Loser Saturday

This low key day was spent with my mom, dogs, and briefly with my boyfriend and a friend. Mom and I spent some time outside today. I helped her finish laying mulch in the yard so she didn't have to do it on her own. I know, I know. Worlds Best Daughter award goes to me. Not really. It was the least I could do for her. She is feeling much better and is absolutely thrilled to be eating normal food. She told me that about a hundred times today. Afterwards, she treated me to a delicious burger. Just what I was craving. Later this evening Ben and a friend came over for some cinnamon roll waffles. They sure were yummy. Can't forget the fresh strawberries though. They soon left and I was alone for the night. My riveting Saturday night included watching some more Breaking Bad, doing dishes, and drinking an ice cold water (because I have given up soda again). I know, I could have at least treated myself to a smirnoff ice, but I wasn't in the mood to feel like an alcoholic drinking alone. Also, because I'm not feeling the greatest. Just feeling blah. Couch city called my name hard, and I answered tonight. Tomorrow will be different though. Gotta go pick up a mother's day gift for my wonderful mother. Something I know she will love. I'd tell you, but I don't know if she reads these or not! Guess you will just have to wait and see along with her what I get!

Back to Normal

Back to the normal type of posts, which means back to 8 total views! Last night's post was my most viewed post thus far on this journey. That is a wonderful thing. I'm glad so many people read it and know how I feel about my significant other. 

Today, I'm feeling like I poured every last drop out last night and am feeling a little empty. I feel as though I give my all to the people around me and don't get the same that I put out. Maybe it's just me having a pity party right now. I know there are so many people that love me for me, and they do so much to show they care. Just one of those days I guess. 

Mom and I had a great day together, just hanging out and laughing at random shit. She is starting to feel better each day and is finally eating real food again (which she is ecstatic about!). I watched Bridget Jones' Diary while mom watched her afternoon programs. I had never seen the movie all the way through, and let me tell you- I am totally Bridget. When she is singing along to Celine Dion, in her pajamas, while drinking wine, I couldn't help but feel a connection on a deep level. Because who HASN'T done that? I also did some chores around the house, as well as outside, to help my mom out. I know she greatly appreciates it while she continues to heal. After chores were done, I started a new show- Breaking Bad. I am only on episode 2, but I think it's safe to say that I am going to like it. It's dark yet humorous, and I love that kind of stuff. But I need to get some sleep, even though I want to keep watching. The best part about being at mom's is that I don't just have one doggie to cuddle with, I have two!!! Yay!!! My heart is happy!! 

Not A Typical Post

So, this isn't going to be one of my normal posts. I had a lot of time to myself today which allowed me to nap, as well as time to think and reflect on some things. This post is about my boyfriend. He will probably be mad at me for posting this because he is a pretty private guy, but I'm willing to take that chance. He has been pretty busy lately with homework as the semester is coming to a close. Lots of homework means not a lot of us time, which can make me sad. But then I think about how hard he is working to better himself and make a life for, not only himself, but for us. It quickly makes the sadness dissipate, and proudness fills my heart. He is such an incredibly hard worker and dedicated to doing well. I'm so proud of him for making the decision to go back to school and working his ass off. I may not get those extra texts throughout the day, or my weekend off might contain more free time than normal, but I know it's because he is focused on the task at hand. He is making me proud and making me love him even more by striving to do his absolute best. In just a few more weeks, I will have him back to myself, and I won't have to share him with his mistress- school! (How selfish I sound! Guess that's what love does). But seriously, he is an amazing guy and I count my lucky stars that he ended up in my life. He keeps me laughing and there's never a dull moment when he's around. Plus, he makes me try new things, which is a great thing for me, Ms. Routine. Everyday he is in my life is a new adventure. 

Mary From 3 Duuuuuub

Whew, what a night. Work was crazy busy tonight, but working with an AMAZING group of people makes the night so much better. I truly love my coworkers for always finding the laughter in tough situations. 

