semester and update on a more regular basis."

Yeah, just and FYI. I lied. I already have no time to update. I'm making time right now because frankly I'm putting off going to sleep for some reason, and it just occurred to me that my livejournal isnt really serving much of a purpose.

I do like to keep it around though for the occasional time where I can write about stuff no one cares about!! hehe!

Anyways, hope everything is going well for all of you peeps out there!

lovings........

Current Mood: calm
Current Music: Folsom Prison Blues: Live from San Quentin

burn in HELL nclex-rn review!!!!!!
So, for the past few days I have been reading 100 pages/day in this giant 1,000 page text book. It's a review book for the NCLEX, which is the licensing exam for nurses that you take the summer after you graduate. A lot of people don't know this, but my fancy B.S.N. from Bradley means NOTHING unless I pass that test and my title becomes BSN, RN. registered nurse. Its coming so soon. Anyhow, Bradley has to been a huge over acheiving nursing program, so they are giving us this Graduate exam the first day of class for spring semester. Its just like the NCLEX and will predict your success (pass or fail) on the real exam.
Yeah, no pressure.
And, whats more, if we do poorly on the graduate exam, you have to go through holy hell with the department to ensure they sign off for you to graduate. I should probably continue reading my book rather than ranting about it online, but it feels good, and Im slowing going insane reading a book containing just about everything I'll ever need to know as a nurse. IN TEN DAYS. I'm sure Ill be more prepared than most other students, but hey, I sometimes choke too. Well, not really.
Anywho, tomorrow through Monday Im babysitting for A.j. She has the CUTEST daughter named Campbell. Shes only three, and spunky as can be. Its actually great because it forces me to get out of bed early, and get used to some sort of routine. Plus, I got a little money to pay off some of my debt.......a whole other issue. Today was my first day babysitting, and Im excited to go back. I really want to play Candyland, but I realized today that 3 year olds have the attention span equivalent to a fly. Hahahah. Let me tell ya, its been years since Ive played "hide and go seek".
Anyways, my mind is wandering and the guilt of procrastination is bearing down on me.....
Im just going to read as much as I can before I passssss out sleeping!
Hopefully Ill be more put together this semester and update on a more regular basis.
ciao and love ya all!
jenny
PS. I never updated last semster, HOWEVER, I did pull off the 4.0! Now, I just want to know where the hell my letter from the president congragulating me is! yes, Im academically materialistic.

Current Mood: exhausted
Current Music: a blurb of Vogue from two different peoples AOL IM noises

I SO stole this....:)
-First Best Friend: Erinn Setterlund, perhaps in preschool?
Current Best Friend: Theres lots....

-First Screenname: AeroRuth5
-Current Screenname: AeroRuth5, baby.

-First Kiss: Rick Doty...sixth grade..hubba hubba.
Current Kiss: Joseph.

-First Pet: Peanut, the evil weiner dog
Current Pet: Lizzy B., Bee Bo.....fuego...sort of.

-First Piercing: ears at six months.....yeah, my mom thought it would be "cute"....to inflict pain on an infant.
-Current Piercing: just my ears, though Ive had my belly button done twice...:)

-First Crush: I think Id have to say Seth Redenbo
-Current Crush: well, steven tyler and company.....hehe.

-First Music: Honestly, I was obsessed with Billy Idol songs when I was very little.
-Current Music: Classic Rock, rap to dance, country....i love it all....except metal.

-First Car: 89 camaro....HAhaha~
-Current Car: 96 Cavalier.

-First Love: Christopher Lee Mohn-er
-Current Love: :)The world probably knows after Tuesday night.

-First Date: ?
-Current Date: Red, you need to take me on a real date.

