Hello everyone!!! Soon I will be back in the blogger world regularly! I start University again on monday! Back to the grind......boy oh boy! As I may have mentioned already, I'm a little nervous about starting clinical up again! Ahhhhhhh......my blood pressure sky-rockets! Especially the night before! I have these awful fears of not waking up in time....though in all of my clinicals (well.....this will be number 4)...I haven't had the dreaded sleep in yet! Praise Jesus!!! Even when I work the day shift, as I did today, I have to set two different alarms (one across the room so that I can't turn it off) and still I sleep fairly miserably fearing sleeping in throughout the night! And to make things worse I have been having these ridiculous wedding nightmares! In the past three nights, I've fought with my photographer, premarital counselling hasn't worked out, we forgot to make programs for the ceremony, the flowers were totally wrong, I got down the aisle to find out that some guy we didn't know was going to marry us and had switched with our original pastor, my girls decided that other things were more important and didn't show at the rehearsal or at the arranged stuff the night or morning before the wedding (for which I beat them up!)....and on the saga goes! It's crazy!!! I'm not even stressed at all about the wedding and I'm having these crazy nightmares!!!!! Ahhhhhh!!!!
Well, my roomie is supposedly returning today! It will be nice to see her! And tonight I'm going out to a friend's house!
Soon I'll have a nice new layout on this site!!!! My nice friend, Yvonne, has been working on one for me! So stay tuned!!
Have a great night! Happy New Year!!!!

Happy Boxing Day everyone! I have to brag about the great wedding stuff Shane and I got for Christmas so far!!! I am SOOOOOO excited about it! It was SUPER smart (and my idea, might I add......) to get engaged before Christmas, and register before Christmas, so that you can have a "Christmas shower" (or so it feels like anyways!). We got our knife block, all our pans and bakeware (if that's a word!), two mugs, a clothing iron, OUR WAFFLE IRON (one of my very favorite items.....along with the blender we got earlier this winter), and the total incredibly generous gift from my siblings and dad.....OUR 10 PIECE SET OF GREAT POTS!!!!!!!! I am so pumped! Wow! What a great bunch of stuff! To me Christmas is definitely not about the gifts....I had hardly any for anyone this year, yet I was blown away by the gifts others bought us for our married life together! I am blessed! For so many years, I have tried to make my emotions stay away from getting too excited about the gifts I get at Christmas because I don't want to slip into thinking that that is the main reason for the season. Well, with these gifts, I could not help but be completely estatic!!!! It actually inspires me to learn more about the whole cooking thing! And hopefully these pots are as good as they claim to be.....since I'm probably the worst owner for them....due to my history of burning things! At least they're not plastic!
I've enjoyed my holidays so far...some fun Christmas parties over at our appartment, time with my family and Shane's family, a nice wad of cash from picking up quite a few shifts at The Home (as I've decided to start referring to work as.......) and a nice bunch of time to relax at my appartment and work on wedding planning. See, there really isn't much to do until about May, but I, the psycho planner, created this great binder! It is the mother binder of all wedding organization in the history of psycho brides! I have each new section tabbed with a different color! For examply some goodies from The Binder include a list of people from out of town to thank, the complete and total time line of W day and a seating plan for the reception! I don't think there is anything left for me to do! And I'm glad because going that hardcore for a few days has made me sick of wedding planning for now....though, I'm so proud that I'd love to show all of you my beautiful binder sometime!
Merry Christmas again and Happy New Year!

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!!!!

Just finished my last exam of 2003!!! Time to party!!!! Speaking of parties, we are having one tonight and on thursday at my appartment! I LOVE CHRISTMAS PARTIES!! They are tradition!!! I'm a sucker for good traditions!
Internet and computer use is still down at home.....due to an unknown reason. Fairly annoying! I've missed all the updates on the different blogs, but as Alexandra posted, most people seem occupied with other things! That's a good thing! Computers and there fun functions shouldn't take priority in life!
I've been working a lot lately and doing a tiny bit of studying (really, not much at all!). Did all you Survivor fans watch the finale on sunday? Sandra won. I'm ok with that...at least it wasn't Jon or Lil....though I was kinda hoping Darrah would win.
A resident at work passed away on my shift the other week. It was my first experience of being with someone when they died. I was sitting next to his bed and hold his hand with one of mine, while the other stroked his arm. I was alone with him so I sang some worship songs quietly to him and prayed over him aloud. It was an incredible experience, really. It is strange to see someone go from life to death in front of your eyes. It makes you very reflective.......I'm honored that I was the one that could be with him in the process.....at least he wasn't alone....that would have made me sad......
On another note.....have a very Merry Christmas everyone! Enjoy your friends and families!

I wrote this great blog the other day and of course, it disappeared! I hate when that happens! Our internet is down at home, so I haven't been able to blog, do my usual rounds or check my email! Yeah for the Univerisities computers and Shane's computer!
Can't blog long, but would love to update! I have a doctor's appointment in 20 minutes across campus to discuss birth control! Shaner was supposed to be coming with me, but we found out wednesday that he just can't get off work! That work is always coming in the way! Anyways, I understand and it is not crucial, it just would have been nice to go together! So, here I go! One preparation step closer to being a married woman! Oh my goodness!

So.......here I am again! I just got home from a neat banquet that Alexandra and I were honored to dance at....errr....I was honored....I shouldn't speak for Alexandra..... Anyways, it was a neat experience and it was refreshing to step outside the box and try something new. It was a pretty quickly choreographed dance, but I think it worked! I hope that the people at the banquet were blessed! And I sure hope that I get some more new and exciting opportunities to expand my little comfort zone! I'll do it in the strength and creativity of the Lord, but I in myself feel extremely limited. Alexandra, it was totally great to do the dance thing with you! I enjoyed "working" with you! Yeah for cheese!!! All the thanks goes to past tambouriners, cheerleaders and old school "church" movement!
On another note, church last night at Encounter God Night was great for me! In my weakness, God spoke and blessed me! At the end of the night I got some great prayer and some totally encouraging words and pictures from others! They were right on and I had some sequenced confirmations!! I love when God does that! I'm challenged again to expand the borders of my gifts. I am terrified with certain ideas, but am willing. Jesus, use whatever you want in me! Mouth, hands, feet, speaking, dancing, singing. I think I'll risk the vulnerablity of touching a little of what was going on last night. Many years ago, while visiting another church, I clearly heard God say, during the worship, "Stand and sing". It wasn't for that moment, but it was very clear. That situation has come to mind on many occasions. Last night's worship being one of them. During the worship, I had a song, with many words totally coming out of my heart, mind and mouth (very quietly....). I began to imagine me getting up and sharing it, and being totally terrified. I said to God, "I'm so relieved that you aren't calling me to do that!". Only to have Elisa and Jason both seperately touch on something about song/singing when praying for me at the end of the service! So, weird........ Then Jason got something about this being the time. The time is now and I have been processing that phrase. I think it means something about gifting. This has the potential to frighten me.....but if it involves any singing (other than in my house or to myself or babies), I am terrified. God will have to work a miracle in me....and my voice, if He wants anything regarding that! I'm not shutting the door, I am just expecting a lot from Him if singing is on the agenda! So, let it be known, I want to be open to anything from the Lord. I do not want fear to stand in the way and since God has a plan, I know that it is soveriegn and better than something that I can come up with!

Interesting......just went to check out the website of Dalhousie University in Halifax. I'm impressed. Strangely, I reacted in an emotional way. I began to read about the university, the med program and took the virtual tour, and almost cried (but the tears didn't fall....they just welled up in my eyes). There is some part of me that just must have always held on to my dream of being an MD throughout my childhood and teen years. On one hand I think maybe. On the other, I think probably not. I just don't know. I don't want to limit myself according to time, money and fear. Nursing at the U of M is totally manageable, but it still is tough at times and requires a lot of work. I get super frustrated with my brain. I have learnt the system. I can study the day or two before a huge exam and ace it.....not remembering any of the information the next day. That is so frustrating because I want to really know my stuff and be able to put all the pieces together! So, I feel that my marks say that I'm smart, but my actual amount of knowledge sucks. The idea of going through another 4 year program, that is even more intense, freaks me out a little. I know that I could do it, but being scared holds me back a little. It is interesting because I'm only 21 and somehow have this idea that I don't have enough time left to do another degree! What is that all about! I think it's about finishing nursing, letting Shane do his thing at University too (it is only fair!), and then eventually wanting kids. Boy, that's the biggest part to schedule in...children. Though, they don't always get "scheduled" in! We are just going to have to be super careful and rest in the fact that God has a supreme plan that is above ours! I also totally desire to do missions with my life. I know that nursing or medicine will open huge doors to help out in places around the world. It just getting to that place where that's possible that seems to take so long. I'll just have to steal away two weeks out of the year and help out somewhere....and take my hubbie with me! Well, that's all that's on my mind at this moment.....a lot to think about which totally wasn't on my mind half and hour ago before I decided to check out Dalhousie! And hey, another interesting fact....they only take 84 students per year and only 8 are from parts of Canada other than the Maritimes. That's not very many!
Well, now I'm going to switch gears and clean my room, paint my nails, eat, shower, do some wedding stuff and go to the mall to get the car and do some errands! I don't know what I can really do in the next month to plan for the wedding. Most of the big things are done...and the little stuff has to wait until we are closer to the big day! But, before I go back to the U January 5, I want to get a bunch done!
Have a great day all!

