1. Today happens to be the end of my vacation. I spent the last 2 weeks visiting family and friends. I ran through Washington, DC. Explored Luray Caverns in Virginia. Climbed Bald Mountain in the rain. Ran in my new trail sneaks (more on this in a minute). Ate the best 30 cent wings w/a guinness at the Black River Ale House. I walked Z and mousse. I worked out. I rested. I watched SVU marathons. I read non-medical books. I shopped online and in stores. Overall, I had a great vacation. But secretly, I can't wait to get back to work....and the ED.
2. Prior to vacation, I spent 4 weeks in the surgical ICU. The nurses were awesome!! The fellows were great. I learned alot from my attendings. I also woke up almost every morning at 4:30am to write crazy, detailed notes. I saw patients heal and be discharged from the unit to the floor or rehab. I also saw patients die. I learned about the long term management for head injuries, hemorrhagic shock and bleeds from every orifice. Unfortunately, I only did one central line and 2 arterial lines (that pesky white cloud will never leave me!!).
3. I passed Step 3!!!! No more crappy, expensive tests of my medical knowledge :)
4. I have lost 16 pounds since April 1st! Woohoooooooo!!! I have been running, biking, doing HIITS training in my living room, and eating very well. I plan to lose just a tad more fluff before my gym officially opens and then I hit the weights hard for a nice chiseled look :)
5. And because I feel I am in such great shape...I am running the Tough Mudder on October 20th!! I was convinced to join a team and show my true grit and determination for success. Nevermind that this is my first mud run and that I signed up for one of the toughest and longest races (12 miles....over 20 obstacles!!). Go big or stay home!! LOL....that is what I'm doing. I bought a new pair of adidas trail sneaks and have been practicing running through mud, gravel, wet leaves, in the cold, in the rain. I know I will never be able to truly mimick game day conditions, but I am trying to prepare the best I can. Although the thought of spending over 3 hours wet, cold, and tired at times sounds ridiculous even to me, I know I am going to kick this courses ass!!! And then celebrate with a beer! Maybe 2 beers :)
6. I got a new tattoo....well, actually one giant tattoo. It is not finished yet. I have only had 2 sessions and I'm thinking I will require 4, maybe 5 more to be truly done. But so far, it looks amazing!!! I final pic to come, but that probably won't happen until late next year.
7. On a personal note, I bought a groupon for laser hair removal....a brazilian. Of course, after 2 sessions the results were amazing and I decided to purchase a package to have my under arms done too. I have my 3rd session coming up and so far I am loving it!! Can't wait to do my legs....can you say laser addict?? LOL.
So before I sign off, and then not post for another 3 months....here are a few pics. Enjoy!!
