Our Rotten Dogs

Happy Valentine's Day -- 2010 Year in Review

2011-02-14T17:32:00.000-08:00

Hello to our Friends and Family!

We are wishing you a wonderful Valentine’s Day and (in the same tradition as last year) taking this opportunity to catch you up on our 2010. We love keeping up with y’all and would like to hear from you about your adventures, too! Our new address is below- be sure to scratch out a note when you can.

The big news for 2011 is that we have moved back to Texas – specifically to Fort Worth! We are sad to leave friends and family behind in California but we are excited about being close to our Lone Star loved ones again. Plus, it gives us a chance to wear our cowboy boots more often! : )

Lynn completed her nurse anesthesia graduate program and is currently studying hard for her national certifying exam. She is really excited about starting a great job at Huguley Hospital (just south of Fort Worth) this Spring. Matt has been interviewing with hospitals in the Fort Worth area and should accept an offer soon. Rossi and Chloe are doing well - making new friends, running around like puppies and enjoying the park and woods near our apartment.

Living in California was great, too. We were renting a house in Highland, about an hour east of L.A. It was a blessing to be only a short drive away to visit with Bob Bob, Uncle Bob, and Aunt Alice in Palm Desert. Over the year, many family members came out to visit. We always ate well and had a blast together!

Besides being close to family, one of the advantages was our proximity to so many great activities. We travelled to the Tournament of Roses parade, Temecula wine country, preseason football in San Diego (Cowboys/Chargers), a Jay Leno taping in Burbank, a movie premiere in Hollywood and celebrated the Fourth of July on Huntington Beach. Lynn’s TCU classmates were always up for fun, and we made new friends in Kee, Jina, Ashley and Jerry. What started out as restaurant sampling (including a chic frozen yogurt store and even trying ‘boba’) turned into varied field trips: seafood and kite flying in Redondo Beach, tandem bicycles on Venice Beach, and a memorable camping trip at Big Bear Mountain.

We had setbacks too. Lynn’s knee had been responding to physical therapy but scar tissue made it feel tight. So in April, we came back to Texas to get it cleaned up. Things went well, but the very first day Lynn began her clinical rotation in San Diego, a knee infection gripped her with pain. She was hospitalized twice and went through three surgeries and home therapy with a PICC line before she was clear of bugs. It was mid-September by the time she got back to San Diego, but Matt and Lynn’s Mom came out to visit her on Coronado and enjoyed sightseeing and fun bike trips to the dog beach. We made new friends there and fell in love with Del Mar all over again! Maybe someday we’ll have a house on the beach… : )

October was Lynn’s…um…second 29th birthday and she wasn’t quite ready for it but it came anyway. As it turned out, the day arrived in style. With a little clever planning by Matt, his parents and Lynn’s Mom, we treated the Birthday Girl to an exciting long weekend in Santa Barbara that included many wineries, cute brunch and dinner places and even a guided Segway tour.

We ended the year with a great ski trip, and two great Christmas celebrations (one combined with New Year’s Eve!) and a move halfway across the country to boot! (pun intended)

After a well earned graduation in December, we celebrated with a truly incredible trip - sailing the British Virgin Islands on a 46’ boat. Part of a five-boat flotilla, our crew bonded quickly during northerly swells, mooring exercises, dinghy trips and sailing wing-on-wing. After a few days on dry land in Puerto Rico (sitting by the pool and touring the forts) we got back stateside to unpack in our new apartment.

If you’d like to see pictures of our adventures, we’ll be slowly but surely updating our blog at www.LynnAndMatt.com. And we’d love to hear from you – Facebook updates just aren’t enough for some of us! So call or write us when you get a chance, and have a great Valentine’s Day and a fantastic 2011!

Sunny San Diego...round two

2010-11-12T18:19:00.000-08:00

I finally made it back to San Diego for my OB anesthesia rotation at the Naval Medical Center. Many of you know that at the begining of my first rotation in May, I got a septic knee infection and was admitted to the hospital, had three surgeries and was definitely out of commission for a while. Thanks to some great great care from doctors and nursed (my husband, included!) I am much better now and was really looking forward to being back in San Diego!

Matt and I rented this cute little Spanish bungalo in Coronado for the month. I couldn't have asked for a better place to stay. It has two bedrooms, which was perfect because my mom came down to stay with me for two weeks. And you know what they say...location, location, location! It was wonderful--in one direction we were four blocks from the San Diego Bay which overlooks a beautiful city skyline and in another direction we were eight blocks from the Pacific and its powdery sand beaches.

The day after Mom flew here, we went garage sale-ing to find her a bicycle. We found a great one for 50 bucks (and then turned around two weeks later and sold it for $40- what a deal!) We had some time to ride together, but she spent the majority of her days toting the pups in their Burley all around the "island", especially back and forth to the dog beach while I was working.

The pups always LOVE when their grandma is with them!

I am so behind on blogging but I hope to be able to catch up sometime soon...
Thanks for checking in on us!

Where in the world are Lynn & Matt?

2010-05-28T16:40:00.006-07:00

Its been a while and many have wondered where we have been...

...at a beautiful Hawaiian waterfall?

...at a tropical botanic garden?

...at a historic medival castle?

...on a beautiful beach with a view?

Any guesses where we are?

...

...

I bet you didn't guess

Matt and I acted like kids and enjoyed a round of minature golf a couple of months ago--I just never got around to posting the pictures.

Hiking

2010-05-27T17:55:00.005-07:00

I am so far behind on my blog posting. Hopefully I'll take the time during my recovery to catch up on some of our California adventures!

Last month, on April 10th, Matt and I took an impromptu trip up the mountain for a little hike around the lake with the pups. Matt wanted to really hike, but I was more interested in taking pictures of our beautiful surroundings. The dogs loved playing fetch in the lake and I loved the light as the sun set behind the mountains. We didn't get much exercise but I hope you enjoy the view!

Spring has sprung!

2010-04-02T19:06:00.008-07:00

It is springtime in California and we were so happy to see all of the beautiful surprises in our yard. I love this time of year and I dare to say that Spring in Southern California is second to none!

We have orange and lemon trees and some fruit we haven't figured out yet! (like, what is a pomelo?) The trees are still producing fruit and blooming again! The air smells sweet, really, that's not an exaggeration and bees are busy pollinating. We have the most perfect calla lilies--even more perfect than I have seen in a florist!

We have enjoyed our time outdoors--even doing yard work! Our couch potato pups have spent hours basking in the sunshine!

Mom's Visit - Temecula Wine Country

2010-02-14T19:33:00.007-08:00

Mom's last weekend here we decided to go down to Southern California's wine country -- Temecula. Matt and I visited Temecula once in 2005 when I was living in San Diego and we were eager to go back!

The first winery we visited was (in my opinion, the best) Callaway Vineyard & Winery. We got there in time for a few samples, then their guided tour of the winery. After we sampled some more and bought a couple of bottles, we had a wonderful lunch at their restaurant Meritage.

We visited a couple of more wineries then made a trip downtown for some shopping-surprisingly we didn't buy anything else!

I was a wonderful way to end Mom's January visit! We hope she is booking another trip out here soon!

Happy Valentine's Day - 2009 in Review

2010-02-14T11:28:00.016-08:00

Miller Family Newsletter – 2009 in Review

Wow – what a full year 2009 was! We were so busy we didn’t even get our family newsletter out by the end of the year! So, instead, we have included our note while wishing you a Happy Valentine’s Day.

Many of the changes we experienced this year anchored around Lynn’s graduate school work. In August, Lynn successfully completed the very challenging classroom portion of her Nurse Anesthesia program. As a result, we made preparations for the next step – her 16-month-long clinical rotation. She was excited to get back to taking care of patients and get out of the study chair where she was beginning to grow roots!

The exciting part for us both was that this next stage led us to move to sunny southern California. This meant packing up all of our things, selling our house, moving 1,363 miles in a Penske truck and finally settling in to a new home for the rest of 2009 and all of 2010!

Although Texas’ home market did better than most during the recession, just the process of selling our home was difficult. Our demanding and finicky buyers and the process of concluding the sale long distance from California made us truly appreciate all the incredible help from our family in getting us to the finish line! Laura helped us move our two cars, two dogs and moving truck out – an incredible feat itself (thanks Mom). We found a nice rental home with a backyard for the dogs in Highland, CA, about an hour and twenty minutes east of Los Angeles. Lynn is 10-15 minutes from work in the Loma Linda area and Matt is travel nursing at a Kaiser Permanente hospital in Fontana about 20-25 minutes from home. Rossi and Chloe, our little dogs, are adjusting well. They love their backyard and bark at the neighbor’s dogs when they get the chance. We take them to a dog park nearby and Matt jogs the neighborhood with them to wear them out.

Our new neighborhood is very pretty. We are not far from the beaches of Orange County, the wineries of Temecula, the casinos of Las Vegas, the skiing and mountain hikes at Big Bear and the desert parks and rock climbing in Joshua Tree N.P. One reason we opted for California was because it would also give us a chance to be near our grandparents, LuLu and Bob Bob, and our aunt and uncle, Bob and Alice, in the Palm Desert. We even stopped by to see LL & BB in our moving truck on the way to Highland!

In March, Lynn and Matt went to Galveston, TX for their spring break and spent a week sailing boats to get certified as bareboat captains. We weathered the wet and cold and bonded with our new friends, passing all the tests by the end of the week. We dream of chartering a boat somewhere warm for a few days when school is over and work allows… : )

Lynn had major surgery on her knee this summer – a planned event but difficult and involved lots of family support and physical therapy. She progressed from hospital bed to couch, wheelchair to crutches and in a short period of time went back to school/work. We appreciate all of the doctors, the nurses, the physical therapists, the classmates who wheeled Lynn around and all the other family and friends that provided love (and even delicious food!) to speed her recovery. She is still going to PT twice a week, but can ascend and descend stairs and even gets exercise on the Christmas present her husband bought her – a shiny new bicycle. We know it is a long process and Lynn may need another “scope” in the spring to continue progressing, but we hold hope that all this effort will allow her a more pain-free lifestyle. Lynn even talks of skiing sometime in the future – although her orthopedic surgeon still cringes at the thought!