Nine Lasts:
-Last Cigarette: no comment :)
-Last Alcoholic Drink: tuesday night
-Last Car Ride: bout an hour ago
-Last Real Kiss: jeepers, Tuesday night?
-Last Movie Seen: Dukes of Hazzard
-Last Phone Call: my mommy
-Last CD Played: THe Live Paul McCartney CD
-Last Bubble Bath: its been too long!
-Last Time You Cried: Tuesday night....lots

Eight Have You Evers:
-Been Arrested? im suprised I havent been.
-Dated A Best Friend? negatory
-Skinny Dipped? for sure.
-Been on TV? yes
-Kissed Someone Then Regretted It? yes
-Had A Sex Dream About Someone You Knew? two words: house boy.
-Ever Snuck Out? yep
-Been In A Fight? verbal fight

Seven Things You're Wearing:
tank top, hoodie, comfy capris, tennis shoes, socks, underwear, headband.

Six Things You've Done Today:
shopped, groceries, eaten, watched Tv, checked my e mail, rested

Five Favorite Things:
food, music, boys, nursing, snoogling.

Four People You Can Tell Anything To:
Shannon, Linda, my mom, dad......ya know, i have TONS of more friends that I trust too!1 :)

Three Choices:
-Black of White: black
-Hot or Cold: I'd rather be cold I suppose.
-Chocolate or Vanilla: Vanilla

Two Things You Want To Do Before You Die:
Get married
Travel TONS of places.

One Thing You Regret:
not exercising my full potential in college :), though I had fun!!

Current Mood: bored

Happy Holidays???
Well, its been an awfully long time since I've even thought about updating my journal. Its crossed my mind, and I still read my friends' entries, but for some reason, I found myself way too busy to tend to my own. Anyways, Thanksgiving and Christmas have passed. Good holidays, nothing too extravagant. Last year, on Thanksgiving Eve the alternator in my car busted in that horrific snow storm. Well, sure enough, this year on Christmas Eve, my car wouldn't start and was stranded at Gormans. Fuel pump I think? Whatever it was cost a pretty penny. So, I was then stuck at home for a few days with no car. Thank goodness Joe got me a book for Christmas because it gave me something to do and I read the whole darn thing in one sitting practically. I actually, for once in a very long time, appreciated just being at home and doing home things. I just watched TV, and movies and such, but it was comforting to have my mom just a room away from me. I've also gotten to hang out with some fabulous people lately. The Metamorons that I never really get a chance to see even over break. Im always so caught up in Bradley World that I never go back to my roots. I really appreciate my friends more than I ever thought I would either. I know we all have our flaws, but it just comes down to caring. It comes down to people who will flock to you when youre balling in the bathroom of Kellehers for example. Hahaha. It also comes down to a friend that will be there at the drop of the hat if you just pick up the phone. I need to surround myself with these people more often. I really hate being walked away from, which has also happened quite a bit lately. I guess I am so used to wearing my emotions on my sleeve, and it drives me nuts to "communicate" with someone who builds up a giant wall. If I only knew karate, I would ninja kick that wall right down.
Anyways, on a happier note, I got some money for Christmas and I've actually been able to do some shopping, which always makes me jump for joy. I considered writing a big fat check to Tazewell county to cover my speeding ticket, but I decided that would ruin Christmas, so that's were work will have to come into play. I'm going to have FUN with my Christmas money, though I should probably just save it for the possible move to California. I also decided to let that decision wait. I need to make sure everything is kosher here with my family before I leave them. I have to stick around to see my nephew and if James gets engaged. (Jeremy)
I know my parents are more than proud of me, but I still feel the need to be the obscure child far away doing something with their life. I know my mom tells stories about me to her friends at work. Stories that come from me being 20 minutes away. As much as she doenst want to see me go though, I know shed be proud if I moved and started my big girl life.
Well, this has turned into a super entry. I really want to start writing my book over break. I have this desire to write a comical book about the hassles of being in nursing school. Student nurses are such a unique group of people, that I really think it would be appreciated. Maybe if I get bored enough, I'll give it a shot. Even if it totally sucks (which it probably will) I can give it to my friends as a graduation present. Hell, I dont know. Its funny because I get SO motivated when I'm hungover. I cant get over how odd that is! Like I want to do all of these things, but I feel too crappy to actually do them. Hahaha.
On that note, I think I need to go pick up my car and most likely nap!
Love ya all, each and every.
Jenny :)

Current Mood: pleased
Current Music: my head bitches.

