Adventures in Audiology

July Book List

2011-07-31T20:50:00.002-04:00

Here's my readings for the month of July. I did really well for the first few weeks, but got bogged down with other things towards the end so I didn't get as much read as I would have liked. However, I did read 2154 pages total!

Without further ado:
The Girl Who Chased the Moon (269) by Sarah Addison Allen
The Sugar Queen (275) by Sarah Addison Allen
Faith: A Novel (318) by Jennifer Haigh
Black Heels to Tractor Wheels (319) by Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman)
The Lost Quilter (337) by Jennifer Chiaverini
32 Candles: A Novel (335) by Ernessa T. Carter
The Day the Falls Stood Still (301) by Cathy Marie Buchanan

Only one (The Lost Quilter) was a re-read this month. I will say that I cannot pick a favorite this month! I loved both of the Sarah Addison Allen books and haven't found one written by her I haven't liked yet. She writes stories of Southern towns that are full of whimsy and mystery. I also finally got around to reading the Pioneer Woman's true story of romance, which was also so endearing. Happy reading!

Also this was a special post for me. If you can figure out why I might just put something in the mail for you!

Things are better

2011-07-20T20:14:00.003-04:00

Sorry about the emo post earlier this week. Although I'm loving the changes in job and location, I'm continuing to deal with some of my other issues. For instance, I've long struggled with self-esteem and never feeling like being myself is enough. Yes, in many ways I'm a perfectionist, which is interesting to me because neither of my parents are one. I think that many times I want to be the best, but after all my trying and striving, I fall short even though I still do well.

I'm really trying to let my heart be bare and open here and not the "perfect" blog girl. I've written about it before, but I've struggled with my weight for a long time, as in most of my life. I continue to struggle as I have metabolism issues (PCOS if you want to be specific). Right now I want to date but I don't feel pretty, just fat. It doesn't help that when I calculate by BMI I fall into the obese category. It's weird to me that I can wear medium sized clothing but still be obese.

Since I started my new job, my co-workers have been very open about complimenting me about appearance-related things. I've never experienced this before and that's part of the reason my emotions are in turmoil. Part of me thinks I won't ever believe them until a guy (that I'm interested in) says the same. I know this is wrong, but it's the way my twisted mind works. Physical beauty isn't where it's all at and I know this but sometimes when you're passed over yet again by the guy you like, it wears on you.

Thanks for letting me pour out my heart. Know that I would appreciate prayers, good vibes, positive thoughts in this struggle.

My heart

2011-07-16T23:16:00.000-04:00

This song is on my heart tonight. Don't feel bad/sorry for me as I know this too shall pass.

In love

2011-07-10T17:08:00.002-04:00

...unfortunately not with a boy right now. Rather I'm really loving my new life. I love the city I'm living in, my duplex for the most part (neighbors suck sometimes), my job, everything. It's so refreshing after such a hard year in Mtown.

As much as I love where I'm at, I'm ready for a few things to change such as making friends my own age, finding a church, and of course falling in love for real.

Book List: June Edition

2011-06-30T21:57:00.003-04:00

In an effort to be more intentional about reading for fun I have decided to keep a list of books/authors that I read each month. At the end of each month I'll post the titles and authors. Next month I may even add the number of pages read. I started this list mid-month so it only reflects about half the books I read.

Title Author(s)
I know I am, but what are you? Samantha Bee
The Peach Keeper Sarah Addison Allen
Breaking Dawn Stephanie Meyer
Second Time Around Mary Higgins Clark
Lies Chelsea Told Me Chelsea Handler & various others
Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows J.K. Rowling

A few titles were re-reads, but I love them and just wanted to enjoy them again. And for the record Harry Potter is way better than Twilight, though I like both.

First Week

2011-06-18T13:45:00.002-04:00

I started my new job this week.

It's my first job after graduation, and I will admit is was AWESOME to be called Dr. Marra. The job is pretty similar to my externship with lots of hearing tests, hearing aids, and ear wax removal (gross I know). So far I'm enjoying the people I work with and have gotten little whisperings from God that yep, I'm in the exact right place I need to be. After all the debating I did, it's so good to have reassurance.

This next week will be even better (or at least I'm hoping it will)!

New Directions

2011-06-12T21:41:00.002-04:00

For y'all that don't know I accepted a position at a private audiology practice. That means that an audiologist or hearing aid dispenser runs their own business. Unfortunately it won't be as glamorous or sexy as the TV. Anyway I am starting TOMORROW! My first real audiology job.

With the new job I moved to a different part of the state. A few weeks ago I went rental shopping with my mom and luckily I had the dilemma of choosing between two great places: a house or a duplex. In the end I choose the duplex; I'm getting all settled in and have started hanging things on the wall. The major perks of the place: 2 bedrooms(!), dishwasher(!), basement with laundry hookups(!). Plus there's a good yard for Allie to enjoy. Right now the smaller bedroom is pretty empty. I want to make it into a spare bedroom/quilting room (yes I'm an old soul).

Things I'm still waiting for to put in the small bedroom: a twin bed (mattress/frame/etc) for the spare room, a sewing machine, and a desk or table. Other: washer/dryer I'm sick of the laundromat.

Wish me luck tomorrow. I'm just hoping I'm awake and at work at the right time!

Friday, May 13, 2011

2011-06-06T21:10:00.005-04:00

At around 2:45 p.m. I became Tamarra, Au.D. or Dr. Marra. So freakin' exciting. Rewind to a few days before that, let's say Wednesday, May 11. That was my last day and an audiology extern. It was a SLOW day at work for me, but after work my boss had a get-together at his place as a goodbye party. It was great hanging out with my co-workers once last time. After we ate, I was handed a large, gift-wrapped package. Now I had an idea that they might get me a specific gift...and..when I unwrapped the package; there it was a brand spankin' new Vera Bradley!!! I LOVE VERA (note I am not being paid or compensated by Vera Bradley and they probably don't even know who I am)!

The next morning I headed out to Madison for graduation. I had to run a few errands like picking up my cap, gown, and hood and also a special parking pass for my grandparents. Later when my parents arrived we got some Five Guys and headed for Union Terrace to eat, drink beer, and just enjoy the lake.

Friday, my paternal grandparents along with my dad's two sisters arrived and shortly after that my mom's mom, sister, brother-in-law, and my little bro arrived. We hung out until we had to head to graduation.

First up was the Audiology program reception. It was great catching up with classmates, but sad that two of the seven weren't able to be there. They had us change into our caps and gowns and then performed the hooding ceremony. That was when I was called Dr. Marra for the first time. I willed myself not to cry (I didn't have any waterproof mascara and didn't want to be a mess like I was at my undergrad graduation), but my eyes definitely teared up.

After that we headed to the real ceremony at the Kohl Center. It was long and rather uneventful, but very cool at the same time.

By this time, it had started raining and we headed out to our cars. I drove the van with my grandparents, all 3 of them, that was parked right next to the building and my dad drove the other van. We went to dinner at an amazing placed in Verona, WI called Gray's Tied House. I hadn't been there before but it had come highly recommended. They brew their own beer (I personally loved the Wisco Wheat) and the food was great. (Once again I am not being paid of compensated in any way to endorse Gray's).

Sorry for the long post, but I'm going to make it slightly longer and include some pics!

Audiology Classmates minus 2 members.

Hoods from behind. These suckers were WARM!

My family. Interesting note: my little brother earned his B.S. in Animal Science from ISU the week before. That helps explain the super proud look on my momma's face.

Something Big

2011-05-17T11:35:00.002-04:00

If you've paid any attention to the countdowns that I had in posts, you should have realized something big happened May 13, 2011. I'm waiting for pictures from my mom's camera before I write a full post about it. It was a fabulous weekend though with beer flowing, friends and family, and amazing food.

Randoms

2011-04-21T21:40:00.004-04:00

Posting with bullets because my thoughts are scattered tonight.

Bought Easter goodies for Allie. Yep I'm one of those pet owners, but it wasn't much just a new toy, collar, and some special treats.

Job hunt/interviewing has been going well. I may accept an offer tomorrow, but I'll keep you all updated.

Loving The Office lately and still can't believe that Steve Carrell is leaving.

Even more than The Office, Parks & Rec is so quotable every.single.week. and I LOVE it. I love it so much I watch Grey's Anatomy online Fridays after work.

I'm so...I'm so...scared (name the show), actually more overwhelmed than scared that graduation is in 3 weeks!

I've been a dog-owner for 11 months now and couldn't imagine life without Allie.

Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

2011-02-22T22:05:00.003-05:00

I love Chicken Pot Pie and have the best recipe for it and it's super simple, so I thought I'd share it with you.

Ingredients:
1 chicken breast cooked OR 1 can chicken
1 can cream of potato soup OR any cream of soup (but I prefer potato)
8 oz (give or take) frozen mixed veggies
2 pre-made pie crusts

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Combine chicken, soup, and veggies in large bowl.
Spread 1 pie crust on the bottom of a baking dish.
Add chicken mixture.
Cover with other crust and pinch together edges.
Make some marks on the top crust.
Bake for 20 minutes or until the edges of the crusts are golden brown.

Enjoy and if you have any, the leftovers are yummy too!

Busy Sunday

2011-02-20T17:09:00.002-05:00

Do dishes
Clean kitchen
Clean bathroom
Do laundry
Dust
Vaccuum
Get groceries
Blog

After a long hiatus (sorry followers!) I'm back. That list you see is all accomplished today! For me that's a VERY productive Sunday. Today has been a dreary yucky day after a beautiful sun-filled few days. It was the perfect day to accomplish my list. Even better, while I was sweeping, Allie wasn't afraid of the broom for the first time! She still is unsure of the vaccuum, but she just goes into the bedroom when I vaccuum the living room and it works for us.

In other news only 81 days til I'm Dr. Marra and I can't wait! However I'm a bit stressed out by searching for jobs. Last week I was told that my externship site will not be able to keep me on after my externship is done. I've posted my resume online and have gotten some interest. I will start applying for jobs as they come up. It's exciting but scary at the same time.

So Far So Good

2011-01-01T16:06:00.002-05:00

I was already asleep when the New Year came to the Mtown. I remember watching the ball drop in NYC at 11 p.m. CST, but don't remember the replay at midnight CST, hence I was probably sleeping. Yep I'm one lame, single 26 year old.

Today I slept in and once Allie ate breakfast, we turned on the Rose Bowl Parade. I got real excited when the UW float and marching band came on the TV screen. I love me some Badgers! After the parade, I ran a few errands: got more dog food, eyebrows waxed, and returned some ill-fitting Christmas gifts.