Sadness descended upon us all in September when Matt's grandmother, LuLu, got sick. We took her to the hospital, but after only a few days we lost her. If there was any blessing, it was that she did not suffer and that many of her family were able to talk with her and visit before she passed away. She is greatly missed and we think about her all the time.

Other big events this year included going to Sacramento, CA for my cousin Lydia’s wedding and going to Charlottesville, VA for my brother Charley’s wedding. We had the opportunity to see Lydia’s husband Scott again and talk with more of the Yomogida family. We enjoyed a beautiful ceremony, ate fancy sushi and listened to traditional drum music. It was a fun time and Lynn especially enjoyed taking pictures of the event.

Matt was the best man for his brother’s wedding. His duties included successfully navigating Charley’s bachelor party in Las Vegas with no lost souls and delivering a few speeches at the rehearsal dinner and reception. We had a fantastic time- such a beautiful fall day in Virginia, and had a lot of fun catching up with family from all over the country. My brother’s new wife, Kristen, has been like family for some time now, but it was wonderful to make it official.

Looking forward, we have a full year left in California with many new adventures. We have had a few visitors already – Laura, PJ & Peter, Peggy, Cameron, Charley, Bob Bob, Raj and Rob to name a few and we look forward to more friends and family coming out in 2010. To answer a few questions many family have been asking, 1) We don’t know quite yet whether we’re moving back to Texas, on to Colorado or staying in California until we figure out Lynn’s work, but we’re up for any and all adventures, and 2) speaking of adventures, we may start thinking and planning to add to the family once we get other plans sorted out. We’re excited to make the most of our 2010, and look forward to hearing about your plans for this year as well. See our new address below and drop a line or give us a call so we can catch up!

Lots of love and Happy Valentine’s Day,

The Miller's

Mom's visit--Surf City USA & Cirque

2010-01-31T18:15:00.007-08:00

Mom, Matt and I headed over to Huntington Beach early on Sunday to watch the last Cowboys play-off game (at the time, we didn't know it was the last!).
Matt did a lot of research and found Longboards, which had the perfect breakfast/bar to spend the morning cheering on our team. Much to our surprise, after we ate breakfast and watched the game for over an hour, Mom went out and took a picture of our restaurant---we were at no-ka-oi (which means 'the Best' in Hawaiian) not Longboards (which is next door)! Oh well, the food was great and the waitstaff was very friendly.
By the time the game was over (and of course the Cowboys lost) we had also lost out on our nice sunny weather. The clouds started rolling in and the wind picked up. We still ventured out to the pier and took in all the sights in Huntington Beach (aka Surf City USA).

Our big activity for the weekend was the Cirque du Soleil show, Kooza, under the big tent in Irvine. We have been to a couple of Cirques together and, as always, we were not disappointed! I hope that we can go see a Cirque du Soleil in Vegas soon!

Mom's visit continued...Mission Inn

2010-01-25T17:16:00.006-08:00

One Sunday afternoon while Mom was here we decided to go down to Riverside to visit the Mission Inn and shop at a few antique stores. Surprisingly, we didn't buy anything at the antique stores (I was looking for some knobs for my newly painted desk--pictures to follow. Thanks Mom! but I didn't find any.)

We had planned to walk through the Mission Inn Museum and take a stroll through the public areas of the Inn. Luckily when we got to the museum they were just about to start the guided tour so we joined the group. We learned a lot about the history and architecture of the inn and enjoyed our behind the scenes tour.

Mom's Visit

2010-01-24T19:57:00.010-08:00

We were lucky to have Mom visiting us for the past two weeks. Unfortunately, I didn't have any extra time off (just the weekends) but we took advantage of every minute we had together to go out and explore!

This picture was taken from our front yard on Friday morning after all of the snow up in the mountains.

I had to show Mom my new stomping ground in Loma Linda. This is the Heart & Surgical Hospital (or locally known as HSH) where I rotated in October and November. It is the newest and smallest of the Loma Linda surgical facilities.

After exploring around town we drove up the mountain to beautiful Lake Arrowhead where we shopped, explored and enjoyed the beautiful scenery.

It's Miller Time!

2009-12-30T19:00:00.006-08:00

That title may may you think of a different adult beverage but not for these Millers! We enjoyed a wonderful sophisticated evening together at the Desert Springs Marriott Resort in Palm Desert with fancy drinks at the lobby bar. As usual the christmas decorations were beautiful and we enjoyed a boat ride through the canals of the resort.

Our perfect evening could have ended there, but Matt and I decided to meet his cousin Lydia and her new husband Scott at the Agua Caliente Casino. We enjoyed visiting with them and winning a little $$!

Christmas 2009

2009-12-28T19:22:00.008-08:00

I'm not in a writing mood (which could also explain why I haven't started writing all of my Christmas Thank You notes), so the following is a rare blog post from my husband.

Christmas came early for my wife - we were getting ready on Christmas Eve to meet family in the Palm Desert and... surprise! I was standing there with her new road bike - replete with a garland and a bow! She even took it out for a test ride before we headed out...

Our little 'reindeers' were happy to get to Bob Bob's (which they consider their desert vacation home). This year, we celebrated Christmas Eve with Uncle Bob, Aunt Alice, Bob Bob, Aunt Peggy and my cousin Cameron. We had a delicious casserole, great salad and good conversation.

The next day, Santa had delivered many presents and Cameron enjoyed a few in the morning. By afternoon, we picked up Mom and Dad from the airport and the gift exchange ensued. The pups tore up loose paper and bows were adorned in fashionable style. Princess Juliet, my parents' Yorkie, found her spot and enjoyed Christmas from many a warm and inviting lap.

Christmas evening we went to Uncle Bob and Aunt Alice's house for dinner and challenging games. The evening started with drinks and appetizers and Christmas trivia, we shared fine food and company and a fun family rivalry began with a Miller-bingo game. We were happy to have Lydia and her new husband Scott with us all the way from Sacramento. We all behaved pretty well and didn't pull his leg with too many pretend 'family traditions'!!!

Another picture perfect ending to a beautiful day in Palm Desert.
Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

The most magical place on Earth

2009-12-11T20:56:00.008-08:00

We love living in California and exploring all of the things within driving distance. The Saturday after Thanksgiving we made our maiden voyage to Disneyland! It's only about an hour from our house. We were told of all the beautiful Christmas decorations--and we weren't disappointed. We enjoyed the parade, all the rides (our favorite Space Mountain), the fireworks show and the "snow" after the fireworks.
It is truly a magical place!

Christmas Party 2009

2009-12-06T18:01:00.004-08:00

Last night we enjoyed a much needed break from our busy schedules. A few fellow SRNA's (student registered nurse anesthetist) came over to our house for a pre-party drink. Then we headed over to Redlands Country Club for the annual Loma Linda University Hospital Anesthesia Department Christmas Party where we enjoyed seeing our colleagues and mentors in a casual atmosphere.

Our evening of fun didn't end there! We met up with new friends at the Vault Martini Bar in downtown Redlands, then danced the night away at the Boiler Room.
Here are a few pictures from the early evening.

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-11-29T18:20:00.003-08:00

We spent Thanksgiving this year with our family in Palm Desert, CA. Bob Bob hosted a wonderful Thanksgiving lunch at the Chaparral Country Club. We were happy to have our friend Raj visiting us and joining in our family festivites along with Peggy & Cameron and Uncle Bob & Aunt Alice.
The guys (Matt, Cameron & Raj) played football before lunch. I am happy to report no injuries or grass stains. Team Raj won!

Raj's Visit to Cali

2009-11-29T18:05:00.004-08:00

Our friend Raj came out for a visit.
We started the week's activity by playing a little putt-putt golf.

We couldn't resist stepping into the photo booth for some goofy pictures! A lot more goofy pictures from our crazy Raj week coming soon...

Kristen & Charley's Wedding Weekend - Ladies Luncheon

2009-11-21T12:01:00.004-08:00

I was honored to be invited to Kristen's Bridesmaids Luncheon held at her sister Kelly's house and hosted by a wonderful family friend Katherine.
Everything was decorated beautifully and the food was wonderful!

Kristen & Charley's Wedding Weekend - Rehearsal Dinner

2009-11-21T11:25:00.005-08:00

Matt's parents hosted a wonderful rehearsal dinner in honor of Kristen and Charley.

It was held at the Horse & Hound Gastropub in Charlottesville, VA. It was a perfect evening to catch up with family and friends. We enjoyed fabulous food including a special fish and chips appetizer. I had a traditional southern dinner, shrimp and grits--which as surprising wonderful as well.

Notice the ornamental cabbage centerpieces that PJ and I decorated the night before!

Farmington Country Club

2009-11-15T13:21:00.012-08:00

Kristen & Charley's wedding was beautiful!

I can't think of a more perfect and picturesque place for a wedding and reception than Farmington Country Club in Charlottesville, Virginia.

The ceremony was held in the Main Dining Room, cocktails and hors d'oeuvres were served on the outdoor Terrace, the reception was in the beautiful Ballroom and the bouquet toss and candy bar were in the Jefferson Room.

We took over a great part of the country club Saturday evening and were very fortunate to have a wonderful breakfast and photo opportunity there Sunday morning.

Farmington Country Club

The Jefferson Room

The Pine Room

This is where the guys got ready and watched some football pre-ceremony.

The Farmington Golf Course

Mr. & Mrs. Miller x 2

Mr. & Mrs. Miller!

2009-11-09T20:56:00.008-08:00

Last Wednesday night Matt and I took a red-eye from LAX to Washington Dulles.
It was a rough flight but we were happy to be in Northern Virginia for a day before the wedding weekend.

On Friday PJ and I headed down to Charlottesville for a Ladies Luncheon and Saturday was the Big Day! I have so many pictures to share but thought that I would start with the most important ones!!

Congratulations Kristen & Charley!

Master Liam Alexander

2009-10-31T11:33:00.001-07:00

2009-10-29T20:52:00.001-07:00

Long Beach, California

2009-10-29T19:21:00.004-07:00

Autumn Apple Orchard

2009-10-18T11:25:00.012-07:00

Our great California adventures continue!

Well, things are busy around here. I have clincals 5 days a week, class on Monday afternoons and the weekends to catch up on school work, study and prepare for the coming week.

