Time to once again comment on the weather in Michigan…previously I was wishing for warm days in which to drive with the sunroof open, plant flowers, and mow the lawn. Well, that time has come! And rather quickly, I might add. I’ve succumbed to turning the central AC on in my home—and it’s only May! The weather has been beautiful for the most part, but when temperatures go above 80 with humidity making it feel like close to 90, and it’s not even summer yet—you know you live in Michigan.
I seriously am not complaining though. I will always choose to be more warm than cold. I would much rather sit in front of a fan with some crystal light, than put on ten million layers and still have cold fingers.
And, yes, I’ve already gone for a bike ride. ;)
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Memorial Day weekend
I camped at a new state park this past weekend. I always thought it would be fun to say that I’ve been to all the state parks in Michigan—a lofty goal, I know—but I can add a new park to my list now.
South Higgins Lake State Park is just north of Houghton Lake in Michigan. Jason & I decided to be brave and even take Harley on his first camping adventure. The car was quite loaded down with camping gear to begin with—but then we had to leave space for the 130-pound pup! We also took our bikes and on Saturday had a great time riding and hiking. The weather was beautiful (although the mosquitoes were a little annoying) and it only rained for awhile on Saturday evening. The rest of the time was beautiful blue skies and about 70 degrees!
Harley was the hit of the park—he was so well-behaved. He never barked and people were constantly trying to guess what kind of dog he is (“he’s so big!”) The funniest story of the weekend was due to Harley’s training. He is trained to not poop on while on a leash (Jason never liked the idea of carrying a poop bag around on a walk), so Harley literally did not poop all weekend. By Sunday night, he was acting a little uncomfortable, so after dark, Jason took him over by the beach area, let him off his leash, and within less than a minute, Harley was feeling much better…he came back to the campsite all happy, bouncy, and playful. A good time was then had by all… ;)
Apparently Higgins Lake was named by National Geographic as the sixth most beautiful lake in the world. It definitely is a beautiful lake—also known for its great fishing. Jason forgot his poles, but we’ve decided we will go back someday, and that time we’re bringing a boat.
South Higgins Lake State Park is just north of Houghton Lake in Michigan. Jason & I decided to be brave and even take Harley on his first camping adventure. The car was quite loaded down with camping gear to begin with—but then we had to leave space for the 130-pound pup! We also took our bikes and on Saturday had a great time riding and hiking. The weather was beautiful (although the mosquitoes were a little annoying) and it only rained for awhile on Saturday evening. The rest of the time was beautiful blue skies and about 70 degrees!
Harley was the hit of the park—he was so well-behaved. He never barked and people were constantly trying to guess what kind of dog he is (“he’s so big!”) The funniest story of the weekend was due to Harley’s training. He is trained to not poop on while on a leash (Jason never liked the idea of carrying a poop bag around on a walk), so Harley literally did not poop all weekend. By Sunday night, he was acting a little uncomfortable, so after dark, Jason took him over by the beach area, let him off his leash, and within less than a minute, Harley was feeling much better…he came back to the campsite all happy, bouncy, and playful. A good time was then had by all… ;)
Apparently Higgins Lake was named by National Geographic as the sixth most beautiful lake in the world. It definitely is a beautiful lake—also known for its great fishing. Jason forgot his poles, but we’ve decided we will go back someday, and that time we’re bringing a boat.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Cedar Point
So I visited Cedar Point for the first time in over a decade last weekend. I went with friends from church—a small choral group I sing in—after we decided we needed a good teambuilding experience together. And what an experience it was!
We left town late Wednesday night and arrived at our hotel at about 2AM. After sleeping for maybe five hours, we were up by 8 to be in the park at 9AM, where we could be first in line for the Millennium Force. After two consecutive rides on that, we headed over to Top Thrill Dragster, where we got one ride in before it broke down for a bit.
We also hit the Magnum a couple of times in a row (benefits of going in May—no lines!) I was a little anxious about going on this ride as my one memory was riding it with my father when I was about 10 years old. I remember being so terrified that at the end of the ride that the blood had left my hands from gripping the bar so tightly. After this time around, however, I have to say it was one of my most favorite rides of the day. At the end of the day though, I decided my most favorite was Millennium Force. I rode it four times!
