That’s why I say thanks, every day

Have I mentioned yet that fall is my favorite time of year? Well, it is. The colors, weather, flavors (yay pumpkin!), Thanksgiving, and everything else about it make me one happy person. Not that I try not to be happy on an everyday basis, but, you get the idea. J

And, two days ago, Thanksgiving was celebrated throughout the country and beyond. I like this day, one that calls us to remember just how blessed we are, even in the worst of times. However, every time I see a challenge to “remember one thing you are thankful for each day,” etc., I can’t help but be dumbfounded. Because, what do I have NOT to be thankful for? And I mean it! In every instance I can think of, there is always something to for which I can be thankful. Stressed because of work/interning/homework? Well, I’m thankful that I have a job (and one that I love), I’m able to learn from knowledgeable dietitians at a top hospital, and I’m able to learn how to better serve people. Annoyed because it’s raining when I have to walk to the hospital? Well, we need the rain, and it breaks up the scenery.  It just takes stepping back for a minute to see these things. I’m not saying it’s easy, but I am saying that I think it’s important to do so.

On that note (and now that you’ve all labeled me as officially an incurable optimist), here are a few specific things that my age is allowing me to see just how thankful I am for them, many of which I never realized were so special until now:

My parents-Not anything out of the ordinary, I know, but I realize more and more each and every day just how thankful I am for my God-fearing parents, who have and continue to sacrifice so much for me. I’ve never doubted that I am loved, full of worth, supported in my decisions, and created for a purpose. My parents raised me to be confident, responsible, to serve others, and, most importantly, to love God. What more could I ask for?

My family-Sorry, fam, but I thought the parents deserved a special spot. ;) But, I am still immensely blessed to have such amazing brothers, sisters, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. From having someone to play hotel with me in the tree cave to being able to read them stories to being able to share everyday life, I’m thankful for my siblings and wouldn’t trade them for anything. And, I am ever-thankful for the love shown to me by my extended family, who visit me, send me cards (and pictures!), and have always been an encouragement and integral part of my life.

Friends-New and old, I’m thankful for you! For being with me through thick and thin, to Arkansas, Narnia, Idaho, and back again, surviving 5 semesters of chemistry, for inviting me into your home(s), letting me be my nerdy, organized self, and putting up with my sometimes food and nutrition-obsessed talking points, I thank you. I’m glad we’re on this journey together.

Professors-For those who have and continue to invest in me, I am thankful. I wouldn’t be who I am today without them!

Iowa City-Even though I’ve only lived here for a few months, I absolutely love this town! The people, landscape, location, everything. I’m excited to become more involved in this community.

Peanut butter-I know, a little less serious, BUT, I am glad that someone was inspired to grind up peanuts and eat them! My diet would be drastically changed if there were ever a peanut butter shortage.

Masterpiece Theater-I probably wouldn’t watch TV-ever-if it wasn’t for Masterpiece on PBS. Downton Abbey, Foyle’s War, Call the Midwife, you name it; I’ve probably seen it and enjoyed it.

People-I love nothing more than talking to, spending time with, and getting to know people. I’m thankful that my work allows me to do these things each and every day.

Redeeming grace-Where would I be without this? And, I’m even more thankful for the fact that I have absolutely nothing to do with it, but it is a free gift.

I could go on for a really long time, but I think you all get the idea. Be thankful. Always. And don’t forget it!

P.S. Did anyone catch the Veggie Tales reference? Madame Blueberry, anyone? J

Back to where it all began

You know those times in life when everything falls into place all at once and you’re left being decently confident of what you’re meant to do in life? Well, I’m pretty sure that has just happened to me in the past week. Now that I have you all curious, I’ll proceed to my story. J

For the past ~3 weeks, I have been in outpatient bariatrics and have absolutely loved it. I like inpatient, I really do, but my passion for preventative healthcare has been revived this fall. Even though OP Bari is comprised of a lot of rules and more “black and white” nutrition recommendations, I really enjoyed the experience. Being able to counsel and educate individuals who are pondering and/or in the midst of making lifestyle changes is encouraging and it was great to see how some patients’ lives are completely changed through weight loss. I am able to see much more clearly just how multi-faceted the “obesity epidemic” is in our society and how debilitating this disease can be to an individual’s health and well being. I’m thankful to have had the opportunity to work alongside my preceptor to help change lives. Side note: I was also able to observe surgery (a roux-en-y gastric bypass) during this rotation. Yes, I was in the OR. In scrubs. Awesome, I know.