Matt has a travel contract at Kaiser Permanante-Fontana in their ICU.

We are getting settled in our house and try to take advantage of our free time to site see. There is so much to do around here and I'm afraid that we won't get the chance to see/do it all in the next 14 months!

On Saturday, Matt and I headed up to Oak Glen in the foothills, only 30 minutes drive. The area is known for their apple orchards and we had the opportunity to visit a couple of them and enjoy the activities they have to offer.

We walked the historic Riley's Farm grounds, visited the Willowbrook Apple Farm bee hives, choose & cut our halloween pumpkin and made homemade apple cider. On our way out of town we found a bake sale at the Oak Glen Fire Station where the Yucaipa Woman's Club was holding their annual bake sale to benefit community programs and scholarships. We couldn't resist-we bought a big apple pie, peach cobbler and apple sauce bread!

Yep, I got stung by a bee! Actually they didn't bother us at all while we were walking around the bee hives and taking pictures, but when I was picking our apples for cider I must have put my hand against one-ouch!

Scott & Lydia's Wedding

2009-10-05T20:11:00.005-07:00

Camping in Big Bear California

2009-09-27T14:59:00.010-07:00

Matt and I stole away from our busy schedules for an overnight trip to Big Bear. Only an hour drive from our house in Highland, the 330 is a windy mountain road that leads to this little resort town. We were pleasantly surprised by the cool reprieve from our suburban climate.

We found a great campsite after talking to some friendly locals and enjoyed exploring the beautiful scenery.

Celebrating Lulu

2009-09-20T15:15:00.006-07:00

On Thursday, September 10th we got together at the Elephant Bar Restaurant to share our favorite Lulu moments. We brought pictures and many stories of wonderful memories. It was so nice to spend this time with our loved ones celebrating the life of our beloved Lulu.

The Miller Clan:

Matt, PJ, Peter, Peggy, Bob Bob and Alice.
Lynn, Anne and Bob

We have so many wonderful pictures with Lulu. Here is one of my favorites at our wedding.

Lulu

2009-09-11T18:58:00.005-07:00

MARY LOUISE MILLER

OCTOBER 10, 1923 - SEPTEMBER 9, 2009

Mary Louise Miller of Chaparral Country Club, Palm Desert, passed away after a brief illness, at Eisenhower Medical Center, Rancho Mirage, on Wednesday, September 9, surrounded by her loving family. She was 85.

She was the daughter of Margaret Louise and Raymond F. Conover of Verona, New Jersey, and the sister of the late Raymond F. Conover, Jr. of Bethany, Connecticut.

Mary Lou was a graduate of the University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, Virginia, earning a degree in Elementary Education. Raising a family in Upper Montclair, New Jersey, she was active in the PTA as a room mother, as the chief den mother in the Cub Scouts, as a United Way volunteer, as treasurer and long-time member of the Montclair Junior League, and the Upper Montclair Garden Club, where she won prizes for floral exhibits. When she and her family moved to Atherton, California, Mary Lou served as Vice President and long-time member of the Allied Arts Guild of the Stanford Children’s Hospital, as a member of the Peninsula Chapter of the Junior League, as President of Menlo-Atherton United parent organization, which supported diversity at Menlo-Atherton High School, and as a member of the Menlo Park Presbyterian Church, and the California Association for the Retarded.

After retiring to Palm Desert, she assisted children at Jimmy Carter Elementary School in the reading program. She enjoyed playing with several bridge groups at the Chaparral Country Club, and was a member of the Palm Desert Community Presbyterian Church.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Miller of Palm Desert, her sister-in-law, Kay Conover, of Old Lyme, Connecticut, sons, Robert Miller and his wife, Alice, of Sun City, Palm Desert, Peter Miller and his wife, Priscilla, of Reston, Virginia, Mark Miller and his wife, Sandy, of Reedsport, Oregon, and daughter, Margaret Miller of Boise, Idaho. She was lovingly known as Lulu to her seven grandchildren: Lydia Miller and Ann Parsons and her husband, Edward, of San Francisco, Matthew Miller and his wife, Lynn, of Highland, California, Charles Miller of Charlottesville, Virginia, Alyssa Scovel and her husband, Aaron, of Nehalem, Oregon, Christy Miller of Beaverton, Oregon, and Cameron Fletcher of Boise, Idaho; and great grandchildren Ethan and Noah Scovel of Nehalem, Oregon.

Private services were held at the home. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Coachella Valley Rescue Mission at P. O. Box 10660, Indio, California. 92202.

California House

2009-08-22T19:12:00.004-07:00

I am so far behind on blogging, but I know that everyone is curious about our new place.

It took a while, but Matt and I found a great house in Highland, CA to lease for 16 months.

After two and a half days of driving Mom, Matt and I arrived on Sunday evening. It was late, but we met our leasing agent, then just unloaded our mattresses and spent our first night in our new house. On Monday we hired a couple of guys from eMove to move all of our belongings in. They were great help --highly recommended!

We are slowly getting settled in. Mom was here for a week and really helped us get unpacked. We are enjoying the cool mornings and have had some time to explore around town. My primary clinical site is less than 10 miles away!

As you can see, there is plenty of room!
Seriously, who wants to come visit?

Goodbye, Farewell, So long...

2009-08-22T16:27:00.005-07:00

Matt and I have moved to sunny Southern California but we couldn't get away without spending some time with some of our dearest friends!

On Thursday, August 6th, I met with my best girl friends at Cantina Laredo in Fort Worth for some great margaritas and yummy Tex-Mex!

Goodbye, Farewell, So long...

2009-08-22T15:45:00.003-07:00

On July 31st, Eva, Wayne, Matt and I met at Houlihan's in Arlington to celebrate our completion of Phase I of Nurse Anesthesia School!!

We talked about how much we had been through the past year, how far we had come and how proud we are to have made it through!

And of course, no celebration would be complete without a Martini
(or in our house it's called a Part-ini!)
After our flight of martinis, we each got one our favorite.

We were almost out of the parking lot when we got a call from Eva...her car wouldn't start!
Matt to the RESCUE!

After a quick jump of her car battery, Matt had her back on the road.

This doesn't even begin to repay her for all the times she recued me in the past six weeks since my knee surgery! She has been my taxi (non-emergency medical transport) to and from school, my nurse and my wheelchair transporter around campus.

Thank you Eva!!

Goodbye, Farewell, So long...

2009-08-22T14:29:00.001-07:00

Lunch dates continued on August 10th when I met Miranda at Old Rips in Fort Worth for some more Tex-Mex! I'm so glad we decided on Mexican because I needed to get my Tex-Mex fix before we moved!

I feel so blessed to have met and become friends with so many wonderful people in my class. This program would be almost impossible without their support and encouragement!

Goodbye, Farewell, So long...

2009-08-22T13:30:00.001-07:00

Yep, another Tex-Mex dinner date!

I couldn't leave without spending some time with Rob. We met in 2003 when I was a brand new nurse and he was an intern. Our friendship quickly developed and we have kept in touch through all of my travels. I was honored when Rob wrote my physician's letter of reference for anesthesia school. In the past six years we have both grown so much; we love to share in each other's victories.

Rob and I met at Chuy's, one of the newest restaurants in the Arlington Highlands shopping center.

Goodbye, Farewell, So long...

2009-08-22T13:00:00.000-07:00

I even had the chance to stop by Zale Lipshy and see some of my former colleagues!

BARB!!!

Goodbye, Farewell, So long...

2009-08-22T12:44:00.001-07:00

Jill & Isaac met me for my last lunch date at McAlisters's before we left for Cali.
It had been months since I have seen little Isaac. I can't believe he turns 1 this month!

It was so nice to catch up!

Matt's NIP Graduation!

2009-08-09T11:51:00.006-07:00

On Friday, Mom and I joined Matt for Parkland's Celebration of a Commitment to Excellence ceremony honoring those who successfully completed the 34th Crititcal Care & Trauma Nurse Internship program.

Matt was honored along with 15 of his colleagues who began this program at Parkland on August 6, 2007. This signifies the completion of the program and their committed time to Parkland Memorial Hospital.

Stephanie Campbell did a wonderful job with her address "Reflections of a Nurse Intern".

Graduates included:

Gretchen Brabec, Stephanie Campbell, Julie Hawkins, Tara Heard, Porsche Jones, Stephanie Kern, Katie Larson, Megan Lemley, Matthew Miller, Laura Payne, Crystal Sheffield, Elizabeth Stervinou, Carl Sullivan, David Tate, Crystal Vicars, Lisa Welch, Camilla Willett-Rabin, Kayla Burnett

Getting Ready For Baby Harville!

2009-08-05T16:27:00.010-07:00

A couple of weeks ago Mom, Matt and I headed over to our friends Sarah & Brad's house to help paint the baby room!

The guys had an outdoor landscaping project to work on and the girls stayed in the air conditioning with our love VOC paint.

We had the perfect system worked out, I am still on crutches, so I sat down painted low. Mom taped and painted the top of the wall next to the ceiling and Sarah, with her cute baby belly, painted in between!

We had a lot of fun and got the first coat of pain on the walls.

Since then, Sarah and Brad have finished painting and are now working on installing wood floors! I'm looking forward to seeing the finished product!

Last weekend was Sarah's Baby Shower. Sarah & Brad stayed with us at Mom's house the night before the shower. We enjoyed eating yummy Big D's BBQ then played Rock Band until Joe shut our gig down!

The shower was cute with lots of precious little boy stuff, fun games and good snacks. Unfortunately, it rained right when everyone was showing up (excuse my bad hair!)

Funny story. Since I am STILL on crutches and it was raining, Brad decided that he would carry me in because my crutches would sink in the walkway. It was lightly raining when he came out to our car and said, "I'm going to carry you in. Like a baby or sac of potatoes?" What, I thought?! Then the skies opened up and the rain came down. "Sac of potatoes," I exclaimed and he swept me up and ran for cover! He (and I) was not sure why I chose that, but at the spur of the moment that's what came out. Not a very lady like entrance but he was quite the gentlemen and even held down my skirt!

Show Us Your Life - Wedding Party & Flowers

2009-07-31T21:46:00.003-07:00

I love to take a peek in to other's lives--I guess that's why I blog and have bloggy friends.