I have never done that well on roller coasters. Typically, I can last about a half a day, and then I need to take a break from the adrenaline surges and stomach-churning. So, when I went on a total of about 20 + rides all day—I was pretty proud of myself! Especially since I really haven’t been on a roller coaster in at least five years. I’m now considering it another accomplishment during this my 30th year.
Our weather was perfect all day—maybe a touch warm—but perfect roller coaster riding weather. We left the park at the 8PM closing time—only after a couple people in the group rode the Raptor a record five times in a row! Overall, we had an awesome time together and are already planning next year’s trip.
We left town late Wednesday night and arrived at our hotel at about 2AM. After sleeping for maybe five hours, we were up by 8 to be in the park at 9AM, where we could be first in line for the Millennium Force. After two consecutive rides on that, we headed over to Top Thrill Dragster, where we got one ride in before it broke down for a bit.
We also hit the Magnum a couple of times in a row (benefits of going in May—no lines!) I was a little anxious about going on this ride as my one memory was riding it with my father when I was about 10 years old. I remember being so terrified that at the end of the ride that the blood had left my hands from gripping the bar so tightly. After this time around, however, I have to say it was one of my most favorite rides of the day. At the end of the day though, I decided my most favorite was Millennium Force. I rode it four times!
I have never done that well on roller coasters. Typically, I can last about a half a day, and then I need to take a break from the adrenaline surges and stomach-churning. So, when I went on a total of about 20 + rides all day—I was pretty proud of myself! Especially since I really haven’t been on a roller coaster in at least five years. I’m now considering it another accomplishment during this my 30th year.
Our weather was perfect all day—maybe a touch warm—but perfect roller coaster riding weather. We left the park at the 8PM closing time—only after a couple people in the group rode the Raptor a record five times in a row! Overall, we had an awesome time together and are already planning next year’s trip.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
birthday!
I took my “nephew” William out for his birthday to the Impressions 5 children’s museum in Lansing. It had been years since I had been there—it was much smaller than I remember. But William loved it—particularly the water room where he spent 45 minutes pouring water, floating boats, and making waves. But what cracked me up was how we had just spent two hours playing with every science experiment there, and the one thing he reports to his mom when we arrived home was the last three minutes on the backhoe where he got to pick up balls with the scooper.
And of course, the trip wouldn’t have been complete without a visit to the “chicken nugget store” (this is McDonalds to the lay person).
Happy birthday to the best four year old around!
And of course, the trip wouldn’t have been complete without a visit to the “chicken nugget store” (this is McDonalds to the lay person).
Happy birthday to the best four year old around!
Monday, May 7, 2007
tulips!
Yesterday Jason & I decided to embrace our Dutch heritage. We spent some time amongst the tulips of the famous Holland Tulip Time Festival. Funny how I’m thirty years old and have never been to this festival, but visiting the Veldheer Tulip Farm was quite a learning experience! I literally took two rolls of pictures—yes, a past time for me that I actually had fun with.
Not only was there a variety of flowers (mainly tulips) but also a variety of people. Jason & I joked that we were probably the only two Dutch thoroughbreds there! They should’ve put us on a display somewhere at Festival. Label reading: “The last of the Dutch line native to Holland, Michigan. Circa 2007.” People could stand with us to have their picture taken.
Craziness. Who would’ve thought that a tulip could be a tourist attraction? Apparently us Dutch people are easily entertained. ;)
Not only was there a variety of flowers (mainly tulips) but also a variety of people. Jason & I joked that we were probably the only two Dutch thoroughbreds there! They should’ve put us on a display somewhere at Festival. Label reading: “The last of the Dutch line native to Holland, Michigan. Circa 2007.” People could stand with us to have their picture taken.
