Lots to Celebrate

 My favorite way of celebrating just about anything is either, having people over for a game night or going on a quick adventure. I'm usually terrible at planning adventures. After two attempts of planning this weekend adventure and almost killing the group (I forgot the Uinta's still have snow and didn't realize Buckskin Gulch would have been 50 miles), Parker took over and planned a trip to Coyote Gulch. It's a super easy and very gorgeous backpacking spot in Southern Utah. Our group of 8 stuffed ourselves into my mom's car and hit the road. It was the perfect way to celebrate NCLEX studying being over, Parker's new job, and my birthday all at once. 

The night before our adventure, Parker and I had a huge talk about how grateful we are for everything we have. We are both healthy with good jobs, we are home owners, dog owners to the best pup, and completely in love with the life we are building together. I couldn't be happier. 

That Damn Test

 75-200 questions....not that big of jump right? This is what stands between me and being a real nurse. Being on my own and being trusted to take care of patients. It's intimidating but I finally feel ready to take this test. I feel ready to be a nurse. I've learned so much over the past 2 years of nursing school and working on my Endocrine Unit. 

Not passing the past two times has taught me a lot. It's taught me humility. Most importantly, it's taught me that it's ok to fall as long as you are strong enough to get back up and try again. I've learned I have an army behind me. My husband - holy smokes that guy has my back. Parents and in laws that are so good at showing up no matter what. Siblings that care so much about me. My cohort from nursing school - most of them passed the first time but are still so nonjudgemental and so kind in letting me know that they believe in me. Then my new work family. The team of nurses and CNA's on T8 is seriously incredible. Every single person on T8 has told me they know I can do it and they have already seen that I'm a good nurse. All of those people put together is quit the army. I am so lucky. 

Most of my challenges in life have reminded me the importance of leaning on others. I'm not so good at that. I'm ready for the day when I don't have to keep learned that over and over again.  I take my test at 2:30 today. I've been fasting and praying for that passing result. I've worked hard. Now it's time to get this thing done. Passing the NCLEX is a big deal. It's a weight that I can't wait to get off of my shoulders. I've got so many people believing in me. Time to believe in myself.

The happy ending to this story is TODAY'S THE DAY I BECAME A REAL FULL BLOWN LICENSED NURSE! CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?!?! 

 

Parker

My mom constantly tells me how she can't believe I married Parker. Neither of us saw it coming and neither of us could be happier about it. He's kind, hilarious, so hard working, and completely dedicated to being my person. Through the bad and the good, you are my person. I roll my eyes when Parker won't leave the house without his camera but I am so grateful he is always catching our memories. The dude cannot do laundry and rewears underwear until I do the laundry, but he always does the dishes and makes sure I don't sleep on the couch. He is the best partner I could ask for. Thanks for being the fun adventure buddy that I need. I love you.