In other news, my mom is feeling better and has some answers. I'm so happy that it's nothing serious and the doctor is treating her infection promptly. That's one less thing for me to worry about! And I am looking very much forward to my next few days off. A couple things planned, but mostly relaxing with my feet up and my bra off. Hopefully. I just hope nothing else goes haywire in my life. I just need to catch up a bit and do some relaxing before the next life punch comes along!

Leg Day

Short post tonight because I'm tired and my bed is calling. I got up early today and took Easter for a nice long walk before enjoying some much needed me time before work. Work wasn't so bad tonight. Maybe it was because I brought in some yummy brownies to share with my amazing coworkers. I'm very much looking forward to this weekend and am hoping for some relaxation and very little bra time. Maybe enjoy some wine?  But first, I need to get through my "Friday" which is tomorrow.  Also, if people could keep my mom in your thoughts and prayers again it would be greatly appreciated. She hasn't been feeling well since her surgery and went to the doctor today for some tests and scans. I just want answers for her. I hate seeing her so miserable.  Thank you for your extra thoughts and prayers! 

Girl's Day

Today started out with the trip to my mom's house. She hasn't been feeling well for the past few days so I figured I'd make a house call. Of course, being the wonderful daughter and nurse I am I took wonderful care of her. I came home and took a nap- a well-deserved nap. I had some very weird dreams and was startled awake by tapping on the couch. Normally this wouldn't be such a weird thing if I didn't live alone. Kind of creepy. I ended the evening with spending time with a friend, making brownies, and watching Teen Mom 2. The time has come to cuddle in for the night and to snuggle underneath the blankets. Day off well spent.

Sunday Workday

Well, at least the weekend is over. Now I can enjoy my one day off before I head back to work. Did anyone else hear that huge storm this morning? I sure did. I woke up at 6 a.m. to go to the bathroom and noticed my dog was nowhere to be found. I heard the rain and the thunder and realized she was under the bed. That's where she goes to feel safe when there's a storm. I guess sleeping next to me isn't much of a comfort. Work wasn't terrible, it was just different tonight. I didn't have a handy-dandy sidekick to help me out because our census was so low. It was tough to work two jobs instead of my usual one, but I made it through. And now I am in my favorite place which is my bed and I've got my cute princess by my side.

Misery Loves Company

Well, let me just start by saying today was a MUCH better day than yesterday. I had an appointment before work today that I needed to get out of the way before work. I came home to change and then headed to work. Not many patients on the floor makes for a slower night. And slower means a low need for this lady at 7. I joyfully came home, not feeling well actually. I have given up soda and caffeine again and I think my body is feeling it. Along with some stomach issues flaring up. That's never a fun day, but I made it through. Ben even came over after I got home and we were able to have dinner together. Seeing him always makes me feel better..... except for when he walks through a damn spider web and then rubs it on me. GROSS! I think my body is telling me it is time to hit the hay. I've been trying to get to bed a little earlier (even on the nights I work) so that I can get up earlier and be slightly more productive. It's going better than I thought. So to keep up that streak, I will head to bed now! While falling asleep to The Longest Yard. I mean, sweet dreams of Nelly will be had... I mean.... of my boyfriend. Yeah, that's what I meant. 

Shitty Friday

I really don't want to write a post tonight. Today was a shitty day. Hard to write a positive post when you feel so down and out. I had today off and at least I got things done around the house. Easter and I took several long walks, and even went for a drive together to get things off my mind. I am proud of myself for one thing though. Usually, when I get upset or emotional, I eat my feelings. Today, that didn't happen. My will power was strong today. All along the drive I took, I thought about stopping for ice cream here or picking up a pizza there. But I didn't stop. I stayed strong and knew that I did not need any of the junk. I made it home without any stops. My night just got a little better because I just made plans to get together with a good friend later this week!! And that makes me very happy!! I guess I am able to end the evening on a happy note after all! Hmmm. Funny how that works! ;)

Purple Rain

What a day. My heart has certainly gotten a work out today and I'm not sure how I feel about it. On the way to work I was almost in an accident. Some stupid ass hat decided that the lane I was driving in was way cooler than the one he was in, and decided to come on over without looking or putting on his blinker. Apparently, a large red ford escape is easy to miss. Thankfully, there was no one in the turn lane that I swerved into to avoid being hit. My cat like reflexes come in handy sometimes. Work was just as intense as the commute. I greatly appreciate the wonderful coworkers that were working tonight. It was a great team and I'm glad I get to be a part of it. 

