Charles UnEdited

Day 97: Visiting Hannah

2012-02-03T23:00:00.015+13:00

So even though I fell asleep relatively early yesterday, I still woke up at around 10am. That, I think, was at least 12 hours of sleep! Man all those nerves for my first week at work really drained me like mad. So I woke up and decided to relax and watch some sky and some glee online. After which I got ready to go visit Hannah in Winton at the shop. I left a little earlier so that I could refuel and also to go find some caches that we had found in Anderson park earlier this year. I had to find them myself so that I could log them. After that I went to visit Hannah at her parent's shop, and was supposed to help her gran with some office stuff, but ended up sorting some hangers, and not doing much after because I couldn't find the vacuum cleaner and there was some drama her gran needed to deal with. After that we watched the last episode of season 4 of chuck, before going for dinner at Hannah's gran's place. It was Yummy =)! I then played some games with Jack (Hannah's cousin), which was fun and real tiring. We then decided to go find 2 caches in Winton, the 2 mystery ones. We got home and did some sudoku before I left for Invercargill. Here is a picture of one of the caches I found at Anderson park.

Day 97:

Man I never knew real work could drain me so much.

Day 95: Week 1 of work done =)

2012-02-02T23:59:00.039+13:00

So today I started my second day of work in theatre. My preceptor was there too today, it was his first day back since being on paternity leave. He had a boy, who is a cutie =)! Today I helped out more out at the back, helping to open stuff in a sterile manner. Which can be nerve wrecking at times, because some stuff if you do it the wrong way, they don't have another set! Anyway made some mistakes, and learned from them as much as I could. Sometimes making mistakes is the only way you can learn, or the best way to learn what not to do. In the afternoon I worked as a circulating nurse, which was cool to actually learn what paper work to do, and since I was helping with eye operations, it was slightly different, so it was good to learn. I also found out from my preceptor that I more or less have an option to go up to full time and to do either 8 or 10 hour shifts once both of us feel I am ready to do so. Which is really cool. He said this was so because I had really really good reviews from people working in Theatre, which as they said was a "feather in my cap", which not many students get in theatre. Yes! I do want to get to full time as soon as I get used to the shifts. I don't see why I can't handle it once I get the swing of things ;). I also get a good long 4 day weekend which is cool =)! I came home, and after relaxing for a tiny bit, I fell asleep on the couch, before transferring to my room. Shows you how much nervousness takes the energy out of you. Today I received some mail from the hospital library about my 24 hour access, which shall be picture of today. I also have a mail box now =D! Big thing to me =)

Day 95:

Woohoo "Charles Tan RN" =D!

Day 94: Small acts of kindness do make a huge difference.

2012-02-01T23:00:00.001+13:00

So today was my first REAL shift at work, and it was really just like being a student, but I am paid to do it, and I have a locker. Yes I know it's like something we are meant to have, but it's just cool to have a locker =)! I think working at the level I worked at today just suited me, I was just tired, very excited, and very very nervous, so my brain was basically dead. Helping as much as I can, and staying out of the way was good enough for me as I am really out of touch from what I learned many months ago. A huge happy moment for me today was receiving a gift from a patient whom I helped to take care of while I was a student. At first I didn't think it belonged to be because it was addressed to a Charlie Wang. So I was like, nah it can't be me. So someone else opened it and they said, it must belong to you. It was a bottle of beer (which I may or may not ever drink:p) and a nice letter =). Why did I get this gift? It was during my elective placement, on my last week in recovery, I was helping to take care of patients, and for this patient I just got them a glass of water when they were more recovered. The person said that they found it to be the best glass of water ever! Who knew such a small act could make such a difference :p! I just did an 8 hour shift, which was good, because any longer and I would have been wasted :p! After getting home, I rested for awhile then went out to watch Tin Tin in 3D, with Hannah, Priscilla and Priscilla's friends. It was pretty decent actually, I think it is worth watching, but it's not for everyone I think. After that we went to maccas to have a later dinner, and talked for ages. A great day =)! Here is a picture of the gift and letter I received.

Day 94:

So now I am Charlie Wang too ;)

Day 93: What??? I still have to do homework?