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! I'm in a happy mood! Just finished my last class (kinda) of the year 2003. Just one more spanish class next week and 3 exams! I skipped the very end of the class this morning because it is SOOOOO BORRRRINGGGGG!!! And to my dismay, I found out a second ago that the course I transfered into this week, has the same prof!! I'm going to absolutely die!! Oh, well, I get a lot of homework done in her classes because it is so boring and dry!
Today is grocery shopping day! That's exciting because when the appartment has food it feels like Christmas! My mother is coming on over for supper! I'm going to make some yummy tacos!
It is also house cleaning day! I don't remember the last time that it was house cleaning day! We aren't letting any visitors in the appartment, because it's slightly embarassing! I just have zero motivation to work at a clean house and I really don't care when it is messy. How will I solve this problem??.......ahhh!!! Maid service! That would be perfect!
A bunch of us (Christina, some buds from nursing, and such) are going to a church service tonight. I'm looking forward to it, and to the potential of going out with peers afterwards! Boy, I'm pretty holy this week! (ha ha) 3 services in a matter of 4 days! That's a record!

Hello everyone! I'm happy today! I just got home from church....which I enjoyed! Not that that is unusual! I think I'll go again tonight! I love worship times....and I like to show up at the community meeting stuff, even though after 4 or 5 years of attending WCV I am not officially a member! I hope that God really provides for the finances that WCV is needing at this time! Jesus, please provide!
OK, on a totally different note....you know those kind of people, both male and female that give off a certain vibe? It is like a "sexual-tension"-type vibe (in the words of my dear Jeanetta and Ulmer!). Maybe they struggle with the opposite sex, are fairly desperate, or are just simply horney, but they give off a vibe. You know, I just gotta say, "Talk to the ring!". Boy, some emotional and spiritual things are extremely evident. I wonder what kind of things we all give off? I'm sure that some parts of our all of our personalities are visible. So, I wonder what people, especially the ones that don't know me, see in me......it is interesting to think about (without making it a fear of man thing). Just being aware that people in the world are watching and you really are representing Somebody. I sure hope that I'm doing a good job!

Friends are incredible. Don't you think? What would we do without them? My wonderful, Christina and I went out for supper at Pine Ridge Hollow yesterday night to celebrate our birthdays. Mine was in October and hers is in December, so we thought we'd celebrate in November. We got all dressed up! I looked like I was ready to go to a Christmas Ball! I wore a nice greenish Christmas dress, put my hair up all funky, put on make-up (which I extremely rarely do) and shaved my legs! We spent 2 and a half hours there! Just eating, drinking warm drinks and chatting about anything and everything. This season of life is tough but exciting. We are in that time where the options are unlimited and there are big question marks about direction.....since there are so many options. We love to dream and plan about the future! I'm so blessed in my friendships! My lovely roomie has become one of my very closest friends in the whole wide world! She knows me so well! I love her dearly and you know, when we have to part from the same household in June, I'm going to be really sad. I have loved this rooomate thing.......We pinky-swore last night that we have to stay forever friends and at least call each other every other week, from whereever we end up in this big world! That's a friendship that I definitely will not lose! She is far too precious!

Well, it is time to update! I wrote a blog the other day and it disappeared! Oh well! I had such a nice time with the gals from WCV at Earl's on wednesday! It would be great to do that monthly! I really enjoy getting to know you all better! You learn something new about someone every time! I'm blessed by the fact that regardless of where we all are in life, we can find a level to connect on. Many of you (that are reading this from WCV) are moms and wives. I'm not quite a wife...but almost!....and not mom, but a student, but we still can connect! I love it!
Caution: the next part may be hard for some of you.......re: cancer.
On thursday, I spent the day following the chemo nurse around. The first patient we talked to in the morning, had me crying. He was just verbally processing what he was going through, counting his blessings and expressing how sad he is. My heart just broke as he shared his story. He said "In july I was walking 4 miles 4 times a week and now, november, I can even get up....". He was saying what a wonderful marriage he has had and processing the plan of care up to the end. It is so sad to see what cancer steals. Another women I cared for this week is a 26 year old mother of three. She wants to get married at Christmas, but beyond a complete, supernatural miracle she may not even see next week. I have never seen death like I see it in her. She is hardly visible she is so malnourished and when I was finished washing her up, I had her hair all over my uniform because she is lossing all of it. I transfered her from the bed to a wheelchair so that she could take a walk with her mom and dad. I got her to give me a big hug so that I could lift her and pivot her from the bed to the chair. She was so fragile and she is to the point where it is even difficult for her to speak. That makes me so sad. I am thankful that my heart is still soft enough that I can feel and cry for these people. I hope that I never get so immune to pain and suffering that I can't see people for who they really are and see them through the eyes of Jesus. It is interesting because I really could see myself working in this area. Cancer is mysterious and strange to me. The people that I have gotten to work with throughout my clinical and those that I saw on thursday throughout the hospital, are incredible. Their journeys, their stories, their strength is amazing. I have learnt so much about life through these people. I am really looking forward to my palliative rotation next year. I think it might be the hardest emotionally, but the most rewarding and character-building.
Prayer request.....a friend of mine is needing a lot of prayer right now. She is having serious marital problems, and needs God's provision, comfort, healing and to know her invaluable worth. Thanks.

OK things are looking up. The storm has passed and things are getting better. Shane and I had coffee with a caterer in Steinbach last evening and it went so well! We are going to be getting a fabulous meal.....and cheesecake with fresh strawberries for dessert that I'm very excited about!......for an awesome price! Since we limited our guest list a bit and are getting an incredible price for plates, things are going to work out! Boy, that can take a lot of stress off! Talking and planning with someone other than just myself, or Shane, makes me excited and brings the reality of the wedding to life! Wow! It's actually going to happen for real! And just this past week we passed the 7 month mark! Wow baby! Thank-you for your prayers and please continue!

Yesterday night, I went with my baby sis to see Brian Doerksen's concert. It was great! I really really like that guy's music! In the midst of feeling overwhelmed and kinda afraid of the outcome of hard times, I was reminded intimately and personally again that God is faithful and his invitation to me is to trust. I felt God speaking to me and it caused me to cry throughtout parts of the evening. Again my heart was ruined for missions and the precious people in other places. Canadian Food for the Hungry is part of this tour and again they pulled on the strings of my heart that hold passion for others in this world. I want to go away again, SO BADLY!!!! I saw many pictures of children from Africa, and my desire to go to Africa remains strong. But you know, I never would have guessed it, but when God switched the trip from Kenya to El Salvador this summer, he, in the process, made me fall in love with Central America. I am ruined. As soon as we can afford it and have this wedding thing finished, I want to sponser a child with Shane! My sis did yesterday and her little guy is absolutely adorable!!!
So, God spoke to me again in his still small voice (and used Brian's!) to remind me that this life here on earth is a once in a lifetime thing. It is our one invitation to trust. It is our only chance to live and to risk. That really puts some things into perspective. It makes me want to plan certain things about my future a little differently. I want to spend my life on my Jesus.
So, I carried these thoughts with me to clinical today. I had a patient who is 97 years old and having a tough time with the reason that he is in the hospital. He's not doing so well. I had the priviledge of feeding him some breakfast this morning. As I stood beside his bed and slowly tried to encourage him to eat, I felt another eternal moment. I held his hand for a bit, gave his bald head a little rub and prayed over him. I prayed silently but I prayed that God would capture his heart and that this man would know the Lord. I prayed that God would take him at the right time, because he has lived a long life already and so at this point, leaving this world just might be ok. When I talked with him and held his hand, he began to cry. I think he was in some pain, but I think a little compassion is what brought those tears that specific time. I hope that his heart was ministered to, even though he may not have cognitively understood the things going on around him very well.

OK.....all you married people out there, some advice please! How do you manage financial stress, enjoying every moment of planning your wedding and conflicts that arise? I'm having a tough time enjoying myself these days because the $$$ for the wedding is so tight. It really brings such a burden on. I am totally thankful that Shaner is taking the financial load of it (otherwise a wedding would be impossible), but that creates stress as well. I can't be working all the time to make money to pay for the wedding, because school is really time and energy consuming. I hate feeling the way I do when I'm not in control of making my own money to pay for things. I don't want to be dependent on Shane's bank account to pay for the wedding......baaaa humbug. I'm trying not to cry because I'm in the computer lab at the University and would rather not burst out in tears in front of the computer. We have very many ideas and strategies to reduce the cost of the wedding, but something else has got to give in order for this to be fun and not entirely stressful! I get a miracle and a lot of prayer is what we need. Please pray for us!

AHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!! WEDDINGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Jesus help me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Again I am forgetting to post at days at a time! That's ok though, because I don't want my life to revolve around the internet! Time away keeps me healthy!
I had a good weekend. Actually it was fairly full for feeling quite anti-social. I just was wanting to veg all weekend and didn't really have a lot to say to people. Regardless, I ended up hanging out with a wack-load of friends and my family. Shane and I went to see the carterer in Steinbach, so we are figuring out exactly what we want. I've also been playing with the idea of just doing the dessert thing, even though I really would like a full meal deal. See, we went to the Brick yesterday and found a bedroom set and living room set we absolutely adore! Now we weigh the goodies.....a bedroom or living room set that we would be happy with everyday and that would last us forever.....or feed our friends and family one meal? It seems ridiculous to spend the money on one meal! So, we continue to play with ideas! But, the caterer we chatted with would do a great job and she is trying to work within our budget.
We also got to finalize a photographer for the wedding! Our very own Jason Epp has taken up the challenge! It will be so fun! That little Epp family is becoming a big part of the wedding! Cherish and Judah are our flower girl and ring bear and my dear Loraleigh is doing the prayer of blessing for me! They all have a part! I'm happy!
I decided this weekend to stop dancing with XCo. I absolutely love the team, the workout and the new forms of dance that I was starting to learn, but the timing and season is just too busy! You know when you make a hard decision that makes you sad, yet relieved? I'm feeling that. I still want to be apart of the team and get the exercise, but fridays and sundays are usually the days that Shane and I can see each other and get wedding appointments done, so a 2 and a half practice every sunday afternoon, was really conflicting. It's sad but it's the right thing right now. Just because I'm not being trained in a class, doesn't mean I can't dance up a storm at home or at church! I will survive!
Chris and I have a coffee/study date tonight! I'm looking forward to that and so will go now, and finish some of my readings for my next class!
Have a great day all!