Well, it's Friday and that means that bloggers unite on Kelly's Korner for the next segment of "Show Us Your Life"; this week is Wedding Party & Flowers.

Matt and I were married June 2nd 2007 in Fort Worth, TX at Texas Christian University, Robert Carr Chapel. I attended nursing school at TCU 1999-2003 and received my nursing pin at Robert Carr Chapel. It is a beautiful chapel and I was excited to be married there.

Of all of the wedding details, I was most excited about the flowers! I love flowers! After searching through many magazines I decided on peonies and calla lilies.

Crutch & Brace Fashion

2009-07-25T18:12:00.003-07:00

Its hard to feel cute when you have a huge black mass of metal and velcro attached to your leg 24/7!

It's also really hard to find things to wear that can accommodate the brace without being too tight or too short. Luckily, perfect timing, tights or leggings are in fashion now. Since my incisions have healed some and the swelling is kept to a minimum, I don't have to keep it wrapped with an ACE wrap all of the time!

I bought a couple of pairs of leggings to wear. The black are my favorite because they help my brace blend in.

and the crutches...I guess I'll have to deal with those for a couple of more weeks!

Show Us Your Life - Wedding Dress

2009-07-24T18:19:00.010-07:00

Kelly's Korner is hosting a "Show Us Your Life" blog carnival...and I decided to join in on the fun!

This week is "Show Us Your Wedding Dress" Friday!

I LOVED my wedding dress and knew that it was the one right away!

Finding THE DRESS!
I was a travel nurse and lived in Washington D.C. at the time. It was about six months until our wedding and my mom was coming into town in a couple of weeks. My goal was to visit a few bridal salons and pick out a couple of my favorite dresses and choose the one while my mom was there.

So, PJ (my mother-in-law) and I set off on a fun adventure. After visiting a couple of salons we went to Priscilla of Boston. I had a Watters dress that I wanted to see and unbeknownst to us they were also having a sample sale. I described the Watters dress to the attendant and told her my budget and what I was looking.

She returned to the dressing room with two dresses. I tried on the Priscilla's dress first and loved it. It was a sample, a little too big and the zipper was broken. Then I tried on the dress that I had come to see. It fit nicely but was really heavy. As I looked around the room in all the mirrors I saw the Priscilla's dress hanging there and knew it was the one. I still had the Watters dress on when I called my mom (crying) to tell her that I had found THE ONE!

We bought the dress that day and took it home to my soon-to-be in-laws' house to stay in her very special 'dress closet' for the next few months. The purchase was special for my MIL for several reasons. Not only is her first name Priscilla, but my dress continued a tradition because she wore a Priscilla of Boston dress on her wedding day too!

Finally, I had it perfectly altered and pressed for the best day of my life!

I loved my shoes too! SOMETHING BLUE

Just click on Kelly's link below to see other wedding dresses...and post yours too!

Fun with Friends

2009-07-21T19:15:00.004-07:00

We had our second summer II exam on Friday then celebrated on Saturday.

Mom, Matt and I went to see the movie The Hangover with our friends Eva Marie and Shandon where we spent more than an hour laughing until we cried!

After the movie we met Eva's husband Josh and our friend Wayne at Gloria's for wonderful dinner and (much needed & deserved) drinks. I have to brag a little and say that I had to buy Eva & Wayne a drink because I made the best grade on this test! (which was just recovery from my first botched test after my knee surgery!)

Here we are, all smiles after full bellies and many mojitos!

3 Weeks Post-op

2009-07-15T08:10:00.006-07:00

It has been a tough few weeks, but I'm starting to see slow progress. I have now had two PT appointments and I am meeting my ROM goals with ease--thanks to the CPM. The hardest part are SLR's (straight leg raises). I get extreme pain around my patella and makes it almost impossible to continue.

On July 8th, I had my second post-op appointment with Dr. Bothwell. He was very happy with the x-rays and my progress so far. He is different than most physicians. He sits down to talk; never in a hurry (at least he never leads on to that fact). His bedside manner is superior to most and I really appreciate that.

It is so different being on this side of healthcare. I feel like I have gained a lot of insight that will make me a better practioner.

So here are pictures from my most recent visit.
Again, we changed the steri-strips--it looks pretty good!

Matt-my personal nurse and most importantly, the Best Husband, accompanies me to my appointments and asks all the questions that I don't want to!

Matt's knee wanted some attention too!

My ROM is at 90 degrees; which is my maximum for the first 4 weeks so that the meniscus bone plug has time to adhere.

I can't wait to be able to "swim"--okay, maybe not swim but do pool walking
When I asked Dr. Bothwell if I could get into the pool soon he said, "No." Then said, "Let me rephrase that. Hell No!" Of course I further questioned him and he told me about a recent infection in a patient of his after 12 weeks after surgery. Because my bone was drilled and I now have cadaver parts and screws; I have an increased risk for infection and neither of us would want to risk it.

We also talked about our upcoming move to California. Dr. Bothwell has an orthopedic physician friend in LA that he will refer me to for my follow-up appointments out there. It will be an hour or so drive to see him, but should only be once a month. But, until the middle of August, I will continue to see Dr. Bothwell every 2-3 weeks.

We ordered the Rebound Crutches, so I am looking forward to getting those. It is way too hot in Texas in July to crutch around very much. I immediately break out in a big sweat! Thank goodness I have a wheelchair to sit in class and wonderful friends to push me around campus.
Only 3 more weeks of NWB!

First Post-op Appointment

2009-06-29T10:28:00.001-07:00

Today was my first follow-up appointment. My entire leg has been wrapped up like a mummy since Tuesday, so I was really excited about getting all of that off and seeing my incisions!

I knew in advance that my OS would not be there. Instead, Dr. Bothwell's physician assistant, Bonnie saw me. I really like Bonnie. She has been the one who I talked to about all the coordination. She is readily available and knowledgeable--and she has great suture skills!

So, when they got it unwrapped, this is what we saw.

***weak stomachs---do not proceed!***

So, doesn't look too bad, right?

I have 3 incisions:
the largest one is anterior-4 inches long

below that and medial is a 3 inch incision

the 3rd incision is lateral, also about 3 inches

They took off all my steri-strips and replaced them with pretty clean white ones, then wrapped me up again and put my brace back on.

Bonnie was impressed that I went to class this morning. We talked about starting Physical Therapy (PT) this week.

Her goals for me were simple:
Non-weight bearing (NWB) for 5 more weeks

Elevate and ice as much as possible for a least the next week

60 degrees ROM on CPM

Start PT

Are you getting all the abbreviations?

I still must keep my incisions clean and dry but can take a shower sitting down without my brace on. We have found that using press and seal or plastic wrap keep it nice and dry. The part I hate most is sleeping with the big brace. It is heavy and cumbersome--not comfortable, nor romantic!

Next appointment, Wednesday, July 8th with Dr. Bothwell.

Study Time

2009-06-28T18:26:00.002-07:00

I just had a BIG surgery!
I've heard that people lay around for a couple of weeks after this but no, not me!
It's not that I wouldn't like to catch up on TV shows and watch movies all day or read a great book; NOPE I get to listen to the lecture that I missed on Thursday while I was still in the hospital!

I was tired of taking up the entire couch so I made a nice nest on the floor in the living room. I am pretty comfortable there with everything within reach.

I hope to be in class Monday morning. Luckily, it's just a half day since I have my first follow-up appointment.

Matt is working the weekend, but Mom and the pups are near by if I need anything!

A big THANK YOU to my friend Eva Marie who brought a wonderful homemade lasagna and fruit salad for us to enjoy a nice dinner!

I think Rigor Mortis is setting in!

2009-06-27T18:30:00.000-07:00

I have dead people in me...it's true. I certainly don't mean any disrespect, on the contrary, I have complete respect and admiration for organ donors.

There is a side to donation that gets less publicity; that is tissue donation.

Can an organ donor also be a tissue donor?
Yes. In fact, tissue donation is a more common option for people wishing to be donors, as there are fewer medical reasons a person would be denied the opportunity. As many as 50 people can benefit from ONE tissue donor.

I am happy to say that I am the recipient of selfless gifts given by two families.

During my surgery on Tuesday, I received a cadaver Achilles tendon allograft to replace my torn ACL and a lateral meniscus allograft to replace my meniscus that I destroyed years ago.

Now I feel I have a commitment to fulfill; not only to myself and to my family that has taken care of me, but also to respect the gift that has been given to me.

I will never know those families that lost their loved one and gave me their biologic gift. My gratitude goes to all families that have made that decision.

My leg is sore and stiff!

This is my friend, the CPM (continuous passive motion). Since my surgery my knee has be locked in full extension all of the time, except when I do my CPM. The goal is 8 hours a day, but realistically I may not always reach that time goal. For now, my goal is 40 degrees of flexion; until I see my OS (orthopedic surgeon) on Monday.

I'm taking my pain meds, Ibuprofen, antibiotic, and stool softener on a schedule right now. Matt made out this great chart so that we can keep up with it all!

(Wow-I look rough, but still a smile on my face!)

Thank you Sheryl for stopping by. She brought me a great bag with a get well card, treats, magazines and notes from the class I missed on Thursday while I was still in the hospital. I hope to return to class Monday for a half day before my OS appointment.

Home Sweet Home

2009-06-26T14:05:00.012-07:00

After spending two nights at Baylor All Saints Hospital, I was discharged at 11 Thursday morning. My pain was finally under control on oral medications and I was ready for my own bed and to see my pups!

I have to admit, for my first overnight hospitalization, it wasn't that bad. I was actually glad I was there because I knew that I wouldn't have been able to control the pain if I was at home (that's a scary feeling!)

In pre-op on Tuesday morning Dr. Bothwell said that he would try to get a nice room for me since I was "one of them" (health care professional courtesy)--and he did! I was on the transplant floor; which was legitimate because I did have an meniscus transplant. It remined of the hospital where Matt and I met, Parker Adventist Hospital in Parker, Colorado. I called it "Prissy Parker" or "Parker Palace".

We were comfortable there and appreciate the good care we received.

