The Place is Mine (at least for 6 months...)

I signed the lease for the apartment I found last night!!! eekk.... Haven't done that in over 5yrs, small panic attacks but I am sure it will be fine. I am really excited to get moved in and actually feel somewhat settled and not living out of a suitcase! However, I am working the next 4 nights and so moving won't be until next weekend... but, at least I have the keys and so as soon as I (we) get the time it can be done.

Now, I just need some furniture.... minor details! =) More pictures will come when I get it all set up, which hopefully will be within the week!

Just missing Mom

From Nov 3 until into February the fact that mom is gone is much harder than the other months of the year -- not to say I don't have my hard days during those months too! It just seems Nov, Dec, Jan are the three toughest... her birthday, my birthday, Thanksgiving, Christmas, the day she went home to be with Jesus... all days that remind me how much I miss her. Not to mention lately with the new job and looking for (and finding!) the new place, all things I would have been talking to her about everyday... As I prepare to head up to Ohio for Christmas with my family I am very excited, but it is bittersweet because I miss this
As I was just reading through one of my friend's blog I was sent to a different friend of her's blog (it's a crazy connection, but its worth it) on which she had a post a little while back in memory of someone with a poem that really touched me and made me think of mom.

God saw you getting tired,

And a cure was not to be.

So he put his arms around you,

And whispered “Come to me”.

With tearful eyes we watched you,

And saw you pass away.

Although we loved you dearly,

We could not make you stay.

A golden heart stopped beating,

Hard working hands to rest.

God broke our hearts to prove to us,

He only takes the best.

I know mom is celebrating everyday, and will be celebrating Christmas especially, in a more wonderful way than I could ever imagine. And, it is so reassuring to know that she is in perfect health in heaven now and will never suffer again! For that I am thankful. But, I miss her and wish she was still here with me. I know He has a plan that is out of my understanding and I just have to trust Him. He loves my momma more than I do and has healed her in His own way.

I love you, Momma!

Merry Christmas

A New Place to Live

With the job offer from two weeks ago I have spent lots of time since then trying to find someplace to live in Savannah. Finding my own place to live is something that I have not had to do in over 4 years so, needless to say, this has been even more stressful. I have been looking all over downtown Savannah trying to find that perfect place. Well, yesterday I think I found it!! I went and looked at an apartment in a building where I had looked at a different place, but this one was upstairs and I loved it! The landlord seems great, the rent is just what I was hoping for, the area is fantastic and its only 5 minutes to work! With starting work tonight and then going to Ohio for Christmas, the holidays, blah blah blah it won't be until after Christmas that I can get together with him and sign a lease, etc but he is fine with that and is being totally understanding!

I am very excited!!!

I Have a JOB!!!

So, after completing my assignment at UNC last week it has been stressful to say the least not knowing what I was going to be doing next and where I would be working. As a travel nurse, the past 4yrs I have been able to work basically where ever I wanted, but this time there were NO jobs where I wanted to be -- near BW.
This week I have been staying at B's house while he is away flying and obviously the point of this week was to nail down a job.
So, I went to bed Sunday night just praying that God would open the doors I needed and close the ones that were not for me, assuming that would mean I would get a job that was open in Wilmington NC. Monday I received a call from my recruiter to inform me that the job I was counting on had been filled by a different traveler... which meant that here I am without a job and the only travel NICU positions are in Nebraska, Texas and California. None of which are really beneficial for me at this time. I had been hearing commercials on the radio recently while down here for a Career Fair at the hospital in Savannah GA that I really really wanted to work at. Monday, after getting the news from my recruiter I spent some time playing on the internet and looking at the hospital's website. I called the HR department to ask some questions and was directed to a voicemail telling me the HR department was closed due to the Career Fair... so, I decided that I should go to the Career Fair... and off I went -- mind you, not dressed professionally or prepared at all.
Long story short, I go to the Fair and interview with the NICU managers and meet the CEO of the Children's Hospital and he offers me a job!!! WHAT??!!?!? That doesn't happen!!! To say I was overwhelmed upon leaving the hospital yesterday would be putting it lightly! Today I spoke with the HR representative and they are putting things on overdrive so that everything can get done for me to start work on MONDAY! If these are not doors being opened and closed for me, then I don't know what else to look for.
So, I will be going in tomorrow morning to complete paperwork, employee health information and receive my ID badge for my new STAFF job at Memorial University Medical Center. This is a HUGE step for me... not being a traveler anymore, but being "permanent"... eek! Now, I just have to find a place to live... but, I know that if this is where God wants me, then HE will take care of that minor detail as well.
I am very excited -- and so is BW -- to be right where I (we) wanted to be. This will be great and I can't wait to see what happens!!! Thank you for all the prayers and support throughout this journey and I will keep you posted on how the new job goes!!

All Packed Up

Well, I finished my contract at UNC Thursday night and BW and I spent all day Friday and Saturday packing everything in my apartment, loading it into the cars and driving back to his house. Funny how as a travel nurse I have always been able to fit everything into my car, even when I drove a Jeep Liberty... now (4yrs later) my things fit into my 4Runner and his Tahoe. Apparently I have grown, I cannot figure out what is new! But, I blame BW =) Everything fit in my car until I we started moving "together" to the same areas, so it has be his fault!! Haha But, honestly I am soooo thankful to have had him helping me the past couple of days. It would have been awful to have had to try and get everything done on my own and it relieves so much stress for me when he is around.
So, now that my contract at UNC is over I should have new job news to share... however I don't. This is the first time, not counting when the hospital in TX cancelled all travelers during our contracts, that I have completed a contract and not had something new lined up and ready to go. It's really kinda scary... I have never known the frustration and stress of actually looking for a job and not finding what I want! I have been really blessed. But, I think that with the economy scare the way it is now many hospitals have started cutting back on travelers, which leaves me in a bind! Not to mention that I was trying to line something up the week of Thanksgiving, managers don't work holidays!!! So, I am hopeful that this week (not being a holiday) managers will be back in the office and will be able to take a look at my profile and hopefully I will have a job lined up early in the week. Thank God for BW and the fact that I can be staying at his house right now and not worrying about where I am living until I find a job!
I will keep you posted on what happens this week... I have a couple things "in the works" for jobs and am very optimistic about one, very hopeful about another and not expecting much from the third, but anything could happen! Please keep this situation in your prayers. Thanks so much!!!