Well, it has been a little while! I'm neglecting the good ol' blogger! Let's see, since last friday, what has life been full of? Well, I had another mid-term on monday so spent a bunch of the weekend cramming. We had a belated thanksgiving with Shane's family on saturday and I went to a bridal show on sunday afternoon. On friday, I did end up booking the reception place, though it's going to require some creativity and so I'm not as excited as I would have hoped. I'm actually a little down about the place, but we are looking at the whole picture of it being just one day in the scope of forever, and so cost-effective is our motto. Sometimes that really sucks. I've been so focussed on making it doable financially that I'm not really even thinking about what I would just really want. The deciding factor of things is not if I love it, but if it is within our tight budget. I know all the things in my head that justify a cost-effective wedding, but I'm just feeling a little bummed about it in the last few days. I haven't been stressed out about this wedding, but the thing that could potentially stress me is trying to find everything for cheap. It can start to take the fun right out of planning. Just feeling a little sad about it today. I know it will be totally great and we will love our day! I just am a little sad..........thanks for the ear.

What a nice CEF I have for clinical! She let us go home before 1pm instead of at 3:30pm!!! I am so happy! I even hugged her for it! I think I'm going to take a yummy nap! That would feel so good! Then this evening Christina, maybe Steph and I are going to head out to Mitchell to check out and decide on our reception place. Shaner was supposed to go out with me but the head manager guy told him he had to be at a certain meeting tonight =( He wasn't happy about that though and I'm proud because he told his boss that he did not appreciate having to choose between work and me! That's some balls, saying that to your boss! It made me feel loved and wanted! Thanks Shaner! So, instead of waiting a few more weeks to check the place out, I'm going with the girls to decide. Shaner said that he trusts my judgement! Hopefully everything works out tonight!
My day at the hospital was nuts today! I got to follow my patient down to have an femoral angiogram done. It was really neat! They make a slit in your groin area and insert a long tube with a camera through your femoral artery. It takes pictures of your artery and you can even see it going up into the aorta (the main artery that gives your body blood from the heart). It's pretty insane what they can do to your body! It seems not-right sometimes, because you are doing procedures, crazy ones that you would think would be impossible! The doctors and nurses down there were great! One of them said to me, "See now you want to stay down here with us all day! I'll get a box of donuts and you can stay for the day!". I always seem to feel that it is respectful to offer my chair to a nurse or doctor that comes in the room, especially since I'm a student. Often we are the ones observing and we tend to be in the way! The nurses were telling me at the angiogram that I should never be offering my chair to a doctor! The surgeon guy, or whatever he is that does the procedure, was right there and he might have been agreeing with them! It was funny! I just naturally think that it is respectful! I do the same with older people (elderly) on the bus. After we got back to the ward, I had to monitor my patient's vital signs every 15 minutes! That doesn't really allow you to get a lot done in between! Especially when you have meds to give, other patients to look after, blood glucose tests to take and new IV bags to hang! Wow! It gets insane. It was a good day though! It is nice to be busy and then the day flies by!
Have a great weekend all!

Picked up my wonderful dress today after class....it is a beautiful thing! I tried it on again for my roomie, with the help of my sis! Boy, I didn't realize it but it feels like a burden off the shoulders to have it in my posession! Knowing that it is here and not somewhere else out in the world is a comforting thought. Had a few moments today where fleeing the country and getting married sounded like a grand idea. Just going and living on a little island with my dude sounded very inviting. Not because I'm feeling any stress or dislike for the whole wedding thing, I just have increasing feelings of just wanting to be married already. I've always prided myself from the beginning of my relationship with Shane that I am still an individual and totally able to be my own person, go out with the girlies and not be so whipped like I see many others become. I find myself slipping into a place that is so comfortable. I can see my growing in dependence (not bad dependence but healthy dependence) on my boy and actually being ok with allowing my world to revolve around him more than it used to. I have defended my stand against becoming a name-less female for so long. I have a strong dislike for those couples who forget about themselves as individuals, their friends and family and the rest of the world. God has such amazing plans for us together and as me, Kristi, His daughter, and as Shane, His son. Both sides of the coin are so important and I don't want to miss out on either one of them by being too unhealth-ily dependent on one another, or too unhealth-ily independent. I want a great balance and I can honestly say I feel like we have a good one. I am content at the recent molding of my heart and emotions and I think it is all good. Is any of this making sense? Well, I'm lacking sleep so off I go. Have good sleeps!

I am totally nuts! Gone of the end of the earth! Yesterday was homework and tv night, as I blogged yesterday. Well things took a turn of events! I ended up going wedding dress shopping on a whim with my mom and sister (totally spontaneously and with no notice!), and BOUGHT MY WEDDING DRESS!!!!! The lady that we bought it from gave me an incredible deal and it was so great! It is not at all what I would have thought I would pick, but isn't that usually the way it goes? For example, my grad dress. I wanted a darker color (definitely not pastel), slimming (definitely NO pouff - however you spell it). Well, what did I leave with and end up completely loving?! A huge, pouffy pastel pink dress! I couldn't believe it and ended up absolutely loving it! I'll still put it on to this day and feel incredibly beautiful and princess-like! My wedding dress just was the right one. It was psycho fast, without looking at many others (it was the third and last one I tried at only one store), but it just was the right one. It fits like a glove, I feel comfortable and can see myself really enjoying my day wearing that dress! I am so crazy! But so excited! It worked out perfectly! And now I have a dress, don't have to order it, will have it in my possession on monday and won't have to have my dress arrive the week before my wedding and be the wrong size!!!! That is great news! Things are coming together!

Ok gotta vent! There are some completely and utterly bratty kids in this world. And I don't believe that it is all the fault of the kid! There are some pretty bad parents that allow WAY too much! I know that I'm not a parent and therefore don't understand some things, but I have lived with little ones in my home for years and been one of the moms looking after them. Boundaries NEED to be drawn! I just bussed back from St.B after a day of clinical. The kid on the bus was so out of line. He was screaming at the top of his lungs when his mom would make him sit down and when she wouldn't let him dig in her purse for gum. He already had how many pieces! He would yell at her and hit her, even in the face! And you know, I know that the bus isn't the best place to discipline but you have to do something when your child is hitting you across the face! You can't just sit there and let it happen! It doesn't mean you need to yell, make a scene, or spank him right there, but you can't allow that behavior! Regardless if you are on public transit!
Ok thanks for being the brunt of that vent! I just get SO frustrated with kids and parents like that!
Clinical was good though! I got two patients with IVs today! I had to switch the solution, give two syringes of morphine through a pump called a CVA pump, and got to give antiboitics through piggyback (which is a form of IV therapy). I got to do another needle (on of my favorite things!) and discontinue an IV! It was a busy day and I got to do a bunch of interesting things for the first time! Sucessful day!
Tonight I have to quickly come up with a presentation for tomorrow on kidney dialysis. It won't take me away from my "Friends" and "Survivor" though! I'm committed!!! Have a good night!

Hello all! Happy belated Thanksgiving! In the spirit of Thanksgiving, here are a few things that I am thankful for! A warm bath/shower every morning, our car especially with winter approaching, my wonderful best friend and safe place Shaner, my awesome roommate, my family, my great girlfriends!, my cozy appartment, a big bed to sleep in each night, etc, etc. I really have it good! I spent most of my Thanksgiving studying for Spanish and working on other classes' homework. I have my first Spanish test tonight, but I think it will go alright. I'll study a bit after this down in the nursing lounge.
I'm figuring out some more stuff for the wedding! Hey, if there are any brides-to-be out there, I found the best thing! www.weddingbells.ca has the most greatest tool! You can sign up for free and get to use a guest list, task planner, budget thing, gift registry and design your own Wedsite! So neat! I am now addicted! I love logging on and having it say "Welcome Kristi and Shane". Wooppiee!!!! I'm especially addicted to the taskplanner that tells you when to have certain things done by and the guestbook thing that keeps a running total of who has responded (though we aren't to that point yet.......it is still months away)! Though, we have passed the 8 months mark this past weekend (actually on my birthday) and so it's 7 months and a bunch of days now!
Well, talk to you all later! Hope that Thanksgiving was good for all of you!

Happy Birthday to me!!! As of 1:13pm I am 21 years old! Also, as of today it is exactly 8 months until our wedding!
The weekend has had its ups and its total downs. Actually my weekend has been pretty tough. There was some akwardness with my family on friday at the party. I really love my extended family, but my dad's side at the same time drives me absolutely insane!!!!! Ahhhhhh!!!!!! They exhaust me because they are so high-maintenance! Lord, give me strength at Thanksgiving tomorrow! But, the party was pretty great (besides that annoyance) and my dad had not a clue in the world! He was completely surprised!!!! We did very well!
Unfortunately, wedding dress shopping never happened. It is a sad story that I don't have the emotional energy to get into. But, we'll try for another day in the next few weeks! Hopefully it will work out better. My heart is very sad though, so please could you say a prayer?
The bonfire was great! I had a lot of fun and there was a great turn-out! Well over half of the list couldn't make it so I thought it would be a tiny group of us. It ended up being about 30 people! We had a great time! And I got some birthday cards which was great! Hey, thanks Yvonne for the electronic card! How sweet! It was my first one of my actual birthday day!
Shane's family took me out for lunch and the afternoon today. It was really nice and I enjoyed hanging out with them. Actually, in the past 3 years, we haven't ever gone out for supper as a family! Surprising, but true! It sure was time and it sure was really nice! How refreshing to be out in public together!
I know it is Thanksgiving weekend and my birthddy, but I desperately need to study for my Spanish test on tuesday! I've been SUCH a slacker the last few weeks! Too busy I guess! And now my head is even more in other worlds! So, I must push on and work this brain of mine back into submission!!!