I dont want to study.
Once again, an effort to procrastinate. I just got home from the senior SK activity for I-week. I'm really glad I went for a while. Stef came too. We're not around as much as the other seniors, but its great to see everyone, new and old members! Especially my wonderful cousin! We really do need to go out soon. Anywho, school is the same old, same old. I have a giant cardiac exam tomorrow morning, and I really need to get down to it and study. Things are going just fine in that respect, though. I'm pretty much just content right now. Maybe not 100% thrilled about unnamed relationship status'. Honestly, I dont ever bring it up anymore to "talk" because I have been trained to feel like Im being annoying and pressing. All I really want is open-ness and honesty. I refuse to be convinced that THAT is too much to ask. And obviously, Im resorting to livejournal to talk about it with myself. Lately, I havent felt at all included in any plans. In fact, when Im thrown into social situations and people ask me whats going onr relationship wise, my response is generally, "dont ask me, but I dont really think Im in any of the future plans." I know what I want, but does anyone else?? I'll probably never get an answer. Honestly, though, things are going very well, and I am happy. I just dont want to be stuck in this constant. Anywho, thoughts of SoCal keep dashing through my mind, but have been set aside for the most part. Ill be sure to keep all my buddies updated! Okay, well I just realized that I REALLY need to study........
geeeeez.....

Have a great night all!
love
jen

Current Mood: tired
Current Music: nada at the moment

My first speeding ticket.
six years seven months and nine days. Ok, that's pretty good for having a clean record. Even though I should probably have two DUIs and a speeding ticket by now. Thats beside the point. So, this ticket is going to be around $350. 69 in a 45 construction zone. I suck, thats the point of this story. I also had to explain to my mom why I was doing 69 on 74 Westbound at 9:30 on a Sunday morning. She pretty much dismissed the fact that I had spent the night at ISU. Maybe she hasnt thought about it enough! Hehehe.
Anyways, I havent updated in quite a while. Concerts for the fall are in full swing. We got to see Paul McCartney in Detroit Rock City, FRONT ROW. I wont even elaborate unless you ask, because youve probably already heard the amazing story!! Great weekend! Im also going to see Aerosmith and Lenny Kravitz in December, then U2/Kanye West four days later. Ahhhhhh, fun times. In fact im listening to Paul McCartney right now. The bouncer gave Joe and Linda the set list after the show, so she made me a live CD off of it. AWESOME. Its exciting to listen to!
Well, im pressing on this semster, trying to keep those grades up. I need the big 4.0 to even get considered for sigma theta tau. Maybe I shouldnt have partied so much sophomore year, or I would already be a member......I have few regrets though, so it's all good. Anyways, I just have to do my best, all circumstances considered. Work and clinicals are going pretty well. I made my first slight med error at work the other day, and I nearly cried. I gave this guy potassium cloride through his G-tube, fully aware of how harsh potassium is. Why did I do that? I dont know, but he puked it up about thirty seconds later. Poor man. Anyways, I learned my lesson, and technically it was not a med error, just a small error in administration. I should have diluted it a little more. Oops. All of you reading may not understand, but I just thought I would share a small part of my imcompetence with you. In reality, its really not a big deal!
Well, the next month and a half are going to be fun. Vegas is the 18th of November. I hope I win money to pay for this blasted ticket. Gambling probbaly isnt the answer though.
Still havent decided on LA yet, but financial issues are pretty much the only thing holding me back at this point. Courtney and I have already picked out a few potential apartments, but theyre a little pricey. Its exciting to apartment shop though!! Alright, well I have homework and other stuff to do! And Work early tomorrow!
Happy Halloween!!!
Love
jen

Current Mood: cheerful
Current Music: Back in the US, back in the US, back in the USSR!!!!

Go to freeipods.com!!!

