Singles vs. Couples

So...as many people know, I started a new job this week. More on that later. At lunch one day, one of the girls asked me if I had a boyfriend or if I was married. I kind of laughed and said that I haven't been serious about a guy in a long time (well, save for one guy). She nodded and then was quick to point out that though she and her husband had been married for 8 years (together for 14), they "have [their] own lives." It got me wondering why she felt it necessary to qualify her marriage. I certainly don't care if someone has been married for a number of years at our age...more power to them. Maybe she thought I was avoiding a relationship or marriage, so she felt the need to dumb hers down. Who knows. I just found that interesting.

Work has been...intense. It's a lot to know and very involved. Plus, I didn't exactly go to school for my position (medical records specialist). I didn't lie to get the job or anything like that. Over the course of my schooling, I took a handful of classes on medical records, but I went to school mostly for medical transcription. I applied to this position on a whim, probably just thinking it wouldn't hurt (I actually don't remember applying to this position...I had a very large fear I wouldn't find work after graduating and therefore, applied like a madwoman to open healthcare positions). This position is largely a HIM position. There's a lot to know and very little downtime to regroup and do nothing for a moment. Plus, I'm on my feet a lot more than I realized I'd be. Not that I'm complaining. When I walk through the door each evening, though, it does look like I just got done with football practice, the way I'm limping so badly. But, I just keep telling myself that this is the most I've been on my feet (in a day) in at least 3 years, so it'll take some getting used to, but eventually, it won't be so bad.

Orientation = Syllabus Day

Job orientation is very similar to the first day of classes for the semester...you get an overload of paperwork and information which everyone forgets five minutes after walking out the door. Let's not forget the endless powerpoints in which the presenter will read to you everything that appears on the overhead screen (which is mind-numbing at best). A powerpoint on hand washing? Really?! Facts about medical errors? Isn't this why I went to school? If there is a code pink called (child abduction), call security if you encounter crying coming from a book bag. No shit. As I sat in the darkened conference room, fighting off the urge to sleep and trying to quiet my rumbling stomach as I smelled lunch, I wished hard for the super power of time travel. Sadly, as I looked at the clock, willing the hands to move faster, it was only 11:42. Sigh. Five more hours. At least there's only one day of this nonsense. And hey, at least I have a job for which I need orientation. And...I got free swag. Pens and stress balls for everyone!

A Job! Finally!

Well, after all my work with going back to school and everything, I am proud to say I am back to being a contributing member of society...I have a job.

I am the medical records specialist at Columbia St. Mary's Hospital. I will be working at all three campuses. I have a physical on Tuesday, and I have orientation on the 18th, which is my official start date.

Life seems better already...

Summer Weekend Outfit

Summer Weekend Outfit by tinseltiara featuring cropped capri pants

The Return Home, Day 1.

My mom had knee replacement surgery on her right knee on Friday, June 1. She returned home from the hospital last night around 8 p.m. Let me tell you...I have a whole new respect for those live-in nurses. I can also see how caring for a family member who can't do much for themselves totally becomes a full-time job. It's been 11 hours, and I. Am. Wiped.

I'm used to cooking her meals, so that's really nothing new. But, I'm not used to playing housekeeper, waitress, and nurse. It's weird having to serve and clean up after your own mother. Then there's the injections twice a day (don't want to get a blood clot)...setting my alarm every 4 hours to administer pain meds (even through the night)...being at her side every time she gets up (because once she sits back down, she needs your help)...driving to PT...bathing her...dressing her...the list goes on. Not that I'm complaining. She's my mom and I love her and she more than took care of me when I was in a similar situation 10 years ago (along with the majority of my life...because she is, afterall, my mother). It's just a lot of work.

Also, it's hard to see someone you love in pain (to the point that she's crying). I'm used to me being in pain, but not used to seeing her break down. It makes me want to take her pain on for her. But, I know that's impossible.

It's only the first week, so I know it will get easier from here. I'm just glad I don't start work this week and have the ability to be here to help her.