Craziness. Who would’ve thought that a tulip could be a tourist attraction? Apparently us Dutch people are easily entertained. ;)
Friday, April 27, 2007
nursing
I’m not sure I’ve ever actually mentioned that I work as a school nurse. Most people who read this blog are probably aware…but maybe I should write more about why I consider it to be so stressful right now.
I work in an urban school district, and for the first four years, I was assigned to elementary schools. I loved it. The kids were great—and I love playing a part in making them smile. My job involved a lot of case management between teachers, parents, doctors, getting families access to care, and classroom education. (see my future nursing article for complete list…due out this July...) ;)
For the past two years I’ve been assigned to work at one of the high schools that was opening a brand new school based health center. My job is three-fold: school nurse, clinic RN, and clinic manager. Honestly, it is a job better suited for two nurses—I’m sure of it. Multi-tasking like what is expected of me leads to burn out and a feeling of being ineffective at all roles.
Years ago, I pinpointed that my most favorite part of nursing was being able to help people heal—a whole self type of healing. I like the clinical piece, even the biology of it, but getting to know a person and lead them to healing through education and compassion is truly my calling in nursing. So, to take on this whole being a “manager” role and telling staff what to do and how to do it is not so fun for me. Job satisfaction comes when I have a day in which I am able to deal one on one with students.
As stressful as it is…I know God is using this experience to stretch me and grow me in a way that will play a part in future nursing experiences of my life. I’ve learned a lot about myself and what God may call me to…
All I can say for now is: good thing I have the summer off! :)
I work in an urban school district, and for the first four years, I was assigned to elementary schools. I loved it. The kids were great—and I love playing a part in making them smile. My job involved a lot of case management between teachers, parents, doctors, getting families access to care, and classroom education. (see my future nursing article for complete list…due out this July...) ;)
For the past two years I’ve been assigned to work at one of the high schools that was opening a brand new school based health center. My job is three-fold: school nurse, clinic RN, and clinic manager. Honestly, it is a job better suited for two nurses—I’m sure of it. Multi-tasking like what is expected of me leads to burn out and a feeling of being ineffective at all roles.
Years ago, I pinpointed that my most favorite part of nursing was being able to help people heal—a whole self type of healing. I like the clinical piece, even the biology of it, but getting to know a person and lead them to healing through education and compassion is truly my calling in nursing. So, to take on this whole being a “manager” role and telling staff what to do and how to do it is not so fun for me. Job satisfaction comes when I have a day in which I am able to deal one on one with students.
As stressful as it is…I know God is using this experience to stretch me and grow me in a way that will play a part in future nursing experiences of my life. I’ve learned a lot about myself and what God may call me to…
All I can say for now is: good thing I have the summer off! :)
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
baby love
How is it that a 9 month old can totally make your day with just one smile? I tell ya…I’ve had a rough couple of weeks. Finishing up pathophysiology (part one anyway), stressful work (downhill slide to summer break), and church easter program (at church every single night)…it’s been busy!
So, today was a madhouse at work, including a phone call to 911 and a visit from the EMS, that by the time I got home, I was exhausted. I was invited to dinner at my best friend’s house—I hardly every turn down a free meal. I arrive to hear my most favorite almost-4-year-old “nephew” announcing to the neighbors (and whoever else was within ear shot) that his Auntie Rachel was eating dinner with them, which totally put a smile on my face. Then his 9 month old brother, who is definitely finding another special place in my heart, gave me a huge two-tooth, two-dimpled smile.
Then, to top it off, I also got a 9 month old “hug.” *sigh*
Suddenly, the day is brighter. :)
So, today was a madhouse at work, including a phone call to 911 and a visit from the EMS, that by the time I got home, I was exhausted. I was invited to dinner at my best friend’s house—I hardly every turn down a free meal. I arrive to hear my most favorite almost-4-year-old “nephew” announcing to the neighbors (and whoever else was within ear shot) that his Auntie Rachel was eating dinner with them, which totally put a smile on my face. Then his 9 month old brother, who is definitely finding another special place in my heart, gave me a huge two-tooth, two-dimpled smile.
Then, to top it off, I also got a 9 month old “hug.” *sigh*
Suddenly, the day is brighter. :)
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