Therapeutic Day

My one day off this week was a very relaxing me-day. I had some things I needed to get done around the house, but I also wanted to spend some time outside in the sun before the rain moved in. Easter and I started the day off with our usual morning walk. It was unusually quiet in the neighborhood today. No cars driving around, no people out walking, and no kids around. It was kind of nice! When we got back home, I put Easter on her runner and started to do some outside chores like raking up old grass and putting down some grass seed. Once the business stuff was done, I could move on to the fun stuff!! I planted a beautiful gerber daisy and I also freshened up my several houseplants with some fresh dirt! I got my hands dirty and had such a great time! I have always loved planting flowers! I still plant all of my mom's! I make her wait until I am able to come over and fill all her pots with pretty flowers! I am so looking forward to summer now! It was a lovely day, capped off with a delightful bath! I love these nights where Easter is cuddled beside me as we listen to the rain falling outside. Perfect way to end the night and drift off to sleep. 

Average Tuesday

It was an average day.  I got up, took Easter for a nice long walk, went to work, kept people alive, and came home. I'm thankful for the average day without unpleasant surprises. I definitely needed the low key day, even though I was at work. I'm hoping for the same kind of day tomorrow! 

Long Walks and Happy Thoughts

I'm very tired tonight so this post will probably be on the shorter side. Today was a work day and I went in feeling very happy, positive, and ready for the day. Things got rough in the middle, but I kept the positive attitude and things got better. When I got home, my night got even better because my favorite show was waiting for me. That's right, it's Teen Mom 2 night! And now this tired lady is laying in bed, cuddled up with Easter, and listening to the rain fall while we drift off to dream land. 

Duluth Getaway

Today was the last day up in Duluth, but we certainly made sure to pack the day full of sights! This morning, we made our way to tour the Glensheen Mansion. We decided to take the extended tour so that we could see previously closed off rooms. With this tour, we were able to see the third floor, the attic, and the basement. It was very cool to finally be able to see the WHOLE house! I had been there before, but I had gone when the tours were limited. After the cool tour, we went down to Canal Park to people watch and take in the beautiful sights of lake Superior and the Lift Bridge. After watching the bridge go up, and watching the tourists and their bratty children, we decided to go get lunch. After lunch we just had to stop at Bridgeman's to get some ice cream! It was delicious, by the way! Then it was time to say goodbye to Duluth.... for now. I'll be back in June when Ben and I go up there to enjoy a nice romantic getaway. Yes, romance. I told Ben he needed to be romantic with me once every two and a half years! Any who... Once I got back into town, I HAD to go pick up my little baby Easter! Both her and Elvis were excited to see me, and I was pretty excited to them too! I told mom about my weekend, and then headed home. I didn't get too far because I stopped at Ben's house to see how his weekend was and so that Easter could visit with her other grandma! Shortly after, we made our way home, put our pajamas on, and settled in for the night. Currently, Easter is cuddled up next to me in bed, while I type. And all is as it should be once again. There's no place like home. 

Duluth

What a great day! Today, Jess and I headed up to Duluth for a weekend getaway. We made good time and got up here earlier than we had planned, so we had extra time to fit in a few more stops. It was a busy day taking in the beautiful sites and meeting new friends. I even got to hold an adorable puppy!! Tomorrow's post will be more in depth because this little birdy is one pooped out lady. I'll include a few photos of the gorgeous views we took in today to make you all jealous!

