Music Monday - cold, wet, lazy days

The weather outside was pretty miserable today - cold, rainy and dark by 4pm. I took the opportunity to have a beautiful, lazy day indoors. I stayed in bed until very late in the morning (okayyyy, it was noon), savored my cup of coffee, perused the newspaper, caught up on my favourite TV shows, listened to some beautiful music, drank hot chocolate, nuzzled with Meeko...ahh, bliss. Such a good idea to have one these lazy days every once in awhile.

"The time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time."

Europe 2013 - A Photographic Sample {Portugal}

So....let's just skip past the whole part where I was supposed to post these pictures a long, long time ago. Okay? Good. In case you missed it, one of my best gal pals, Jenae, and I went on a 3 week long gallivant around Europe during the summer. Our last week was spent in Portugal, in and around the Lisbon area.

Pastéis de Belém - ohh maaan, these are SO good...warm..fresh..crisp outside & creamy inside. I'm salivating now.

When we landed in Lisbon I was a bit hesitant and unsure of being there; I was expecting HOT, sunny weather but the skies were totally overcast, I initially found the architecture to be not as impressive as we'd seen in other countries, AND I was definitely missing our hilarious tour guides from the first leg of our trip. Wah-wuhh.

But don't fear! The weather cleared and we discovered some of the most beautiful buildings with incredible history. One bite of a Pasteis de Belem (traditional custard pastry) was really all it took for me to fall in love with Portugal. Jenae and I made way too many great memories to list, but some of the highlights include touring the local cathedrals, mansions and castles, sunset drives along the coast, stretching out on hot, sandy beaches, enjoying Santini Ice Cream (lots of it),  devouring pastries for all 3 meals, and of course, getting pulled over by the local police. Trip of a lifetime, I'm telling you! Enjoy the pictures! =)

Europe 2013 - A Photographic Sample

Well, Jenae & I have been home for about a month and a half and I haven't shared any pictures from our trip on this blog yet. It would be cruel and unusual punishment to post anywhere near all of our pictures....as we took well over 5000 of them. This first post covers the first two weeks of our trip and is very, very condensed. Enjoy a few of my favourites =)

By the Brandenburg Gate on our first day!

BBQ Virgin

I'm still kind of bitter that my parents never bought or used a barbecue while I was growing up. Whenever I would ask why, the answer was always, "Oh I don't knowwww, what would we even cook on one of those?" To which I would always answer, "Um...anything? Everything?!" I learned early (mostly from eating barbecued deliciousness at friends' houses) that cooking something on a barbecue makes it taste like magic.

After 20-something years of frustration and desperation, I finally caved. I think it was a recipe on Pinterest that finally broke this camel's back. I drove to Canadian Tire, found their charcoal barbecues and bought the one that spoke to my inner grilling goddess, only $29.99! Coming from a family who doesn't barbecue, I had no idea what else I had to buy...but this guy did (don't you love him?) and so I promptly bought a bag of charcoal, lighter fluid and a grill scraper/cleaner.

My brother, also deprived for much of his life, helped me assemble the grill. To christen the grill I decided I would make marinated vegetable kabobs, hotdogs & a simple lentil salad. Yuuuuuuum!

This stage was a bit sketchy for me. More coals & more fluid next time...or maybe one of those electric lighters.

Lentil salad with cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta, parsley & balsamic vinaigrette. Recipe from Ginger Fig

Pre-grill veggies: green & yellow zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, cherry tomatoes & mushrooms. Marinade recipe from wash.the.dog

Just look at those beauties. We just grilled and ate..and then grilled some more and kept eating until we were sooo full. I may not be a BBQ virgin anymore but I'm super stoked for more firsts: chicken wings, salmon, burgers, maybe a thin crust pizza... Oh boy.

Music Monday - J & J's Travel Favourites

Jenae, the driver & Jessica, the navigator =)

 

I've been home for just over a week now and I can honestly say that it was the trip of a lifetime. People told Jenae & I that we were crazy to try to cover so much ground in such a short time period, and maybe we were, but oh man! - every single day was an exciting adventure in a brand new part of the world. We had the best, best time. 

 We travelled almost exclusively by car for 3 weeks (through Germany, Belgium, France, Switzerland, Italy, San Marino, Slovenia, & Austria and then around Portugal - we were BUSY), so our road trip playlists had to be up to par! "Just Give Me A Reason" was dubbed the official song of the trip - not because we loved it but because it followed us around the entire trip! From Paris to Ljubljana, it seemed like every shop and restaurant had it playing!  