Now Allie and I are getting ready for the UW vs TCU Rose Bowl kick off in less than an hour. I've got on my Badger gameday red, my (new) Badgers Scentsy pot is on, and Allie is cuddled in my (new) Badger fleece blanket. I think we're ready.

GO BADGERS!

Goodbye 2010

2010-12-31T15:27:00.002-05:00

If you've been following the blog then you know that 2010 wasn't the best year for me. I don't regret anything that happened as I've grown, but I'm ready for a change.

Even if the year was hard in so many different ways there have been some great things that happened. Last year about this time I wrote a favorite moments post that including: skydiving with my cousin, roadtripping with Bethany, and my whole Georgia adventure. This year's list doesn't include anything that exciting, but at least I was still able to think of some favorite moments.

Top 5 favorite moments:
1. Getting my first furbaby! Seriously I've wanted my own dog furever and I found the best one out there for me.

2. Moving closer to family.

3. This one is a bit bittersweet, but my last Family Fusion is one of the times I felt absolutely and wholly loved.

4. Having my own patients and helping them hear again.

5. First Twins game at Target Field with Bethany.

So there you go; what are some of your favorite moments of 2010?

Continuing the countdown

2010-12-21T19:53:00.002-05:00

1 day til my front teeth are fixed.

4 days til Christmas.

143 days til graduation.

Can't wait!

Dentist

2010-12-07T20:21:00.002-05:00

WARNING: NOT FOR THOSE WHO ARE SQUEAMISH ABOUT TEETH THINGS!

About a month ago I went to the dentist for the first time in 10 years. Yep the last time I was at the dentist I was in high school and got my wisdom teeth taken out. Why the long break? No dental insurance :(

I've had some issues and decided to go here in Mtown. Luckily they have a dentist here that has a sliding pay scale for people without insurance. I went last month for xrays and a checkup. That was not good at all! I learned I have lots of cavities and it's gonna be expensive as I don't qualify for the sliding scale (I earn too much at my externship). However, I get 20% off if I pay upfront. A week later I saw the hygenist for a deep cleaning. This wasn't bad at all.

Today I had the first fixing appointment. It was acutally my first filling ever. Having my wisdome teeth removed was the only work I had to have done before today. Well the Dr. drilled and drilled and ended up needing to leave a temporary filling.

Right before Christmas I go back and have two more worked on.

Birthday Blessing

2010-11-30T22:44:00.002-05:00

It's my bday today and normally I HATE my bday. Not because I dislike getting older, but well I'm not really sure why... From the start today's been great though. I arrived at work with a "decorated" desk. It was full of post-its, the round pieces of paper from the hole punch, and other fun stuff. Of course treats were brought in and one of my supervisors made the BEST shortbread cookies I've ever eaten. I think I had 5, no probably more like 15 of them today.

All day long my phone kept getting texts and every time I checked my Facebook there were at least 3 bday messages from friends. Early this afternoon I got a delivery at work: some BEAUTIFUL flowers from my parents. Yep I'm a lucky girl when it comes to parents. Speaking of parents, they weren't able to meet up with me tonight because of work, but I did meet up with my aunt, uncle, grandma, and some cousins for a super yummy supper.

And the day's not over yet! Allie has been super cuddly all day and that makes me so happy.

3 weeks + 1 semester...

2010-11-28T20:04:00.002-05:00

Or 166 days until I graduate. Graduation has been on my mind a lot lately. I know that I have a bit over 5 months left, but I am ready to be out of this limbo that I'm in. I'm doing the work of a full-time audiologist plus online courses, but I'm not an AuD yet. Although I have a (temporary) license to practice audiology, I still have to be supervised.

I feel like my whole life is in limbo lately. Besides the 166 days left until graduation, I feel in limbo with job opportunities for when I do graduate. I can't apply yet and have to wait until late January or early February to even apply. Yet I torture myself and look each and every week at job postings.

Another limbo: I greatly dislike Mtown. That is no secret. I'm still in limbo that I don't have a church here and the one that I want to go to is over an hour away. I can't afford to drive to Des Moines twice a week (once for work, once for church). I'm also in limbo that I don't have any friends here. I've tried. I don't know how to meet people my age outside of work, school, or church. I've gone to 2 different Bible studies and just didn't feel comfortable there. I felt I had to comply to their beliefs about the Bible, which is to take it utlra literally. Yes I believe the Bible is Truth (note the capital "t"), but that it needs to be read in the presence of the historical context as in the Bible is written FOR modern day Christians, but written TO the historical people.

So that's my limbo story for now. I know that limbo times are needed and something great is on it's way. I've never been a real patient person, which may explain these feelings.

Wisconsin Weekend

2010-11-07T20:56:00.002-05:00

I went back to Madison for the first time since moving to Iowa in late May. It was a well-needed trip! Here's a quick synopsis:

Friday: I've written about Family Fusion before somewhere in this blog, but Friday night I met up with a family I used to baby-sit for and we went to Family Fusion at Blackhawk Church (www.blackhawkchurch.org). I LOVED IT! It was weird to not be involved anymore, but so touching to hug and chat with my former cast-mates after the show! You guys know how to make a girl feel wanted and missed! I should mention too that before going to the show the family I went with took me out to dinner at my favorite place in the Madison area: Hubbard Ave Diner. If you ever visited me in WI, I took you there! It has the best brunch, be even better desserts.

Saturday: Meet up with Sarah and Becky who were in my smallgroup, to go to the last outdoor Dane County Farmer's Market of the year. It was amazing! I got some pumpkin cream cheese bread and some organic sweet potato treats for Allie (who by the way LOVES them!). We also walked down State Street and I did a bit of shopping for Wisco shirts and a print of Union Terrace that I've been eyeing for months. I meet up with some other friends for lunch at The Great Dane. Yummy soup, fries, and their own Landmark Light beer were enjoyed by yours truly. After that I did some shopping at DSW; I had a coupon because it's my bday month. Got some sweet eggplant colored Converse. Super excited!
NERD ALERT! That night a few of my friends threw the second annual Harry Potter party to belatedly celebrate Halloween. Costumes were required and people dressed up as: Molly Weasely, Sirius Black, Barty Crouch Sr, Helga Hufflepuff, Rowena Ravenclaw, Moaning Myrtle, Bellatrix LeStrange, a muggle, a squib, and I was Ginny Weasley. We have an unwritten rule that a character cannot be repeated, so it's always interesting to see who's who.

Sunday: Becky made me pancakes and then we went to Blackhawk for church. I really, really, REALLY wish I could move Bhawk to Mtown. I know there are churches around that are similar, but it so cool that when you walk in the door with hundreds of other people, you still feel like a somebody and not just a nobody. After church I made the trip home.

It was a great weekend that I really needed. I think it's interesting that in Madison which is a large city, I felt like I knew so many people and felt like a somebody and how Mtown is 10 times smaller and I feel like a complete nobody here. I'm not trying to evoke pity with that statement, but am processing.

Allie's new obsession

2010-11-02T22:21:00.003-04:00

I hate admitting this, but Allie has a fast food obsession. I know it's not healthy, but she doesn't get many treats and we've been working hard at her losing a bit of weight. So far she's lost 5 lbs and has maintained it, so a treat every once and awhile should be just fine. What is her obsession you ask, well it's Mc.Donald's french fries. Yep, the yummy golden goodness. Granted I don't eat there too often, maybe once a month but when Monopoly comes around I eat there about every other week.

How did this obsession start? Well one day I brought McD's home and she got a reject floppy fry and after that I was in trouble. Before you get to thinking that I order her a large fry for herself, she gets the reject fries from my order. You know the ones that are floppy, have brown spots, or are the itty bitty super crunchy ones.

Since I've talked alot about her, here's a pic of what Allie's been doing a LOT of lately:

With the change in weather we've had here Allie's becoming more and more snuggly. I can't say that I hate it at all!

That's me Monday!

2010-09-27T19:47:00.001-04:00

Here's a short one for you with a game show feel. Whomever can guess what specific beverage I'm currently addicted to will win a prize.

Good luck!

Wicked

2010-09-24T21:47:00.004-04:00

If you now me at all, you know I have a (slight) obsession with the musical Wicked. Up until last weekend I'd never seen it performed live. I had watched the whole show with the original cast (Kristin Chenoweth, Idina Menzel, Joel Gray) via You.Tube and worn out my soundtrack CD. I own The Grimmerie, and the Gregory Maguire books.

Last weekend I took a trip to visit one of my dearest friends. I arrived Friday night; Saturday afternoon we had tickets to Wicked and Sunday tickets to the Twins game. Perfect weekend plans right?

The musical was AMAZING, AWESOME, etc basically everything and more I imagined. The Twins game was my first at the new stadium and it was great, minus the Twins' loss to the A's. Here are some pics:

Wicked marqee

Bethany and I aka pink goes good with green

View from our seats

We were early enough to get Span giveaways!

Brown-Eyed Girl

2010-09-20T16:44:00.004-04:00

I've been absent once again and Allie has been reminding me to post an update about her new life with me. I just can't ignore her big brown eyes anymore. Enjoy the pics!

I should have another post later this week about my weekend getaway!

That's Me Monday

2010-08-30T18:59:00.002-04:00

Sorry for the break last week, but I needed it. I was ready to post something but it was RATHER depressing and I didn't want to subject you to it. Alright, now onto the real subject.

I LOVE awards shows! fzdsQQ@~!( That's Allie talk for, I do too). The Emmys, the Oscars, the Golden Globes. It all starts a few hours before the show watching the red carpet arrivals on E! because they start the earliest. I love seeing the dresses and tuxes and making best and worst lists.

For those of you taht don't know the Emmys were last night. The Emmys is the strictly-TV awards show. Jimmy Fallon hosted. I wish I could describe my fascination with the awkwardness he embodies. I love watching Late Night (at least the monologues) because he is hilariously awkward. If you don't believe me youtube Jimmy Fallon and Kristin Stewart. They are two super awkard people, but with in an interview are EVEN MORE AWKWARD. Loves it!

Quick opinions from last night:
Jimmy Fallon hosting: GREAT
Opening "Glee" inspired number: AWESOME, too many LOL's to count
Best dressed woman: Jane Lynch, Tina Fey close second
Best dressed man: NPH

I loved that Jane won for Sue Sylvester and Ryan Murphy for Glee and Jim Parsons for Sheldon on The Big Bang Theory. I was okay with Glee not winning other awards and may even check out Modern Family.

Parting Thought: Can't wait to wait Fashion Police tonight :)

That's Me Monday!