There were only a couple of incidences that were unacceptable; like taking an hour to get me in the computer system and get my pain meds to me and another nurse said that she wouldn't refill my morphine PCA because I needed to be on oral medications (yeah, thanks, I'm working on that!) I never thought that I would be a high maintenance patient or be tagged as a "drug seeker" but I'm sure that those nurses thought I was. What happened to, pain is what the patient says it is?" Didn't they learn that in nursing school! I just had my knee cut open, bone drilled with 3 screws, a bone trough made in my tibia and the periosteum of my tibia separated and sewn to my femoral condyle--and I have some dead guys achilles tendon and meniscus in my knee! Don't I deserve a little understanding and compassion?

Well, I ended up receiving over 90 mg of morphine between IV boluses (catch-up) and the PCA. My saving grace was my second night nurse who suggested that I try IV Toradol. The effects weren't immediate, but I slept well the second night and only pushed the PCA a few times. She continued to give me Toradol every 6 hours and I was able to completely stop the morphine! The next morning I was ready to go home!

So here I am, finally resting in my Home Sweet Home!

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Knee Surgery

2009-06-24T16:57:00.011-07:00

ACL RECONSTRUCTION

MENISCUS TRANSPLANT

AUTOLOGOUS CHONDROCYTE IMPLANTATION

Well, I made it. My surgery was yesterday; they started at 8:15 am and finished at 2:30 pm - took a little longer than they expected but Dr. Bothwell assured me that everything looked nice when he finished.

After an hour stay in PACU, I was transferred to the transplant floor. We have a great room/suite with 2 flat panel TV's, a mini frig and a pull out couch for Matt to sleep beside me!

I had some significant pain when I got to my room and it took them an hour to get me into the system and for pharmacy to get my meds! Pain is much better now with Hydrocodone every 4 hours and Morpine PCA. (I thought that I was tougher than I am!)

Sarah and Brad came by Tuesday evening and brought me a goodie basket with lots of fun and thoughtful gifts. Two magazines, a puzzle book, snack foods, a candle, lip gloss and playdough! (which came in very handy later)

At midnight the nurse came in and set up my CPM (continuous passive motion). With my leg cycling up 40 degrees then flat again; I didn't get much sleep.

Mom and Matt have been fabulous nurses and I couldn't make it without them!

Hopefully I will go home tomorrow morning.

Unfortunately, I will miss my first summer II class.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-06-17T13:22:00.004-07:00

Well, if this were a post with words it would say:

"Packed up and ready to go!"

"I need a vacation!"

RHS 10 Year Reunion

2009-06-15T16:26:00.009-07:00

This past weekend was a blast from the past as I caught up with many of my high school friends at our 10 year reunion.

On Friday, Sarah & Brad met us at our house in Arlington. Then we made the 1+ hour drive out to my mom's house to spend the night. Sarah and I spent hours digging through boxes of pictures in my old room at Mom's and laughing about all of our wonderful memories.

Saturday afternoon, the Hooten's hosted a wonderful picnic at their home. It was warm and humid but time passed quickly as we reminisced about "the good ole days". About 25 of our classmates, along with their spouses and many children, joined us in the festivities.

After a much needed nap and shower we met back up at the Hall's residence. Luckily, the temperature had cooled significantly and we all enjoyed a delicious Mexican dinner poolside.

The BIG kids had fun on the inflatable slide after the little ones left!

Ouch - We are just not as young as we used to be!

Rains High School Class of 1999

Captured by Destiny Photography Give-away

2009-06-15T15:52:00.003-07:00

Hey guys! My friend Destiny is a local DFW photographer and is having a photo session give-away!

You may recognize her work since she was one of our wedding photographers. We have some beautiful pictures that she took like this one--or check out these!

She also did our engagement photographs too!

Head over to Destiny's blog to enter.

Happy Birthday MOM!

2009-06-07T18:46:00.009-07:00

This weekend we celebrated Mom's birthday. On Saturday night we had a wonderful fondue dinner at The Melting Pot. We ate until we were stuffed full.

Sunday morning (although we were still full from fondue) we had the"house speciality breakfast" French-French Toast, complete with birthday candles.

Later that afternoon Drew, Jess & the kids and Joyce & Sarah met us at our house. We carpooled over to Lonestar Park in Grand Prarie for a little horse racing. We had a picnic lunch then enjoyed the races from the grandstand. It was a really hot, sunny day but there was a steady breeze and we used lots of sunscreen. We even picked the winning horses every once in a while!

Time flies when you're having fun...

2009-06-02T17:32:00.006-07:00

Two years ago today I married my best friend.
Happy 2nd Anniversary Babe!

Babies and Baby Fever

2009-05-30T06:22:00.005-07:00

I've admitted it here before--I have baby fever! It seems like most of my friends are either pregnant or have had babies this past year.

So many people have asked when Matt and I are going to start a family. It's going to be a while. If we plan it perfectly, maybe Spring of 2011 after I graduate from anesthesia school?!?!?

I'm sure I'll be ready by then. I feel like I have learned from each of my friends during their pregnancies and some of my friends even let me "practice" on their kids! This past Thursday, my friends Kat & Paul went out to a movie while I kept their two precious daughters Ashley & Abigail. I have to say, they have the best babies. Ashley was fast asleep in her crib. I didn't even get to see her except on their tiny little baby monitor screen. Miss Abby woke up, drank 4 oz of formula, we talked and played for 45 minutes, then she fell asleep in my arms while I sang "You are my Sunshine" over and over. PERFECT!

After class on Friday, I met up with a couple of my high school friends, Sarah & Keva, at Mi Cocina in Fort Worth. I haven't seen them in over 8 years! It was so nice to catch up.

After lunch we headed over to the Fort Worth Botanic Gardens so Keva's kids could run around and we could talk and share pictures of our families. It was so nice to know that they are both doing so well and are happily married.

Unfortunately, we forgot to take pictures before Keva had to pick up her daughter from school. Matt stopped by and clicked a couple of pictures of Sarah and me. Sarah is almost 20 weeks pregnant--so cute!

I am really looking forward to catching up with more of my Rains High School class of 1999 friends at our 10 year reunion on June 13th. Especially, Catherine and Stacey who I keep up with in the blog world, but haven't seen in way too long!

History & Letter to insurance company

2009-05-23T17:15:00.003-07:00

It's true. I'm getting old.
I can't believe that I had to dig up information from thirteen years ago regarding my knee history. (FYI-hospitals are only required by law to keep records for 10 years!) Luckily, I was able to obtain all of my records; which I thought was impressive given the time frame and the fact that the hospital has changed ownership/management three times!

In order to plea my case for medical necessity with my insurance company, Carticel (Genzyme or US BioServices) reps helped gather all of my information to present to them as a package. I felt a little overwhelmed at all the information but knew that I could do a better job at explaining my history and current symptoms than all of those pieces of paper. So, I decided to write them a letter of explanation.

Many times patients will write a letter similar to this after their request for precertification (pre-determination of medical necessity) of procedure has been denied. I wrote this letter in hopes of gaining approval the first time.

So, for those you you that are interested in my medical history or those who wish to have a format or help with wording or content for your letter, see below.

=============================================================

Aetna
Medical Review Board
P.O. Box 981106
El Paso, TX 79998-1106

Dear Sir or Madam:

I am writing to provide you a streamlined history of my left knee problems so that I might be of assistance in expediting the review process.

My left knee pain began in July of 1996 after I was a passenger in an MVC. Emergency room x-rays revealed a foreign body. Later that year, after intermittent locking and pain, I was seen by Sandy Bahm, M.D. In April 2007 Dr. Bahm performed an arthroscopy with foreign body removal. At sixteen years of age, not much could slow me down. I continued to be active in sports, running and cheerleading, but in 1998 the pain worsened and prompted me to return to my orthopedic surgeon. At that time Dr. Bahm ordered physical therapy for strengthening and I continued to treat the pain with NSAIDS, rest and ice. After about a month of PT, I had increasing pain with activity; a second arthroscopy was performed with microfracture of my lateral femoral condyle and partial lateral meniscectomy. Post-operatively I was involved in physical therapy but discontinued running and cheerleading per physician’s request. Pain remained at a basal level after that but never returned to a zero.

Again, in 2000, while I was an undergraduate in college, my knee began to grind and lock at times. After a few months of being symptomatic, Victor Ayers, M.D. performed a third arthroscopy. At that time a lateral meniscectomy was performed and “healing” of the lateral femoral condyle was reported to me.

In 2003, I graduated nursing school and began my career as an intensive care nurse. I continued to have intermittent pain that was mostly alleviated with NSAIDS and rest. I have maintained an active lifestyle with low impact activities like cycling and elliptical for cardiovascular health.

In February of this year, after riding a stationary bike at our fitness club, I experienced increased left knee pain. Over the next couple of weeks pain was not alleviated with NSAIDs, ice or rest and worsened with any activity. I saw an orthopedic surgeon (Bruce Prager, M.D.) and had an MRI done. When he suggested surgery, I consulted a personal friend who is a Sports Medicine doctor and he referred me to James Bothwell, M.D. Dr. Bothwell reviewed my MRI and examined my knee in the clinic. On April 9th 2009, Dr. Bothwell performed my fourth arthroscopy (see findings per OP report).

Today, I consider my knee recovered from my most recent arthroscopy but I continue to have significant pain with any physical activity. I am riding a stationary bike and doing strengthening exercises three to four times a week as tolerated. I have pain at times that renders me incapable of concentrating and unable to sleep at night. I continue to take NSAIDS on a regular basis and hydrocodone as needed.

Dr. Bothwell has discussed all of my options with me. He believes that I am a good candidate for surgery and that I will significantly benefit. My healthcare background gives me the ability to completely understand the procedures, benefits and associated risks. I understand that compliance to physician orders and physical therapy regime is pivotal in my recovery and success.

My knee injuries cannot heal on their own and procedures can only be successful if performed concurrently. I have had knee pain for over a decade and I am looking forward to this opportunity for restoration of function and some relief of chronic pain.

Thank you for your time in evaluating my case. Please feel free to contact me with further questions.

Sincerely,

Knee News - Post surgical update

2009-05-22T17:31:00.002-07:00

Thank you to everyone for your care and concern after my knee arthroscopy.

Fortunately, it wasn't too bad and I was back on my feet after a few days.