Busy Friday

I was busy today and constantly on the go. Easter and I woke up, and after our long morning walk, we headed to my mom's house. The dogs both had appointments to get their nails did! I got to mom's early (shocker! I know), so we capitalized on the bonus time and I helped her take her lawn mower up to the guy that tunes it up for her every year. When we came home, it was time to get the doggies ready and take them to their nail appointment. Both did well, although Elvis cried the whole time like a little baby. Easter was brave, but slightly wiggly today. Both dogs survived yet again, got their special treats for being good, and happily enjoyed the car ride home. We dropped off the dogs and decided to run to Menards so that mom could get some mulch. I absolutely HATE that store, but obliged to help out my mom. We ran our errand and came home. I hung out with mom and the dogs for a little longer before saying goodbye. Easter is spending the weekend with my mom and Elvis for a little sleepover so it was especially difficult for me to leave. Easter made it even harder when I saw her cute little face in the window as my mom walked me out to my car. She looked so cute, yet so sad. But I know she enjoys spending time at grandma's and grandma always takes great care of her so I feel slightly better. Then I headed home to shower and get ready for girl's movie night. And what a great time we had!! It was so much fun laughing and chatting together! Such a FUN group of friends!! I especially enjoyed the part where we had a drink! And no I am home, in bed, and missing my little girl. She is usually curled up by my side as I write these blog posts, so her absence is most certainly felt in this moment. I am such a dog mom! I'll see her on Sunday and all will be right in the world!

ELVIS!!

EASTER!!

End of Work

Man, what an intense work week. Four hours yesterday, and then a full 8 tonight. TGIF! Am I right? I'm so looking forward to this weekend. It will be filled with friends, laughter, and nothing but good times. Today was pretty average so I can't complain. Work wasn't too bad and there were some pretty cool people working which made the night go by fast. The highlight of my night though was coming home to find that Easter had escaped from her kennel! I must have not put the lock on correctly because I walked in the door, glanced at the couch, and to my surprise Easter was sitting there looking at me. I stood in stunned silence for a moment and then she jumped down from the couch and made her way to me hesitantly. I looked around for signs of naughty Easter and realized there was nothing! The trash was still intact, no pee on the floor, and nothing was chewed! My little Houdini had surprised me in more than one way! Why she is naughty some days and not others is totally beyond me. But man oh man I love that little poop head!! 

Back to Work

I had to go back to the real world of working and being an adult. But it was ok though! I got a low need half way through my shift! Talk about a way to ease back into things! It was surprisingly slow for midweek so why not make it even easier? I called Ben on my way out, picked up dinner for us, and headed home to take a nice walk with Easter so that we could enjoy the wonderful weather. Just as we finished our walk, Ben pulled in to the driveway. Easter thought she was going to get to go for a ride. She was pretty disappointed when I had to pull her into the house. Ben and I were able to eat together and spend a little time together before he goes off on his boy's weekend and I go off on my girl's weekend. I bid him farewell and welcomed Jess. We had to get some planning done for our Duluth getaway! Now, I'm ready for a good night's rest! Just have 1 more shift to get through! Whew. What a tough work week. Don't know how I'll make it through! Oh yeah, the picture tonight is from when Ben wanted to play hairstylist. I think I'll stick to doing my own hair....

Last Day

Today was the final day of my week off, and the day didn't begin in the best way. I slept horribly last night due to some more activity in my living room. I wasn't able to fall asleep until the sun came up. At least it was a lovely sunrise. I finally fell asleep for a while and I remember having odd dreams, but then my alarm harshly woke me from my much desired slumber. I reset it for an hour later, but it seemed as though just as I was drifting off again, my alarm blared my into consciousness once again. I woke up crabby and the feeling was felt most of the day. It came and went in waves, but I tried to turn my frown upside down and get out of the house for a bit. I treated myself to a small shopping trip to my favorite store- Torrid! It was a functional trip though because I needed to get a new bathing suit top for the few girl's weekends coming up where hot tubs will be a must!! To my surprise, Ben came over and asked me to go shopping with him, so how could I say no! He even bought me flowers! Well, I asked if he would buy me some, but he said yes so it still counts!! Bonus because I got to pick them out myself!! Can't go wrong with my favorites- carnations! That definitely helped put a smile on my face! It turned into a good day! And staying positive even though I didn't feel like it made that possible. So if you feel bad, look at my happy flowers.