This better work, Armstrong SAYS its legit.

such is life.....
So, in an effort to procrastinate, I thought I would update you all on the ever hectic life of Jenny. Classes, work, and clinicals are really bogging me down. It has gotten to the point that I get the ER at OSF, oncology at OSF, cardiac at OSF, and rehab at methodist all mixed up. THey are all units i either work, or do clinicals. It gets to be jumble of where supplies are, computer charting programs, policy, etc, etc. So, far I've been pretty graceful and patient with myself, with the exception of getting a little frustrated this past Monday on Oncology.
I'm super excited for next weekend. Me, Linda, maybe Joe and maybe Dave....or whoever, are roadtrippin' it to Detroit (rock city) to see Paul McCartney. I will, unfortunately be missing both SK Bonfire and Mr. Kevin Glover's 21st bday, but this is an opportunity I just cant pass up. And, if you know me at all......THIS is my thing. Concerts. I can get drunk with my great friends any day. After Paul, I think the only concerts I would even like to see are The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, ok, well theres a few more. But basically, Ive thrown down hundreds of dollars on concerts and seen just about everything I could ever want. And to me, its worth every second. The road trip, the friends, the music, the concert itself, and all the crazy things that seem to happen in between. I could go on and on about our random roadtrips to see Bon Jovi and Aerosmith, The EAgles.....they all have a story.
This upcoming weekend really isnt all that much fun. Friday I have an eight hour shift at Methodist, sat. 12 hours at OSF, and Sunday, 12 hours at OSF. I guess I can look forward to fall break on Monday and Tuesday, but those will be spent obsessing over CNS medications and psych meds, too. Yippee. As I always say, though, keeping this busy really does keep me sane.
Onto more fun stuff though. Our trip to see Bon Jovi may be slightly botched since the 11/4 one is practically sold out. There is also an 11/5 one though. We'll have to see what I end up doing if anything at all. Then comes the Vegas trip on 11/18. Im excited to go to this marine ball, and check out some casinos, etc. Im sure itll be a great time!! Of course, to top off the semester, the day after my last final in December, Linda and I head up to Chicago to see U2 AND rumor has it that Kanye West is opening up for him. Odd, but awesome. I guess they ARE both polictially charged artists.....
Anywho, I've been really hungry lately and eating like crap. Maybe its all the brain power I'm usuing. Well, lets hope so.
Sean just called me to go to Gorman's. Tuesdays=Free pizza and $2.25 Captain and Cokes. So tempting. hmmmmm.
Shannon and The Forecast should also be getting back over BUs fall break. Now, that IS something to look forward to. I need to clear my schedule so I have time to catch up with Shan.....well, whenever she has time, rather. :)
Anyways, I'm off to either get some food, study more, shower and gormans??
(I think I'll be good tonight)
Love you all!
Jen

Current Mood: busy
Current Music: that "All Jacked Up" song in my head.

'lil Rundown....
My face wound has pretty much healed....finally.
I work/study/go to class way too much.
I'm already exhausted with school.
I'm still "single"....yes, in quotes.
The house and roomies are still lovely, except for some pest control issues.
I think I'm going to Cali next year..
Vegas trip with Courtney 11/18-11/21
U2 concert 12/14
Bon Jovi is touring again--11/4--Chicago......YEAH!
I usually dont watch TV regularly, but I love Gilmore Girls.
I need to ditch approximately 12 lbs before this Marine ball thing in Vegas.
I cant think of anything else I really want to say at the moment...

Goodnight kiddos :) Love ya all!

Current Mood: calm
Current Music: Sex and the City on TV :)