Giving Thanks

Thanksgiving has become so different since I was a kid, and I miss those days! Always knowing that I would have the time off (since I am working this year) and knowing that I would be together with my family and all those who are important to me. This year, its just me and Layla... and of course I will be enjoying Thanksgiving "dinner" at work tonight with my fellow co-workers... it doesn't seem like a holiday at all. I miss my mom and all that she brought to Thanksgiving and every day of my life. I miss being with my family and celebrating and eating ... there are so many fun memories from those many years spent together (and I look forward to more fun memories in the years to come as well). I miss being with friends and BW.
But, I am thankful for soo many things! I am thankful for the memories I have of my mom and all the fun she brought to life and to Thanksgiving. I am thankful for the love she had for me and for the way she taught me to love and to live life. I am thankful for my family, even if I don't get to be with them as much as I would like. I am thankful for my friends and how amazing they are. There are a few special ones who I cherish deeply and could not make it without. I cannot imagine life without those girls and am so thankful for what they have each brought to my life. I am thankful for BW and for the relationship I am able to have with him and all the great times we have to spend together. Not to mention all the wonderful things he does for me and the ways he supports me and helps me. I am thankful for Layla... even though sometimes I have to really remind myself of that one!!! =) I am thankful for all the blessings in my life.
I hope that you have all had a wonderful holiday and were able to enjoy some great food and great times with family and friends!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

Tuesday 10

To copy my dear friend Cara I am going to use Tuesday to post my 10 favorite pictures from the past couple weeks. From my trip back up to Ohio to see the family, to a weekend with BW and his family and finally my best friend Alix's 30th birthday this past weekend. It has been lots of fun! The next two weeks are my last here in Chapel Hill, but as the past few months have been the next two weeks are jam-packed with fun activities (my birthday!!) and the last few days of work. So, here are my 10 favorite pictures...

1) Cody, dad and I at Quarter Horse Congress my first night in Ohio

We spent the evening walking around the fairgrounds shopping for boots and other horse/western things. It was a lot of fun and just nice to spend time with dad and Cody (and dad's friend Tressa).

2) Me and my two favorite boys! Cody and LaShawn... pure happiness!

I always get to spend lots of time with Cody during my visits back to Ohio, and I love every minute of it. However, it has been a very long time since I was able to spend time with my first little boy love, LaShawn. I was able to spend Sunday afternoon with him during this visit and it was so much fun to be able to play with him and just be together again.


3) Shawn (my brother), Cody (my nephew) and my dad.

Three generations of Leonard boys... it is so fun to see these three together. It is amusing to see how much alike all three of them are and to just watch them interact. I love these boys.

4) Playing with Cody is my favorite thing to do in Ohio

The one thing I look forward to the most during any trip back to Ohio is all the time I am able to spend with my nephew Cody. He is the cutest little guy ever and we have so much fun playing the whole time I am there. It gets harder and harder to leave each time, I miss that boy!!

5) An oyster roast at BW's with his grandmother, dad and aunt

BW's dad, aunt and grandmother came down to visit and see his new house over Veteran's Day weekend. Luckily I was able to go down and visit for a day or two during the weekend. It was great to see them again and spend some time with them.

6) Lunch in Charleston with BW's grandmother, aunt and dad

We spent Sunday in Charleston SC just looking around at all the beautiful old buildings. It was so much fun to be with his family for the weekend and visit with them again.

7) Brian and I with the F-18

During his family's weekend visit we went to base to see the jets that BW flies. It was great to get the "tour" of base with him and have him tell us all about the jets and what he does at work. I love getting to be a part of his life, and am so proud of him and all that his job entails in protecting our country and our freedom.

8) Alix and I celebrating her 30th birthday!

What a big year for Alix! She was married in June and then turned 30 last weekend!! I am so glad that I have been able to be here (close) and be a part of all of these special events in her life.

9) BW and I celebrating Alix's birthday

BW came up for Alix's birthday weekend. It was great to have him here to go out with us and celebrate with us. We had another great weekend and really enjoyed spending time together.

10) All the girls celebrating with Alix

What a great group of girls! We had so much fun going to dinner and then out in Raleigh and celebrating our friendship with Alix as well as her 30th birthday. It was a super fun night and I am so glad that Alix was able to have such a great time!!

Whew! So, there are my favorite 10 pictures from the past few weeks. It has been a busy month, but it has been lots of fun! And I am looking forward to the fun of the next couple weeks!!

Two Weeks Notice

Today is one week until my birthday =) and two weeks until I am out of a job =(

The good news is that I will be done with my current contract, only meaning done with the manager that apparently has issues with me. And that it will be time to start someplace new... new place, new friends, new things to do. Hopefully it will mean a new place closer to BW. However, at this time I do not have anything lined up which means the stress level in my life right now... yeah, all time high (let's not forget last week's fun car accident). So, I am working with as many recruiters as I can keep track of, or maybe a few more than that, to try and find a job in South Carolina. Please keep this in your prayers. I do have a possible opening that I am considering in Wilmington NC. It's not that much closer, but I guess an hour off the drive is something.

Hopefully this week will not only bring fun birthday things to look forward to =) But also, a birthday wish granted... a job in South Carolina!!