Bestie Time

Today was a great day! I slept in because I could not fall asleep last night. I tossed and turned and just could not fall asleep. SO it was about 12:30 by the time I finally pulled myself from bed. Easter was more than content to just keep on sleeping and only roused once I asked if she needed to go potty. With a lazy stretch, she decided that it was probably a good idea to get up. She had her breakfast after taking a nice walk in the warming sun. By then, it was after 1 p.m. and I debated about whether or not I should eat. After all, I had plans to meet up with the bestie for an Olive Garden date. I decided I could skip lunch, and have a nice dinner. Boy, was it worth it! Not only was the food delicious, the company was even better!! We had such a great time catching up, that we didn't even believe that we had sat there for 4 hours. The place was dead when we left. I think it's safe to say that we quite enjoying talking with one another. Of course we had to discuss how excited we were that our girls weekend is coming up.... yes, the one where we will be seeing the Chip and Dales. Only 33 more days, but who's counting? Today has just left me incredibly happy and in such a great mood! I was even able to book a romantic getaway from me and the boyfriend for June. Lots to look forward to in the coming months. Last time I felt this good, I was in the emergency room the next day with my mom. I hope I can keep this high for a little while before life punches me in the gut again! Feeling like life is going the right way is a welcomed feeling. The right people are in my life, and the negativity has left. Each and every day I write this blog, I feel just a little more negativity leaving my body. Internal peace isn't far off, and even if life DOES decide to punch me in the gut again, I'm acquiring the right tools to successfully overcome the challenges and learning to always focus on the good so as to find the positives of the situation. For example, the ordeal we went through with my mom just last week made me appreciate my mom SO much more. Last Wednesday while I was in the ER with her, I honestly thought I was losing another parent. I have never seen her in so much pain, and I pray that I never have to see that again. But in that moment I focused on the love I have for her and on how much she really means to me. She is my best friend. She understands me on levels that no one else can understand. And I still need my mommy. So long story short, this blog is doing so much more for me than I ever intended it to, which I am surprised and thankful for. 

Sunday Funday

Today was the day I've really been craving. I didn't leave the house and probably didn't even need to put on a bra (which I did anyways to feel productive). I caught up on chores and enjoyed the tranquility of some much needed alone time. I spent the day with Easter and that's all I needed. I won't go into depth about the wonderful day of nothingness that was had. All you need to know is that I am getting back to myself and finally I'm not feeling so run down. I feel like I'm on the up swing and am looking forward to the week ahead. 

Lazy Saturday

Just one of those lazy Saturdays spent hanging out with my mom. She's doing much better these days, still a little sore, but doing well!! I brought over some food for us so she didn't need to cook, and I even brought a few supplies to bake up a tasty treat for her. I finally used my new cast iron skillet and made a giant cookie, because why not! We had a nice relaxing day together, and I may have napped a bit again today. Just a little cat nap, but maybe I'm finally starting to catch up on some much needed rest. After dinner, we watched one of our favorites- Steel Magnolias. Yes, I watched it last night also. Yes, I watched it all over again today. And yes, I did cry yet again. It's a classic. Now that I'm finally home, I'm gonna curl up in my big bed and do a little reading before calling it a night. 

Snow, Sun, More Snow

What a bi-polar weather day we had. I was driving to St. Paul in the midst of a spring blizzard when my mom called and told me to stay home and have a day for myself. I did just that. I turned around and headed home. Spent the day with Jess, just hanging out and having a girls day. Had lunch together, watched movies, and even took a nap. I took the couch, she took the love seat and we both were out like lights. It was a great day, but now I'm starting to feel crappy. All my wonderful gastrointestinal issues have decided to flare up. Great. Hopefully, with a little rest tonight it will be better in the morning.