Unfortunately, I got bad news on the results and another surgery is around the corner.

Those are my arthroscopy pictures. To the untrained eye it looks like a circle with white, black and pink inside. Actually, with a little help, I was able to see exactly what they were explaining to me.

So, here it is (diagnoses) :
1. Partial ACL tear

2. Femoral condyle articular cartilage defect 4.5 cm x 4 cm

3. Absent lateral meniscus

The plan is to reconstruct ACL, meniscus transplant and chondrocyte implantation (ACI) on the femoral condyle. These procedures are invasive, expensive and require special medical board review by my insurance company (Aetna) for pre-approval.

I have researched these procedures extensively on-line and have appreciated the few blogs that I have found that provided personal experiences. I hope to post information about my journey that could help guide others seeking knowledge.

In the mean time, I hope not to bore my casual friend and family readers!

Rossi's Haircut

2009-05-20T21:25:00.003-07:00

My dog, Rossi, is the cutest Minature Schnauzer ever! We call him "Little Man" because he has always looked like a little old man with his long beard and eyebrows...but Matt took him for a haircut.

Honestly, I cried when I saw him. They cut his beard OFF! He didn't look like the same dog and he didn't even come to me (I think he knew that I wasn't happy)! Now, I'm getting used to his new cut and actually like it. I think he looks like a puppy--and that is good considering my Little Man is now eight and a half!

Grandpa's New Toy

2009-05-12T09:37:00.006-07:00

When we pulled up at my grandparent's house this weekend, this was in the driveway.

That is the Can-Am Spyder Roadster

Pretty cool--especially considering that it belongs to a 70-something year-old grandfather of four and great-grandfather of two!

Grandpa generously let us take turns riding around his land and the guys ventured out on the road.

Yes, it is road worthy; with its three wheel Anti-lock Brake System, the Traction Control System and the Stability Control System it is relatively safe. Grandpa has logged over 2000 miles on it and has already take his first road trip down to Houston.

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-11T08:47:00.002-07:00

This past weekend, Matt and I headed out to East Texas to visit with my Mom and Maternal Grandmother for Mother's Day. We had a relaxing day at "The Farm" where we enjoyed family, friends, good food, walks through nature and our own little photo shoot.

Sunday Study Song

2009-05-03T08:08:00.002-07:00

I know, how boring...another YouTube song post.
Sorry but my time is very limited. Final exams start tomorrow and all I have been doing is sitting here at my desk studying and listening to KLTY on the radio.
Of course the perfect song comes on--and always at the perfect time!
Hope you enjoy it too!

BRANDON HEATH "WAIT AND SEE"

I was born in Tennessee
Late July humidity
Doctor said I was lucky to be alive
I've been trouble since the day that I got here
Trouble till the day that I disappear
That'll be the day that I finally get it right

There is hope for me yet
Because GOD won't forget
All the plans he's made for ME
I have to wait and see
He's not finished with me yet

I never really was that good in school
I talked too much, broke the rules
Teacher thought I was hopeless fool alright
I don't know how but I made it through
It's one of those things that you've gotta do
But I always had a knack for telling the truth

There is hope for me yet
Because God won't forget
All the plans he's made for me
I have to wait and see
He's not finished with me yet

Still wondering why I'm here
Still wrestling with my fear
But oh, He's up to something
And the farther on I go
I've seen enough to know
That I'm, not here for nothing
He's up to something

So now's my time to be a man
Follow my heart as far as I can
No telling where I'm ending up tonight
I never slow down or so it seems
But singing my heart it's one of my dreams
All I gotta do is hold on tight

There is hope for me yet
Because God won't forget
All the plans he's made for me
I have to wait and see
He's not finished with me yet!

Sunday Song -- Easter Edition

2009-04-12T15:41:00.003-07:00

Matt and I attended Easter worship service last night. During the service Jennifer Kieta and Christ Chapel's Contemporary Music Ministry performed their version of Revelation Song--we were blown away by its beauty and simply touched, so I thought that I would share...

HE IS RISEN!
HE IS RISEN INDEED!

May you have a blessed Easter!

Thankful Thursday

2009-04-09T17:35:00.002-07:00

Yesterday was a crazy day...it all started at 4 in the morning when we were getting up and ready for my knee surgery. We pressed the snooze once, but then we were quickly jolted out of bed by a huge "Boom-Boom". We weren't sure of what it was, but it rattled our house. I looked out our window and saw a truck with three blown out tires that was stopped in the right lane of traffic, then I saw the 20 foot light post down in the median. Matt immediately called 911 and jumped over our back fence to check out the situation. To make a long story short, the girl was not hurt, lots of emergency personnel arrived and she was taken to jail after a road-side sobriety test.
I AM THANKFUL THAT NO ONE WAS INJURED!

Our house is the one with the dark roof and red brick.

Well, after all that excitement we finally made it to the hospital--just a little late. They checked me in and I got my cute gown on and waited.
BEFORE:

AFTER:

I AM THANKFUL FOR A WONDERFUL STAFF AT BAYLOR ALL-SAINTS, A GREAT CRNA, DRU AND FOR DR. BOTHWELL PERFORMING A SUCCESSFUL SURGERY.

We made it home a little after noon and I received these beautiful Tulips from M&D Miller. THANK YOU!

I was exhausted and felt drunk from all of the medications, so I propped up on the couch with my IceMan on my knee and my pup by my side and snoozed on and off for a few hours while my personal nurses (Matt & Mom) watched a couple of movies.

When I finally woke up my eyes were still a little blurry, but I thought that I saw smoke. I blinked a couple of times but saw it again out of our back window. I asked Matt where the smoke was coming from. He jumped up and looked outside where our deck was on fire! We still don't know what happened but I started barking orders from the couch. Matt grabbed the fire extinguisher and Mom unplugged the electricity to our sprinkler system. It started in my planter box and luckily I noticed it and my personal nurses responded very quickly!

I AM THANKFUL THAT WE GOT IT UNDER CONTROL QUICKLY AND THAT THERE WERE ONLY A FEW BOARDS BURNED.

So, that was our exciting Thursday. I am looking forward to a few laid-back lazy days. I've had enough excitement for now.

Well, here it is---doesn't look that bad right? Just a couple of holes.

I AM THANKFUL FOR ALL OF THE PRAYERS AND LOOK FORWARD TO A SPEEDY RECOVERY!

Douglas Twins Baby Shower

2009-04-04T19:20:00.001-07:00

Brooke & Robert are expecting BOY/GIRL TWINS!

On April 4th family & friends gathered for a Baby Shower.

We are all looking forward to welcoming Ava & Jaydon in late July.

Miss Abigail Kathryn

2009-04-04T17:50:00.003-07:00

Our friends Kat & Paul had their second baby girl on February 20th!

On April 4th Miss Abigail was formally
introduced at a Sip and See in her honor.

Miss Abby is absolutely beautiful (like her mom) and is a wonderful, sweet natured baby!

BIG SISTER - ASHLEY

Doesn't Jill look like a natural holding little Abby?

Well, she had a special announcement too -- she is pregnant!

Oh man, I have baby fever!

Sailing

2009-03-21T18:41:00.001-07:00

Spring Break 2009!

For Spring Break this year Matt and I decided that we would do something that we had talked about since I lived in San Diego--we would take sailing lessons!

So, we headed down to the Galveston Bay to Lakeside Sailing School.

We stayed aboard a small sailboat for the week and all of our adventures started there.

The first couple of days were the ASA 101 class with some sailing time but unfortuatly the weather was awful! Cold, rain, wind--yuck!--no fun!

Luckily the weather cleared up and we were able to enjoy over 60 hours of sailing in our ASA 103 & 104 classes! We also met some great people and buddied up with them for the remainer of the week.

Our week was packed full of activity. We visited the Houston Space Center, Kemah Board Walk, Galveston beaches, a few local restaurants & bars and even cooked Fish Tacos at the Thrift's condo one night. We enjoyed a lakeside picnic and a big St. Patrick's Day party too!

The "Marianda" our home for the week.

The Thrift Family
(together we called ourselves "The Thrillers")

2009-03-12T16:58:00.006-07:00

Do you see what I see?
I have been a nurse for almost 6 years but I probably couldn't tell you much about the above picture except the fact that it is a knee MRI.

The following is the radiology report:

Findings of post arthroscopic surgery linear fibrosis demonstrated in the infrapatellar fat.

There is evidence for post surgical foreshortening of the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus with moderate high-signal throughout the remainder of the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus which might be compatible with recurrent or residual tear.

A small amount of subchondral sclerosis demonstrated along the posterior most aspect of the posterior lateral joint space femoral articular cartilage and chronic sprain without disruption of the lateral collateral ligament and anterior cruciate ligament is demonstrated.

Grade I-II chondromalacia patella is demonstrated.

A small amount of chronic suprapatellar and infrapatellar bursitis is demonstrated.

Well, what does that mean??
Over the past couple of weeks, I have talked with a sports medicine doctor and two orthopedic surgeons who agree that I need knee surgery. (Again)

So, today I was scheduled for a knee arthroscopy on April 9th. The plan is to remove the torn meniscus and evaluate the surface of the joint to determine if a more extensive surgery will be needed. I will have the entire Easter weekend to recover at home. I will be on crutches for a few days, but recovery should be quick. Maybe the Easter Bunny will bring me some extra chocolate!

Happy Birthday Sweet Caraline!

2009-03-08T11:57:00.007-07:00

WOW - our niece turns 5 today!

Although these pictures are almost 2 years old, she will always be our little flowergirl.

Happy Birthday Sweet Caraline!

Sunday Song

2009-03-08T11:28:00.003-07:00

Have you ever had a song that you can't get out of your head?
This is the one that I have been singing all day
and it has been on my heart to share it with you.
I hope it gets stuck in your head too!

Hosanna by Hillsong

: Read
Hosanna Lyrics
here.

