Long Time No See

I think it's safe to say that I've taken quite the hiatus from my blog.

I was finishing what is known as the toughest semester of nursing school. The good news is that I made it through, I learned a lot, I loved most of my classes, and I have only 2 semesters left! The last semester is essentially focused on transitioning to practice. I say bring it on! 

The second dose of good news is that I'm going to make a greater effort to write throughout the summer because boy, I have missed it!

Here are four things I wanted to share from the last few months:

1. Women's Health rotation= Love 

Nothing says girl power like cheering on women during labor, educating them about their bodies and their babies, and empowering them to care for themselves and their families. 

I was blessed to have an amazing day during my Labor & Delivery rotation. 

I was able to see a woman laboring, a Cesarean section (IN THE OPERATING ROOM-- MY FAVORITE PLACE IN THE WORLD--I almost told the staff that even though the surgery was over I did not want to leave! No way did I want to take off my cool mushroom hat, mask, and foot covers. Plus, they gave me a stool, so I could see the surgery and I was really enjoying my new view 12 inches higher in the world), a vaginal birth (God bless, it is an absolute miracle), and I was able to cut the baby's umbilical cord!!!

I'm not sure you can tell how excited I still am, and there's no way for me to fully describe the experience, but I was on such an adrenaline high afterwards that when I went to the grocery store I dropped my keys twice while trying to pay for my groceries. The cashier probably thought I was nuts. 

My takeaway: Life is absolutely a miracle. The process of conception, growth, and birth is truly astounding. A doctor in this TED talk even says that it's "magic", "divine", and "beyond human comprehension." It is the greatest gift in this world, and I felt honored to assist in bringing two new humans into this world, and especially privileged that the physician handed me tools to cut the cord. It's important to pause and remember how incredible it is that you are here on earth living and breathing. It's something we take for granted.

2. You get by with a little help from your friends. 

During my 4 week women's health class at school, I finally felt like I had time to be with friends. I underestimated how much friendships can enrich your life. It's a blessing to find the balance of give and take--between letting yourself lean on someone and then letting them lean on you. It's also special to find someone who accepts who for you who are--all of your quirks, ups, downs, and in-betweens. It often feels like these people are rare, but I find that when I do things that are in alignment with who I am--when I be myself and do what I love--this is usually when I find these people.

3. Church

Why didn't anyone tell me that church could be amazing? I did not have a positive experience with church growing up, but I have always wanted a closer relationship with my Higher Power. I'm thankful that my boyfriend is the person who has lead me closer.  He said, "You know church can be a really great thing. You just have to find the right one. You should try it again." I felt very open to trying to find a place, and I've set off on a tour around town to find where I feel most comfortable. 

I cried the first time I stepped back into church. The first song began, and I started crying silently.

There's nothing quite like the overwhelming feeling that you are home.

I'm still figuring all of this out (and I'm open to people showing me the way), but one thing I know for sure is that we are all infinitely loved. Trust me, you are loved more than you can possibly imagine.

4. My favorite quote of the semester

During a holistic health lecture, one of my favorite professors spoke about being grounded. She spoke about developing the ability to be so grounded that other people do not alter your centeredness. Most of all, be so grounded that you can soothe someone's troubles and feel strong and peaceful within rather than depleted or drained. Be so grounded that you can say to someone (with actions not necessarily words), "Come with me," and you can help guide them. This is undoubtedly something I'd like to live as a future nurse and in my relationships with others...to be so centered and fulfilled within that I can reach out to others and be there for them.

Hope you enjoyed this entry. Please feel free to leave any thoughts, questions, suggestions, or writing requests in a comment.

Much love!