So, aside from being able to be involved with patients on a less acute, more personal level, I have also been pondering my path for next year, as I know that June will be here before I know it. Recent classes, conversations, etc., have all confirmed to me that my skill set, personality, talents fit best in a community nutrition setting, which is ironically where this 5+ year journey began in the spring of my junior year of high school. I left the two-day Iowa Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics (IAND) conference today revived and excited for the future of my profession, particularly as our society as a whole combats health crises and complicated food systems. Programs promoting community gardening for kids and encouraging greater vegetable consumption are current areas being implemented and are areas in which I can see myself flourishing. Additionally, pursuing a master’s in public health (MPH) has also been in the back of my mind for some time, especially given that I am currently connected to the University of Iowa College of Public Health through my internship at UIHC. And, every day at work confirms that I love HyVee and want to stay there.  Oh, and, last but certainly not least, I am incredibly blessed to have found a church that is passionate about serving the local community, one through which I am able to be encouraged, find community, and also serve others. All these factors combine to make me desire very much to stay in Iowa City.

That being said, the past week has provided me with many networking opportunities, covering grad school options, possible TA/GA opportunities (which would mean my grad school would be paid for or substantially reduced in price. And, I would get to teach again!), career opportunities once I complete my internship, etc. Encouraging times, to be sure. God has truly answered my prayers for direction and I am excited for what the future holds.  I’m thankful for what God has placed in my path and for the peace I feel in making these decisions. Nothing is for certain, and I know that doors could be closed. However, at least I know where to direct my efforts. At least for now.

My production/catering rotation begins on Monday! I’m excited to be reunited with my former kitchen worker self.  I’ll be sure to provide an update… once I remember how to find my way down to the kitchen. J

calm

As many of you know, I did something crazy, difficult, and altogether worth it two weeks ago. On October 7th, I, along with 40,000 other people, ran the Chicago Marathon. The experience was better than any I could have hoped. The weather was great, the course varied and well designed, I ran the entire way, and I finished in my goal time (4:20:07). I was only sore for two days afterwards and I think it is only now that the fact is sinking in that I ran a marathon. 26.2 miles. I never doubted that I could do it, but I never really thought about it being, shall we say, a big deal to actually complete the race until now. I was honored to be able to run the race with ONU friends, with the combined fundraising efforts of Team World Vision being enough to provide clean water for 64,000 Africans! God is so good!

As I already mentioned, the social aspect of being back in Chicago was great. Thanks to the hospitality of my dear college roommate, I was able to stay in the city and visit with other college friends. We were even able to have lunch with my newly-moved-to-Chicago brother. Score! Before and after the race, it was great to catch up with even more friends who are currently students at Olivet. A good weekend, for sure. And, the two tests that I had right after arriving back in Iowa City went just fine, in spite of my worries given the busy weekend devoid of studying.

Because I love pictures, here are a few for you to peruse. I know you want to see me in all my athletic-ness. :)

 

 Science major honors kids rock marathons :)

 

 

 In April, I convinced this girl to run the marathon with me. And we did it!

 

 

Sightseeing at Loyola with dear friends

 

So now, two weeks post-marathon, I find myself in the midst of trying to rediscover Martha. Now, don't go thinking I'm depressed or something of that sort, because I am not. I'm still the perky person you all know and (hopefully!) love. However, whenever I have finally completed a season of extreme busyness and stress due to homework, projects, rotations, marathon training, work, lack of sleep, etc., I have to step back and get used to normal life again. And it's always just a little bit weird. I have to remind myself that it is okay to sleep, a schedule of priorities is not needed at all times during the day, and I don't have to be actively doing something every waking second. Don't get me wrong, I still have plenty to do and keep me busy, but in comparison to previously, this seems like a lot less. I'm thankful for these times, even though they are almost more difficult for me than the crazy busy ones, because they remind me that I am very much a Martha, which can be a weakness even while it is a strength. My worth is not based on how much I get done and how busy I am. I am not being lesser of a Christian or person for actually having unplanned- and unspoken for free time. Quiet is good. After all, God rested on the 7th day. And Martha can, too.