Well, let's see. Good evening everyone. Some updates of the life of oh engaged one! Yes I'm am still as excited as ever. Actually in the last 2 days, I've probably had the most excitement yet! I have moments throughout the day that just make me want to scream out in happiness and insane excitement! All you Dr. Phil's and Dr. Laura's out there, is this normal? To add to it, I, who almost never have sleeping problems, have been having a very difficult time getting to sleep this past week (tomorrow will be a week since the engagement)! It's not fun to struggle with sleep, but I'm so buzzed at the end of the evening. I've spent the whole day slaving my brain away at the U or the hospital that my only time to do a little dreaming and planning is the short time when I come home and go off to bed. That's when the brain becomes extremely stimulated! Ahhh! Go to sleep brain! But, for real, I am loving it! I have discovered that my beautiful ring has a mind of her own and has developed a habit of scratching. Not others, only me. She has picked up this habit only in the past 2-3 days (though in totally she is really only a week old in my life)! I think I've been reading far too many blogs of mothers and now I'm even starting to blog like one. Though, I'm the lucky "mother" (wait! that doesn't sound very good!) because the only disciplining I will ever have to do is teach her to stop scratching! Nothing else!
My birthday is on sunday! I will be a whole 21! Which means I made it to the 20s before I decided to get married! That's older than a bunch of people I know! Cudos to me! We are throwing a bonfire for fun and my birthday on saturday and a surprise 50th for my dad tomorrow! We share a birthday!
Also, on saturday before the bonfire, my sis, my mom and I are off on the quest of finding a dress. A beautiful, I'm-in-love-with dress! My prayer of the week is that I fall in love with a really cheap dress! I'm hoping and praying!
Oh, this is getting a little long and completely involved with the wedding stuff, but heck! that's the way it will be for the next few months! I have to share my exciting thrifty bargain of the week! Yvonne, I think you'll like this! I was getting annoyed at the fact that to rent a chair, you can pay, like, $1.50 per chair! That's highway robbery! Especially to only sit on it for an hour! So, guess what I found, thanks to one of my beautiful bridesmaids, Tanya! I'm going to rent benches from the Mennonite Hertiage Museum! They are white (so it will look uniform and pretty), seat 6-8 people and only cost $1!!!!! Yeah! What a savings! Thank-you very much! I am so proud at my thriftiness!
Nite!

Well, it sure has been an exciting weekend! SHANE AND I ARE ENGAGED!!!!!! It all took place on friday night (October 3....hey Rhonda, your birthday!) and it was perfect! Shane did such a great job!! And he picked out an incredible ring all by himself that I absolutely adore!! I think my ring is the most beautiful ring in the world (and that's the way it is supposed to be!).
Shane was so creative and had a big plan along with 10 envelopes like a treasure hunt all throughout the evening. It started here at my place when he picked me up. I was sent to my my sister's appartment for envelope #2. Then downstairs to the car to find a dozen GORGEOUS red roses and envelope #3 in the trunk. I went up to my room to find #4 which stated that we were off to Red Lobster for dinner. Red Lobster is tradition for us because it's our favorite place to go for special occasions! We had such a fun meal and laughed throughout the sport of cracking crab legs! It was hilarious! While Shane was paying the bill, I headed for the washroom and returned to find envelope #5. We were then off to Shane's for another surprise. He handed me #6 when we arrived at his place and it guided me to get the laptop (another new blessing! What a month!) and bring it to the livingroom. I sat as he played a slide show of us that he had made. It made me "awww" and it made me laugh very hard at certain points, because it had so many funny, "us" things! He gave me #7 then which sent us for a ride in the car. A little while into the ride, Shane handed me #8 which stated that we were off to the Forks! I love the Forks! We went to check out places where we wanted my sister to take pictures for us! We walked the river walk and on the walk Shane handed me #9. It said that we were going to the Legislative Building to check out some more spots. When we got to the Leg, we were checking out spots in the back by the fountain and Shane gave me #10 which said that he had a story for me. See, I always ask him to tell me a story and so he added that into the evening. He wrote a 6-paged story about his life (about a boy named Shane.....in the third person). It was full of laughs and some tears and a lot of honesty. I came into the story in the last 3 pages. By the end it was building up and he said such perfect things! Through tears on his face, he stood up (from the bench we were sitting on) and said, "So....." My mouth dropped as I watched him dig into his jacket pocket. He got down on one knee and said, "Kristi, will you be my wife?". I practically yelled and laughed at the same time, "Absolutely! I would love to!".
It was such a perfect evening and I'm so proud of my dude! Our wedding is set for June 12, 2004, which is coming quickly....only 8 months and 7 days to go! But who's counting?....
We've had awesome reactions from friends and family and totally excited loved ones. I had thought all week long that friday would be the night! I have an over-active brain that tries to figure everything out! So, since I had been talking to Steph (sister) and Christina (roommate) all week and even just before Shane was picking me up, when I called them minutes after the proposal, all I could hear was LOTs of screaming in the cell phone! They were so excited along with us!
So, I'm sure that wedding stuff will be a big part of the blogging now too! It's so exciting and I'm planning on loving every minute of it!

Hello everyone! Wow! I guess it has been a short while since I blogged last!
Since the last time, I had two days of clinical and it was A LOT better than I was fearing! Thank-you Jesus! My CEF is really nice and she totally doesn't scare me at all! I think that God knew exactly what I needed and so gave me a really low-key, quieter and relaxed CEF. I feel a sense of peace when I am around her. Extremely strange in a clinical setting!

As for my weekend, I went to our church's women's retreat! You know, after the first night, in which I had not gotten much sleep, I was into going home already. But I had a really nice saturday and sunday! Saturday afternoon, my sister and I went to visit our little foster brother who had gotten adopted. His adopted family is so nice and has welcomed us into their lives as a family. So we usually see him once or twice a year! It would be great to see them more often! I love them! We spent the whole afternoon with them on saturday and it was great!
The session in the evening was totally great! The theme of the weekend was Intimacy and Come Away With Me. Us women really experienced a bit of intimacy with the Father and with one another. It was an awesome time for me. When I think back to last night and the feelings inside of me, I feel a sense of privacy, vulnerability, sacredness and yet life and breath. Thank you Jesus for how sensitive you are to each of us on an individual level and how you really desire depth of relationship with us. I really desire a deeper relationship with the women in my church as well. Shane and I have been wrestling with where we are at and church life for a long time. I've been frustrated with "community" and not sure what it is all about. I do desire to know people in the part of the Body that I am a part of, better. I think this weekend was good for that. I love connecting with people.

I was checking up on a website called Sacred Space (I think) that one of the ladies at the retreat mentioned. Here's some food for thought from that website (www.jesuit.ie/prayer).

One of the biggest 'dead-ends' in developing my spiritual life is to want to have someone else's spiritual life. If, for instance, I visit a convent one day, or see a monastery on TV, I may find myself thinking, "I wish I could pray like them". But if I am a schoolteacher, or an accountant, or looking after my children all day, then that rhythm of prayer may just not be suited to me.

The Presence of God

In the silence of my innermost being,
in the fragments of my yearned-for wholeness,
can I hear the whispers of God's presence?
Can I remember when I felt God's nearness?
When we walked together and I let myself be embraced by God's love.

I'm having a little stressed out moment!!!!! One of the first of the university year! We just had a quick orientation for clinical which starts tomorrow and I'm NERVOUS!!! Christina summed it up quite well, when in the middle of the orientation she turned to me and said, "I think I need some prayer!". I agree! We will have to get some tonight!
See, let me introduce you to my world of clinical. Clinical facilitators are feared like the devil himself. They may look like nice, average women who probably are mothers, wives, and pleasant neighbors. Many of them look like they could be women you go to church with, grocery shop with and see in the malls with their children. Oh no don't let that fool you. From the moment you see them all at orientation, without knowing which face belong to the name that you are already beginning to have nightmares about, you try to predict from observation who would be the nicest, the fairest, the least devil-like. Of course, my facilitator was not at the orientation so I have to quiver until tomorrow at the hospital to see if she is going to be nice enough to calm my fears. Does this sound like a lot of exaggeration? Well, spend a day with me and you will find that is not the case. Their subjective opinion of you and the way that you work, is what controls your mark, your life (sort of) for the next 9 weeks and your GPA in the long run. I just needed a freak out session and such before I declare that I will do my very best and not let one woman dictate how I feel about myself as a nurse and a person. Otherwise it ruins a lot of people. I just need a little freak out time. Ahhhhhhhh!!!!!!

Como estas? I had my evening spanish class tonight and so am trying to use the limited amount that I know! Slowly but surely I am going to be able to email my friends from El Salvador in espanol, instead of english! I'm sure they are going to me happy about that....but cringe at my grammer! Ouch!
Great news for me! I aced that big exam I had last friday! Boy, does that make me a happy girl! I got a better mark than I thought!
Clinical starts on thursday and I'm a little nervous! I'm really glad that they front-loaded us (3 weeks of hardcore learning before throwing us to the wolves!), though, so that we know a little bit of what we are going to be working with! I'm excited for...but extremely nervous about doing my first IV!OK people........why no response to sunday's question of the day? Do I have no readers? Maybe my little attitude scared everyone off.......
Well, let's try this again....Question of the day!
What is your favorite day of the year and why?
Buenas noches! Adios!