ageee of aquarius.
Ok, so that song is in my head still. It has been in there for quite sometime on and off since the birmingham road trip to see Red's fam.
Now, I know I havent updated in a while, but Ive found that I have to be in the right, patient mood to type things out. Ive also been super duper busy lately, but I function best that way. School is going well. I had my first oncology clinical yesterday, and I did everything the nurse would do. And, my preceptor was randomly Maria, who I met through Red at church one night a while back. So, it made for a good night. THe nurses on Oncology at St. Francis are great. Tomorrow, i have my first real day in the St. francis ER. I have a feeling its going to be awesome, but super hectic. I mean, come on, its a Level 1 trauma center, theres no way its actually organized. So the leader in me wants to jump all over the any traumas or exciting opportunities that come in. And the other .05% of me wants to panic and stand back. I guess Ill just have to wait and see how smoothly, or horribly, the first shift goes. Both of my clinical instructors turned out to be amazing, (even though last night I pretty much had to teach her the computer charting system.) I also had my first weekend at OSF adn that went really well. Two twelves in one weekend isnt exactly my idea of a good time, but a good paycheck, and then I get the next weekend off. Its really nice. I am building SUCH a great resume, too! Im still staying involved in SK too, just not going to chapter and the really official stuff. Im excited to return next semester though! Rush is almost over, bid day is Sunday, and I desperatly hope that my cousin is among the ladies that coming running over to our house. (dont know if she reads this or not!:) ) Anyways.......what else is going on. Red and I have been hangin out a lot more lately, so thats been fun......but I think we both know to take it easy for now. I just laugh a lot with him, and I can act like a goofball.
hmmmm........oh yeah, i also ran for and got the position as cirriculum committee rep for all three levels of nursing students. I just go to the faculty meetings and bitch to them about whatever needs to be bitched about. Its pretty awesome, and a great way to get involved and get to know your professors.
The big LA decision is still up and the air, and Im finally OK with that. As of now, Im really leaning on going......I think just because I have the confidence to now. Im just going to see where the next few months takes me, and then do some more soul searching! Advice always helps though!
Ive had a lot of fun with my roomies and friends going out when I can, even though at times things go awry. Were all fun in our own way!
Alright, well Ill try to be better at updating!!
Hope school, work, whatever is going great for everyone!!
Love
Jen

Current Mood: cheerful
Current Music: U2

New beginnings
So, I've already been through one week of school. (well half of a week). My schedule is very stressful, but Im going to have to make it work. Tuesdays and Thursdays are ridiculous. Let me tell ya, it is NOT possible to get out of class, to my car, to ICC, find a parking spot and get into my class in forty minutes. So, that should be interesting, since I have to go there for math twice a week. My clinicals should be pretty good. I know at least one of my instructors is AWESOME and very understanding about our hectic lives. And shes doing my ER rotation. Lots of fun! Im hoping I can make this semester even better than last. Im going for the big 4.0 this time!! hehehe. we'll see. I just started St. Francis on Sat. too. Orientation was really overwhelming, and I have my first real day with patients this coming sat. It'll be great experience, thats all I know. And, Im 95% sure Ill be interning at Methodist on the rehab floor on fridays. So, at least Ill be learning a whole lot and getting a paycheck!
Hmmmm.....what else is going on....Weve been having a ton of fun here at 1615 this year so far. Everyone is getting along great, and its just an awesome atmosphere. I know Ill be stressed out and crabby, but hopefully its understandable. And, im finally coming to terms with the fact that I'm single again. I guess this isnt a new occurence, but I've just been so busy, and things around me just make it sink in a little more. I guess I just had some false hope.
Anyways, Ive been working out a lot.....trying to get in shape for that overpriced dress I bought in LA :) Hehehe. Im hoping to wear it to semiformal....so I need a hot date too! Anywho, I have a long and stressful day tomorrow. Darn it ICC!!!
Hope everyone has had a great beginning to their years!!
Love
jen

Current Mood: calm
Current Music: tv, yo

disturbed....
So it was almost exactly three years ago that I last walked in my sleep. I remember I was still at home, right before moving into the dorms at Bradley, and I woke up in my backyard in the middle of the night. Then, I was really worried about going to BU and sleepwalking becuase of the lofted beds. Well, Its never happened, until last night. I distinctly remember laying in my OWN bed to go to sleep. I think people were still downstairs hanging out, but I was ready for sleep. Well, I want to know what happened in the mean time, but somehow I woke up in Ryanns bed with just my underwear and shirt on. SO, at about seven this morning, I returned to my own bed......and was left very disturbed.....probably causing the series of odd dreams I had when I went back to sleep. It was like a dream directed by Tim Burton. So, now Im just creeped out overall. And Im sure that if i conversed with anyone during my walk last night, theyre creeped out by me as well. I swear, I would love to have a sleep study done to see what my problem is.....this sleep walking issue could get dangerous. I cant beleive I made it down these attic stairs.