2010-08-16T21:21:00.002-04:00

Okay, so who thought this was a good idea? Oh, yeah me. This week I am struggling to think of a topic.

3 hours later...

Okay mabye like 3 mintues later. I love books. I grew up with CRAZY allergies and had a hard time playing outside without looking like a blowfish. This led to the amazing discovering of reading and books. I love them, or at least most of them. Throughout the years I've learned that I especially like books in a series. I think it's because the story continues and you see what happens next.

Some of my fav serieses in no particular order:
The Little House books
Harry Potter
The Babysitter's Club
Twilight
The Boxcar Children
Wicked Trilogy
Sweet Valley High (BSC was way better though!)

What are your fav serieses?

That's Me Monday!

2010-08-09T19:50:00.002-04:00

Are y'all ready for the 2nd edition of That's Me Monday!? This week I'm revealing that I am a mascara fiend. I can't get enough of the stuff. I don't wear much makeup, but I RARELY leave the house (even to walk the dog) without mascara. My love affair started in 5th grade when I got to wear mascara for the first time at my aunt's wedding. It was the classic pink tube/green lid May.belline Gre.at L.ash and I have not been the same since.

Yep right now I have 4 different tubes, yep 4, not 1 or even 2, but 4! They are all different brands and do all different things. One's waterproof and adds volume, another curls and lengthens, another just curls and is waterproof, and the last one adds CRAZY volume. I love them all!

Please don't let my mascara craze make you think I'm vain or insecure (at least in this respect) but I love it when my lashes look thicker and longer than they actually are. I have to say that they are fairly thick and long without anything but I like to enhance them .

Saturday a.m.

2010-08-07T15:57:00.002-04:00

I love Saturday mornings! There are just so many possibilities. For instance when I was still in Madison, I would get up about 9, then go get a coffee at Bariques or Starbucks, walk around Farmer's Market, and go to the library. It was so relaxing and fun. I miss my Madison Saturdays TER.RI.BLY! I'm still getting in the hang of Saturday mornings in Mtown. The farmer's market is a bit smaller and we don't have a Starbucks here (GASP!).

Today I was more productive and this weekend, or at least Friday and Saturday are tax-free for clothing items here in Iowa. I'm working on expanding my work wardrobe and went to the Williamsburg Outlets to see what I could find with a modest budget. I was able to get 2 shirts from Banana Republic and 4 from Old Navy.

Granted I don't think I'll be going shopping every weekend, but this was a fun Saturday morning that was a productive as Madison Saturday mornings. I hope y'all have a great Saturday morning wherever you are!

That's Me Monday

2010-08-02T20:21:00.003-04:00

In my effort to be more proactive about blogging I'm going to try and start a weekly themed post called "That's Me Monday". It's partially inspired by a meet-and-greet game I used to play with kids on Day Camp and partially by MckMama's "Not Me! Monday" posts. I will attempt to share one fun fact about yours truly each and every Monday.

Fun fact #1: I'm REALLY short, like almost munchkin short...

I used to think I was 5 ft tall even, but a few weeks ago at a routine doctor's appointment they decided to measure me for like the first time since 7th grade. In 7th grade I was 5 ft even, but no not this time I measured in at 4ft 11inches. I.SHRUNK.AN.INCH!! How does this happen??? I'm too young for osteoporosis (P.S. my bone density is okay!)

There you go you know I'm super-short and can join in the ranks of under-5ft club without dwarfism which includes: my friend Becky, actress Kristin Chenoweth, and singer Shakira, just to name a few.

Quick Update

2010-07-13T22:26:00.004-04:00

Holy crap, I didn't realize it's been SO long since I last blogged! Life's been busy but pretty good; here's a quick overview of how things are in Mtown.

Externship/Internship/whateveryouwannacallit: Going well, some things are better than others. I heart my co-workers and am learning lots. Went to Minneapolis for a training and had some fun and lots of free drinks and food.

Online class: I loathe this class, not because it's hard but it's getting in the way of having a social life.

Apartment: Really shaping up. I got a book shelf and a pantry (ha I typed panty first!) type cabinet. I had to build them and luckily they're still standing.

Allie: Doing super! Love the dog park and puddle-swimming. Not a good camping dog. Also found out she has skin allergies, but right now Bena.dryll and some special food are helping.

Church: Still haven't found one here and trying to stay positive and not compare them to my church in Madison.

You be the judge

2010-06-23T22:00:00.002-04:00

Dog or Pig? You be the judge

(Sorry for the low quality I had to take the pic on my cellphone.)

First week done!

2010-06-05T13:16:00.002-04:00

I started my externship last Tuesday (June 1). I was SUPER nervous, but now think I'll like it for the most part. No job is perfect.

Anyway here's a quick review of my first week. Tuesday I spent the day at our DSM office and mostly observed how my supervisor does things. I did get to do a couple of basic hearing tests. Wednesday I was at the Mtown office. In the morning I observed our two hearing aid techs and saw how repairs and new orders are processed. In the afternoon I met one of my other supervisors and spent the rest of the day reading up on new hearing aid products. Thursday was spent in Mtown again and observed all day long.

After work I headed down to Kansas City for a sales training on Friday. The hotel was nice but it was weird to stay in a room all by myself. Friday a.m. I went to the training. It was interesting, but a really, really aggressive approach.

While I was gone, Allie (my dog) stayed at my parents' house. She did pretty good there, but occassionally annoyed their little wiener dogs.

Happy Memorial Day

2010-05-31T13:17:00.003-04:00

On this day I am especially greatful for all the sacrifices our military men and women (past and present) and their families make. I'm the proud granddaughter of 3 veterans (2 WWII and 1 Korean War) and the proud cousin of many service people.

Here's are the lyrics to a song that reminded me of all the sacrifices people have made to make or keep our country free.

"Ragged Old Flag" by Johnny Cash

I walked through a county courthouse square

On a park bench, an old man was sittin' there.

I said, "Your old court house is kinda run down,

He said, "Naw, it'll do for our little town".

I said, "Your old flag pole is leaned a little bit,

And that's a ragged old flag you got hangin' on it".

He said, "Have a seat", and I sat down,

"Is this the first time you've been to our little town"

I said, "I think it is"

He said "I don't like to brag, but we're kinda proud of

That Ragged Old Flag"

You see, we got a little hole in that flag there

,When Washington took it across the Delaware.

and It got powder burned the night Francis Scott Key sat watching it,

writing "Say Can You See"

It got a rip in New Orleans, with Packingham & Jacksontugging at its seams.

and It almost fell at the Alamo beside the Texas flag,

But she waved on though.

She got cut with a sword at Chancellorsville,

And she got cut again at Shiloh Hill.

There was Robert E. Lee and Beauregard and Bragg,

And the south wind blew hard on

That Ragged Old Flag"

On Flanders Field in World War I,

She got a big hole from a Bertha Gun,

She turned blood red in World War II

She hung limp, and low, a time or two,

She was in Korea, Vietnam, She went where she was sent

by her Uncle Sam.

She waved from our ships upon the briny foam

and now they've about quit wavin' back here at home

in her own good land here She's been abused,

She's been burned, dishonored, denied an' refused,

And the government for which she stands

Has been scandalized throughout out the land.

And she's getting thread bare, and she's wearin' thin,

But she's in good shape, for the shape she's in.

Cause she's been through the fire before

and i believe she can take a whole lot more."

So we raise her up every morning

And we bring her down slow every night,

We don't let her touch the ground,

And we fold her up right.

On second thoughtI *do* like to brag

Cause I'm mighty proud of

That Ragged Old Flag"

Puppy Love Part Dos

2010-05-26T10:31:00.003-04:00

I HAVE A DOG NOW! Yep I officially entered the world of dog ownership yesterday. In my first Puppy Love post (I don't know how to link that post, sorry) I talked about how much I wanted an English Bulldog. Well, I didn't end up with one of those, but rather an American Bulldog think Chance from "Homeward Bound" or Petey from "The Little Rascals". Her name is Allie and she's about 3 years old. I got her from a rescue in Humboldt and she's amazing.

Here are pics from yesterday of my furbaby:

Aud Haps

2010-05-20T14:44:00.002-04:00

I realized yesterday that I am less than 365 days away from being Dr. Marra. CRAZY!!! In the past month much has gone on in my audiology life. April 24 I took my audiology PRAXIS and it was to HARDEST.TEST.EVER! What was worse is that I had to wait until yesterday to find out my score. I needed a 600 to pass, and unfortunately that test will never have to see me again. I scored above 600!!! This means that I can apply for temporary licensure in Iowa, even though I haven't quite finished up my AuD program.

Then a mere 10 days later I had to take the IA Hearing Aid Dealer's licensing exam in Ankeny. This was a simple 100 question test. I also got these results yesterday. I totally pass and am now licensed to sell hearing aids in Iowa.

Friday, May 7th was a big day for me. I had to present the research that I've been working on for almost 2 years to all the AuD faculty and students. It was NERVE.WRECKING and I'm a person that doesn't mind speaking in front of people. It went well and I don't have to do this again either!

In other aud related news I move to Mtown this weekend and start my PAID externship June 1. I can't believe it's time for me to leave Madison and have a 5 day work week. I've not had a 5 day work week ever!

FIRE!

2010-04-28T13:43:00.003-04:00

Last night there was a fire at my apartment building. Somehow the couch on the porch caught on fire about 12:30 a.m. Myself and my neighbors were all able to get out injury-free and the building had minimal damage. The firemen and police were called and took care of everything relatively quickly and confined the fire to the porch. They told us later that we lucked out in the fact that the building is brick instead of old wood, like many of the other buildings surrounding. They said the whole place could've gone up in flames if it were wood. The police and fire warden questioned us while the fire was getting put out. It was really chily last night and they found a sitting room in a nursing home up the block for us to use and try to stay warm. Finally about 2:30 a.m. they let us back in the building; there wasn't much damage beyond the porch, but of course everything smelled like smoke.

I feel very blessed and lucky to have gotten out and to not have any damage to my own apartment. I am very sleep deprived right now. I just couldn't get to sleep once I was back in the building because of adrenaline.

Here are some pics that I took with my cell phone, so they're not the best quality!

Not much time

2010-04-26T13:00:00.003-04:00

Oh man! I can't believe I let the blog go this long without even a fun little update! Well, I only have 2 weeks left until I'm finished with my finals. I couldn't be more excited or more busy. You see I have 3.count 'em. 3 mini-projects left to do, finishing/presenting my capstone research, a final, and the BIG one, my IA hearing aid dispenser's licensing tests. YIKES!

I think I finally found an apartment in Mtown where I can have a dog. YES.SO.DARN.EXCITED! Also looking at English Bulldogs this next weekend when I go home.