Evening. How was your weekend? Tell me about it since by reading this, you will find out how mine was. I hope it was nice, fun, relaxing and enlightening!
I spent the majority of the weekend in Yorkton, Sask. I had a blast out there with the XCO. team! My sister Steph and I (along with two other guys on our team) entered into the bed racing contest that was part of the events yesterday. We were performing in between some of the races down 3rd Avenue. It was such a small town feeling and I've never actually seen or done bed racing. Pretty much what it is is an old bed with wheels and handles at each corner. This way one person lays on the bed and four people push the bed and run as fast as they can to the finish line down the street! Out of 16 teams we got second place! We even beat the defending champions! I was so proud because I haven't been in a race for a long time......I'm remember junior high track and field which was long ago...and then our team goes right to the very end! The announcer guy was great and always reminded the crowd that we were kids from Winnipeg! The dancing went great even though the crowd was a pretty tough one. Good thing that some of us weren't in the pieces so that we could cheer and hoot for the others! It was a blast!
Since we only got back at 2am, I was SO tired and played hooky from church this morning. Yes, call me sinner......(hee hee) We had a practice again this afternoon which was great, but also quite frustrating. It is so frustrating to be trying to learn a piece, not to mention in a different type of dance than you are used to, and for people to show it once and then put on the music which is EXTREMELY fast! I was almost frustrated to tears. But it was good to be learning the pieces which will feel so great when I finally know them! And it was such a workout....I'm super sore already!
That is the majority of my weekend and I won't keep you with the rest. Though, if you are bored and reading that is your problem. That's right....this is my blog! (just a little attitude moment!)
Have good sleeps and good weeks.
Question of today (so that I get more comments...hee...hee...that's my plan!):
What is one thing that you want to accomplish in your lifetime?

Whew! Is my brain full or what! I just wrote my first maintenance exam after cramming the info into my brain for many hours within the last 48! I was having brain failure. The exam was actually pretty fair and not as bad as I thought it would be! Thank-you Lord! Of course I made my share of educated guesses, but isn't that what multiple choice exams are all about?
Chris and I studied for a few hours in Chapters yesterday afternoon. Nearing the end of the study time, Alexandra came in to Chapters! Nice to see you! And yes, I had to take a study break to watch the new Survivor! But I did study during the commercials!
Well, now that the test is over I feel relieved and my brain feels better! I am going to do all kinds of things this afternoon.....shave my legs, maybe paint my nails, clean my room, etc, etc. I am off to Yorkton, Sask. with XCO (the dance team) this weekend for a show! It's a pretty sweet deal because we don't have to pay for our hotel, the food or the gas because it is covered by the team! I think it will be a lot of fun and I feel like I deserve it after all the intense studying these past 2 days! My brain and heart need some fun and a little holiday! So, I'll see you all another time! Have good weekends!

I'm at the University in between classes, chatting with a friend that is getting married in the next 2 months. So much fun! She is getting married on the saturday and then taking a week off school to go on a honeymoon! Kinda insane but totally great for them! I love chatting about wedding stuff!
So, because we were chatting just a second ago, that is what is on my mind.
On another note, I'm having a longing for El Salvador day. I had a dream that I was there last night, I woke up thinking about it, came to the U thinking about it, got another great email from some team members, and just plain would love to be there today. I am going to pray that God works out a way. It's kinda looking like this summer will be full of other engagements, but I would love to have the opportunity to go back! I'm going to pray about it for the year and hopefully a miracle can happen before next August! Keep that in mind all of my faithful and incredible supporters! You made it possible! Of course through Jesus! Thanks again!
Well, not much else to say, though I do have a full brain with many different thoughts! Maybe some will have a written form later!
Until then, adios y dios te bendiga! (good-bye and God bless you!)

Boy, lots of prayer requests have been coming my way lately. Sad happenings. A woman diagnosed with breast cancer just a matter of days ago and having surgery this week. A friend in the hospital from a car accident that is awaiting surgery in the next few days if not today. A girl who is dealing with a terrible family situation. Her dad shot her mom and then killed himself. The mom is alive but paralyzed and they aren't sure if she will make it. During this all, this girl is trying to go through med school and now the parent to her younger brothers. So many hurting people. Pray please.

It is a cold sunday afternoon. I am still feeling unwell and coughing like a old woman with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), ready to give up a lung...or two. I just arrived home from a chilly game of golf. Yes, you read right...golf. See it was the annual IDC Communications golf tournament and barbeque which I, as the wonderful girlfriend, accompanied the lovely boyfriend to. Now that is what I call love! One of the ladies of our little team summed it up quite humorously by saying, "I guess you could classify golf as a sport because it is possible to pull muscles". I actually had a nice time in between the coughs, and didn't do too incredibly poorly if I must say so myself!
I got to go up to my favorite Rock Lake yesterday! It was the 25th anniversary of my dear camp, which I have gone to for the past 13 years of my life! It was wonderful to be back and Shane and I enjoyed wandering around the camp and rediscovering all the favorite spots (ie the creek, the beach, etc, etc). The camp has gone through a tough year, but it is awesome to see the many people that have become engraved in that place. There have been thousands if not millions of lives changed, transformed, healed and utterly saved by the ministry that Jesus has done there! My life being one of them! I hope that it continues to gone on with the same refreshing vision statement as it started with 25 years ago. I want to raise my babies there for a part of every summer. That is one of my dreams and prayers.
Must tend to the books. They are screaming for my attention. Especially the ones that I haven't had time to open yet! Ouch! They need me.

Well, good evening all. Today was a good day, but I wasn't feeling the greatest. I have this totally annoying, itchy cough, a painful tooth problem that caused an emergency dentist visit this evening and just kinda a bummed heart today. Not sure exactly why....just cause and I've been trying to kick it all day. I had another XCo practice today. It was neat watching the pro team practice for saturday's show in Neepawa. I was supposed to be going but there are other things that I need to do like homework! and going to Rock Lake for their anniversary!
Anywho....I have nothing great to say. My only thoughts are from my recent readings about Cystic Fibrosis, Asthma and COPD. If any questions on these you can tap into my world. Otherwise I will try to come up with other topics of greater interest next time we all meet again.
Good night my friends. Have sweet dreams.

I'm at the University right now killing time between my day full of classes (straight for the past 4 hours) and my evening class at 7pm. I do wish I could just go home now because it's 5pm and I've been here since 11:30am! Well, class on tuesday runs until 10pm for me! I'll just have to get used to it, because this Spanish course is all the way until April! I am excited about this class though! I hope I can catch on quickly!
We started to play with IVs today and the whole system of hooking them up on our lovely plastic man, Jake! The poor guy takes so much abuse! Especially because we don't know what we are doing!
We had to fill out the sheets about what clinical facility we want. I wanted some peds and some adult but now the option is either or. Christina and I want to have the same clinical place so that we can carpool on thursday and fridays and have that close moral support, especially doing the work involved. I think I'm going to try for adult medicine at St.B and then peds as my second choice. We'll see what happens.
I do have an answer to prayer! My student loan has been raised A WHOLE BUNCH as of yesterday morning! I can live this year, pay the bills and maybe have some left over! Thanks to the Lord!
Have a great night!

So, the weekend went well! The lake was beautiful and it was so great to be out in the country! It was great to hang out with the people too!
University is here in full force! I've already done a bunch of reading and it's only the 3rd day! People are already stressed. I announced to my lab instructor in class when she stated that the stress was already high, that I refuse to live like that! I have been praying against stress and anxiety every university morning before I get out of bed! I am going to cover myself in His peace so that I can consciously stay above the overwhelming emotions! We are starting on IVs already! I'm really excited!
Tomorrow we have to write down what clinical locations we prefer. I really want to try and get into peds. It is really limited in the spaces available, and I think it is harder. I thought to myself, why don't I take the challenge even though I might get a worse grade because it is more work. I like the variety and so far all I've worked with is the elderly, women and newborns. This is my only clinical chance of working with kids! I also feel a little more comfortable because I got to practice my BPs on kids in El Salvador! Though the kids there were far better behaved in a doctor situation than most kids in North America! Truth be told.
Well, I need to head home from the U. I'm going out for supper with two of my bestest girlfriends from back home! I'm looking forward to connecting with both of them again! Both of them got married this summer and we haven't been together since before the weddings!
Also, I'd like to announce that today is Shane and I's 3rd anniversary! We have been in relationship for quite a long time! It is just getting better and better! I am such a supporter (because it's been my experience) of long-term dating! I know him so much more than I did 2 years ago. And I know myself more!
Ta Ta! Chatterbox today! Have a good evening!

Yeah! The financing went through, and WE HAVE A CAR!!! We went to Steinbach to pick it up this afternoon! We are so excited! What a beautiful piece of machinery! I absolutely love it! And I know that Shane is so pleased because driving back to the City, he was so quietly driving, listening to Creed in our CD PLAYER!, and occasionally blurting out, "We got a car!". Our baby is a 2002 white Alero! Such a beauty!
I'm off to a retreat in Ontario this weekend with the worship guys and girls from WCV. I have never gone before and so I don't know what to expect, but I hope to have a really enjoyable and relaxing weekend getting to know that crew from my church better! So, keep me in your thoughts and prayer!
Have a great weekend! The weather is supposed to be great!

Well, hello everyone! I am back in the country as of last wednesday! Life has been quite full so I haven't had much time to blog!
El Salvador was incredible! I will definitely go back whenever the opportunity arises! I met the most amazing people and was blown away by the joy that the Christians of El Salvador have! I learned many things out there!
Then I got to spend some time with Beau and Heather in Florida, which was so great! I wasn't ready to come home after only 5 days with them =( But, now that I am home, it's good.
My sister and friend, Laurel, moved down the hallway from us so it is like living on the 'Friends' set! It is going to be such a fun year!
I got to see my great roomie after being apart between both of our travelling months of August for almost a month! It is great to both be back!
Shane and I pretty much bought a car yesterday night and today we'll find out if the financing all works out! Please pray about this today! We are so excited to finally have wheels after waiting so long to make this purchase!
I auditions on a whim last friday for a dance company and found out on sunday that I made it! Steph, Laurel and I are all in the company, so it is going to rock! We had our first practice last monday night and I am still in major muscle pain, and it's thursday! I am so sore! We worked so hard! This dance company is different than anything I've ever done before. The training and performances include hiphop, boot dance, modern, jazz and ballet. Steph and I are on the pre-professional team (pretty much meaning the part-time team), so I don't know exactly how much of all these different types of training we are going to get in reality!
I'm actually at University right now. It is the first day of year three! I am a little nervous about the intensity of the workload this year! I have started to pray continuously for peace and enjoyment for school, and that the anxiety and stress that so easily happens would stay far, far away. Christina and I thought that our clinical orientation started at 8:30 and went to 4:30, but in fact we just have a class instead from 10:30-12:30! So, we have a bunch of time to kill, while I'd rather be still sleeping! Oh, well! It's a great day for people watching, especially picking out of a crowd who are first years!
I'll write more later!

