I have not been at work (CHS) since Aug 1st. It has been pretty amazing having time off, but I had a few moments when saying "goodbye" that were slightly difficult. The day before my "last" day (I keep using quotes b/c I am still going to work 2x a month, but it's not the same!), one of my co-workers played a prank on a client. Each shift they get graded on their activities throughout the day. At night, we add up the points they earned from 1st shift and give them their grade sheets and points. Well, we have a ct that has always had nearly perfect shifts, meaning he isn't marked down for behavior. My co-worker made a fake grade sheet that was horrible to give to the ct to play a joke. As soon as he saw it, I heard "Trish...uh Trish...Trish...I need you." Long story short, he freaked, but we let him know it was a joke and we all laughed about it all night. But, it reminded me that these kids depend on me. There were over 5 staff members there, and he wanted to talk to me about it. Now, sometimes that could be extremely annoying. "Trish..what are we doing for Rec." "Trish, can you take me to get my laundry?" "Trish, can I throw my stuff away." "Trish, can you help me with my treatment work?" Half the time all I can think is, there are 3 other people here, why am I the only one being asked to do anything?! But when this ct called me when he was genuinely upset, it felt good. It's nice to know they look at me as someone who can answer their questions and help them out with things that are going on. It helps me to know that maybe I made an impression/difference in their lives. Also, sometimes saying "goodbye" to some clients can be difficult. There are some that just make such an impression, but normally it's one ct at a time that is being discharged. Having to say "bye" to quite a few good kids on the 1st was pretty hard. I mean, I was completely over it when I got home (haha), but in the moment, giving them all my final "advice" and reminding them of all they really have to offer the world, kind of wore me out! I am almost excited to go to work Friday, but not quite.
Since then, I have done so many awesome things! Dan's family came down, and we hung out with them at the zoo and a Cardinals game. It was tons of fun. Then I went to Minneapolis to visit Dinah. That was also wonderful! I hadn't seen her in quite awhile, so it was great to catch up. She is one of those friends that it doesn't matter how long it has been, we can just pick up where we left off, and I am so grateful for her. I can't wait for her to come home for all of the wedding fun! After MN, I went home for a long weekend. I went to try on my wedding dress that came in! It fit! If I can say so myself, I looked good! Can't wait for Dan to see it! I also had the privilege of going with Melissa for her dress fitting. She looked beautiful! I can't wait for her big day, either! THEN! Lauren's bridal shower! It was a lot of fun. I am so excited for her and Justin's wedding. She really brings out the best in him, and he truly seems to love her. She's going to be a great addition to our family. Plus, any excuse to hang out with my gorgeous niece is a good time for me!
Today I had orientation for school. The last 2 days have been slightly stressful. There was a mix up with my loan and then I was charged much more for "fees" than anyone let on, so I wasn't really prepared. Plus, I had to order a book to have shipped in 2 days because a professor sent us an assignment. Why that couldn't have been sent last week, I have no idea....I have been checking the bookstore website and the books haven't been posted. It's slightly frustrating. The only class that was posted required me to buy two textbooks. So far, for 2 classes, I have bought 3 books for about $280. Ouch. At least I don't have to pay tuition! I met another girl in my program today, and I am getting excited! I will meet the rest on Friday! And classes start Monday! It's getting real!