It's also started to hit me that I'm leaving Madison soon and I don't like it.

Baseball

2010-04-05T14:57:00.002-04:00

I love opening day of baseball season. It should be a national holiday! My Minnesota Twins start their season tonight in California. I hope to get up to see them play at some point, but so far it's super hard to get tickets :(. Another thing I love about the Twins is that they have a new stadium. I'm sad that they let the Metrodome, but SO excited for the Target Field. The last thing I'll say about the Twins is that they may not be the most talented team, but as a whole they are the most ATTRACTIVE team in baseball. Just look at Joe Mauer, Justin Morneau, JJ Hardy, and the list goes on. If you need to check it out for yourself: http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/

Other than that spring is HERE. We've had spring thunder storms and I've seen robins out and about. It's hard to believe that there are only 5 weeks left!!!

Spring is springing

2010-03-15T12:14:00.003-04:00

Hi y'all. I'm sorry for the mini hiatus I took from the blog, but I needed to reign in my thoughts in a different way. All right business is done, now for the good stuff.

#1: Thursday night I got a phone call late at night. No it wasn't a date or booty call (not that I've ever gotten a booty call!), but it was an externship offer! I totally took it right away, which surprised the caller. I don't want to advertise it all over where I'll be, just because I don't want it to explode in my face like the last one did. It's a great offer for a clinic in Central Iowa (Lisa-not DSM, but fairly close) that's going to PAY me! I'm very excited and can't wait.

#2: I had a great lazy Saturday morning. For some reason I was up at 7 a.m. and just lazed around watching some cartoons and Saved by the Bell, eating some cereal, and staying in my pj's. It was made even better by a little package I got in the mail. Lisa over at Brunner Circus (see links on the side) sent me some Thin Mints! I love them and her even more now!

#3: Spring break is soon! Only two more weeks, but next week our other campus has break so I don't have class, but have some assignments and take-home tests to do, besides the typically clinic.

#4: Thanks for reading and putting up with my issues lately.

Puppy Love

2010-03-03T11:29:00.004-05:00

Not going to lie, I've been a bit depressed lately since I don't have an externship placement yet, but trying to remind myself that it'll all work out how it's supposed to.

Anyway, since my brother and Missey got Dierks (my super handsome fur-nephew) I've gone into a state of puppy love. As Wilson Rawls from Where the Red Fern Grows puts it, "Not the kind a boy has for the cute girl next door, but the real kind. The wiggly kind with four legs, a tail, and a wet nose." I.WANT.A.DOG! If I could have one in my current apartment I would, but they don't even allow fish. Yep, no pets in my building at all.

With the option of moving and possibly getting paid I had looked and looked both on Craigslist and petfinder.com to find a dog. I would really like to rescue one, instead of buying from a breeder or possible puppy mill. I do know that some of those are on both sites, but I try to stick away from ones like that. I want a dog that's a dog and not just rat or Zsu-Zsu pet sized. What I really, ReAlLY, REALLY want is an English bulldog. Like these:

Aren't they just precious, with their face-wrinkles and such?! When I was in Augusta over the summer I lived with a bully and completely fell in love. After doing some research they seem to fit my activity level, because they do like to just chill, but also have small spurts of energy. And I know they have their health issues, due to in-breeding, but they are so adorable. Another yucky thing is that they cost major $$$$, like in the thousands of dollars, which I do not have. So I'm taking up a collection for my very own bully. Or if you live in the Midwest and know of a bully that needs a family for cheaper than thousands of dollars, you should let me know!

Blindsided

2010-02-24T10:18:00.002-05:00

I was blindsided last night. I don't have an externship afterall. PCI decided that "their needs have changed" and that they need a licensed audiologist instead of an extern. This leaves me in the crapper. I have a few more options that I can try, but am really uncertain about the future.

At least I was able to be around great people that were able to pray, uplift, and encourage me when I got the news. I love my Family Fusion drama crew more than one can know! If I weren't a Christian, that is in a well-developed community, I would be absolutely lost and broken about the externship.

Good news/Bad news

2010-02-22T15:08:00.002-05:00

Bad news first: I didn't get the Iowa City VA position that I really, really, really wanted :( I kind of freaked out, you could ask my mom or my good friend Amber about my mental state Friday night.

Good news: There are multiple parts
1. Saturday morning I went shoe shopping for some retail therapy. I went to DSW because I had gotten a coupon in the mail. Originally I wanted some cute black knee high boots. I've known that my calves are a bit, hmmm how you say, shapely and most black boots just aren't large enough to accomodate them. I went shopping for some anyway. I ended up with a pair of booties (they look like boots with pants or jeans on, but are pretty hideous without). I got a FABULOUS deal: they were originally $60 and I paid...drumroll...$15.

2. I accepted an externship at PCI ENT in Cedar Rapids. I'll start sometime at the beginning of June. I'm excited, but there's still so much to do before I'm done in Madison.

Academic Rebel?

2010-02-10T13:37:00.004-05:00

Shhh! Don't tell anyone I'm blogging during class, that's probably a no-no, but the prof is rambling on and on and on and on and ON about some required reading that I have not yet completed and probably won't. Yep that's me an academic rebel (wait that's pretty oxymoronic).

The reason I wanted to blog today was that I have an interview next week with the VA hospital in Iowa City. In my last post I mentioned that this is where I'd really, really, REALLY like to spend my 4th and final year of grad school.

I wanted to add a cute picture, but I htink the prof is onto my ploy.

Still no internet access at my apartment

2010-02-07T16:24:00.003-05:00

I really, really shouldn't complain about my lack of internet access, as I don't pay for it. BUT sometimes, like now, I get really used to using someone else's unsecured connection and then it stops working suddenly.

Since I last posted I've had some good news. I got an externship offer in Cedar Rapids, IA at an ENT (ear, nose, & throat doctor) office. I haven't accepted it yet though, because I got word that the VA hospital in Iowa City has a paid opening. I grew to love the VA system after my summer in Georgia at the VA and just really want to be in the VA system. I've applied and have gotten all my letters of recommendation in within the week. I'd really like to have this process moving and get this externship, but I do have a backup of the clinic in Cedar Rapids. Please pray for direction and for the VA process to move quickly as it typically doesn't.

Other than that life is still moving and nothing too exciting has been happening.

Lack of internet access

2010-01-30T12:55:00.004-05:00

Sorry for my mini-blog break, but my internet access has been rather limited lately. You see I'm cheap and just mooch off of one of my neighbor's unsecured internet connections and it has not been working as of late. I also started clinic this week in Milwaukee and haven't had time to just go over to school for free internet. This morning I decided to multi-task and take my laptop with me to the laundromat. So while my clothes are drying I'm sharing so thoughts with you.

This semester for clinic like I said I'm in Milwaukee. From my place it's about 74 miles one way and amounts to 1.5 to 2 hours to get there, so luckily it's only 2 days per week! I love the placement so far though. I'm at Froedtert/Medical College of Wisconsin in their cochlear implant program. I'm very excited for the placment and am learning quite a bit already. It should be a good placement and I'll blog more about it later.

February is almost upon us, which means that I'll hopefully know where I'll be doing my externship. I have an interview Monday and a phone call on Tuesday. The phone call should be bringing some good news, but I'm not counting on it too much. Other fun February events include my parents visiting me for a weekend, attending and presenting a poster at the WSHA conference for Wisconsin area speech language pathologists and audiologists, and while there staying with my good friend Miranda :)

Thanks for reading

2010-01-25T17:04:00.003-05:00

Thanks for reading the blog! I saw the hit counter jump from 64 to over 90 in just a few hours. Way to go!

Random Monday Deep Thoughts

2010-01-25T11:30:00.004-05:00

To quote a song from a musical I like, Something has changed within me...something is not the same. (10 points and maybe a prize to the first person that can name the musical and the song in the comments!) Last night I went to church, yep my church has Sunday evening services, and we're in a sermon series called "Breathe Deep" where different topics related to the Holy Spirit have been discussed. You can check out these sermons and older series online here: http://blackhawkchurch.org/resources/message_archive.php

This week Pastor Chris spoke about spiritual renewal and how the Spirit works in us and how our "old self" battles our "new self" that is filled with the Spirit. I'm not sure at what point it happened, but something clicked within me. Last night and this morning I've lost that down in the dumps feeling! I'm more hopeful and I praise God for that. I think some of it may be realizing that fact that I'm about to have an externship offer and I'll know where I'll be come June in just a few weeks!!!

Sorry for all the deep thoughts so early on a Monday, but I couldn't help but share about the change occuring in me right now!

Remember the contest!

Good Books + Melissa Gilbert = Great Musical

2010-01-23T19:57:00.003-05:00

Growing up (an still today) I am a lover of books. I have many favorites, but one series has earned a shelf to all it's own. No not Harry Potter (though greatly loved), it's a book series that I read when I was just starting to read. For a LONG time I was completely into The Baby-sitter's Club, but one series held my attention with a sense of adventure and awe for much longer. In fact I just read through the series again over break. Know what it is yet? I'll tell you: The Little House books by Laura Ingalls Wilder. I have whole set and you may not be able to tell from the picture, but they are well loved, especially The Long Winter which has always been a favorite.

I could tell of my love for Laura and books for days and days and days. I dressed up as her for multiple Halloweens and in 3rd grade she was my biography buddy (we had to read a biography and make decorate a cut-out shaped like a person to represent our buddies). I've been to many of the homestead sites (Pepin, WI; DeSmidt, SD; Burr Oak, IA) and long one day to visit Rocky Ridge Farm down in Missouri.

This whole week I have been excited and hoping, skirming, and praying for a ticket to Little House on the Prairie: The Musical. It's been here in Madison for the past week and I could not afford tickets at $45 a pop. The Overture Center (Madison's civic center) had an offer for students to buy tickets the day of the show for $20 (OVER HALF OFF!!!). I kept crossing my fingers that there were tickets left for today's matinee because 2 dear friends were going, including a lil gal that I introduced to Laura's world.

It.was.AMAZING! On thing I forgot to mention is that Melissa Gilbert (Laura from the TV show) played MA :) She was so great in the role even though she's not known as a singer. The musical was so beautifully done with outstanding music, great actors, and bits and pieces from most of the books (mostly By the Shores of Silver Lake, The Long Winter, Little Town on the Prairie, and These Happy Golden Years). Some of the dialogue was directly out of the books and it made my heart smile so much I cried during a few of the songs. Here's a picture of my program.