Well, this is my last blog until my trip. My plane leaves in 8 hours, and I would love to be sleeping right now! I have to wake up at 3:15am to get to the airport at a good time! My wonderful Shaner is driving me so early in the morning!
Thanks for everything guys! Thanks for your support, prayers and financial help! God has gone beyond my expectations for providing for this trip! Please pray for me throughout this time! My team and I could use all the prayer we can get!
I really am excited! I am excited what God is going to do in my heart! I am excited to see another area of the Kingdom and another culture of worshippers! I am a little nervous about what to say. I guess it is silly but......I just don't feel like I know exactly what to share with others. I know that it will all come and that God gives us the words to say. Thank the Lord!
Well, take care all! Enjoy the rest of your summer and see you at the end of August!

It is nearing 1am and I just can't get tired enough to sleep. I was lying in bed for the past hour and it's just not going anywhere! I'm actually feeling a little ill! Hopefully it's momentarily! Please God, keep me healthy! It sure would be a bad time to get sick, especially since I never do! I thought maybe staring at this screen would make me tired!
I had my last shift at work today, until after my trip! Now it is really happening! I worked like a horse this shift and had a bunch of motivation because I knew it was my last for a few weeks! 2 days and 5 hours until I leave! I'm getting more and more excited! I know everything will get done before I go! I am trying to work out some student aid stuff with the student aid people and my dad. I really want this stuff settled before I go, so that I don't have to worry about not having money for September! Except a major praise report is that I can pretty much pay almost all my tuition with the money that was supposed to go towards my trip, because of my generous friends and family and ultimately, Jesus!
Talk to you all after a good nights sleep! Though I really don't feel much more tired! I'll try to drift off!

4 days and I'll be flying Toronto to Miami at this time! Unfortunately I've made myself a little on the busy side until I go! Ahhh! Why do I pack so much stuff in! I just wanted to get some nice relational coffees in with my friends and family before I leave. My coffee with my mom was really nice! We went to the lounge in the Fort Garry Hotel! I really enjoyed our time together! It is so good that no matter what kind of times you go through or issues that may arise, my mom will always be my mother, I will always be her daughter and we will always love one another. That's comforting and makes everything kinda alright.
My roomie left me last night! She flew off to Florida this morning and by the time I get to Florida after my trip to El Salvador, she will have left for home 3 days prior=( We aren't going to see each other for probably a month! Except that school starts in a month yesterday! Oh my goodness! It is coming so soon! I'm slowly warming up to the idea of going at it again, but with probably more umph! than ever. Third year, I have heard from many is the toughest! But I will try to work my butt off, still have time to live, love and breathe, and I will succeed!

My baby sister is now living at my appartment. She is going to be living here while Christina and I are gone for the month of August. She hopefully will hear word about her appartment this week and then she'll go from there! She started her new job today and I felt all motherly helping her get prepared last night. My mom would say a blessing over us kids each morning as we were leaving for school. Then when I didn't live at home anymore and became a student again, she bought a plaque that said the blessing so that I could read it and hear her saying it over me. So, I was half asleep this morning when Steph left for work, but I said to her from the depths of sleep the blessing that my mom would have said had she been here this morning. "May God bless you and keep you. May He cause his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. May He lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace". I love my family.
Well, I must get to the shower because I am going out with Sarah and Jeanette before work. I especially had to see Sarah before she goes back to B.C or I'll miss the chance until Christmas!
Take care all! And enjoy the rain!

Well, I'm done my weekend of working nights! My poor and confused body is doing quite well. I'm pleasantly surprised! Supposedly shift work (probably mainly nights) is one of the risk factors for heart disease. I can see why! It screws up your poor system! You are sleeping and eating at all the wrong times!

Well, my Shaner came over tonight and we had a nice evening relaxing and our favorite, a trip to 7-11 for 5 cent candies and then a walk around the neighborhood! I love my boy!

6 days until I fly away! It is becoming such a reality! I have about half of my stuff packed already and I have lists coming out of everywhere....my OCDs emerging. I am really excited to travel, go on an airplane again, meet totally new people and be in a different culture! I am really excited that I am doing this on my own! I love the independant feeling! I had this feeling when I went to California with a group from Kelowna in '98! I didn't know anyone and it was quite an experience....with pros and cons! I'm so thankful to have the opportunity to do this! I could squeal!

I am going out for coffee with my mom tomorrow! She called me today and wanted to have coffee before I leave! She totally initiated and I am touched. I hope that we have a really nice time! I think I'll take her to Three Sisters Teahouse on Provencer! She'd like that! I went home on wednesday of last week to say good-bye to my house...mom will be all moved out by the time that I return. I'm sad, but it helped to walk through the house and verbally say good-bye to each and every room, cupboard, closet, etc. Kinda healing and releasing...

I am praying that all goes well with registering for third year classes this wednesday! I hope that I get all the classes that I need and in the right slots! It's important so that I can fit everything in! Please say a prayer!

Well, I just needed to update! Have a wonderful night! I think I'll hit the hay early tonight! I actually get to sleep during the night tonight, but I have to get up at 5:15am to work the day shift! Oh...responsibility.............what can I say?

It has been a little while since I last was on here! 8 days until I leave for my trip! It is getting so much more of a reality because I'm leaving in a week tomorrow!!! I am getting really excited! And a little nervous that I won't remember anything about nursing since I had my last exams in April! Hopefully I remember even the basics! Today I got a package in the mail from Global Health Outreach. I got a shirt that we all will be wearing, and other such important and last minute things/info.
I have been so blessed by a bunch of my friends and family! My trip is paid for! Thank-you Jesus! This way I'll hopefully be able to take care of school with that money! Not everyone's donations are in yet, so I don't know exactly where I am at, but I do know that it is taken care of! Thank-you Jesus again!
I'm working nights tonight and I really should pack some more, do some last minute errands tonight and have a nap!
Bless you all!

A little more food for thought from the book I'm reading entitled, "The Case for Faith".....

"The death of God himself on the cross. At the time, nobody saw how anything good could ever result from this tragedy. And yet God foresaw that the result would be the opening of heaven to human beings. So the worst tragedy in history brought about the most glorious event in history. And if it happened there - if the ultimate evil can result in the ultimate good - it can happen elsewhere, even in our own individual lives. Here, God lifts the curtain and lets us see it. Elsewhere he simply says, 'Trust me.'. "

"Pretend you're God and try to create a better world in your imagination. Try to create utopia. But you have to think through the consequences of everything you try to improve. Every time you use force to prevent evil, you take away freedom. To prevent all evil, you must remove all freedom and reduce people to puppets, which means they would then lack the ability to freely choose love."
There are many things I'd like to share that I'm learning in this book, but I'll just add tidbits here and there.
Nite. Nite.

Sometimes it sucks to have a job and a responsibility to be there. Christina, Heather, Beau and Dany went to Grand Beach for the day and I had to stay home because I work this evening. Boo Hoo! I'm a little disappointed! It would have been so much fun and I really wanted to go to the beach sometime this summer! I guess I'll definitely have the chance in Florida. Heather talked to her brother in law, and I'll most likely be able to go to Disney World while I'm there for free! He has time shares with Disney! Yippee! I've never been to Disney Land or World before. Unfortunately, Heather has to work, but Beau and I will go! It is funny because I'll have a whole bunch of Disney pictures with myself and my friend's husband! Funny!
Yesterday was actually harder for me than saturday in regards to the funeral. I was really feeling bumbed yesterday and I had a pretty heavy heart. I worked in the evening which was good and it took my mind off of it, but the beginning of the day (church), was really hard for me. I felt really down and didn't enjoy myself. Oh well, I guess it is part of the processing. My heart is sad for all of them that are so effected by this.
The remainder of my money for my trip was due this past saturday. In the last week or so I've been informed of a few donations that were being sent by mail. So, I didn't have to send the rest of the money in on saturday because we are going to wait until mid-week to see what comes in and where I'm at. I am praying and hoping that it is all covered! That would be such a blessing! If it is covered and there is a surplus of money, they will cover my plane ticket to Miami too, and other expenses like my passport, immunizations, etc. I would love that! I am already so thankful and blessed by God's faithfulness through others' generosity! I'll keep you guys posted about the situation! It is only 12 days now until I leave!
Have a great day!

I was having some pretty funky things happening with this blog if you visited since thursday night, but I have it worked out now.
I just returned from Garret's funeral. Funerals really make you reflect on life, the future, and how you are living your life. I may blog later about my thoughts, but perhaps not as well.
Later.