Anywho, school for me starts tomorrow (because of that bloody ICC class!) and I have my St. Francis job physical and tax form crap also.......both requiring me to actually dress up and look decent. I cant beleive its already here.....my senior year. Im fairly certain that it has in fact hit me in the past few weeks. I dont want it to come because I know its all over after this year, so I was sub-consciously not letting myself get the least bit excited about the upcoming school year.

Today, I think I need to take some laundry home, since our basement likes to flood, and maybe go get myself a new scrub outfit. Oh yeah! I thought I had lost my PCA job at methodist, but my crazy manager actually offered that I become and nurse Intern there! But, not many people are Interns at OSF and Methodist at the same darn time! Maybe I'll break the norm.....we'll just have to see!

Anyways, I just reminded myself of the chores I have to get done today to be organized for tomorrow!!

Love ya's

Current Mood: calm
Current Music: cell phone commercial

rock out.
So, everyone is back for prerush, and thats just what theyre doing. Prerush. and Im home here being bored and tired. Ry is usually sleeping or working, MK is at Sigma Kappa all day, Deuce is doing Rho Gamma training, and Stef (my other "leave of absense" buddy) hasnt gotten to peoria yet. Its kinda nice, and lonely at the same time. I havent felt much like going to big SK kegs this week, so weve been having a lot of our own fun here, and we did go out to Old Chicago last night.....were supposed to go to wings tonight too, so everythings pretty much the same so far. Next week, however, the madness will really begin. I guess my clinicals are pretty badass. I have oncology on Mondays from 15:00 to 22:30. (3-10:30 for the rest of you). THEN, I have my ER clinicals Wednesdays from 10-17:00.........aaaaaawesome! Im so excited for that one, considering Im fairly certain ER is my calling in this world. Lord I hope so.
Lately, Ive been thumbing through my many pamphlets from UCLA grad school. Theres just so many different nurse practitioner/Clinical Nurse specialist programs to chose from. Generally, I think Family nurse practitioner is the best route to go, but thats pretty boring. Its like just becoming an MD. zzzzzzzzzz. Its good not to limit yourself I suppose. Any thoughts fellow nurses??? Basically, I know if I go to LA, I will definitely go to grad school as soon as possible....which would be Fall '07......BUT if I stay in Peoria or chicago, I can see myself pissing around. I dont know, but if youre my roomate, close to me in any way, or read my livejournal a lot, youll be hearing A TON about this LA job offer dilemma, so just tell me to SHUT my hole if you get bored. I did get a boost of confidence from my summer boss though. I emailed her the other day to tell her thanks for everything in LA and ask some questions about grad school. She e mailed me back and told me my timing was perfect to contact her because I got a Star award this summer and she wanted to send me a copy and recognize me for it. (sidenote-Star awards are these things that patients fill out for their nurses if theyve had excpetional care :) ) Anyways, Sheri (my boss) was very impressed that a measly extern got one. I remember the young lady in the ER that wrote it. SHe was CLEARLY addicted to narcotics, and making up a complaint to get some.........but I was nice to her anyways. Its just a little odd when a patient tells you EXACTLY how much morphine they should get, and when, and how to push it. I found it comical in a way, and she was a sweet girl. and apparently she thought I was nice too. So basically, being recognized there makes me appreciate how awesome UCLA Med. center is. The technology, cutting edge, the people, etc.
Anyways, enough about that............. :) There I went again.
Well, Ive been a little grumpy lately for no apparent reason, but I AM just a little excited for school to start. I had thought that Nerdy Spirited School Jenny had fallen off the face of the earth, but shes still there.....just hiding behind some stress and other issues.
Anways, I think a nap may be in order!
Love all of you out there!
:)

Current Mood: calm
Current Music: U2- Miss Sarajevo-Gracias Joe Joe

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