Catching Up

Today was day two of my week off and it even had a theme! The theme of the day was "catching up". I was able to catch up on sleep by taking not just one, but several naps throughout the day. But don't worry! I was still productive! Ben spent the night because he made me watch a freaky movie, and I can't sleep alone after watching a horror movie. So, he woke me up early because "We can sleep when we are dead!". As a reward, he bought me breakfast. I took a nap while he went and got us the breakfast. After he left for the day and we enjoyed our breakfast, I took a quick nap before my next activity. I woke up to go catch up with an old friend. It was great!! We spent the afternoon laughing, chatting, and eating yummy food! It was just awesome to get back in the groove. Then I came home and thought about taking another nap. I held off because I knew I wouldn't be able to sleep tonight. So I did laundry instead and washed my sheets. Ben came over later to hang out for a bit, which is always lovely. And I just finished my workout of the day- putting the sheets back on my king bed. That's always a damn struggle for me. So now I'm ready for bed. I still feel like I'm catching up on sleep. This past week worked me to the bone and completely drained me. I'm finally just starting to feel slightly less exhausted. If this is what it's like to have kids, I'm gonna be a horrible parent. Plus I love sleep too much, and I hear you don't get to do much of that once you pop out a few kiddies. Well, time for a nice long nap to recharge batteries!

Stay-cation

Day one of my week off was a semi-success. I had planned on going to donate plasma, but it turns out my iron was too low. Sad day. Just gotta get that back up and then I will be able to do it. So I came home and took a short nap instead! I was woken up by Ben charging through the door and saying, "HEY!!!". What a wake up call! We had a lovely date night together which consisted of getting dinner, and finding a movie on netflix. Which was terrible by the way. Don't waste your time on watching The Babadook. It was a little creepy in parts but was just plain weird. Afterwards, we chatted a bit and decided to take a weekend just for the two of us. Take a nice romantic stay-cation together to destress, and just be with each other. So if you know any hotels or resorts that have awesome in-rrom whirlpools or hot tubs, please let me know! Whether it be around here or up north a bit, near Duluth. 

I Made It!

I did it! I made it through work, and am now looking at an entire week off!! I am so excited to nap my time away! Well, maybe I will do a couple of fun activities. Work was definitely not the easiest tonight and my patience was REALLY tested. I'm quite surprised that I made it through the entire shift without snapping and going absolutely bat shit crazy. There were a few times where I almost lost it, but I maintained my cool and no one was harmed! ;) I'm not sure how to spend all my time off, but I am hoping that we have some good weather so that I can take Easter for some nice walks, and do a little reading in the sun! I need to get back on my reading kick and punch out a few books this week. If you have any suggestions about fun things to do in town, let me know! I wanna have some fun!!

Burnt Popcorn

Gosh, I just love my coworkers! I truly work with some amazing people! They have no idea how absolutely crappy and just plain exhausted I am, but they boosted my spirit and put me in such a great mood!! And for the record, I did NOT burn the popcorn tonight. Sure, it was on the darker side, but it was not burnt!! Because of them, I have the strength to make it through my last shift tomorrow. I feel like they found my strength and pulled it out for me. They always keep me laughing and I am so thankful for them tonight. 

Exhaustion

The exhaustion is beginning to set in. With the chaotic days with mom and her unexpected surgery and work, I am very quickly losing steam. Last night, I was able to get a good night's rest, but the way I'm feeling right now, I feel like I could sleep for days and days. I'm still so thankful everything turned out well with mom. And tonight I am especially thankful for my comfy, warm bed that is waiting for me. I pray for the strength to get through my next few shifts so that I can fully enjoy my week off. 

Back To The Grind

It was time to get things back to normal today. I spent the night with mom to make sure she was ok. She woke up a little sore today, but otherwise she is on the mend! I had to go to work today and felt confident that she would be just fine. After having her knee replaced in October, this was a piece of cake! Work tonight was a nice change! It was oddly calm and no one asked to see the charge nurse! It was a welcomed change to the usual chaos. I might just make it through my stretch after all! I'm utterly excited to sleep in my own BIG bed tonight! I know I will finally get a good night's rest. 

Hospital Conclusion

Whew! What a crazy few days we have had. Today was the conclusion, thank God! Mom had surgery today and did wonderfully! Minimal pain, no more nausea, and ready to recuperate in the comfort of her own home!! She was such a trooper and harassed everyone until they let her discharge. The ENTIRE day (even BEFORE surgery), she would ask anyone who came into her room if she would be able to go home today. She got all the okay's she needed and is so incredibly happy to be home and have Elvis on her lap. That dog missed his momma. And that momma sure missed her doggie. But all is right in the world and the twosome is back together. Just the way it should be. I think I'll sleep like a rock tonight!!