NO PARKING

So, I have decided that NC drivers are pretty much the worst out there... I will take Cali drivers any day! Tonight on my way to work I was in an accident =( Poor Jessie. Everyone on the freeway was hitting their brakes (for reasons still unknown to me) and so I did as well... however the lady in front of me decided that since others were braking she should completely STOP in the middle of the lane on the freeway, even though those cars in front of her were moving again!!! So, yes, I hit her. So mad. So after the initial shock wave passed (there were more to come within the next hour, don't worry) we started talking and decided to just exchange information because there was no damage to her car -- mine does have a broken front bumper-part =( And during this exchange she told me "I saw you coming" So, are you telling me that you came to a complete stop ON THE FREEWAY for no reason and remained that way, even though those in front of you were moving, because you "saw me coming" and thought this would be a fun activity for me on my way to work???!!! thanks.
So, on to work I went... and the pain started. =( Boo for whiplash. I spent a couple hours in the ER to receive a script for Vicoden (thanks nice ER doc!) and a work excuse for tonight so I am at home enjoying the effects of the Vicoden (again, thanks doc!!) and filling out on-line insurance claims reports just in case she calls her insurance... oh yeah because her other comment to me was "I feel fine now, but you never know how my neck might feel in a day or two..." Oh, so we are going to play that game, are we now? I can tell you that it is going to be sore!! My head hurt within the 30min it took me to finish getting to work. Well, since she declined calling the police or medical professionals I feel she declined her right to try and cause trouble in a few days when she thinks her neck hurts... at least I made it to the ER an hour after the accident (only because my docs and nurses made me go).
AARRRGGGH. I am not happy about tonight =( as if I needed to leave work early and upset that oh-so-nice manager who already has a problem with me (still unknown to me). Fabulous.

VOTE!

Today is the day to let your voice be heard. Take the time and vote for who our next leader will be. Be grateful for the opportunity we have as Americans to be active in the choice of our leaders. Get out and VOTE.

Today

Happy Birthday Momma...

I love you.

I miss you.

High Stress Week

So, this is an election full of firsts -- not only for our country but for me as well. This is really the first election I can say I have actually paid full attention to and cared about... because of how it will directly effect my life via BW's military status. Basically the new president will be his BOSS! So, needless to say, I have had lots of high stress related to everything leading up to this upcoming Tuesday... I am ready for the results and to get started with this new president's leadership. The anxiety that I have felt related to this election has really blown me away... but, what more can I do but VOTE (which I have already sent my absentee ballot in!!) and PRAY... and wait (that's the worst part!)

Now, with this being Nov 2 I am now in the last few weeks (4) of my contract at my current hospital which means I need to be finding a new job! I will not be staying where I am for different reason, the biggest being a 5hr drive to BW, but other important reasons as well... so, I would love to get a job lined up this week... although, so far I have not heard of any openings in the South East at all for travel NICU nurses... come on guys!!! I know you need holiday help!!! You want ME =) so, join me this week in praying for a job... specifially in Savannah =)


Also, just because that is not enough stress for this week, tomorrow (Mon) would be mom's birthday. Obviously not an easy day anymore... love you momma!

Happy Halloween!

Nothing too exciting planned for tonight... probably dress up (because that is one of BW's favorite things to do) and go out with some friends. I am still enjoying being on a vacation... spent last week in Ohio with the fam and had a blast! Got to spend lots of quality time with my nephew and my other favorite boy as well as with my sister (in-law) and dad. I met dad's new "friend" and she is very nice, I am very happy for him. Went to campus to tailgate for the unfortunate OSU game last weekend, but had fun with my friends anyway.
This week I am still on vacation... for whatever reason I was given this week off work. So, when I got back to NC from Ohio I headed down to SC to spend some time with BW. We are both really excited to have a week to spend together as opposed to the quick weekends we have been used to. The weather is gorgeous down here and I am LOVING it!! I have had the windows in the house open every day to let the fantastic fall breeze in... taking Layla on fun long walks around the lake and just enjoying being here. Although, I have decided that I will never be a good stay-at-home wife! I am WAAAYYY too bored. So, as crazy as it is I am looking forward to going back to work just to feel that I am accomplishing something.
But, speaking of work... its a mess right now and so I am ready for this contract to be OVER. My manager has decided she does not like me and so is treating me unfairly, which sucks. Being that I have never dealt with a situation like this before I am stressed by it, obviously. Especially because I don't know the problem. So, I am ready for the end of Nov just to be done with this situation and contract... although that poses a problem in itself... where will I be working come Dec 1?!?!?! As of now I don't know. I REALLY want to move to SC / GA and work in Savannah so that I will be close to BW and not making 5hr drives anymore. So, please keep that in your prayers... that there will be an opening and it will work out for me to work there!
Hope y'all have a great Halloween, be safe. And I look forward to all the fun pictures that the night will bring =)

I'm Sick

Boo... allergies combined with weather changes combined with flu-shot combined with too little sleep equals sick Jessie =(
I am currently in a happily self-medicated state and so am doing okay. I really don' t feel as bad as I sound, which is usually the case with me. All of the above factors combined with asthma means that whatever little cold I may get goes straight to my chest. At least its something I am used to and know how to treat... lots of water and rest along with over-the-counter meds.
This is one of those "little times" in life that I miss my mom though. I just want to call and hear her tell me to take care of myself and get lots of rest and drink lots of fluids... all the things I know, but its always nice to have mom tell you. Love you momma...
At least I have a couple days off work, so Layla and I are resting and enjoying some time in SC with BW... the weather is beautiful here!! I love that it can be fall and still be in the high 80s during the day =)