I just got back from work and am trying to install the latest MSN but I have dial-up which is going very slowly!
Well, it's working for Beau and Heather to get out to Winnipeg for the funeral on Saturday. They are flying to Minneapolis tomorrow and Heather's aunt is driving them to a town near Grand Forks. Christina and I are going to drive down to Grand Forks and pick them up tomorrow. It will be quite the trip I think! Unfortunately I had to cancel plans for the evening with a good friend, but I know she'll understand. If I am in the position to cancel my plans with someone, she is one that I am comfortable with to do so and know that she will totally understand!
Before we leave tomorrow, Shane is coming over in between a meeting and work and I'm making him brunch! Pancakes!!
In this hard time of pain and suffering for many, it is interesting that I am reading a book that is touching on just that topic. It is called The Case For Faith. The section that I'm reading now is objection #1 to believing in Christianity - Since evil and suffering exist, a loving God cannot. There are so many that I know that are wrestling with why questions right now. Why did he/she have to die so young? Why did it have to happen like this? Why is cancer on this earth? Why do bad things happen to those who love the Lord and live for him?
Well, there is an interesting analogy in this book. It doesn't do any justice or answer any questions of those hurting right now, but it is interesting if you think about it. To me it doesn't even explain suffering at all, it just explains how we as humans don't understand the reason behind things sometimes. This man, Peter John Kreeft, Ph.D, states, "Imagine a bear in a trap and a hunter who, out of sympathy, wants to liberate him. He tries to win the bear's confidence, but he can't do it, so he has to shoot the bear full of drugs. The bear, however, thinks this is an attack and that the hunter is trying to kill him. He doesn't realize that this is being done out of compassion. Then in order to get the bear out of the trap, the hunter has to push him further into the trap to release the tension on the spring. If the bear were semiconscious at that point, he would be even more convinced that the hunter was his enemy who was out to cause him suffering and pain. But the bear would be wrong. He reaches this incorrect conclusion because he's not a human being". I know that we don't understand everything at all. I know that God has plans that we don't see with our human eyes. I don't know what this book will teach me, but I'm interested to keep reading.
Sleep well.

Unfortunately, another person that I know has passed away. You may not recall, but a few weeks ago, I blogged about a prayer request for a distant friend of ours that was dealing with cancer. He was young (around the age of 23) and has a young wife and son. Well, last night or early this morning, he passed away. I was under the understanding that things were looking up. He had even gotten to go home from the hospital. Something went wrong with his esophagus and he needed emergency surgery. While the doctor operated, they found something wrong with part of his lung as well. He made it through the surgery and was recovering. Then he suddenly died.
I'm not exactly sure how to react. I knew him but not very well, more from camp weeks years ago. I can see though how this has effected people that I love. Heather and Beau down in Florida must be devasted. Garret (the guy that died) was one of Beau's really good friends. He was supposed to be in his wedding party this past March, but because of the cancer, he couldn't make it down to Florida for the wedding. Beau is waiting on a VISA and was told earlier that he could not come back to Canada until the VISA goes through or he won't be allowed back down. Pray that God gives Beau favor as they try to work it out that he could come up for the funeral on saturday.
My wonderful Shaner has been hit pretty hard by this whole thing. Cancer is.......I don't even know what to say about it. It has robbed many people. I just go into protector and comforter mode when Shane is sad. Not too many things make him sad and so my heart hurts for him when he hurts.
PLEASE pray for Darcy (Garret's wife) and his young son (who is 1 or 2). Pray for his family and friends who are struggling with his death. He is in heaven with Jesus, so we know that he is better off and having a blast, but the ones down here whose lives will greatly miss his presence, really need prayers. Thanks.

Unfortunately, another person that I know has passed away. You may not recall, but a few weeks ago, I blogged about a prayer request for a distant friend of ours that was dealing with cancer. He was young (around the age of 23) and has a young wife and son. Well, last night or early this morning, he passed away. I was under the understanding that things were looking up. He had even gotten to go home from the hospital. Something went wrong with his esophagus and he needed emergency surgery. While the doctor operated, they found something wrong with part of his lung as well. He made it through the surgery and was recovering. Then he suddenly died.
I'm not exactly sure how to react. I knew him but not very well, more from camp weeks years ago. I can see though how this has effected people that I love. Heather and Beau down in Florida must be devasted. Garret (the guy that died) was one of Beau's really good friends. He was supposed to be in his wedding party this past March, but because of the cancer, he couldn't make it down to Florida for the wedding. Beau is waiting on a VISA and was told earlier that he could not come back to Canada until the VISA goes through or he won't be allowed back down. Pray that God gives Beau favor as they try to work it out that he could come up for the funeral on saturday.
My wonderful Shaner has been hit pretty hard by this whole thing. Cancer is.......I don't even know what to say about it. It has robbed many people. I just go into protector and comforter mode when Shane is sad. Not too many things make him sad and so my heart hurts for him when he hurts.
PLEASE pray for Darcy (Garret's wife) and his young son (who is 1 or 2). Pray for his family and friends who are struggling with his death. He is in heaven with Jesus, so we know that he is better off and having a blast, but the ones down here whose lives will greatly miss his presence, really need prayers. Thanks.

Hello all! I just got home from a nice little visit with my dear friend Loraleigh! I love that girl! And she and Jason really make cute kids! I am really blessed with many great friends. It really is hard though to make time in life to keep up so many relationships! Can you idenify? I would love to get together with a lot of people individually once a week, but there would be no time to work, sleep or eat with that kind of schedule. It is strange, but it is something that I am constantly trying to balance, ever since leaving high school. It was so convenient when you automatically saw your friends daily! I guess it is all apart of growing up and doing life as an adult in the real world. Some parts of it suck!
Well, off to work again this evening! I'm trying to keep a good attitude! Only 2 more weeks of work after tomorrow, until I leave for my trip! I can do it! It is a little depressing though, knowing that I work a whole bunch right after I get home! Lord, please, like the video Madame Blueberry of the Veggie Tales series says, I need a happy heart! Please keep me thinking positive!
Have a great day guys! And hey, I would love some comments! About anything!

Good morning all! Actually, good afternoon! I had a good shift at work and went to bed around 7:45am and got up about 2:30pm. I'm feeling pretty good this afternoon. Not too tired. I'm going to go develop some pics from the wedding and see my Shaner for his supper break. Tonight is tv and relaxing night for me! I am looking forward to it! Wooo! Hooo! Canadian Idol! Sorry it's such a boring blog today! Maybe I'll have some great inspiration later on!
Have a good day!

Well, I gotta get caught up on the last few days! Shane and I just enjoyed a nice bit to eat with Nat & Lance, friends of ours that got married just 4 short weeks ago yesterday. I was totally delighted when they called this afternoon that they were coming into the City (as us from the country call it), and wanted to get together with us! We had a blast eating appetizers at Applebees's (sundays is half-price appetizers!) and chatting for a good 2 and a half hours!
I am so blessed. I see that a lot today. I have been feeling a little on the blue side for a while lately, at times. Today at church they asked those who were going through hard times and struggles to raise their hands, and then they asked those going through good times to raise their hands. You know, I just thought to myself, "I am feeling blue at times lately, but I am so blessed on the whole. I just can't put up my hand for either specifically. Both apply to me". I do have the struggles for sure, but I also have SO MUCH blessing. I have wonderful friends, a great family, an absolutely incredible boyfriend whom I treasure, a great home and roommate and God provides all that I need! Blessed be the name of the Lord. He is a faithful and good Father. There are many things that I don't understand at all, but He is in control and He is bigger than that.
The wedding that I was in yesterday was awesome! I had such a blast being a bridesmaid! I loved having my hair done (which might I add included 113 bobby pins in my poor scalp!), getting all made-up and wearing a beautiful, strapless dress (for the first time!). It was so fun and I felt gorgeous! Shane paid me some pretty heartwarming compliments!
Well, this is getting to be a long blog because I had to get caught up! I should hurry though because I need to have a quick nap before I work the night shift tonight! This is my final week before the rest of my money is due for my trip. God has been SO faithful and people have been very generous. Actually the donations haven't come from a lot of people or necessarily the people I would have more or less expected, but the few that have gave have been incredibly generous! Thank-you Lord! Just in the past few days I have been told of 4 others that have sent money for me! Maybe it will all be covered! I hope so!
Prayer requests for today are still for Joy and Derek and their family through this tough time, my sister's final days hunting for the right job, and a couple from our church that is working with Mercy Ships and the man has just been diagnosed with lung cancer. Please take one moment to pray. If everyone that visits this blog prays just once the moment that they see this, we'll get these people covered!
Have a wonderful night! Have good sleeps while I work! I'll be sleeping later tomorrow when you all have to get up for the day! Crazy!

Well, it sure has been an emotional few days in the blogging community. Quite the extremes from the intense sadness of River's passing to the total excitement of Jason and Yvonne's, new daughter, Aila Jordan (good choice of a name!). Man, what a cutie she is! I have seen quite a few newborn babies and some of them aren't the cutest little things right after the birthing experience. This one is absolutely adorable!
My dear friend, Amy is getting married this saturday so today I'm off for home until saturday. Lots of wedding stuff to do in the next 3 days......rehearsal tonight, set up some more tomorrow, spend the night with the bridal party and the bride-to-be and then do the whole wedding thing on saturday morning! It is going to be SO early! The wedding is at 10:30am, so the hair dresser is coming to the house by 5:45am!!!
My mom and sister are coming over soon and we're going to the mall. I have to buy stuff for my trip and my sister has two job interviews! So, off I go to do all the hygiene stuff of the morning! Take care!

Well, checking up on other blogs, I can see the ripple effect of the news about little River. It is amazing how River's life and death has effected SO many people. Even just in my life, I have asked a bunch of people to pray. At the very beginning when River's condition was made aware to the community, I sent out a group email for people who has no idea who they are to pray. Months later a girl that I hardly ever talk to anymore because I hardly see her anymore email me for an update, because her uncle and his church were wondering what was happening with little River. It is amazing how updates about River's life went from his parents to me to my friend to her uncle and then to his church. The family of Christ that we all are is an incredible thing! I have a lot to be thankful for.
On a different note, my friend Yvonne from church is out having a baby right now! Pray that she has strength, focus and can work well through this labor and delivery!
I'll update you all when I know more!