And the man who played Almanzo could totally sing and dance and was SUPER ATTRACTIVE! You know how many teen (and sometimes older) girls say that they are Team Edward, Team Jacob, Team Harry, Team Fiyero, Team (insert cute boy's name here)? Well I've decided that I'm TEAM ALMANZO!

No motivation?! Two posts in one day?!

2010-01-19T17:12:00.002-05:00

Two posts in one day?! That doesn't happen often especially after my first post was about no motivation. I decided to show you that I could pull it together and get something done today, besides blogging. I did some work in my kitchen today including 2, count 'em, 2 rounds of dirty dishes (Clarification that it's only been 2 days since I last did dishes and I'm not dirrrrty; I just cooked meals that involved multiple things like a crock pot, or the George, or just pans). I also cleaned the minimal counter space I have and found a home for my new knife block. I also took some pictures to document my accomplishment.

One of those days

2010-01-19T12:19:00.002-05:00

I'm having one of those days. I definitely got more than enough sleep (10 pm to 8:30 am), but I have no motivation. I think I'm just stuck in that crap-I'm-still-single-and-Valentine's-Day-is-looming funk. I'm hoping that when I start classes tomorrow my mind will once again be busy enough not to get funky about something I don't have.

It's a short post, but I warned you I have no motivation! Okay I'll add a picture that represents how I feel right now.

Falling in like with boots

2010-01-14T20:59:00.005-05:00

I'll admit I LOVE Ugg boots, but I don't love the prices. Last year when I wanted some of the tan suede Uggs I caved and bought a pair from Walmart for a WHOPPING $15. I held off tucking my jeans into the boots for a whole year. Now I'll admit it: I tuck my jeans into my boots. It started off as a way to keep the bottom of my jeans dry (big pet peeve: wet jean bottoms), but now I, gulp, think I like the look.

I slyly mentioned some new boots I bought when up in the Twin Cities (that's Minneapolis and St. Paul, MN for those not from the midwest) and now I'm debuting them. Arent' they beautiful? They're not Ugg, but close.

I found them at DSW in the clearance section (PTL for having small feet, there's always a great clearance selection) and instantly fell in like. I've been looking for a pair of cardy boots because there are a couple of different ways you can wear them: up like the second pic, folded down like the first or just slouchy not pictured. I love them and so far have worn them with my jeans tucked in and over tights. I'm debating if I should go buy a pair of leggings or not to wear them with too. Mostly because I don't own super skinny jeans and my jeans are all wonky with the boots. I'm just not sure if anyone wants/needs/would survive me wearing leggings.

Pray for Haiti

2010-01-14T01:22:00.003-05:00

I can't even begin to fathom the chaos that Haiti is experiencing today. NPR was full of news of the destruction and I just couldn't stop from praying for the people down there: the victims of the quake (dead and alive), those still buried, the children who have lost parents and don't understand what has happened, parents crying out for their babies, the people who have flown down there to help.

To top that all of CBN's Pat Robertson said the quake was caused by Haitians making a deal with the devil 200 years ago...BULLCRAP! Sometimes it's so hard to claim Christians that speak like that as my brothers and sisters in Christ, but I will if that's what Christ has called me to do.

I don't know if anything supernatural/spiritual caused the quake, but that's not important. The important thing to do is to help the people of that damaged nation in any way possible. The only way that I can help them this very moment is to pray and to urge you to pray, or think positive, or send good vibes their way. So please do.

UPDATE:
I just learned that my friend, Ben Larson, died in the quake. He, his wife Renee, and cousin Jon (whom I worked with at camp) were down there doing some relief work when the quake struck. Jon and Renee are unhurt, but Ben didn't make it out of the building. Along with the other people who have died down there, pray for the families they leave behind.

Externship Update

2010-01-07T19:04:00.002-05:00

Thought I would update y'all on my search for an externship. The 3 that I'm pursuing right now are in Marshall, MN at an audiologist-owned private practice; LaCrosse, WI at a hospital; and Cedar Rapids, IA at an ENT practice.

Marshall - I've had 2 interviews and it sounds promising.

LaCrosse - I have an interview scheduled Feb 1. This is one of my top choices.

Cedar Rapids - I was supposed to interview there today, but it's been rescheduled for next Wed the 13. They haven't ever taken an externship and don't know if they will, but it's my only IA possibility.

Please be praying for me especially for my nerves/self-confidence in audiology and for guidance in which way I should go.

Ringing in the New Year

2010-01-04T15:09:00.002-05:00

Happy 2010 (yes I know we're already a few days in)! Most of my break has been rather uneventful, but for New Year's I traveled north to the Minneapolis area to see some really good friends. I drove up New Year's Eve and we had a real low-key midnight celebration, watching Dick Clark, drinking some champagne, and playing cards. They also came up with some resolutions and though I typically come up with a couple, I couldn't think of any this year. However, I figured out my top 3 favorite moments of 2009. Drumroll please......

1. 8/1 Skydiving with Jeff in NC

2. 5/30 My parents' surprise 25th anniversary party

3. 9/7-9/14 Roadtrip home from GA with Bethany

It's been fun thinking about some of the great things 2009 brought, but a very wise woman told me that, "2010 is going to be a very big year for you." And I really hope it is. There are some very big things like presenting my capstone twice, getting and starting my externship, and moving away from Madison.

Random Sunday Thoughts

2009-12-27T13:28:00.002-05:00

Not too much has happened lately. I mean it was a busy week with Christmas and all the snow that covered the Midwest, but not too much has happened. Christmas Eve my immediate family opened presents and watched some movies. Christmas Day we braved the roads and made it to my grandparents' house and back. The roads weren't the best, but were passable at lower speeds. I was so glad we were able to make it and have fun with the family :)

Other news: you probably noticed I changed the background and my header. What do you think? I combined a background from Hot Bliggity Blog and a header from TCBOTB and so far I like it.

Home

2009-12-21T18:57:00.002-05:00

I made it safely to my parents' house yesterday after some fun driving through a mini-snow storm. I haven't done anything exciting, but did get to the local coffeehouse for coffee (of course!) and lunch with my mom. Tonight I'm just chilling and hoping and praying that the weather is okay for Christmas Day. It's not supposed to be good here with little or no visibility due to blowing snow.

Christmas Day is ALWAYS spent with my dad's parents, Papa Don and Grandma Carolyn, with all my aunts, uncles, cousins, and cousins' kiddos. It's so much fun as we pass the Boone's Farm and catch up on the year. Some of my family, mostly just my cousins, I only get to see at Christmas. I hope if we can't travel on Friday, then we can re-schedule and still find time to get together.

Peace and blessings for you and yours this holiday season!

School update

2009-12-18T18:04:00.002-05:00

I'M DONE WITH FALL SEMESTER :) I finished all the graded projects/tests/homework this morning and am now officially down with the semester. This means I have one (1!) semester of coursework left in Madison and then a year long externship where I'm basically working as an unpaid and unlicensed audiologist.

Externship update:
I HAVE A SECOND INTERVIEW! At the beginning of Nov I interviewed with a small private-practice in Marshall, MN. I thought the interview went okay, but didn't hear from them for a long time. Earlier this week I got a call from the owner asking if I were still interested. On Monday we're going to talk some more and schedule a time for me to interview and visit the clinic.

Also two more resumes and cover letters went out: 1 to Franciscan Skemp Hospital in LaCrosse, WI and 1 to Physician's Choice Clinics in Cedar Rapids, IA.

If this doesn't result in an externship, I'm joining the Army (SERIOUSLY) and being an audiologist there.

The most wonderful time of the year...

2009-12-17T17:56:00.003-05:00

I LOVE CHRISTMAS! I don't know exactly why, but I think it has to do with hope and looking back on the significance of the birth of Jesus. Yes I know he wasn't born on Dec 25, but we still get the chance to celebrate what a great gift-giver God truly is. What's really interesting is that the rest of my immediate family doesn't like Christmas, specifically my mom. While I'm listening to Christmas music or watching Christmas movies (Elf, A Christmas Story, Home Alone, Rudolph, etc), my mom especially rools her eyes. I don't judge those that don't like Christmas, but please don't rain on my parade and I won't make you watch movies with me or do the little Christmas things that I do.

One of my favorite things about Christmas is gifts. Before you judge I'm not THAT materialistic, but my main love language is gifts. I just feeled loved when I know you spent time and/or money on me. A gift can be a precious as the picture one of my old Sunday School kids gave me or as elaborate as my gifts from Santa. He still visits the Roths house in Humboldt and gives the best gifts! Speaking of gifts, I'm almost done with my shopping and wrapping. I just have my fur-nephew (Missey and Rich's dog, Dierks) left! Here are the wrapped presents I have under my fake ficus tree:

I AM WOMAN

2009-12-09T17:28:00.002-05:00

In my last post I mentioned the crazy amounts of snow we were forecasted to get here in Madison. Well we didn't get what was forecasted (8-12 inches), of course, we got MORE :( All in all somewhere from 14-18 inches. Me, being the big girl I am, went and bought a shovel for my car and dug my car out. No whining, complaining, or crying (HUGE FEAT RIGHT THERE!)! Here is a picture to show you how bad my street looked this morning. None of the those cars are mine, but you get the idea.

What everyone in the Midwest is talking about

2009-12-08T23:37:00.002-05:00

It's snowing. Madison has been in a blizzard warning for awhile now (by that I mean over 12 hours) and the snow. won't. STOP. Don't get me wrong I love snow, but when it interferes with life and I'm restless already, being snowed in all. by. myself. SUCKS!

Pray that I won't get a case of cabin-fever so early in the winter!

I'm a busy bee

2009-12-02T14:29:00.002-05:00

Wow, just realized it's been over a week since I last posted! Here's a quick synopsis of my recently very busy life.

Tuesday, November 24: Clinic til 1pm and then a 5 hour drive home

Wednesday, November 25: SNOW in Iowa, doc appointment/shopping with Mom, then partying with my cousins and getting obsurdly drunk and puking til after 10 am the next day

Thursday, November 26: THANKSGIVING:) Besides spending a lot of time puking and in and out of a car, I had a great Thanksgiving. My family went to my aunt and uncle's new house with her side of the family. I got to see my Papa Don and Grandma Carolyn, whom I dearly love, but don't see often enough!

Friday, November 27: Went shopping with Mom and brother, but not at the butt-crack of dawn.

Saturday, November 28: Thanksgiving/Christmas with my mom's side of the family (aka the cousins I got drunk with a few days earlier), lots of sexual references about vibrators, viagra, etc, but still great

Sunday, November 29: Drove back to WI and spent hours catching up on homework

Monday, November 30: MY BIRTHDAY (we won't say how much) Many of my friends were busy, so I just went out with a few for dinner and then saw Julie & Julia at the cheap seats (IT WAS SO GOOD!). Later went out for a few drinks and great conversation.