Long Time

I just realized it has been a long time since I blogged about anything that has been going on... that would be because I have been too busy to sit down and do so!
Last weekend I went down to BW's for a base-sponsored chili cook-off. It was lots of fun... Basically all of the different squadrons on the base set up a tent in the common lawn area of the base housing and decide on a "theme" for their tent/squadron for the night. Of course BW and his boys decided they needed to dress up in 80s outfits, it seems to be their favorite thing to do! However they did not decorate the tent area at all, but we did have some great music playing and there was a car set-up in front of our tent for people to hit with a sledge hammer... apparently those Marines, and a couple of the guys in BW's squadron have lots of built up aggression they took out on that car!! Some of the other squadrons were really creative and that made the night a lot of fun. Each squadron was supposed to have chili for the judges to sample as well, so there was plenty of chili to eat =) It was also great to be at an event with the whole base because we were able to see some old friends who are stationed there but because they are all Marines and BW is Navy we don't see them often, and some I didn't even know where there! So, it was great to see them all. Overall another great weekend spent with my beau =)
As for the week.... I worked ALL week! Our census has been crazy high and so they actually let me work overtime. This is a big deal because usually there is no overtime what-so-ever allowed for travelers, so it will be nice to see that little bit of extra $$ next week in my paycheck.. but man it made for a long week! I am only used to working 3 nights ya know =) That fourth is a big deal!
The next few weekends are going to get busy again, but I am looking forward to it all. Will be back in Ohio for some days in a couple weeks so I am looking forward to that. Hope to catch up with a couple Cali friends the next couple weeks as long as all the timing and such works out. And of course spending time with BW =)

My Day Off...

After going all weekend I look forward to the one day I have off before going back to my three nights of work. I enjoy the relaxing that I can do during that one day, and on Sunday night as well. However, this week did not work out that way!!! Went out for a favorite sushi dinner on Sunday evening with my best friend Alix and we had a great time, tried new rolls and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Until it was time to pay the bill... We go halvsies on it and both hand our cards to our server (who I know by the way) and shortly there after my card is returned without a receipt but with a funny look from our server, so I say "thanks" but unfortunately his response is "No bueno" My card didn't work?! Try it again, I say; already did 3 times he tells me, no bueno. Utter confusion comes over me and I quickly call my bank to find out what is going on... during the next 30 minutes I am informed that my account is SEVERELY overdrawn and there are charges pending that I did NOT make!! I call the freud department and am informed that my card number -- because I still have the actual card! -- has been used for freudulent activity and I am a victim of identity theft. Also, turns out my bank is not open 24/7 for customer service calls so I have to wait until Monday morning to deal with all this!
Monday, my day off, was spent on the phone with the bank (who was completely unhelpful), with the company my card had been attempted to be used at and the local police department filling charges. Whew! And to add insult to injury, it was a beautiful day outside, sun shining and 80 degrees here in NC, I should have been at the pool!!! (I did eventually make it to the pool for a few much needed relaxing hours!) What a frustrating day!!!
Today, things are looking up though... the charges against my account have been removed, so my account seems to be back to normal and sometime this week I should receive my new card and will be able to then get back to my "normal" life!
I really hope whoever caused this un-needed stress in my life does get caught and is sent to jail.

Another Weekend of Fun

As the past many have been, this was another weekend packed full of fun! But, unlike the past many, this one was spent in North Carolina!!! Meaning, I did not have to pack a suitcase and travel... but BW did. Such is life while we still live 5hrs apart... Oh well, it was a great weekend!

Friday night BW came up and met up with myself, Alix and our friend Mike and the 4 of us headed to the OAR concert. It was super fun, a concert that BW and I have been wanting to go to forever so it was great to get to see this band. The weather was questionable, but turned out fantastic... no rain and it was surprisingly warm all night! Ali, BW and I bought matching t-shirts, because we needed more concert t-shirts!! But, of course the three of us needed the same one! =) We all enjoyed the concert and sang along to the couple songs we knew. After the show Alix, BW and I headed back to her house to join Drew and the 4 of us stayed up playing games and getting silly. It was a super fun night... =)

Saturday BW and I headed to Winston-Salem NC for a football game... I had bought tickets for us to go to the Navy v Wake Forest football game. Our seats were AMAZING! We sat behind the Navy team, on the 30-yard line in the 3rd row! Yes, I am that good =) And the game was great!!!! Navy came out strong and had a 17-0 lead at the half. Second half was a little shaky, Wake was playing hard, but Navy held them and won 24-17. We had a blast and the weather held out for us again. It rained hard before the game, everything was wet, and it was really cloudy during the game... we had some spinkles but the rain held off until our drive home and the temperature was perfect! We had so much fun!!!

GO NAVY!

Saturday night we met up with one of my friends from work and went out in Chapel Hill. It was a great ending to a wonderful day. We all had a lot of fun hanging out.

Sunday has been great... we slept in and just relaxed together watching a movie on TV, playing with Layla and playing in the pool a little enjoying the gorgeous NC weather. I couldn't imagine spending the day any other way... its Sunday evening now and BW has left for the 5hr drive back home and I am left to do my own thing. I hate to see the weekends end, and more-so hate to see him leave =( But, we will work our work weeks and maybe get to see each other again next weekend for more fun memories =) I am so thankful for the past many weekends and all the fun we have been able to spend together!

Another Busy Weekend

As the past few have been, the past weekend was packed full of things to do. We drove up to VA Beach to set up a booth for BW's squadron at the 50th NAS Oceana Airshow. Luckily we were able to stay with my good friend Cara which also means that Layla was able to come along and spend some fun time playing with Shiner, which she absolutely loved!!

Friday night BW and I met up with some of his friends he/we have not seen in a really long time and hung out for a few hours. It was a lot of fun and always great to see those guys again.

Then, the rest of the weekend was spent in the VFA 86 tent selling t-shirts, DVDs, patches... to all the airshow fans. It was fun to see so many people impressed by what BW does. I mean, I have always been very proud of him and what he does for our country, but to actually see so many others wanting to support his squadron and purchase their stuff surprised me. So, we spent 11+ hours on Saturday and another 8+ hours on Sunday in the tent listening to the Jets fly around and make lots of noise. BW and I both ducked and scanned the skies everytime they flew over trying to catch another glimpse... and then smile at each other because we knew we were both enjoying the fun!

