I've spent the past three days at work (12 hr shifts), which is a bit uncommon. We don't usually work more than two days in a row, as it cuts down on burnout a little bit. It's been rather slow here the last week because of the holiday, doctors just aren't scheduling surgeries until at least Friday. I've ended up with a lot of free time, quite a lot. At first, I was bored, although, I would never say that aloud for fear of all hell breaking loose. Upon reflection though, I've had some really special experiences the past few days that I probably wouldn't have had if I were busier.

First, I have been caring for a man from Kuwait who doesn't speak English and has his sons translate for me even though their English is limited. He has been one of the friendliest and generally just "nicest" patients I have had. He always has a big smile and says "Hello" (one of the few English words he knows) to me every time I enter his room, even if I'm coming in with a needle in my hand. Yesterday he gave me a Muslim blessing in Arabic that his son translated for me. Today, he wanted a picture of him and I so he could show his family at home.  I was really touched by that. He has to have major surgery in the next few days, please keep him in your thoughts.

Second, for the past two days I have had the time to feed a paraplegic man his meals. Normally an aide would do that, as I don't have time.  I was able to keep him company for about 20 minutes each time, probably the most time anyone spent with him in those two days. It's amazing what you can learn about people if you take the time. I found out that he works as a design engineer on a specially adapted computer.

I am very thankful and grateful that I have had the time to really spend a few moments getting to know my patients this week beyond their diagnoses and the medications they are on. It has made for a very fulfilling week (more so than usual).

Went on an awesome backpacking trip in Zaleski State Forest the weekend before last...what a blast! The ride down left a bit to be desired...almost a six hour drive in the dark and rain. (Mapquest claimed it only was supposed to take three hours.) We did have fun driving through small towns in southern Ohio...Bud's One Stop was by far the best attraction. Picture Bud standing inspecting a gas pump with a cigarette hanging from his mouth...we kept right on driving. The hike itself was wonderful. We learned very quickly how much difference having a 30 pound pack on your back can make in your speed.  We were planning to do all 23 miles, but only made it about 10. It was well worth taking our time and enjoying each other's company, though.  We had a birthday party in the woods, complete with balloons and candles for J, had an acorn/ pine cone fight that quickly escalated into pine branches (I'm suprised we didn't come home covered in pine tar), met some goofy guys who tried to make a tent from string and a poncho (not such a good idea),  and got some good tips from a backpacking instructor who was there with a bunch of OSU students. The trip was a fantastic learning experience and some much needed time to connect with each other and nature. I can't wait to plan where we can go in the spring. Pics to come...

01) Are you currently in a serious relationship?
02) What was your dream growing up?
03) What talent do you wish you had?
04) If I bought you a drink what would it be?
05) Favorite vegetable?
06) What was the last book you read?
07) What zodiac sign are you?
08) Any Tattoos and/or Piercings? If so, what and where.
09) Worst Habit?
10) If you saw me walking down the street would you offer me a ride?
11) What is your favorite sport?
12) Do you have a Pessimistic or Optimistic attitude?
13) What would you do if you were stuck in an elevator with me?
14) Worst thing to ever happen to you?
15) Tell me one weird fact about you.
16) Do you have any pets?
17) What would you do if I showed up at your house unexpectedly?
18) What was your first impression of me?
19) Do you think clowns are cute or scary?
20) If you could change one thing about how you look, what would it be?
21) Would you be my crime partner or my conscience?
22) What color eyes do you have?
23) Ever been arrested?
24) Bottle or can soda?
25) If you won $10,000 today, what would you do with it?
26) What happened to number 26??????
27) What's your favorite place to hang out at?
28) Do you believe in ghosts?
29) Favorite thing to do in your spare time?
30) Do you swear a lot?
31) Biggest pet peeve?
32) In one word, how would you describe yourself?
33) Do you believe/appreciate romance?
34) Favorite and least favorite food?
35) Do you believe in God?
36) Will you repost this so I can fill it out and do the same for you