Here are a few of the songs that I found to be the most memorable! Enjoy =)

All My Bags are Packed...

Image taken from Inslee

 ..but I'm not sure that I feel ready to go. Haha. I keep feeling like there must be something that I'm forgetting, although I'm sure that I've read the essential Europe packing list from every travel guru on the internet. And still, there is this nervous energy hanging around in my stomach...oh yeah, I think those are called butterflies. I think it's partially just disbelief that this trip is FINALLY here. Those months of planning itineraries, researching attractions, emailing back and forth, pinching pennies, and dreaming of L'Europe are over and tomorrow I get to step onto a plane with an amazing friend and experience a new part of the world, a new part of our friendship and a new part of myself. I'd say that warrants the butterflies. I'm praying for safety and street smarts, flexibility, positive experiences and the ability to trust in Him if things go sideways. I'd appreciate your prayers too!



 I'm not too sure about internet access -- expect a good blog update in a few weeks when we're back. In the meantime, I'm hoping to be able to post on my Instagram & Twitter accounts through the trip. Catch you on the flipside! Eeeeep!

Shear Perfection

           “A woman who cuts her hair is about to change her life.”    - Coco Chanel

I had a good 7 inches of hair chopped off and it feels oh so lovely! I'm still getting used to running my fingers through it and using half the normal amount of shampoo. And that whole changing your life thing? I hear that's what world travelling can do to a person. T minus 6 days! =)

The Final Piece of the Puzzle

I finished my classes 6 months ago. I started my job 4 months ago. I received my CRNE "pass" results 3 months ago. And  I walked across the stage 3 days ago. It's all finished now -- all the little pieces are in place and I'm a Registered Nurse! It's the end of an era for me, but as the saying goes, it's the beginning of something new and exciting. Another huge thank-you to all my friends and family who continue to support me as I transition out of university! Here are some of my favourite pictures from the big day:

My nearest & dearest from the BSN program (L to R: Anna, Margui, Julia, Allyson)

A Few Pictures from Mexico!

So I've been home almost 1 whole week after the most relaxing vacation I think I have ever been on. A beautiful place to stay (just steps from the Sea of Cortez), the best company (my mom is awesome), fresh meals, endless reading material, a turquoise swimming pool...the list goes on. I was in heaven. Best graduation present EVER.

On one of our first nights there, a huuuge wedding was set up on the beach. Big tents, lots of lights, and LOUD traditional music. Around 10pm, we noticed these big orange lanterns floating in the sky so we looked down the beach and saw at least a hundred of them being sent off. It was so so beautiful and I desperately tried to get a decent picture of them, but sadly, I was unsuccessful. And then there were fireworks! And then more music and dancing until 4 or 5am! It was crazy!

These dolphins were seen in the San Jose del Cabo marina where you can pay to swim with them!

Thank-you for an amazing trip, Mom! xo

Time is really flying by -- Convocation tomorrow & Europe in 2 weeks! Viva la vida!

Ten Ways to Better Days

Image taken from here

A bit of real talk here. I know self-confidence struggles aren't universal, but it definitely isn't an uncommon issue..especially for someone fresh out of university and working hard at a brand new job or career. Most days are good, but I think some of these tips will be helpful on the days when things don't seem to be going the best or I'm putting too much on myself. While they may seem a bit obvious or cliché, I think they are really good reminders -- things that we forget to do even though we know they are in our best interest.

10 Ways to Improve your Self-Confidence 

1. Don’t compare yourself to others. You are totally unique, and have different talents, abilities and strengths.

2. Never criticise or put yourself down. There are plenty of others who will do that for you. You need to be your biggest, and you greatest, fan. Be understanding, gentle and kind to yourself.

3. Consciously accept every compliment you get and see them as accurate and genuinely meant. Don’t brush them off as stupid, wrong, or meaningless.

4. Keep affirming yourself until it changes how you feel. It may feel false at first when you say something like “I accept myself completely– and believe I’m valuable”. But as you constantly repeat it you’ll find that, over time, you do accept and value the person that you are.

5. Surround yourself with positive, encouraging people. If you hang out with people who always put you down, and never seem to like or approve of your ideas, then you’ll soon stop believing in yourself as well (and it will also crush your creativity).