As you can imagine the weekend was exhausting! But, we had a good time together.. be it frustrating at times since we both know the best way to do things =) And we were able to raise a good amount of money for his squadron so our time at the airshow was a success!

Now it's back to work for 3 more nights and then we will see what the upcoming weekend will hold...

Go, Go, Go... Finally time to rest!

I don't even know where to start, the past few weeks have been the busiest I have had in a very long time... but they have been so much fun too! =) So, let's see... where to start.

After the StrikeFighter Ball we came back and I went back to work for my three days and then I went down to South Carolina to spend Labor Day with BW. We spent lots of time working on getting things taken care of at his house and getting it all put together... Well, I spent a lot of time watching college football and enjoying the pool while the house was getting taken care of =) Then we spent some time on the beach playing in the ocean... so much fun! Then went down to Savannah to have oysters at our favorite place. Overall the weekend was a blast.

Again, I came home and worked my next three nights and unpacked my suitcase and repacked it for the next weekend. The next trip was to Ohio to spend some time with my family and friends. Spent Saturday at The Horseshoe rooting on my team O-H-I-O! And the rest of the weekend was spent playing wtih my sweet nephew and spending time with some family I don't see often enough. It was really nice and relaxing and I miss that sweet boy so much already...

Flew back to NC and went to work that night and the next two... unpacked, repacked and headed back to the airport!! This time I flew up to Rhode Island for a wedding for one of the boys BW went to the Academy with. Very exciting since I had never been to RI and the wedding was in Newport which I have heard all good things about. However, exhausted is not even the right word to explain how I felt when I arrived. But, off we went to the Rehearsal Dinner on a dinner crusie ship and then out in Newport for the night. It was super fun. Saturday was beautiful for the wedding and the reception was a lot of fun as well. Now, the trip home on Sunday.... well, the drive from Rhode Island to North Carolina with a stop in VA Beach is a RREEAALLY long one!!!! But, BW and one of the other guys drove the whole trip to VA Beach (12hrs) so I was just relaxing and napping in the backseat... with the luggage and wedding gifts! Not so much room, but what can ya do. So, the final hours of the drive, VA Beach to NC, I drove just a little and we arrived home around 230am! What a long day!!

Today, I have enjoyed some time at the pool with one of my friends I haven't seen in a long time here and lots of time just relaxing on the couch! Something I haven't done since.... I don't even know when! I have some errands to run and some laundry to do and house cleaning to do... and I am trying to psych myself up for those things, but right now Layla and I are enjoying just doing nothing! It has been exhausting for her too... she has been making new friends with Ang and this weekend went to "camp" and had lots of fun. But, I think she is happy to have mom back home and not working.

O-H-I-O!!

It's my FAVORITE time of the year... College Football Season!! Who-hoo =) Started the season out by watching the game between NC State and SC on Thursday night, not that I cared about either team, but its college football so it was fun!! Today, the first Saturday of the season and I have been looking forward to watching my Ohio State Buckeyes play all week! Spending the day watching the game, only would be better if I was in Columbus for it! But, maybe I will make a game this season... until then, LET'S GO BUCKS!!!

Weekend full of fun!

To say our weekend was fun would be an understatement! We had the best time ever and it is soo great that we were able to spend it with friends that we have not spent time with in a long time. Especially those guys who are preparing to leave for deployment in a few weeks.

We started the weekend at our friends Cara and Patrick's for the "All the Holidays the Boys will miss while on Deployment Party" Wow! So much fun... who doesn't enjoy dressing up and wearing silly costumes??

BW and I were not very creative, so we just wore our halloween costumes. He loves that crazy 80s wig and wears it any chance he gets!

Cara (the leprechaun), Michelle (every holiday), Me (halloween costume) and Krista (Mardi Gras)

The next morning the Durnin's house (which is super cute, by the way!) was wrecked and it appeared a costume store exploded in the backyard!! We decided that that means the party was a success =)

Saturday night was the Strikefighter Ball at a hotel on the water in Norfolk. It was a big reunion for all of our friends who are in the "Jet community" now. I loved walking around and seeing people I have not seen in so long. Crazy times ensued and we had the best time ever!

Love that guy in uniform!!

My beautiful girls!

Our fabulous foursome! We miss you guys!!

So, the weekend was a success and I could not have asked for anything more. We had so much fun with each other as well as with all of our friends.

Back to work now and this week has brought some exciting news, but that will have to wait until things are known for sure... But I am definitely on edge waiting to hear for sure on it and am really excted about the possibilities. Hope your weekend was as great as mine!

It's the Weekend!!!

I am soo happy it is Friday... not only is the work week over and I now have 3 days off, but it means it is time for some serious fun, and I get to see BW again! This weekend is the Strikefighter Ball up in Norfolk VA with all the Navy Jet Pilots... Navy Balls are so much fun I cannot wait!! BW and I are heading up tonight because our friends Cara and Patrick are planng a fun party for the boys in his sqaudron before they deploy -- all the holidays they are going to miss costume party -- and I can't wait to see them and everyone else! Then tomorrow night is the Ball and BW tells me it is going to be huge, so I am assuming there will be friends there we haven't seen in a long time and I am very excited to get to see them as well as the ones we have seen recently. This will be a super fun-filled busy weekend and it is going to be a blast!!!! I am so excited...

Plus, I heard yesterday that my extension was approved so I no longer have to worry about my job situation and turning up unemployed and homeless =) I am at ease about staying at UNC and that makes me very happy and stress-free.

Stand by for pictures from our crazy fun weekend!

Another 13 wks...