Tuesday, December 1: Clinic, then Little Women and Port Wine night. 'Nough said

Today I give not 1, but 2 presentations for class and am still finishing one of them. Needless to say the rest of the week won't be any better. I have to finishing prepping for Family Fusion (dress rehearsal tomorrow night; performance Friday)... I guess I'll sleep when the semester's done in about 10 days!

Audiology on the Brain

2009-11-21T12:11:00.003-05:00

I'm an ear-nerd, there's not mistaking that AT ALL. Here are some random moments where audiology seeps back into my brain.

At the local coffee shop (or any coffee shop really) I wonder how loud the grinder is and if barristas are going to be patients in the future because of the noise exposure in coffee shops. I then wonder if I should call OSHA or just bring in a damn sound level meter myself and measure the loudness.

Whenever someone around me has a baby I make sure to ask them about their ears and if the baby was tested for hearing loss (which they should be because of the popularity of Universal Newborn Hearing Screening, but not all states routinely do this).

At concerts, I always wonder who made the in-the-ear monitors for the musicians. Oh and how to get into that part of the business so that I can looks in a famous person's ears; yep I'm that weird.

These is just a sample of my random this-is-my-brain-on-audiology thoughts. I hope you enjoy them and don't judge me too harshly :)

HAPPY WEEKEND!

An exciting Thursday....

2009-11-20T15:58:00.002-05:00

leads to a lazy, yet somehow minutely productive Friday.

Yesterday started off great, with clinic and then some Season 3 How I Met Your Mother (HIMYM) action. Next was an awesome new Grey's. Hmmm...the best part of my Thursday was actually happened EARLY Friday. I went to a 12:05 am showing of a little known movie, "New Moon", have you heard of it?

New Moon was my fav of the 4 books and I was very excited to see Taylor Lautner as a very,very buff Jacob (yes, I know he's only 17). Yes, the acting is a bit cheesy, but so was the script, but the movie was amazing! I loved the wolf-pack and the scene with the Voltarri.

I got home from the movie about 3 am and promptly went to bed, because I'm old, or at least close to old. This leads into my lazy Friday. I slept until noon! I can't remember the last time I slept that late. I haven't wanted to do anything today, but went to the DOT and got my license plate renewed and called my car insurance to get them some information. Now I'm back at my place watching Wendy Williams (I <3 this show too, it's just so ridiculous!). Soon I'll be heading to the coffee shop to take some quizzes...ugg school...

The much anticipated Halloween pix

2009-11-17T18:57:00.002-05:00

I've had some crappy internet connections and lots of event-filled weekends, so posting hasn't been a priority. I hope y'all enjoy a glimpse of my Halloween fun.

Our Hogwarts looks: Luna Lovegood & Hermoine Granger

I'm so thankful for good friends, even ones that are scared of people.

"I'm Princess Unicorn. My horn can pierce the sky."

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T16:21:00.002-04:00

Happy Halloween everyone! I hope that y'all have a safe and busy Halloween Day.
As for me I just got back from the Badger game (37-0) against Purdue and need to warm up before donning my Luna Lovegood costume and heading out for the night. I'll try to post some pics tomorrow :)

A Weighty Issue

2009-10-25T12:24:00.003-04:00

I can't lie to myself, I've had weight issues my entire life. I can remember as early as 1st grade feeling fat and not cute. My parents never said anything about my weight, and always told me I was pretty. My classmates always made me feel less than pretty. I was never fat, maybe a bit rounded around the edges, but I felt FAT.

The only time I didn't feel fat was during my freshman year and part of my sophomore year of college. I lost weight instead of gaining it like everyone else. The only thing is I lost it in very unhealthy ways (skipping class to work out multiple times a day, unhealthfully counting calories, only eating once a day). I remember going back to work at camp Summer 2004 and being complimented on the weight I had lost by former staffers and campers. I felt so GOOD and kept up that unhealthy lifestyle.

Then depression hit and the weight came back with a vengence...It just kept creeping up and piling on my small frame. I kept struggling with self-esteem.

Cut to last August (the one in 08), with a doc's urging and my own realization that I was obese by BMI standards I joined a gym. It took me about 2 months to lose 5 pounds, even with a trainer. I went back to the doc and found out my hormones were out of whack (because of the weight) and that was making it almost impossible to lose the weight. I started out some medication to help and then somewhere between 15 and 20 lbs were lost. I felt good again, but this time no one said anything! Only those that knew I was working out said anything.

My weight loss has stabilized somewhere about 20-23 lbs and I feel great. My goal is about another 10-15, but I need to get back on the work-out train.

Another week, more thoughts

2009-10-16T13:34:00.002-04:00

Here are some random thoughts I've had lately:

I love riding the bus to school. It's filled with many many interesting people.

I'm recently obsessed with Netflix. I haven't gotten any movies yet, but my queue is rapidly expanding.

I FINALLY got my loan check. I'm super happy to not be destitute and living off of popcorn and spaghetti.

I love, love, love Family Fusion.

Taking it by auricle....uh, ear

2009-10-06T21:26:00.002-04:00

I haven't posted about audiology lately or school in general, so I thought I'd let you in on my "professional" life. Let's break it up into a few categories: classes, clinic, capstone, extern year.

Classes
This semester I'm taking Implantable devices, Pathologies II, and Counseling. I don't have a favorite, but counseling doesn't really seem to apply to what I've done thus far as I don't work with kids that have recently been diagnosed with hearing loss or that are going through the process of getting a cochlear implant which seems to be all the prof talks about. Implantables is great and I'm learning alot and then Pathologies is similar to all the other classes with Dr. F except a bit easier.

Clinic
I'm at Sauk Prairie Hospital just north of Madison. I've seen patients aged 2 weeks to 90+ years. Almost all of it is hearing aids, and they're all Siemens brand which is not my fav.

Capstone
My capstone is off to a good start. I'm working with high frequency tympanometry (a test of middle ear function) in kiddos. Haven't started testing anyone yet, but it'll be soon. Just practice with Claire tonight to get a feel for the systems we're using.

Extern
I missed the application deadline for one of the places, but I didn't really want to be there anyway. This weekend (crossing my fingers) I'll be meeting with the director of audiology from the Wolfe Eye Clinic in Iowa. They haven't ever had an extern, but the director is a UW grad which hopefully will help!

2009-09-28T15:32:00.004-04:00

I'm not sure what to blog about today, but I wanted to post something. Please enjoy these pictures of my current top 3 celebrity crushes.

Neil Patrick Harris (Doogie Houser, How I Met Your Mother, Dr. Horrible), I wish you didn't play for the other team because you can sing and dance and look great in a suit.

Matthew Morrison (Glee, bunches of Broadway shows). Hmmm....

Lee Pace (Pushing Daisies, Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day), I miss Ned and want Pushing Daisies back so that I can see you and your awkwardness around Olive...

Joy

2009-09-24T11:17:00.002-04:00

I've been thinking about joy heaps lately. What does joy mean? Dictionary.com defines joy as, "pleasure" or "elatedness". I think that joy is something that defies personal emotion, as you can be depressed or happy but still have joy.

Here are some things that make me experience joy (in no particular order):
God (His love, grace, mercy, mysterious workings)
Family Fusion
Seeing someone's face light up as they hear sounds again for the first time
Receiving texts/calls/emails/letters/visits from friends that are unexpected
Laughing with someone at my own jokes (usually people just groan)
Singing out of tune, at the top of my lungs to "Wicked" or other musicals, but Wicked is my favorite
Watching Glee (the TV show)
Watching Pushing Daisies
Watching Kristin Chenoweth clips on Youtube (she's my fav actress)
Driving down a gravel road listening to country music with the sun roof open
Being with my family/friends
Watching The Bonnie Hunt Show
Twins baseball
Thinking about the stupid stuff I did at Luther and USD, but mostly at Luther
UW Badgers's sports
Blackhawk Church
And many more...

There are so many things that bring me joy. How about you dear reader, what brings you joy?

The F'ing Post

2009-09-22T19:55:00.002-04:00

A long time ago friends and I at camp wanted to name a recharge the F'ing Recharge and make it all about fellowship (hence the F'ing). Life hasn't been great for me as of late (see last post and my now hostility towards the UW Financial Aid Office), but I've had some amazing times of fellowship. Friday was full of f'ing, first I had coffee with Ber which is always great and we just shared our struggles (It's good to know I'm not the only one) and prayed. Then in the afternoon my good musical-loving M helped me hang some stuff up and then went to Jamba Juice. Saturday was another f'ing day where I went to see Star Trek with my good friend B. It was a great movie. Then sometime this week a friend from camp/Luther emailed me about this blog and just offered such great encouragement. Yay God for being great when my world sucks!

Off to Family Fusion practice; we've got a show next week already!

Struggling

2009-09-15T19:42:00.002-04:00

I hate using the blog to vent, but right now I need it. I've been struggling for weeks with many different issues that added all up make life extremely hard!

The major thing is that I don't do change well and this school year will bring many changes to my life. I'll be researching and applying/interviewing for a 4th year externship. I already have an interview next month (AAAHHHHH!). I'm also coming up on a milestone birthday and am not feeling so great about it. I think mostly because I'm not where I'd thought I'd be in life at this time. I thought I'd be done with school and have a "real" job and maybe even be married or at least close. Instead I'm still in school with a graduation in 2011 and as single as a girl can get. Don't get me wrong I've LOVED the journey I've taken and can't wait to be a licensed audiologists, but I'm ready to start a shared journey, and don't know if it'll ever happen. This makes the whole decision about taking a 4th year more difficult because I want to choose a place where I'll meet people around my own age and maybe him. Or I think what if he's in Madison and I've missed him or don't meet him til I'm ready to leave? I don't know where I want to go and that seems so foreign to me as I usually have a clear cut location in mind (i.e. like Wisconsin for grad school). I'm so stressed that I'm tearing up even writing this...stupid emotional girl! Church on Sunday was hard because I've really been doubting the journey and God's timing.

I know that all the time God is good and so's His timing and plan. If you have some time pray for me this week. I thank you in advance!

Finally a break in the case of the stupid student loans

2009-09-11T16:23:00.003-04:00

Like many, many people I have to take out student loans. They're pretty excessive considering I'm paying out-of-state tuition and this year has been crazy. First I got denied for a student loan because of my credit (lame because almost no student has good credit). After that I talked to the loan place and decided to add a cosigner. I just learned today that it was approved! All I have to do is fill out the MPN (master promisery note) and turn it in to the Financial Aid Office. I should have my $$$ next week and won't be absurdly poor anymore.