Hosanna by Hillsong

I see the King of Glory
Coming on the clouds of fire
The whole earth shakes
The whole earth shakes

I see His love and mercy
Washing over all our sin
The people sing
The people sing

Hosanna, Hosanna
Hosanna in the highest
Hosanna, Hosanna
Hosanna in the highest

I see a generation
Rising up to take their place
With selfless faith
With selfless faith

I see a near revival
Stirring as we pray and seek
We're on our knees
We're on our knees

Hosanna, Hosanna
Hosanna in the highest
Hosanna, Hosanna
Hosanna in the highest

Heal my heart and make it clean
Open up my eyes to the things unseen
Show me how to love like You have loved me
Break my heart for what breaks Yours
Everything I am for Your kingdom's cause
As I walk from Earth into eternity.

Hosanna, Hosanna
Hosanna in the highest
Hosanna, Hosanna
Hosanna in the highest

TCU Campus

2009-01-10T09:30:00.005-08:00

Well, my Christmas break is almost over so I will be spending much of my time on campus again. Here are a few of the pictures of the campus architecture that I took last semester. I have made prints of these to put upstairs in my "study sanctuary".

Bass Building

where all of my undergrad nursing classes and

my current graduate classes are held

Brown Lupton University Union Building (BLUU)

One of the newest buildings on campus

Robert Carr Chapel

Where Matt & I were married.

Frog Fountain

a TCU icon

Frog Fountain with

the BLUU in the background

Tag You're It!

2009-01-05T16:10:00.002-08:00

A fun tag!
Tag you are it if you look at my blog.
To participate, just copy and paste in your own blog, and bold all of the things you have done.

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Ran a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Seen Mount Rushmore in person
101. Learned to play an instrument

I would love to check more of those things off my list in the coming years.
Life is short--Have Fun and do something memorable in 2009!

Christmas in Palm Desert

2008-12-28T20:46:00.001-08:00

Saturday, December 20, 2008

DFW to Palm Desert, CA

Lunch at The Club with Peggy, Cameron & Bob Bob

Checked into our rental house

Peter, PJ, Charley & Kristen arrived

Bob & Alice visit at Lulu & Bob Bob's house

Pizza delivery for dinner

Sunday, December 21, 2008

Shopping at Costco

Lunch pick up at Sherman's
Bought & decorated our Christmas tree

Lynn & Kristen got manicures and pedicures

Monday, December 22, 2008

Skiing in Big Bear at Snow Summit
Steaks on the grill

Hot tub

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Tour around Loma Linda area

TCU vs Boise State Poinsetta Bowl Game watching party

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Kristen's Bridal Shower - Ladies Luncheon

Matt & Charley golf

Chinese food

White elephant/Chinese gift exchange

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Stockings

Breakfast

Gifts

Bob & Alice's house for Christmas Dinner

Friday, December 26, 2008

Visited with Helen

Kristen's wedding dress shopping

Drinks at the Marriot

Dinner at The Club

Saturday, December 27, 2008

PJ, Peter, Charley & Kristen to the airport

Peggy, Cameron, Lynn & Matt to The Club for lunch

Peggy, Cameron and Bob Bob took us to the airport

TCU Nurse Anesthesia - Class of 2010

2008-12-19T18:22:00.003-08:00

Well, I did it! One semester down, two years to go. I know that there is a lot of hard work ahead of me, but I know that I can do it. I am looking forward to learning more and can't wait to start clinicals in August.

Our class representatives Bethany and Sarah finally got us all together to take our class picture. I set up my camera and tripod in front of Frog Fountain where Kent & Kim took the pictures for us.

After some editing by Matt we have our final photo.

P.S. I am on the far right.

New post, new blog for the New Year

2008-12-14T14:55:00.005-08:00

Sorry I haven't checked in here in a while. It's not that I haven't had things to write about, just no time to write! One of my New Year's resolutions is to post more often!
I am hoping to turn this years blog into a book on blurb.com. It's kind of like my 2008 Journal.

Then, for the new year, I want to start a new blog--my 2009 journal. And I already have some ideas for it. I may even get some help with the new blog design. A fellow blogger at The White House is starting a blog design business and is giving away a free makeover! Click the link, check it out and enter to win!

Well, finals start tomorrow. Keep me in your prayers.

The Twins!

2008-12-02T19:04:00.004-08:00

My friend Ron and his beautiful wife Rachel just had their twin boys, Ryan & Logan. I feel so lucky that we were able to see them the day after they were born. They are perfect!

Christmas Decorations

2008-11-29T17:56:00.000-08:00

During my Thanksgiving break I took the opportunity to decorate for Christmas since finals were just around the corner. For the third year in a row I put up our fake white Christmas tree. It originally was a joke since I couldn't have a real tree in my DC basement apartment, I bought the tackiest one! But, since then I have grown to love it. It was really pretty this year with my gold and purple decorations with matching wrapping paper and ribbon.

My other favorite decorations are my collection of angels which I used to be display year-round. Now I only get to see them at Christmas. On the other side of the wall I have a beautiful Fontini nativity display. Dad and Deborah started my collection years ago and continue to contribute pieces as a gift each Christmas.

I even got the dogs dressed up in their new Christmas sweaters!

And then we had a Christmas Tree sushi roll.

Thanksmas

2008-11-25T15:49:00.007-08:00

This past weekend Matt and I enjoyed a kick-off to the 2008 holiday season--Thanksmas!!

Thanksmas is a family tradition established ??? (about six? years ago)

When my grandparents started to migrate south for the winter, we started to get together the weekend before Thanksgiving to share our former Christmas traditions. This includes: #1 family gathering, #2 The original Grinch movie, #3 Roast Beast and fixin's (creamed onions, Yorkshire pudding and my favorite pumpkin chiffon pie!!) #4 our amateur photo session.

We had a great time this year and shared this special holiday with our aunt, cousins, brother, sister-in-law, niece, nephew, maternal grandparents, Mom, Joe and the Hagler crew. We really missed Uncle Bob and Aunt Linda. Linda has been battling cancer and couldn't make the drive up from the Houston area--but we did get to have a nice chat with them after dinner.

The cooler weather is definitely welcome and helps me get into the holiday spirit! I even started digging out our Christmas decorations today. I know--I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving too!

We want to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving. Be careful in your travels and eat lots--Thanksgiving only happens once a year!!

I met Martha Stewart!!

2008-11-13T15:39:00.006-08:00

So, guess what I did on Tuesday?? It's usually a study day, but not this time!
Sunday night I was reading through my Martha Stewart Living magazine and noticed that Martha's new book Cooking School hit the shelves on October 31, AND she was having a book signing in Dallas at Sur La Table! So, I had to go...

We arrived at the book signing an hour and a half before Martha was supposed to arrive and this is what we found. We weren't the only one's excited. As you can see, almost all women. Matt must love me...
I did bring my books to study and even sat down and opened my pharmacology for a while, but it didn't last long. I found it really interesting to listen to all of the conversations in line. One of the ladies in front of me owned a little speciality shop, another lady met Martha in the 80's and had the picture with her, many others had piles of books for her to sign to give to family and friends for Christmas. I only had one book for me, I don't think anyone else in my family admires Martha the way I do.

Our first glimpse! Martha is all smiles as she enters through the back alley (ten minutes before scheduled). I walked close after her SUV stopped so that I could get a good picture.

After a long wait in line, we finally made it inside.

I'm next in line!

While Martha was signing my book I told her that I enjoy reading her blog. She responded by saying that it is very personal and then asked me if I would like to be on it. Of course I would! So, she said, "Go stand by your friend and hold up the book," (Matt was behind the rope taking pictures) so I stood by him while Martha got out her camera and took a picture of US. I've been checking her blog daily, but haven't seen her post about the book signing yet.

Keep your eye out for us on:

http://blogs1.marthastewart.com/martha/

Overall, it was a fun experience. Martha was very nice, personable, and somehow kept smiling through the hundreds of people making small talk with her.

I have to admit, I haven't read one page of this book---but I plan to over Christmas break!

Presidential Election 2008

2008-11-05T19:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a historic presidential election where Barak Obama won by a landslide against Republican candidate John McCain.

Matt and I attended an election party at his friends house.

Halloween 2008

2008-10-31T20:10:00.003-07:00

My Halloween morning started early with a test in my Nurse Anesthesia research class. Next was Dr. Barcellona's Advanced Anatomy & Physiology class. Lectures are usually pretty dry, but today he showed us a great video of "the kind of patients we would encounter"--very funny, people are idiots! Dr. B. also had his two front teeth blacked out--I'm not sure that I have ever seen him smile that much. Those of us that were in the holiday spirit took this picture during our class break.

Matt and I had a pretty low key evening with the pups. We all dressed up (kind of) and passed out candy to the kids. We have a good neighborhood, so we saw lots of kids in cute costumes. We heard a few say, "Hey, they have the good stuff!" I guess you can't go wrong with chocolate.

At the end of the evening Matt took me out to our favorite little sushi place. The restaurant is family owned and many of their kids and grandkids stopped by after trick-or-treating...very cute. The food was yummy as usual and we both ate way too much!

Halfway there!

2008-10-27T17:47:00.010-07:00

Well, today I finished my third round of tests. We had an Advanced Anatomy & Physiology test on Friday and today was Advanced Pharmacology. They were both tough and I'll find out how I did tomorrow.

My desk does look a bit like a pharmacy...here is how I am staying awake and half-way sane!

Matt gave me these beautiful double tulips to sit on my desk. He is the best and the most supportive husband. I couldn't be doing this without him!

Texas State Fair

2008-10-12T21:23:00.001-07:00

On October 12th, after most a day of studying, I met mom at the State Fair in Dallas. I always enjoy going to see the new cars, animals and shows. I usually enjoy all of the fried food, but I have to admit that I didn't eat anything--not even a Fletcher's Corn Dog! All this school stress has my stomach in knots. I did treat myself to one of Tom McCain's hand carved horned frogs to add to my TCU collection. We enjoyed ourselves anyway and ended the night with a ride high in the sky on the Texas Star Ferris Wheel.

Grandma's 75th Birthday Celebration

2008-10-11T20:46:00.002-07:00

Friends and family gathered at Dad and Deborah's house to celebrate Grandma's 75th birthday on October 11, 2008 (a few days early). These reunions are few and far between so we enjoyed catching up with everyone.

All the grandkids pulled together to make Grandma a big scrapbook "Grandma's Brag Book" with many pictures and memories to never be forgotten. She loved it!

My 28th Birthday!