So my search for a job in South Carolina or Georgia has resulted in nothing. Apparently travel NICU nurses are not being used in that area, or there are just no openings at this time. So, needless to say this has brought GREAT stress to my life... however, as of last night I spoke with my manager at UNC and have requested to stay at UNC for another contract. Even though I was hoping to be closer to BW, at least I am someplace where I am comfortable, have friends, like the hospital / staff and know the drive to BW's is only 4.5 -5 hours... do-able for the weekends. SO, that's the decision... remaining in NC until the end of November; granted nothing is set in stone as of yet, but its about 98% for sure.. as a bonus found out today from my recruiter that I will be getting a small raise in staying so that is always nice!! I am happy to have the decision taken care of, a little disappointed that I will not be at my ideal location, closer to BW, however I am not really upset about the decision to stay. Like I said, I do enjoy wear I am and am happy with the unit I am working in. So, thanks to those of you for the support and prayers during this time!!! And, those of you who have been around, thanks for putting up with the stressed-out Jessie =) during this time!!

1,000 Words

Absolutely my new favorite picture...

Employment Worries...

Well, it's "that time" again... well, actually it's a little past the time. My contract at UNC is ending in 3 weeks!!! I am ready to move on and work someplace new, make some more new friends and experience a new place. However, there seem to be no NICU openings in the South East at this time. I have decided on where I want to go, which is the biggest decision, I am just now waiting for something to open up in the area. I am currently hoping to have my next move be either Savannah GA or Charleston SC, or someplace in those areas... closer to Bluffton / Beaufort SC.
As I have done many other times when I want to be someplace specific, I have applied with a new travel company which means a new recruiter who is "in charge" of my life, so to speak. He is the one who finds a job opening for me, and if there are no openings then he is the one who works with the hospitals in the area(s) I am interested in to try and encourage them to consider me. Even though I start working with a new recruiter, I always work with the same recruiter I have been with for the past 4yrs as well as other recruiters I have talked with and worked with previously. So, while trying someone new I still have the rapport built with MY recruiter and am able to trust what she can do for me and know that she knows me and will place me someplace I will enjoy... Well, last week my recruiter (the one I have been with for 4yrs) called and left me a message to tell me she "had some news" so of course I called her back right away, thinking maybe the "news" was a job opening in one of my choice places... Turns out, her "news" was that the next day was her LAST DAY!!! Talk about stress... Now, the recruiter I have worked with for so long and who knows me and I have faith in to take care of me is gone, before I have my next assignment! And, the rapport I was starting to build with the new guy was shook the same day when he thought he could place me in any OB unit in the hospital, not necessarily the NICU -- NO! I only work NICU!! So, it has been a stressful week when I think about my employment situation at this time. However, if there is one thing I have learned it is that the jobs come open and fill quickly in the travel nursing field, and I still have 3 weeks so that is plenty of time... at least that is what I keep trying to remind myself. Plus, I know that GOD will take care of me and will open the doors that are right for me and all I can do is trust in HIM. HE has never let me down yet. So, if you think of it, keep me and my next assignment in your thoughts and prayers. I will definitely keep you updated on what happens!

Oh yeah, my recruiter from the past 4yrs did set me up with another recruiter at the company who she says is really great and one of her best friends so I am sure I will enjoy working with her. But, it's just a little uneasy to be working with all new people and not someone I have a relationship built with. I am sure either of the two recruiters I am working with will be able to find me something great and take care of me.

Year and a half later

It's been a year and a half today that I lost my mom. It still baffles me to think that I don't have my mom around anymore for the mother-daughter things a girl needs and wants. Honestly, I still have to conciously think and remind myself that I can't just call my mom and talk to her or tell her about my day or weekend or just hear her say my name and that she loves me. Will that ever change? Really, I would have to say I hope not because that would mean that I was used to her being gone and I Never want to get used to her not being here. My mom was amazing and it makes me sad to think that some of the most important people in my life never had the chance to meet her, or those who did didn't really have the chance to spend much time getting to know her. She never met my dog either... sometimes its the little things in life...
Guess I just miss her more when I realize how long its been since I was able to hear her voice and have a conversation with her and have her tell me she loves me. It does blow my mind that it has been a year and a half... wow. Think of you daily, momma, and I miss you and I love you.

Relay for Life Update

I received an email last night to inform me that I exceeded my fundraising goal for the Relay for Life walk I participated in a while back!! I had set my goal at $500... THANK YOU ALL for your support in this! You are amazing. More than the monetary donations, I also want to thank you for your support in me as I participated in this event. It is something I will definitely do again and look forward to participating in again.

Thanks Again!!!!


PS you can still donate if you didn't and would like to =) visit my personal page

Time for a Slow-down

It has been a month since my last post, not that I haven't attempted to write in the meantime (there are 4 drafts from these past few weeks unfinsihed!) but I feel I have been running in 32 different directions and haven't found the time to write. The past month has been amazing though, I will say. Even better than I may have expected. Where to begin....

June 14 was Alix and Drew's wedding. The long-awaited event I moved to the east coast for. The week leading up to the wedding was packed full of last minute activities as I am sure you can imagine, only it must be said that Alix decided to do everything herself for the wedding! Amazing. She made the invitations, RSVP cards, the programs, the centerpieces for the tables and we even made the bouquets ourselves!

She is incredibly creative and I am in awe at what she was able to do; however, have fully decided that I will GLADLY pay someone else do it all of this when My Day ever comes around. Too much stress for me. But, it all went off perfectly and everything turned out amazing... including the outside wedding during the thunderstorm!! But, Alix and I laughed through the thunder and she was able to thoroughly enjoy her day, the only thing I could have asked for as her best friend and maid of honor.

A great part of the wedding weekend for me was that Brian was able to come up and attend and we were able to spend some quality time together during the festivities and once things quieted down. It was great to talk and laugh and just be around him again.