 

In internship news, I finished my neuro rotation on Friday, which was a great experience. Due to circumstances at the hospital, it worked out that I was able to cover the floors by myself for about half of my rotation. My preceptor was still available for questions, etc., but I was flying solo for 4-5 days of my 9 day rotation. I've found that I tend to learn better by doing things on my own, so this worked perfectly. My next rotation is outpatient bariatrics, in which I'll get to watch surgery and be involved with more individual counseling. I'm excited!

 

There are other musings and thoughts going on in the mind of Martha right now, but more on those later. Maybe once something comes out of them. We shall see...

 

Have a fabulous Monday, my friends!

 

 



Autumn Happiness

One thing Martha is learning this year is that she should never promise that she will update things often, as it seems to simply not happen. So, maybe it would be better if you all assume I won’t post often, and then you can be pleasantly surprised when I do. J

I cannot believe it is almost October! September has flown by, but I must admit that I have been in a state of bliss lately due to the gorgeous fall weather and colors. Also, this time of year seems to keep me grounded in being thankful. Even in the everyday stresses of busy schedules and challenging tasks, I am ever-reminded of God’s faithfulness and blessings in my life.

I have completed almost 2 months of my internship already! I will finish my oncology rotation on Friday, starting neuroscience on Tuesday. As you may remember, my first rotation was GI surgery, which was great. I am so glad that I am an intern at a teaching hospital, as all of my preceptors and other UIHC staff are extremely helpful and willing to help us learn. There is definitely a learning curve in each rotation, and, honestly, I know that I am in no way fully competent in each area after 9 days of experience. But, at least it gives me a basic understanding. And, I guess I find it somewhat encouraging that I will always be learning. Keeps me from getting unknowingly cocky and reminds me that so much in this world is out of my control and understanding.

You know those times when you realize just how naïve you are? Well, welcome to my life during my clinical rotations. Aside from being a green intern unfamiliar with policies, procedures, protocols, etc., add in the fact that I had no idea of the prevalence of many serious illnesses. Or even what some of these conditions would some of them would be.  Or just how sad it is to see these patients and know that you are able to do so little to help them. I was able to assess patients with cystic fibrosis in my first rotation and came out of the experience truly realizing how blessed I am. When you are face to face with an individual your own age who has to frequently put their entire life on hold in order to come in for treatment to make it so that they can breathe, it makes my worries of finishing homework or managing my schedule seem pretty insignificant. Also, seeing a patient with lung cancer who you (in your albeit novice opinion) thought had a good prognosis take a turn for the worse and go into palliative care in the span of a few days makes you stop and think. Talking with an individual with myeloma who you would have sworn was in their 70s only to discover they are actually in their 50s is eye opening. Helping someone discover healthful, economic food options due to only having $16 of governmental food aid per month reminds me to count my blessings. So, aside from the interesting and beneficial experience I am gaining in assessing these patients, I am finding that I also have been given even more opportunities to praise and thank the One who is in charge of all things. My life goal that I used for scholarship applications way back in high school and refined in FACS 101/498 is still applicable: My life’s purpose is to glorify God by serving others with the talents that He has given me, so as to enable individuals to live happier and healthier lives. And, I am becoming more and more assured each day that I am doing what God wants me to. At least for now.

One final note about what I’ve been learning: NEVER underestimate how much simply smiling at someone or saying hello can make their day. Those of you who know me already know and remind me often of how much I do both of these things. I can’t help it! Besides being that way by nature, living in the Midwest and working in customer service-oriented jobs have “ruined” me for life. J But, I’ve noticed how this isn’t normal in our world and also that people really appreciate a simple acknowledgement of their presence. Especially in the acute care setting, I’m finding that being pleasant helps put people at peace in the midst of extremely stressful situations. Not that I haven’t had irritated families and patients who would rather that I just didn’t talk to them. I do. However, what do I have to lose by being upbeat? Absolutely nothing.  And, more times than not, people appreciate it. All this to say, smile with abandon, my friends. It’s in these little things that we’re able to witness our faith in a world that needs hope.