6. Make a list of your successes and accomplishments – like playing an instrument, learning how to cook, passing an exam, graduating from high school, or getting into college, or receiving an award. Review this list often – and be proud of yourself!

7. Make a list of your positive qualities and traits. Are you an honest, reliable and caring friend? Do you make time for others? Do you try to do your best? Again, review this list often, and get into the habit of focusing on your positive qualities and traits.

8. Spend your time doing things that you are good at, and enjoy. We become more alive when we’re doing things we love - and that naturally increases our self-confidence (as we’re being our true selves and not just acting out a role).

9. Get involved. If you sit on the sidelines and avoid all challenges then you won’t be able to achieve much in life. But if you push through the feelings of anxiety and fear, then you’ll grow, be successful, and have higher self esteem.

10. Be true to yourself; live a life that’s really “you”. Don’t let other people decide what you should do, or what is best for you, or who they think that you should be. You only have one life – choose your own path – just be you!

How Stress Affects the Body

 
Well that's just excellent...More herbal tea and yoga, anyone?

The Best Mom

“I used to say that I was the apple and my mom was the tree, and I certainly didn’t fall very far. But that’s not entirely accurate. If my mom is the tree, then I’m the bird that grew up in its branches.

She protected me and showed me that, even on the highest of branches, there was nothing to be afraid of. She encouraged me to explore and gave me a solid foundation to come home to. I didn’t fall from her. I flew because of her.” – Melody Fletcher

 I love you, Mom! Xo

Upcoming

In one month exactly, I'll be laying beside a pool or the ocean, basking in hot, Mexican sunshine. In two months exactly, I'll be somewhere (maybe lost?) in Europe with Jenae! For someone who doesn't do a ton of travelling, this is big business and a lot to fit into a couple months, but I am suuuper excited! I should mention that at some point between these two trips I get to walk across a stage, shake a few hands and get my tassel moved from one side to the other. It's just a formality at this point since I've already been working as a full-fledged RN for a few months, but I'm looking forward to having that closure and celebrating with my classmates.

Image from Amy Neunsinger Photography

I know my passport is up-to-date, I'm working on eating a bit healthier in preparation for the hot weather, and I'm still trying to master this new camera. I feel like there are a million more things to do before Trip Numero Uno, but I guess I just have to take it one day at time! Summer is coming! Woohoo! What are your big plans?

How To: Take a Bath

Image taken from Apartment Therapy

It seems to me that the luxurious pleasure of taking a bath is slowly falling by the wayside. Everyone is too busy to take a half hour out of their day just to relax! Mind you, some people have other reasons - too girly or the idea of "sitting in their own filth isn't pleasant". I feel sad for those people because I love them! At the beginning of this year I did the 3-day Dr. Oz Detox Cleanse, which mandated a nightly bath and since then I've been kind of hooked. It helps me sleep better, it soothes my muscles and honestly, it puts me in a better mood. Here's how I create the perfect bath:

1. A Clean Tub. This is a bit of a no-brainer.. if you hate housework, it may have been awhile since the bathtub has had a good scrub. Make sure you do this first,  no one wants to sit in a tub that isn't clean.

2. Water Temperature. This can be a bit tricky.. too hot and it takes you an hour to get into the tub, but too cool and it's lukewarm by the time you're done. Fill the tub as hot as you can stand, it will cool down quicker than you think. It can be helpful to fill it up halfway, get in, and then finish filling - your body will adjust more gradually.

3. Bubbles, Salts, & Bombs. There are so many things you can buy or make to add to your bathwater. I'm usually pretty wiped out after a 12 hour shift at the hospital, so Epsom Salts are a must for me to soothe tired muscles. I also use a variety of aromatherapy products from Bath & Body Works. I couldn't find my favourite scent, Night Time Tea, on their website, but look for it if you're in the store - the smell is out of control amazing!

4. If You're Feeling Extra Fancy... I like to light a candle or two and turn most of the lights off to help me relax even more. A calm playlist like "Mellow Indie" from Songza will block out some of the external noise.

5. Moisturize. When you're relaxed through and through, drain the water and take your time standing up. The hot water will make your blood vessels dilate, which can lower your blood pressure and make you dizzy if you get up too fast (I speak from experience!). I prefer to rinse off very quickly with the shower just because some of the bath products can leave residues on your skin. After a bath is the best time to moisturize your skin. I like Jergens Vitamin E Replenishing Moisturizer, but use your favourite!