No Internet

2009-09-11T12:48:00.002-04:00

The internet I was bumming off of is no longer working in my apartment. This means no internet for me until I get my loan check (still no word, starting to worry).

Taste of Madison

2009-09-06T15:47:00.002-04:00

Every Labor Day weekend in downtown Madison there's an event called Taste of Madison.It's a free festival and 60+restaurants set up booths on Capital Square and sell food for super cheap (under $4). There's a variety of places like Madison local favs, ethnic foods, and chains like Chili's. There are also a few entertainment stands and they serve beer and wine there too.
I went for the first time (and maybe my last?) today and my tummy is full with super yummy foods. Here's what I had (in order):
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake
Pepsi
Prime Rib Sandwich
Tiramusu

My grand total is way less than the calories consumed...drumroll...$11.

I didn't even tell you the best part as all the proceeds go to United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Dane County (http://www.ucp.org/ucp_local.cfm/152).

Happy Labor Day Weekend!

Tis the season

2009-09-05T09:01:00.000-04:00

I LOVE fall and all that come with that in the Midwest. Cool mornings and nights with great temps in the 60's and even in the 50's. I cannot wait for fall and it seems that we've been having some fall-ish days as of late, though it's going to be warm for Labor Day weekend.

There are a lot of things that I love about fall: buying school supplies (I'm a nerd), wearing long sleeve T-shirts, upcoming holidays (i.e. Halloween, Thanksgiving, my bday), but the thing I love the most is all the pumpkin spice flavored goodies. Specifically Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Lattes, pumpkin bread/muffins, and pumpkin pie.

Drinks up!

First week of classes

2009-09-04T12:05:00.002-04:00

Hi y'all,
I'm finished with my first week of classes for the semester. It's looking to not be easy but not too hard either. This semester I have 3 lecture classes (Pathologies II, Implantable Devices, & Counseling), clinic, and have capstone credit hours.
Next week should be a busy week, so good thing I have a 4-day weekend! On Tuesday I start clinic up in Prairie du Sac and Family Fusion practice starts again :). Wednesday I have classes and LifeGroup starts again and it's a whole new bunch of people.

Off to lunch!
TR

The cute pup

2009-09-02T10:58:00.004-04:00

I want a dog, but can't have one in the apartment I'm living in this year. Luckily my little brother and his girlfriend got a German Shepard puppy and named him Dierks. He is pretty darn cute, but a little shit at times (at least according to the bro).

Ode to Savannah

2009-09-02T10:53:00.003-04:00

To the city of Savannah, GA: I've visited you twice, but fell in love with the beauty of the Spanish moss, the live oak trees, and true Southern hospitality. So much history has happened within you and allegedly so many ghosts walk your houses, streets, and squares.

Hope to visit again soon.

Sincerely, TR

Long time no blog

2009-08-25T01:08:00.002-04:00

I haven't written for awhile so I'll try to bring you up to speed.

Aug 8-12ish:
Roadtrip with Bethany. The roadtrip was great and some of my highlights were Savannah, fried pickles in Nashville, and the Twins winning the game we attended.

Saw my family for the first time in months which was amazing! Also met my fur-nephew (aka my brother's dog) Dierks who is horribly cute:)

Aug 15:
Moved back to Madison and into my new apartment. It's really small, but it's all mine and I really like it. It's a mess still as I'm trying to figure out how to best make use of the space and decorate it. My pictures are strewn all around the floor.

Since then I've been enjoying being back in Madison and minus an internet connection (thus the lack of blogging). I have another week before school starts and the craziness begins.
I'll try to blog more about the roadtrip and life as a Madisonian later.

Now it's time to say goodbye

2009-08-07T11:22:00.003-04:00

I'm officially done with clinic: my clock hours are signed, their evaluation/grade report is in, and I am out-processed by the Charlie Norwood VAMC. It's a bit bittersweet as I've grown to love the clinic and the my supervisors and other students, but I'm excited to see Bethany (she gets here in less than 10 hours!) and my family soon:)

The roadtrip starts tomorrow and here's the basic itinerary:

Sat: Savannah

Sun: Nashville

Mon: Belle Meade Plantation (outside of Nashville)
St. Louis

Tues: Hannibal, MO (Mark Twain museum)
Ackley, IA (to see my Aunt T and pick up my quilt)
Humboldt, IA (HOME!)

Wed: Okoboji
Minneapolis -- TWINS GAME and to take Bethany home

Thurs: Home again:)

I'm free----free fallin' (lame I know)

2009-08-01T17:32:00.004-04:00

Ready to fly. I don't look scared at all.

Free-fallin'!

More free-fallin'

Coming in for landing with my awesome pink parachute.

A successful skydive:)

These are just a few of the pics that were taken (there's about 150 on the CD they gave me) plus I have video of the jump too if anyone ever wants to see it.

Not much longer now

2009-07-29T11:02:00.002-04:00

I have 10 days left until I'm finished with my clinic placement here in Augusta. It seems like I just moved down here. Besides that realization, this morning has been pretty great. I got a call from Miss McKenzie Messmann (I was her family's counselor at Okoboji for 4 years and now babysit her and her brother in MoHo). It made my morning.
Besides being almost finished with clinic, I'm almost done with my summer courses. I have a paper to write for my (stupid) hearing conservation course and I'm done with that course once I turn the paper in. The medical issues course has been a breeze and not stressful at all. Just a few more discussions to add my 2 cents.
Wish me good luck writing!

Oh what a beautiful morning

2009-07-25T11:38:00.002-04:00

Thus far today has been an amazing day and for no particular reason. I stayed up a bit late last night, but slept amazingly and did not set an alarm. I work up feeling refreshed and not rushed. I took some time and went to the grocery store (one of my favorite errands, weird I know) and afterwards went to Smoothie King. As much as I love Saturday morning Farmer's Market in Madison, I'm going to miss my Augusta routine.

Although I have 2 Saturdays left (time has flown!) down south I'm not going to be in Augusta. Next weekend I'm going up to visit my cousin Jeff and his family near Fayetteville, NC and then next weekend Bethany will be here:) I think the plan is to go visit Savannah.

Frustrated

2009-07-22T14:41:00.002-04:00

Usually Wednesdays are my day of relaxation as it's a day off of clinic. Today has been completely frustrating for two things.

1. I saw this hateful video on youtube from Westboro Church (the one that's well known for picketing GLBTA events and such) where they sing this song called "God hates the world" It made me so sad that these people feel the need to take a great song (We are the world) and turn it into hateful propaganda. I'm ashamed to call myself a Christian as these people also associate themselves with that name. If you want to view the hate here's the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bsipv1jTQC8

2. $ sucks! After having to obtain a personal loan in order to travel down to GA (I couldn't take out a student loan because when I traveled down here wasn't during a session I was enrolled in). That $ is now gone because of random expenses that have cropped up like fixing my phone and computer, and buying a book for a summer class that I hadn't planned on buying at all. I now have no $ to get back to IA/WI with or pay my rent (both in GA and WI for August). I had to apply for a GradPLUS loan (one that can be consolidated with my Staffords and has low interest) and it's held up and I may not even get it in time to get back. For some reason my application was picked for manual review and now I have to fax my driver's lisence and Social Security card (real safe right?) so that it can be fully processed:( Idk what I'll do if I have to stay here longer. I'm just trying to be a financially responsible person, but I keep having these major set-backs. Please pray for my financial situation as I'm not asking for a handout!

Compy dramz

2009-07-18T14:16:00.002-04:00

I've taken a noticeable absence from my blog, it wasn't intended. Last week my laptop screen stopped working. Turns out I had a cracked LCD screen :( I called HP to see if it was still in warranty ----nope only 2 days earlier the warranty lapsed. To send it to them to fix would cost $400+ and we all know I can't afford that. Luckily I got a recommendation for a repair shop here in Augusta and they were able to fix it a lot cheaper! PTL! The only problem was that it took about a week to fix it and in the mean time I still had to work on my classes. What a mess! I finally got the compy back on Wednesday night and I'm happy again.

Oh, I'm halfway there...

2009-07-07T22:49:00.002-04:00

Ooo, living on a prayer.
As of today I'm halfway done with my internship in Augusta! I kinda feel like I've been here forever, but am just a little bit excited to know that a month from today I am done and get to see one of my best friends (BHolt) and then see my fam and Madison friends again soon.

Things I've learned at Charlie Norwood VAMC:
how to do an audio in 35 minutes
how to do SRT in 2 dB steps by bracketing
Starkey aids (especially the new S series) is pretty great
I like working with adults more than I thought
there are more ear mold companies out there besides Westone (mainly Em tech)
how to remove wax from ears by curette and irrigation
how to perform and interpret posturography tests
and much more

Happy Holiday Weekend

2009-07-03T13:56:00.002-04:00

Happy holiday weekend everyone. I wish I could be part of some of my favorite 4th of July traditions: the Dubuque Airshow and Fireworks with the Golden Knights and my family (and lots of tequila), watching fireworks from the dock at Okoboji Lutheran Bible Camp (usually with the Messmanns and other MoHo families, and Rhythym and Booms in Madison. This year I'm celebrating a 3-day weekend by finishing up some homework (ug!), hanging by the pool, and just hanging out with Amanda (my landlord/roommate) and Brian, her fiance. It should be pretty great and relaxing.

Happy Birthday America and may we continue to celebrate and fight for our freedoms. Thanks to all who have or are currently serving in the military for their protection, courage, and bravery:)

Phone Drama

2009-06-28T17:36:00.003-04:00

Holy crap today was a stressful phone drama day. My phone that I dearly love (the original LG enV), has been on the fritz lately and hasn't been chargely properly. Today I couldn't get it to charge at all, so I took it to a local Verizon store. The charging port was broken, which is common on any of the enVs. I was able to purchase a replacement phone (another LG enV). Then I got it back to where I'm living and when I made a call no one could hear my voice. I took it back right away and bless their hearts they were able to fix it. I now have a new (but refurbished) phone that charges properly:)

Family Fusion: And now for the videos…

2009-06-22T20:14:00.002-04:00

Some of you have heard me talk about this thing I do at church called Family Fusion. It's the thing I act in once a month. I have a few links to videos if anyone's interested in watching them. They about 1 hour, but some (especially the first) may be longer.