The next weekend I went down to South Carolina to attend a formal function with Brian and his squadron. I was very excited to be invited and looked forward to the entire weekend all week leading up to it. The dinner was in Savannah GA so we were able to spend some time walking around the riverfront and seeing the sights there (and eating raw oysters!!! yum yum yum), what a fun city. We had another great weekend and again, I was very thankful for the time I was able to spend with him. It's amazing what you realize you have missed once it is brought back into your life...

I went back to work and prepared for the visit from my closest girl friend in San Diego, Alicia!! We were SO excited to be together and hanging out again. Even though I had just seen her and spent the entire week wtih her when I visited San Diego it seemed it had been forever and I could not wait to have her here. We had a great visit... days spent in the pool, evenings leading into nights spent out making memories... "San Diego, SuperChargers!!" hahaha I love that girl, and could not ask for a better friend. It was a visit we both needed, time together to talk openly and honestly and reflect on each of our lives and what was going on in them. There is not another friend I have that I know I can say absolutely anything to without judgement and hear the most honest answer without hurt. I thank God for this girl, daily. I have been very blessed.

When Alicia left I was still on vacation =) After working for almost 4 months straight a girl needs a week off! haha Plus it was the week of July 4th which is my favorite summer holiday! From experience I have learned that if I work July 4th I am extremely sad and depressed, even the holiday pay doesn't help, I need to be outside enjoying the sun and the cookouts and the fireworks!!! Brian came up and we headed north to Norfolk VA to spend a couple days with the friends up there, and some who were coming into town just for the weekend. It was worth the drive and a lot of fun! Thursday night we were able to see some old friends, one of his best friends who I have incredible respect for because who he is and what he does. It was great to see the boys together again, and it was fun to see him myself too. Friday was the best day... we spent the entire day on a boat anchored off the beach! We all know there is nothing I love more than being in the sun, and especially on a boat!!! It was fantastic. And, the fireworks that night... phenomenal. On the beach, all the people bring their own fireworks, there is not a professional show per say, and they set them off up and down the beach. Now, these are not just small bottle rockets and things of that nature, these are legit fireworks and the "show" went on for about an hour or more! Not to mention the "natural fireworks" that had started, also known as lightening. Now, we had heard the storm cell was going to pass north of us and we had nothing to worry about, ok... then it started raining. So, we gathered everything up and prepared to start the boat and head home... then we found out that the iPod which had been providing wonderful entertainment all day had also drained every drop of life from our battery. The boat wouldn't start, but the storm sure did! So, the 11 of us were inside the boat waiting out the storm and waiting for help to arrive... for about 4 hours. What an entertaining time to say the least... once the storm subsided and the fears calmed. Regardless, it was a great day and we got home safely and I would do it all again!

So, now my vacation is over. I think my schedule has calmed, at least for the next week or maybe even two! I am back to work... and starting to think of where my next adventure will be. My contract here ends the end of August so it is time to start thinking about the next move. Things at this hospital are not bad by any means, but not great enough to keep me here. I am ready to move on and find someplace new... and of course I must keep in mind that winter is just around the corner so I must move someplace warm! I have time, I will figure it all out.... I always do!

I must say, amidst all of the fun and excitement my life has been the past month not a day has passed that I have not wished I could call and share all of it with my mom. The wedding was especially difficuly, in hindsight, realizing that I will never share that day with my mom like Alix had the blessing of doing with her's. There were some hard times related to an immature and awful person that I really needed my mom around for shortly after the wedding. My mom never knew about Alicia or the amazing friend she has been to me. I haven't had her to talk to the past 5 1/2 months about relationship things a girl needs her mom for. But, I know she is watching over me. I know she loves(d) me. And I know she is proud of who I am, mostly because I am so much like her! haha I love you, momma, and I miss you dearly each day.

Whew!

Wow! I can't believe how fast this week seems to have gone by. Last Friday night I participated in my first Relay for Life in memory of my Mom and Aunt Chris, who both died of cancer, and in honor of my Grandma Mary, who is a cancer survivor. It was something I was looking forward to, but I had no idea the effect it would have on me. Quick explanation of what the Relay for Life is, for those of you who may not really know (I didn't). It's an event sponsored by the American Cancer Society in which survivors, caregivers and anyone touched by cancer can raise money and come walk during the time. This event was Friday night, it started at 6pm and lasted until 11am Saturday morning. I found out about the event about a month before-hand and decided that it was something I really wanted to be a part of, and I am so glad I did. I was able to raise over $350 for cancer research in the time before the event just by sending out emails (thanks! by the way, and you can still donate if you would like by going to my personal page. ). Typically those involved in the event are part of a team in which they take turns walking throughout the event and are sponsored by a company in the area. Since I got involved late I did not build a team in and/or get corporate sponsorship or join a team of people I didn't know, so I signed up to just be a participant myself. I had spoken with a couple people out here to have them come walk with me, but when Friday rolled around it was only me who was heading to the stadium for the walk. I knew there would be some emotional times during the event, basically I expected it to be during the Luminaria Ceremony which is where names of those lost to cancer as well as cancer survivors are placed on bags and candles are lit in them in memory/honor of their lives. Also during this time there were bags placed in the grandstands spelling out the word "HOPE" As the sun went down we are started lighting the candles so that each bag would be lit when the ceremony started. However, what I did not expect when arriving at the event that evening was the overwhelming emotion that came with just being there or with seeing the survivors walk around the track or maybe it was walking as a caregiver... I cannot say what it was, but it was something unexpected. I missed my mom. I was overwhelmed, I was alone and I really wanted to leave, but I knew that I was there for a great reason and for that I would stay and walk and she would be proud. So, I walked. I set "goals" for myself for how long I would stay and walk and when I left I realized I had been walking around this football field for 8 hours! I know momma would have been proud of me; I wish she could have been there with me.