Completely unplanned, that segways nicely into my next topic: Church. In short, I absolutely love the congregation in which I currently find myself. I didn’t realize just how much I had missed the reformed doctrine of my upbringing until returning to it now. The fact that confessions/liturgy are a part of our service makes me happy. People here actually know what the Westminster Shorter Catechism is! (Sorry Olivet folk, I just had to throw that one in J). One Ancient Hope is diverse both generationally and culturally and I have appreciated finding other like-minded young adults. I’ve been able to start connecting with people through events and (soon!) community groups, so I am excited. The Christian faith isn’t meant to be lived alone, so I am thankful that this congregation is serious about living in community. In fact, I was able to start my morning with breakfast (okay, that part is normal for me), made even better with the company of my two new-found friends from church. I sense that we are kindred spirits and am excited to get to know them better. And, my lemon blueberry waffle and Guatemalan Forestal coffee was amazing, for the record. Iowa City residents, check out Fair Grounds Café on Dubuque Street.  You won’t be disappointed.

Aside from the internship, classes, homework, church, and work, a big part of my life (and what I have decided to blame my busyness on) is marathon training. Only 11 more days until I run the Chicago Marathon! I must admit to becoming a little nervous, given that my longest run (per the training schedule, I might add) was 20 miles. I know that I can do it, but I’ll definitely need to get myself psyched up for this one. I never realized just how mental running was until this year. Five months of training later, I’m getting it down, but it still isn’t easy. But, I’m still excited and glad to be able to raise funds for World Vision. And, another exciting part of running this particular marathon, I’ll get to see ONU friends and be back in Chicago!

One final topic of Martha-ness for your day: Food. (A dietetics blog has to mention food numerous times, right?) Living the single life is definitely different than at home (which I expected) and college (didn’t expect quite this much difference). I do cook, but not as much as I originally expected due to busy schedules. However, I am determined not to let my diet consist only of peanut butter sandwiches and cereal (as much as I like both of those things) and thus have hit upon a strategy I think will work nicely, one I’ve seen utilized my entire life by family and friends. I’ve started making a big batch of a given food (more on that in a minute), freezing it in amounts to last me a few days, and then pulling these out of the freezer as needed.  

Dinner #1: Caramelized onion and cranberry rice with chicken breast and carrots

                      Dinner #2: Chicken breast, quinoa with sauteed peppers and onions

And, it doesn't have a picture but still deserves mention: Black Bean & Sweet Potato Chili. Yum!

Thanks for sticking with me through this lengthy update. But, I gave myself some slack in that it takes awhile to update someone on over a month of life. At least that’s what I tell myself. J

It has begun!

          Today is a special day. First, it marks my second week of being a resident of Iowa City. More on that in a minute. Second (and definitely more importantly), today would have been the 100^th birthday of culinary great Julia Child. I credit my Julia obsession to my life-long (as in, she knew my parents before I was born and babysat me) friend Pat. I’m a definitely a Julia fan: I’ve looked through her cookbooks, read her autobiography, and even characterized her during a historical wax museum I participated in during high school. So, cheers, Julia! You’re still the best.

          Now back to Iowa City. In short, I absolutely love it here! The combination of active lifestyles, numerous trails/parks and sidewalks, academia, and one of the nation’s top 3 teaching hospitals create an environment in which I am blessed to find myself. Most areas are within walking distance, including the artsy ped (pedestrian) mall downtown (definitely lots of places I want to visit there!) I do have to drive to work, to the nearby Coralville Hy-Vee, but it is worth it. J It is times like these that I am ever reminded of God’s providence and faithfulness. He knew this would be a good place for me. Oh, did I mention that there is a great PCA church here? Truly, God is good.

        In regards to the internship itself, it is slowly sinking in that is kind of a big deal (excuse my casual language) to be a dietetic intern. Last week, we were assigned our computers, pagers, keys to our intern office, etc., and also given our rotation schedules. The first two weeks of the internship are orientation, which means that we’ve received lots of training on the hospital’s charting system, policies, safety, taken pre-test exams, attended lectures on nutrition topics, homework, etc. I’m thankful that I know most of the content that we have covered and am grateful to have had such a wonderful undergrad dietetic program at Olivet. Still, however, I’ve been reminded of how serious –especially in the acute setting at UIHC-the dietetics profession can be. As much as I hope to rotate in the different ICUs (including a NICU), I’m also reminded of just how ill these individuals are. And how much I need to know in order to help them. But, I guess that’s why I’m here. I have ten months mentoring before I’m on my own, so I’ll definitely be taking advantage of it and learning all that I can from this experience.