This morning is a sad time. Last night a little life went to be with Jesus. That part isn't the sad part, the fact that his parents and everyone else won't get to enjoy his life as well is what is so heartbreaking. Little River was diagnosed with anacephely a few months ago. After much prayer and hoping for a miracle, little River didn' make it through the delivery last night. My heart is really sad for his parents, Joy and Derek. Would everybody please pray for them? I'm just not sure exactly what to pray, except the peace and comfort that only God can bring in this time. Everything else seems far less important in daily life.

I feel like I haven't blogged in a while. Mostly due to the fact that it feels like all I've done lately is work and that is a very boring blog! Today I started my position, which doesn't change any of my job, except it means I'm there more often, securely. I had a good night tonight. See, sometimes I just don't like to work and go to a job. I have these feelings about every job that I've had. I am super thankful for the jobs that God has provided me, but sometimes I really have to work at being happy about going to work. The reality is that before work, I can dread going, but when I'm there it's fine. I just have to pray through the dread on certain days! I know that God has me working at these personal care homes for a reason. I know that I can learn a lot and that I am a valuable employee there. Jesus has a plan for my presence in those places.
I've begun to try to think in a certain way. In the mornings when I work the day shift, we have to get all the residents out of bed and washed, dressed and groomed for the day. It is quite the process and with not a lot of time, you pretty much have to fly them through it. I hate that part, because I wish that I had more time to do things a little slower, especially in the morning. I wouldn't want to have to move so fast! Anyways, I really can't change that, I can just try and go in with a cheerful attitude and try to make each residents' morning a little nicer. So, what I've tried to think about when getting each one ready is that Jesus is coming to visit today and so I want each one to look nice. I think to myself, if Jesus were coming to visit this person, would they look presentable? Even nice? I know Jesus doesn't really care about looks, but in this case, if a resident is going out on a visit or getting a special visitor, they usually look a little nicer. I'm trying to think of Jesus as this special visitor daily, because he raises the bar a little bit.
Well, 26 days until I leave on my trip! I'm getting more and more excited! It is actually getting closer! I have mixed feelings though, because my sister is moving two doors down in my appartment block on the 1st of August, and I'm going to be gone for 3 weeks right away! Moving out is a hard transition at first, especially when you are young. Steph is 18 and I was 17 when I moved out. I remember the feelings that run through you. I was excited about my future, feeling daring and independent. But, at the same time, I was nervous to be so independant, on my own and kinda alone......The benefit that Steph will have is that she isn't really leaving younger siblings behind. My brother lives at my dad's anyways, so it doesn't feel like she's leaving him behind. Me on the other hand, I felt SO bad when I moved out because I knew how hard it was especially on my sister. We shared a room the few years before I moved out and became SO close. I felt so bad that not only was I having a hard time, but I knew how much my decision was effecting her. So, I'll just have to commit my little sis to Jesus and I can trust that He will take very good care of her when I'm gone. I hope she'll be ok. And on the praise report side of things, she has a job interview this week!! Hopefully she will land a good job that she enjoys!
good night!

worked all day. need a nap. good day though. going to a barbeque for shane's work in landmark. work again tomorrow.

What a beautiful day! I am still in my pjs and it is going on 4pm! It is just what I needed! I've been planning things, relaxing and preparing for my trip. I made a list of all the things I have to get before I leave! Yikes! There are quite a few things!
I am such a list maker and planner! I thrive on it! I think that is part of my OCD list! Hee! Hee! On Yvonne's blog, she once asked others to comment about their strange habits, which I call OCDs (obsessive compulsive disorder)! What are some of yours? Do tell your deepest darkest quirks!!!!!
O.k. I'm going to do some more of the writing/paper work/planning that I love to do and write a speech for my friend's wedding next weekend! I hope to be "in the zone" and that the stories, encouragement and words flow naturally!
Have a great day!

Well, I booked the flight and it is all final that I'm leaving on the 9th and returning the 27th, after visiting my Florida friends. Christina is going to be visiting them too in August, so it has potential to work out that we would be there at the same time. I wish Shane could join us! It is so fun when the 5 of us hang out! He will be missed. But you know, he's doing what is needed and saving the money so we can buy a car in late summer/early fall hopefully! What a good guy!
Well, since the appartment Steph and Laurel wanted is taken, we have been playing with ideas of moving into a side-by-side or house with the 4 of us. We are all actually going to look at a place tonight. I was getting really pumped about it, but now as things progress it is stressing me out a little. Going on a trip, getting back and going to school within the week and the potential of completely relocating is somewhat psycho! At least if we don't like the places or feel right about it, Chris and I can stay here and Steph and Laurel can find a place nearby. We did find a great option though! It is 5 minutes from the University and it is a house! It is in a great, nice, quiet, secluded neighborhood and we would have all the enjoyments of a house, including a yard! It would be so nice! We can only view it in 2 or so weeks though, because the owners are coming in from Vancouver. They said that they would prefer a family, but would consider students. I understand, but am also slightly insulted by the typical stereotype you get as soon as you are a little on the younger side. We are awesome tenants, and great girls! They wouldn't have to worry at all about the wear and tear of the house, drunken parties or noise problems! You want to get me started and passionate about something, mention the stupid stereotypes that you get directed at you as soon as you look younger. I can go on....I'm getting mad!
So, my sister is coming in a few minutes and we are off to hand out resumes to find her a job in the city! Pray about our house and her job situation!

So, my trip is becoming more of a reality! I finally got my itinerary and am meeting my team in Miami on August 9! I found a flight to Miami on the 9th, though I have to leave Winnipeg at 5:45am! That's ok though, because I don't have to stay the night in Miami that way! Then, I'm going to return with my team to Miami from El Salvador, and stay with my friends in Florida for a few days! I am going to stay for 4-5 days and then return to Winnipeg on the 27th!!!! Just in time for a few more shifts at work, another wedding and then back to school within a week. Boy, I think August is going to make me very tired! I had a shift to work on the 25th, but an awesome co-worker who in the last day has traded me for 5 shifts, is switching me!!!! I try to make it work that I take a shift that will allow her to have an extended time off so that the switch works in my favor and hers. So far it has worked great! I thank the Lord for her! Before I had taken this .45 I had taken some shifts as a casual employee. Now some of the shifts were over lapping and I'm in a wedding next weekend that I couldn't miss. So, they were all very valid switches!!!
My sister was planning on moving in across the hallway, but today someone came in and gave a deposit for the appartment. Bummer....it means that the appartment is held for this girl. Hopefully this work out for my sister to get it instead! So, if you wouldn't mind, could you pray that God would find a place for my sister and friend that are moving out together and that it could possibly be in my appartment block? This one is across the hall and we would love to continually run across the hall to hang out together! You know, like the whole set-up on the show Friends! It would be a blast!
I'm pretty fired up today about all these plans! Definitely adrenalin is pumping!
Have a great day!

I realize I have some issues with my blog and the funny line that is showing up, but I'm in the process of figuring out how to fix it! Hopefully by tomorrow it may be gone.
I had a pretty terrible morning. Downright awful. You know those days when EVERYTHING goes wrong that could in a matter of minutes? Yeah, one of those. It made for a tearful morning, which is not welcomed at work! I am a psycho and worked 7-12:35, and 3:11:15! That is way too much work. So, in order not to be completely depressed over this, I had an hour nap in between and woke up pretending that it was a new day and I only had to go to work once. Silly brain. Strangely, when I woke up I had this intense pain down the left side of my neck, both in the front and back and down my shoulder blade. It travelled down in the same way that it feels when you take a too big bite of something and it has a hard time going down, allowing you to feel exactly where it is at every distance. Over the course of my work evening, it has gotten worse. I don't know what it is and I've never felt this before. I'm guessing I must have slept wrong in my nap time. Whatever the case, hopefully it goes away!
Well, I had my little unload of the bad parts of my day. On another note, I got back from my friends' wedding! I had a really fun time! It was fun, beautiful and excruiatingly hot. We were soaked and I got a wicked sun burn. I just never thought that sun screen and getting ready for the wedding went together! I really should have! All my friend Tanya's (the bride) girlies involved in the wedding got a gift certificate for a half hour massage! What a rockin' present! I'm super pumped about mine!
Well, I'm kinda scared to sleep and hurt my neck further, but I am so excited to be in dream land. I want to sleep in as long as the body wants! Ahhhhh........

Well, I'm just home for a pit stop before heading back to Mitchell. I've been in the country since wednesday afternoon doing the whole wedding thing for a friend of mine who is getting married tomorrow. I'm a candlelighter and Shane is an usher. Pretty much it is like I'm in the bridal party. I am part of the wedding party pictures, the rehearsal and sleeping over at the brides' with all the others tonight, she just didn't want to have 7 girls up there and have to find 7 guys for the even numbering. It is going to be SO beautiful! It is outside and will be fabulous! It's been so great to be home with old and dear friends! I want to move back so badly! Back to slower, enjoyable country life. Things just don't seem quite so complicated when you are in space that you can breathe. I went for a walk yesterday afternoon and just listened to all the sounds I could hear. All that was was lots of birds singing their songs, the wind through the trees and the occasional vehicle driving. That is it! Nothing else was making any noise that I could hear! I am so thankful for my times out there! I drove in for a shift at work early this morning. I left my dad's house at 6:10am and though it was incredibly early, the morning was beautiful. I was so thankful to have quiet time alone, enjoying the ride and view and driving an actual vehicle! I love the prairies! They are so beautiful!

Happy Canada Day!!! I'm over at Shane's and we are relaxing and cooling off after some hardcore rollerblading to St.Vital Park, and back. We relaxed under a shady tree, ate popsicles that Shane bought for us from the ice cream man, and played some frisbee, catch/baseball and kicked a soccer ball around. It was nice! Now, we're figuring out what we will do for the rest of the evening. We want to join in the festivities somewhere and perhaps hook up with some friends later tonight. I just got the info that we are going to go outside and have a water fight! Gotta go and kick some *#@!!!!! Girls rule and boys drool! Here I come Shaner!