Saturday was an exciting day! Dad, Shawn, Jen and Cody all came to visit me!! A weekend I have been looking forward to and a weekend I knew would be crazy... never realized how overstimulating it might be though =) Imagine, dad, Shawn, Jen, Cody (my 3yr old nephew), myself and my dog (boxer-ridgeback, 54lb mix!) all in my ONE-bedroom apartment for the weekend!!! Holy Madness to say the least! But, it was so much fun and I am so glad they came down! We played at the pool on Saturday and then just ran around Durham a little that evening.

Then Sunday we took Cody to the Tweetsie Railroad Park in Blowing Rock NC (about 3hr drive from my house) where they were having a special event "A Day Out with Thomas the Train"

He had a blast!! It was a very fun day for all of us -- don't they look excited??

The next day we walked around Chapel Hill and Jen was in UNC Heaven, buying everything she could find in Carolina Blue =) and then they left... it was such a fun weekend, sad in it's own way as well being that everyone was together except mom, but it was great to have them all here!

I have now been back to work and am off this weekend as well. This weekend is going to be my relaxing time. I am looking forward to a laid back weekend at home, it's been a long time since I have had that! As much as I love always having something to do or someone at my house... I am looking forward to it just being me (& Layla of course) and having some time to relax and just do nothing. Next weekend is the wedding.... hopefully Alix will join me this weekend in the relaxing as well! I am very excited for her weekend and am looking forward to it... my girl is getting married!!!

May Memories

The month of May is filled with many memories for me, some happy some really sad... this year, it has seemed that there have been more sad ones than happy. But, even the sad ones elicit happy memories as well.
May 6th... Nurses Day (go me! haha) but also the day my Grandpa Charlie died unexpectedly 2 years ago. He went to sleep on Friday night and never woke up, no warning, but GOD knew that was the best way for him to have to go. I remember the sadness that my mom dealt with in losing her daddy. I remember going fishing with Grandpa, I remember all of us cousins getting together and causing all sorts of a ruckus just to get him worked up some... I remember him always involved in our lives.
May 18th... my parent's wedding anniversary, it would have been 34 years this year! I could not have asked for two more loving parents who showed me a successful, loving marriage. Don't get me wrong, those two had their issues just like anyone else! But, underneath all of that I always knew how much they loved each other and that they supported each other, and always would. The bond that I saw when my mom was sick was amazing to me, and I will always look up to my parents for the amazing marriage they had and can only hope and pray that one day mine will follow in their image.
May 22nd... today. 9 years ago today I learned what it is like to lose a friend. Nine years ago... it seems so much more recent! Lora Hernandez and Lisa Roberts were killed in a car accident in the early hours of that morning. They had been out with other of our college friends, off to see a movie and were heading to get something to eat. I had been out with all of them the very night before but decided to go home to my parents' that day... I will not forget getting the phone call early that morning "...there's been an accident... Lora is in ICU at Grant..." Up and out of my house to spend the day in the ICU waiting room with college friends and then Lora's mom waiting for her daddy to arrive. Two young lives lost, so many other lives touched by them. Those two girls were amazing girls... beautiful girls, extraordinary personalities and amazing examples of Christ's love, both terribly missed by SO many! http://www.lorabeth.com/

Of course there are other days in May that have other memories... friend's birthdays, friend's deployment dates, fun activities... but those three I mentioned are the ones that stick out the most. They are the ones that never pass without me remembering what they each mean... they don't pass without me missing my Grandpa, my mom or my friends.

Feels Like HOME!!

My vacation is over... Spring Break has come to an end and now I am back to work. I have only been back for 24 hours and I am already going crazy wanting to be in San Diego with all my friends out there. It's home. That is what I figured out this past week while I was there. Kinda scary for me to admit!! But, the people I spent the past week with mean more to me than I can express and have been with me through some really tough times. The friendships that have been built are the ones that will last a lifetime and the ones that I cannot live without.

It was the most amazing week ever.... so many fun times spent catching up with friends. Getting to know other friends better... and just being together. I didn't want to leave.. big surprise. And I cannot wait to get back out there!

Probably not a big realization that San Diego is "home" to me, but when I was asked by my friends when I was "coming home" I realized, it just seemed right. Who knows... my contract here is through the end of August, 4 more months... but, I would not be surprised if there is a cross-country trip and San Diego address in the future this year!

It's Official!

I received the official word this afternoon... my extension (and vacations!) has been approved by the manager at UNC. So, I am sticking around until August.

It's good to know this decision is made and so I don't have to worry or think about it... Plus, work is getting busier, which is great because it means I could pick up an extra day or two here and there... extra money is always good! So, hopefully we will stay busy so I can get some overtime soon.

Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers and encouragement during this time! Appreciate you all greatly =)

Decision Made

Well, I have decided... I will be staying at UNC for another three-month assignment. I am happy about the decision and am looking forward to the next three months here in NC... the weather is warming up and there are lots of fun activities outside to be involved in.

The next few months are already packed with fun activities... the fist (and most exciting) being my upcoming vacation to San Diego!! Can't wait to get back out there for a week and see all my girls. We are going to have so much fun and I am so very excited.


A few weeks after I am back from San Diego I will be headed to the beach for Alix's Bachelorette Weekend. It will be a very nice and relaxing weekend on the beach with some girls I haven't seen in a long time and should be really fun as well!



The next weekend my nephew and family will be coming down for a visit. I cannot wait to spend time with him and see my sister-in-law. It will be great to have them here. We are going to see Thomas the Train and I Know he will absolutely LOVE every minute of it... earning some Best Aunt Ever Points! haha

Then there are some tentative plans for visits to and from other friends as well, and by all means, let me know if/when you wanna come! I love having company and am soo excited to see some great friends during the summer!

So, overall I am excited about the next few months, and I am happy about the decision to stay where I am and continue working at UNC and to continue building friendships I have started here as well.