        On Monday, we begin our graduate courses (and also take our first competency exam), with rotations starting on Tuesday. I’m excited, but also a little intimidated, to start out in GI surgery, but know that it will be okay. I have some assignments to complete prior to beginning the rotation, and I’m definitely going to be brushing up on GI in Krause. I must admit, though, that I am glad to be studying again. Guess I’m a hopeless academic.
       On a related note, I am beyond excited to be a part of such a group of wonderful fellow interns. I’ve already had opportunity to get to know many of them outside of class, which is great. It’s been interesting to compare our undergrad programs, and it’s also been nice to be back in a group that understands what on earth I’m talking about. However, I’m afraid I’m probably still the science nerd of the bunch. Some things never change. J

        I do promise to try and keep this updated at least weekly. My roommate and I are still trying to decide whether or not it is worth it to pay for internet, so my computing is a little limited, which I’m finding is a good thing in many ways. Communication may suffer a bit, however. On the flip side, though, I get to spend time at my new favorite coffeeshop-the Iowa City local business Java House-which is always a good thing. Anyway, I will do my best to keep all of you updated. Also, feel free to email/text or in any other manner contact me. I truly love hearing from all of you.

Now for that enteral nutrition homework due tomorrow…

Why I chose to enter the blogging world

       At the cost of what I expect to be much ridicule from my closest friends and also in the presence of a slight personal apprehension to this idea of broadcasting my life on the internet, I have decided to start (or rather, resume) my blog. When I began this blog three years ago, I was entering my sophomore year of college and believed a blog would be a great way to force myself to write about (and thus process) what I've been learning. Look at the history of this creation and you can see how far that went. I have no excuse, except that anatomy & physiology and organic chemistry ended up requiring pretty much all of my time. Now with my B.S. in hand, I decided to resume my blog, with the purpose changed slightly. Namely, this blog is going to serve as a place for me to share what I am learning, what life is like post-college, and anything else that strikes my fancy.  Please do not expect deep philosophical ponderings, although, who knows, they may happen. Instead, expect a dose of Martha-which those closest to me could describe to you as being unknown in variety, nerdy in content, and oftentimes humorous in delivery. Shout-out to my friend from college, Bekah, for inspiring me to resume my blog. Being a couple years my senior, her thoughts on her internship, first job as an R.D., etc., have always been encouraging and informative. So, I decided to do the same, in the hopes that someone would be encouraged by my thoughts.

      Currently, my life has involved work (dietetic internships are expensive, you know) and also getting ready for my internship. I am beyond blessed and also incredibly excited to be a part of the 2012/2013 dietetic internship class at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics. God has led me every step of the way: I have a fellow 2012 ONU grad roommate (yay for Michelle!), we have signed the lease on a nice apartment close to the hospital, I am able to continue working for Hy-Vee while in Iowa City (seriously, this is one of my favorite places to work!), and, most importantly, I was able to receive a position as a dietetic intern. I know that God will teach me much throughout this next year and I am excited to share my journey with you.

      The countdown has begun! I move to Iowa City August 1st, with the internship beginning on August 6th. So close! Unlike undergrad, in which one still came home occasionally, it is striking me that I am leaving my small Illinois hometown for Iowa City. Not exactly Chicago or New York City, I know, but still. I am excited, and yet know that my life will change. And, while change is good, I know my life will be different in one month than what it has been in the past. Therefore, I've decided to savor each day and enjoy it, the good and the bad, because my time is limited. Come to think of it, isn't that what we are supposed to be doing anyway, everyday? Curious.

    Well, I'm sure you have all heard quite enough from me for one sitting. :) Check back for updates; I cannot promise they will be frequent, but this time I WILL continue blogging. Oh, and, if you want a good laugh, please read my very first post on zucchini. If you choose to do so, please remember that this was the 18 year old version of me talking. I like to think that I've matured a least a little bit since then. :)