2008-10-03T21:27:00.001-07:00

Wow! I'm feeling old...I know, 28 isn't REALLY old, but these past couple of months in school have been tough and I'm getting gray hair!
Today I had my second Anatomy test--on my birthday. Can you believe that?
Anyway, I came home to this great display of love and affection---PRESENTS from near and far!

Matt thought that he should get my birthday started by giving me my first present, but I was still buried in my notes.

The dogs (especially Chloe) are great helpers when it comes to riping paper.

So, great minds do think alike. Mom and Matt both got me beautiful China cup and saucer sets, which proves that they really do know me. I love hot tea and right now I am becoming dependent on it to stay awake for hours of studying!

Okay, here is another tasty beverage I like!
Some of my good friends met us at Abuelo's for Happy Hour and dinner. It was so nice to relax.

The perfect ending to my 28th birthday celebration. Matt's acoustic rendition of Happy Birthday.

Blessing of the Animals

2008-10-01T20:52:00.008-07:00

This evening at TCU's Robert Carr Chapel they held the 4th annual Blessing of the Animals service. This year Matt, Rossi, Chloe and I attended. I have not ever heard of any service of this kind, but after researching it I found that there are services nationwide on or around the 4th of October.
This location is really special to us because it is where our marriage was blessed over a year ago and now our beloved pups were blessed there too!
There were many dogs in attendance, a few cats (on leashes!) and one turtle that the little girl took out of the basket so, "he could hear the service". It was conducted like most church services: music, prayer, scripture, short message and individual blessings for each of the animals. Luckily, we had beautiful weather too.

And a visit from SuperFrog!

2008-09-30T20:13:00.004-07:00

I know, its been way to long since I have posted.
To all of my friends out there--I am sorry if I haven't returned your phone calls, replied to emails, myspace messages, or facebook wall writings.
School has been completely consuming. I literally study every waking hour (or at least I try to)!
I don't know if my pea brain can retain all of this information.

As far as my blog goes...I don't know if there is anything worth publishing. When something exciting happens, I'll let you know. Until then, you should keep blogging, I really enjoyed "keeping up" with everyone during my study breaks. Thanks for the entertainment and relaxation for my brain!

Here is a self photo in my new scrubs from my first day of lab.

Mr. & Mrs. John Lyell

2008-09-07T20:02:00.001-07:00

Cassie & Johnny were married in a beautiful lakeside ceremony at Paradise Cove on September 6, 2008.

I was honored to be a part of their wedding party. Everything was perfect and we had a lot of fun catching up with friends and dancing the night away.
Matt and I took so many pictures, but haven't had time to look through and edit them. Here are some of my favorites!

Our (My) New Car

2008-08-29T21:04:00.003-07:00

Hello and welcome to our humble little webode,

We have recently added a new member to our family, a beautiful 6 lb (read: cylinder) Honda Accord. Is it a hybrid? Well, kinda. It's a hybrid of leather and metal. It's a hybrid of sleek and stylish. It's a freakin' hybrid of affordable and reliable. Ok, I may be getting carried away... : )

After much laser-focused attention and research, I found a car that can carry me safely to work and back with a more reasonable and economical impact on the environment. Born in California, we expect it will see it's birthplace when we return for Lynn's clinicals next year.

My favorite feature, you ask? Why, I admit, it's the dual-climate air conditioning: one for the driver, one for the passenger. A certain person we know (hint, hint) likes to turn the A/C on. Also, I may (repeat, may) become a XM-radio addict as it is included with the vehicle.

"Are you worried that the sunroof will muss up your hair before important social functions?" I get this question all the time from the press. I like to say - No. I use a hair gel imported from Germany. It is very strong. And disciplined. No issues there. Next question?

Since Lynn isn't proofreading this and it's likely my last post on our blog for a while, I'd like to give a shout out to the silent majority who have supported us in our webode by posting comments (hint, hint) about our pictures and our clever and witty captions in our blog. Each comment is like an entry in the lottery of karma, so, as Ghandi once said, "Feel free to post twice". : )

Matt's 35th Birthday Party

2008-08-23T20:27:00.001-07:00

Yes, 35. No, that's not a typo!

I know, it's hard to believe.
Living proof that some things get better with time.

Of course I had to outfit Matt and Mom in TCU paraphernalia.

On the eve of Matt's birthday we had some friends over to our house to celebrate. Together we enjoyed a fun game of Bolo (or ladder ball), some great drinks (Cristy-thank for the Mojitos!) and tasty Texas BBQ (thanks to Big D). You can tell that we are getting older as most of our friends now have kids. They add another level of entertainment for us all.

Happy Birthday Sweetheart! I look forward to sharing so many more with you!

And, as usual, thanks to Mom for helping out with all of the party details and food. I couldn't do it without you!

Rah Rah TCU!!

2008-08-22T18:46:00.001-07:00

Rif, Ram

Bah, Zoo

Lickety, Lickety

Zoo, Zoo

Who, Wah

Wah, Who

Give'em Hell TCU!!

I was told at Frog Camp in 1999 that this TCU cheer is one of the oldest in the NCAA. I've never forgotten it and recently helped my new class to learn it on our first day. Yes, I back in college! It's a little different this time but I have to admit that it is nice to be at my alma mater.

On August 22nd I started my graduate education at Texas Christian University-School of Nurse Anesthesia and officially became a RRNA (resident registered nurse anesthesist).

A few years have passed between these two TCU ID cards.

My first day of graduate school. My mom was here and took my picture. Matt left me a sweet note in my lunch!

Baby Isaac is here!

2008-08-20T14:36:00.009-07:00

Our wait is over! Isaac Alan was born on Sunday, August 17th. He was a healthy 7 pounds, 4 ounces and 19 1/2 inches long. That was really good considering he was over three weeks early.

Jill was diagnosed with antiphospholipid syndrome (which is a blood clotting disorder). When she became pregnant with Isaac she had start taking medicine and he became a high risk pregnancy. Her original due date was September 11th, but her physician wanted to induce her early, so Aug. 22nd was the decided date. While I was on vacation, Jill called and said that they were going to induce even earlier since her amniotic fluid was low. So, on the morning of the 16th she went into the hospital and a day and a half later she was holding her healthy baby boy.

Today I got to spend some time with them. Both Mom and Baby are doing exceptionally well! HE IS PERFECT!

Congratulations Jill & Adam on your handsome baby boy!

Catching up

2008-08-20T07:09:00.002-07:00

Okay faithful blog readers--I am back! It's been over a month since I have posted but don't worry. I'll catch you up on everything that has been happening in our lives.
I am going to post date the blogs so that I can keep them in chronological order, so look back...

Family Vacation - Rehoboth Beach - 2008

2008-08-09T21:05:00.007-07:00

On Saturday we packed up the cars and headed up to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware (about 4 hours from Northern VA).

On our way we made the obligatory stop and Elmer's Market were they have some of the freshest produce in the area. There we bought peaches, corn, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, potatoes, cucumber, blueberry pie and jams. Which lasted us most of our week.

Once we arrived at the rental house we quickly unpacked. Mom started cooking Girl Scout Tacos and Kristen made some wonderful drinks "Pain Killers"!

Family Vacation 2008

2008-08-08T20:46:00.007-07:00

Yesterday (Thursday) we flew from DFW to Washington Regan. We were running a little late, but luckily our flight was delayed twice. We arrived late to DC where Matt's dad picked us up from the airport and drove us to their house in Reston, VA. We didn't have any plans for Friday and everyone had to work so Mom, Matt and I decided to go to our favorite burger joint and also went to the Arlington, VA County Fair.

Waiting for baby Isaac

2008-08-03T20:31:00.000-07:00

Only weeks before baby Isaac is due we got together at the Rose Garden Tea Room. Jill and her mother-in-law Stacy, my mom and I enjoyed some girl time and ooh & ahh-ed over some cute baby things!

I made this blanket for Isaac and will take it to them when he gets home from the hospital.

Our Rotten Dogs

Happy Valentine's Day -- 2010 Year in Review

Sunny San Diego...round two

Where in the world are Lynn & Matt?

Hiking

Spring has sprung!

Mom's Visit - Temecula Wine Country

Happy Valentine's Day - 2009 in Review

Mom's visit--Surf City USA & Cirque

Mom's visit continued...Mission Inn

Mom's Visit

It's Miller Time!

Christmas 2009

The most magical place on Earth

Christmas Party 2009

Thanksgiving 2009

Raj's Visit to Cali

Kristen & Charley's Wedding Weekend - Ladies Luncheon

Kristen & Charley's Wedding Weekend - Rehearsal Dinner

Farmington Country Club

Mr. & Mrs. Miller!

Master Liam Alexander

Long Beach, California

Autumn Apple Orchard

Scott & Lydia's Wedding

Camping in Big Bear California

Celebrating Lulu

Lulu

California House

Goodbye, Farewell, So long...

Goodbye, Farewell, So long...

Goodbye, Farewell, So long...

Goodbye, Farewell, So long...

Goodbye, Farewell, So long...

Goodbye, Farewell, So long...

Matt's NIP Graduation!

Getting Ready For Baby Harville!

Show Us Your Life - Wedding Party & Flowers

Crutch & Brace Fashion

Show Us Your Life - Wedding Dress

Fun with Friends

3 Weeks Post-op

First Post-op Appointment

Study Time

I think Rigor Mortis is setting in!

Home Sweet Home

Knee Surgery

Wordless Wednesday

RHS 10 Year Reunion

Captured by Destiny Photography Give-away

Happy Birthday MOM!

Time flies when you're having fun...

Babies and Baby Fever

History & Letter to insurance company

Knee News - Post surgical update

Rossi's Haircut

Grandpa's New Toy

Happy Mother's Day!

Sunday Study Song

Sunday Song -- Easter Edition

Thankful Thursday

Douglas Twins Baby Shower

Miss Abigail Kathryn

Sailing

Happy Birthday Sweet Caraline!

Sunday Song

Hosanna Lyrics

TCU Campus

Tag You're It!

Christmas in Palm Desert

TCU Nurse Anesthesia - Class of 2010

New post, new blog for the New Year

The Twins!

Christmas Decorations

Thanksmas

I met Martha Stewart!!

Presidential Election 2008

Halloween 2008

Halfway there!

Texas State Fair