And now for the videos…

Andy downloaded the videos to our server (each production took at least 8 hours to download!!) I had trouble with the first “medium” file but the “large” worked well. Here is a note from Andy about the videos:
“Users can right-click and choose to save them, or let their in-browser Quicktime player show the stream. Keep in mind these are large files and will take some time to either buffer up or download.”

www.blackhawkmedia.org/temp/febffmed.mov

www.blackhawkmedia.org/temp/febfflarge.mov

www.blackhawkmedia.org/temp/marchffmed.mov

www.blackhawkmedia.org/temp/marchfflarge.mov

www.blackhawkmedia.org/temp/aprilffmed.mov

www.blackhawkmedia.org/temp/aprilfflarge.mov

www.blackhawkmedia.org/temp/mayffmed.mov

www.blackhawkmedia.org/temp/mayfflarge.mov

Hope you enjoy them!

Pictures

2009-06-21T13:48:00.004-04:00

Here's where I'm living for the summer. It's a cute 3 bd townhouse. My room is on the back side, but parking's great:)

Here's one of the VA clinics in Augusta. I spend Mondays and Fridays here. This is the older of the two clinics, but is where we do all the special audiology tests such as balance testing (ENG/VNG, rotary chair, and posturography), ABR, and OAEs along with the occasional cochlear implant mapping.

This is the other VA clinic here. I spend Tuesdays and Thursdays here. It's a pretty new building (only 10 years old) and it's huge! It's easier to find a parking spot here as parking is quite limited at the other clinic.

Gray skies have cleared up...I have a happy face

2009-06-19T20:53:00.003-04:00

I know I've had a rough couple of days just getting used to clinic and the different protocols, but yesterday and today were both pretty good days. Yesterday I did a bunch of hearing tests, because I really feel I suck at them. I did a hearing aid fit all by myself, with absolutely no supervision and I feel it went really well. Today one of the audiologists was out sick and I basically took over her caseload. I did some audios (again more practice) and cleaned the grossest hearing aid I have ever seen.

Beyond the clinic world, it's been real hot here probably about 95 degrees. Today it was over 100 degrees and sitting in AC is the only thing that sounds doable. Tomorrow it's supposed to be even warmer so I'm planning on hanging by the pool.

I've gotten some time to read some great books lately. Jody Piccoult's My Sister's Keeper (soon to be a movie) was amazing and like any of her books I cried a ton. I've also re-read Twilight and Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. I have a 40% coupon at Borders and will most likely buy a book to read by the pool tomorrow.

Gonna go eat some more pizza with my roommate/landlord, Amanda.

I think I can, I think I can

2009-06-17T12:16:00.002-04:00

I'm in my second week of clinic and I'm realizing that the VA isn't the best site for me to work in someday. I love the VA I'm at, but I just feel better suited to work with kids than grumpy old men with really hairy ears. Over the weekend I almost had a breakdown and wanted to quit school and do anything but audiology. I've come to my senses, but am really glad that in less than 2 months this placement will be over and I'll be back in Madison.

I miss Madison and my friends there along with only being a day's drive from my family. I miss having a church home where I feel encouraged. I miss Farmers Market and knowing where I'm going when I drive.

Other than that classes started this week. I have to do two online courses along with clinic. My medical issues class should be a breeze but hearing conservation may not be as easy. There's a lot of busy work and a test every week for the first couple weeks. Not looking forward to it.

First 3 days of clinic

2009-06-10T17:35:00.000-04:00

Hey y'all I've been in Augusta for a week. Friday and Saturday I spent in Savannah with my 'rents. It was amazing-we went on a historic trolley tour and saw many awesome sites (I'll try to post some pictures). The hotel we stayed at a hotel near the riverwalk and walked down there for supper, praline candy samples, and some drinks (which you can get in a plastic cup and walk around downtown with)! Saturday we did some house tours of the two houses Juliet Gordon Low, the founder of Girl Scouts, which were beautiful and kept us out of the rain. We also went into the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, another great site that compares to many of the large Catholic churches I saw in Ireland 9 years ago. It was so peaceful and calm in there and the artwork was spectacular. Saturday night we headed to Columbia, SC and my parents flew out of there Sunday morning.

Clinic Day 1: I reported for clinic and was hustled into the HR department. HR didn't know that I was starting Monday and had lost some of my paperwork. Next, I had to be fingerprinted, not a big deal. I then needed to get a name badge which serves a couple of purposes: nametag and its swiped to get into the parking lot. Something got messed up here and I was then told to go to new employee orientation. Here I heard about benefits that I'm not receiving and had to fill out tax forms for wages I'm not going to get.

Clinic Day 2: Went back for more orientation, a half hour into it, I was called out to the hallway and told I didn't have to be there and to report to my superviosr. I tried to call my supervisor for 2 hours with no luck as she was in an all-staff meeting. I was starting to feel a stress migrane come on and so I called my supervisor again to tell her I was going home because I didn't feel good.

Clinic Day 3: (Better Day) Reported to my supervisor this morning and met some of the staff at the uptown division (so far I'd only been at the downtown division). I got my schedule figured out which is good. I have to do 40 hours a week (this VA's requirement), but I got to choose if I wanted to complete those hours in 4 or 5 days. Of course I chose 4 days, so I'll be in clinic Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 7:30 am til 6 pm with a hour to hour and a half lunch. I'll have Wednesdays off to just chill and catch up on homework. As for audiology stuff I just watched a bunch of audios, took a few case histories, and watched some hearing aid fittings. I don't have a coding/billing number yet, so I couldn't do anything too involved.

Tomorrow I'm helping another student trainee with new hearing aid user group. We'll fit a bunch of BTEs and do real ear with the Verifit system (for you auddies out there), then we'll do some orientation to the different features. It should be a good time. Speaking of other students there be a few down here with me. One started a couple of weeks ago and he's same semester as me; another starts in two weeks and she just finished her first year; two fourth years start sometime in July.

Augusta

2009-06-03T22:53:00.000-04:00

I arrived in Augusta today:) I left Humboldt with my parents Monday morning and after a lot of driving, we got to Augusta about 3 p.m. EST. All in all it was a good drive. Stopped in Nashville and I loved it. Got to see the Ryman and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Music Row; it was pretty great and hopefully will spend more time there later.

I moved into the room I'm renting this afternoon. I found it on Craigslist and so far it's great. It's a cute little townhouse in a well-kept neighbor and my landlord is pretty great. She's an attorney down here and a couple years older than me. She has a bulldoge (Bogey) who is super-friendly and just cute!

Found the main VA hospital today and will explore more of Augusta tomorrow and find the downtown VA clinic. Getting a little nervous to start Monday, but will have time to review different things before then.

Standing firm

2009-05-26T15:31:00.000-04:00

I'm home in Humboldt getting ready for the move to Augusta:) It's been a crazy couple of weeks, but things have worked out --- God's awesome like that. I found a great place to live while in Augusta, an affordable and small storage unit in Madison, and things seem to be working out for my parents' surprise anniversary party (don't worry they don't know about this blog!). I've even got a loan from my bank so that I can afford the move to Augusta until my financial aid kicks in. I must say that I was a bit freaked out during my last week in Madison, because all of the sudden things weren't working out (no place to live in Augusta, no storage, my mom was scheduled to work the day of the party, stress of packing), but I didn't break down and cry (a miracle right there) and took some time to pray and stand firm in the fact that God will provide. I think this is a huge sign of how much I've grown and matured faith-wise.

That's it for now:) Peace be with you!

Moving...

2009-05-16T16:12:00.001-04:00

I'm getting ready to move out of my current apartment in Madison. It's sad seeing the kitchen all bare and my room is pretty sad too. I got a storage unit today and it will hopefully hold all the big stuff and some boxes...I don't know if it really will or not, but it's the biggest I could afford, so I have to make it work. It's hard to imagine how all my stuff will fit into my little studio apartment for next school year!

I think I finally found a place to live in Augusta. It's been quite a process, but it looks like I'll be renting a furnished room from a young female attorney. I'll have full access to the rest of the house and the pool and it's not far from the VA:) It's a bit pricey, but at this point I'll take what I can get.

I had my last life group for the semester on Wednesday:( I'm glad most of them will be back in the fall, but I'll definitely miss them this summer and then for sure Miranda in the fall.

Study Day

2009-05-11T18:03:00.000-04:00

Today is one of my two favorite days of the year: Blackhawk Study Day. It's a day where the chuch is opened for college students to study, eat, and play games. It's amazing even though the food can be room temp and the wireless can cut out, but it's all about the fellowship.

Other news, I was in a car accident a few weeks ago. Nothing serious I got rear-ended at a right end and now my car needs a new bumper. My car went in for repair today and so I get a loaner car until it's fixed. It's a sweet 2009 Nissan Sentra --- it's so nice I just want to go for a country drive with it, but that's not very environmentally friendly.

Well I have 3 finals finished (Practice Management, Pediatric, & Geriatric) and only have to finish my Amplification take home. I also have to start hardcore packing...not fun!

A new start

2009-05-09T00:24:00.001-04:00

It's been awhile since I blogged and couldn't sign in to adventuresinaudiology so I decided to start a new one.

Spring semester is almost over (only a couple finals in my way)! It's been a great school year and I've learned a lot academically, personally, and spiritually. Fall semester was pretty horrible, but spring was a lot nicer:) Hopefully the trend will continue and summer will be AMAZING. Speaking of this summer: I'm going to Augusta, GA to do an audiology rotation at the VA hospital down there. It was a great opportunity and I couldn't pass it up even though I don't know anyone there. Hopefully I'll have enough time to update you all on my summer adventures in the South! I plan to visit Savannah, Charleston, Dollywood!, Nashville, St. Louis, and the Atlantic Ocean ---- who knows what cool adventures will happen.

At my church, I've gotten more involved. I took small steps at first, but now I'm looking at cutting back on volunteering. I'm in a small group that is made up of single men & women in their 20's and sometimes 30's. It's been such a blessing to meet with them every Wednesday and get to know them better. Last summer I volunteered in Planet Kid (children's ministries) as a small group leader and then I stayed on in the fall. I have only 2 more Sundays left with some pretty great and energetic kiddos. The most exciting thing has been reintroducing myself to drama/acting with Family Fusion. This is a special Friday night service to help families learn more about and worship God together. I play a gal named Cammie who is crazy smart and organized and loves fashion. I've gotten to wear outfits (i.e. a leopard print dress and leggings) that I would never wear in the real world. The rest of the cast and our director are so encouraging and if I could I would nominate them all for Oscars!

My life for the next few months: starting to move my stuff out of the Madison west-side apartment tomorrow - a little bittersweet, but exciting. Moving home to Humboldt for a few weeks then heading to GA in June. Back to Madison to my new downtown apartment (my first time officially living alone) in mid-August to start my last year of classes here.