Now enjoy the wonderful feeling of being totally relaxed! Repeat as necessary! =)

And would you just look at these stunning bathtubs?! I definitely have some "tub envy" going on!

(L to R) Images taken from Tumblr, Style Estate, Besotted, Flickr, Casa Haus, Pinterest

My Secret Stash of Happy Moments

Once in awhile when I'm stuck at the hospital for 12 (or 16) hours and I just want to be at home, I can get a little bit down. It always helps me to retrieve a good memory from a happy day to remind myself that, "Hey, your life is actually pretty swell. Stop pouting, you have it good!"

Images taken from my Instagram account. Come follow me!

During the past week or so there has definitely been an abundance of those happy moments and memories to add to my stash! The weather has been gorgeous and sunny (think suntanning with a thick novel and iced coffee), there was a holiday long weekend (yay! family time!), a Menchie's Frozen Yogourt shop opened (I've already been there a sickening number of times) and of course, Meeko was just being super handsome like allll the time (still gets me after a year and a half)! Let's not forget the things I couldn't capture with my cellphone camera, like phone and skype dates with best friends, lengthy bubble baths & sleeping in until 11am! I head back to work tomorrow but I think I'm all set! =)

Kindness

Image from Etsy

Some days it's okay to not pick up the phone when it rings; it's okay to lay in the sunshine, to breathe fresh air and to eat whatever you feel like. It's really okay.

Blood: It's in You to Give

There's a church I always drive by and once every few months Canadian Blood Services visits there and puts up a sign and a banner advertising blood donation in hopes of wooing the public to the clinic inside. I always think, "I should really go do that sometime...", buuuut it never ends up happening. As a nurse, I know the importance of blood donation - I am often the one administering that blood to people in the hospital! So yesterday I saw that sign and I actually turned into the parking lot and went inside - big step, right?! I was a bit surprised at how many people were inside - staff, volunteers AND donors! And yet, the first lady I spoke with told me I was lucky to have come at a quiet time.

Before you actually sit in the chair and offer up your arm, there are several stations you pass through to collect different information and determine your eligibility to donate. The first person takes your ID, your height, weight and age and then gives you a pamphlet to read. If you are too young, too old or weigh too little, you get the boot! The second person pricks your finger and measures your hemoglobin level - mine was 137 g/L, woot woot! If yours is less than 125 g/L, you get the boot! Next you move onto a questionnaire about your health history. A nurse will take your vital signs (blood pressure, temperature, pulse) and interview you about the questionnaire. If anything concerns the nurse, you get the boot! Someone who gets turned away might think, "I thought they were desperate for blood? How come they are so picky?" It's an understandable feeling, but if you imagine that your blood might end up transfusing a preemie baby or sick child, you'd hope it was absolutely clean and perfect.

Something Great

So this was a big week in the grand scheme of my life - I finally received (after what seemed like years) my results from my national boards, the Canadian Registered Nursing Exam. Aaaaaaand...I PASSED!!! There was jumping, hugging, squealing, tears and celebratory pizza all around!

I was actually super nervous opening the envelope. The very night before the letter came I actually had a dream/nightmare that my results came and I had failed! I woke up feeling nauseated before realizing none of it was true. Earning that "PASS" was the final step between me and my career as an RN - I could not be more excited than I am! I appreciate all of the congratulations and kind words I have received - thank you!

This is real life now - here we go!

Mischievous Meeko

This battered Salmon is the handiwork of one naughty cat named Meeko. 
I was angry for about 5 minutes...I just can't resist that little face!

 "The cat is not in the long run anxious to please"                                                                   -- T.O. Beachcroft

"Macavity, Macavity, there's no one like Macavity,
There never was a Cat of such deceitfulness and suavity.
He always has an alibi, or one or two to spare: 
And whatever time the deed took place--MACAVITY WASN'T THERE!"           
                          -- T.S. Eliot (excerpt from Macavity - the Mysterious Cat)                                             

"The cat lives alone. He has no need of society. He obeys only when he wishes, he pretends to sleep the better to see, and scratches everything he can scratch."                   -- François-René

 I failed to capture a picture of Meeko in the act, but c'mon, look at this perfect feline!

Uncomfortable

I want to get more comfortable being uncomfortable. I want to get more confident being uncertain. I don’t want to shrink back just because something isn’t easy. I want to push back, and make more room in the area between I can’t and I can.      

 --Kristin Armstrong