2012-01-31T22:23:00.000+13:00

First, HAPPY 15 MONTHS HANNAH =)! Every day and month is so precious to me, it has been awesome having you beside me in this journey =)! Thank you for sticking it out with me during the good and the bad, and thank you for wanting a future of us =)! Love you!
Today was day 2 of orientation. Once again we were given heaps of lectures and were given heaps of paperwork that we needed to do by the end of our ten months. It's just like being back at school, just that now I am paid to be at the lectures, and I no longer do my "clinical" bit for free, and I am actually working towards going up levels! In ten months I will be a level 2 PDRP nurse! wow! That will also mean doing two portfolios, a care plan (or cleverly diguised as a "case study"), and a heap of other small must do things. In a sense, thank God I am only 0.8, but I still do want to see if I can stretch myself . God give me the Strength! Anyway here is a picture of Carmen and me =)! Carmen has been another one of the rocks in my nursing school life in SIT, and has played a big role in getting me past the finishing line. Thanks for all the support and laughs Carmen =)!

Day 93:

Not too bad a shot considering it was an "up the nose" shot :p!

Day 92: Day 1 at work

2012-01-30T23:03:00.001+13:00

So today was my first official day of working, and so my first real professional paying job as a nurse =)! It was just orientation though, and it was just like being back in SIT because most of the new graduates starting work in the SDHB were my classmate for the last two years anyway. We had a Powhiri of sorts, and I sat infront because I am a boy :p! haha. Then the rest of the day was lots of lectures about things like documentation, privacy, infection control, fire safety and etc. Not overly exciting but still important to know nevertheless. Carmen and Nikki were there too which was so cool =)! We ended surprisingly early, and so I decided to go geocaching since I had some time on my hands. I found 2 new ones and I popped in to an old one i found before and picked up 2 travel bugs (TBs) and I think I will drop off 2 there tomorrow if I have the chance. Anyway spend the rest of the night watching New Girl, and just watched an episode of glee. I also found some cool covers of Adele's Someone like you. Really cool voices. Here is a picture with the recently married Mrs Nikki Harrison, so happy for her =)! She has been a huge encouragement to me over the last two years, and I bet she will continue to be. She has always encouraged me even when many others seemed to try and put me down. Thank you Nikki =)!

Day 92:

Day 2 here I come =)!

Day 91: Dream sunday

2012-01-29T23:25:00.000+13:00

So today Hannah and I went to C3 church together, and it was dreams Sunday. So we all (most of us) wrote down our dreams for this year, and the cool part was that the pastors prayed for every single one of us and annointed our dreams cards =)! I am very sure God will honour those dreams and more! He is good. After that we went for lunch at a noodle canteen, YUM =D! Then we went shopping for Hannah's parents 25th anniversary gift. I also bought Hannah a 15 month present, which she liked so I am real stoked =)! Geocaching followed and we found the cache that we actually tried to find ages ago, but was muggled. Hannah left, and I took a very nice nap till dinner time. After dinner I watched Just follow Law, a Singaporean movie, with My dad and sister. Was pretty funny at some bits. Then I spent the rest of the night finding answers to some questions for my nursing iv workbook! I start work tomorrow so nervous and excited :p! Anyway here is a picture of the movie we watched tonight.

Day 91:

I miss these movies sometimes!

Day 90: Being nerdy with my girl

2012-01-28T23:59:00.001+13:00

First, DAY 90! Today I stayed up early in the morning to watch the Djokovic vs Murray match, another final standard match. So it will be Djokovic (1) vs Nadal (2) for the Australian open title. I slept in (a little) and woke up to do some stuff around the house, and watched New Zealand and Australia demolish Zimbabwe and India respectively, the Kiwi's destroyed Zimbabwe by an innings and 301 runs! Hannah then came, and we hung out, bought some pizza and borrowed a movie, tried to do emergency repair work to the hot house which was disintegrating in the horrid wind, and watched the latest episodes of BBT. After she went for the night service at Impact, we watched the movie we borrowed, and ended up being nerdy and updating our blogs and geocaching stuff :p! Here is a picture of us taken thanks to my dad.

Day 90:

A tad blur but better than nothing =)! I love that we can be nerdy together =)

Day 89: Fed express is slowly coming to a halt, rainy day, dinner treat...

2012-01-27T23:59:00.023+13:00

So I stayed up to watch the Federer vs Nadal match, to my disappointment Federer lost, but at least he fought really hard! I will say that it is impressive that Federer who is many years older that the other 3 of the top four can still reach semi finals at grandslams and give his younger counterparts a run for their money. It was also a very high level match, too bad it wasn't the final! So I slept in after that (a little), and then I just blobbed around for awhile before cleaning the dishes and watering my mums plants. I then went out to find the cache which I wrecked the cover off and managed to open it and sign it this time. I really want to clear the whole of the Invercargill/Southland area now, and maybe even have a good whack at Dunedin/Otago area too :p! I also found another cache partner in Phil, which is cool because I do like some company sometimes when I do caching, even better when they appreciate it too ;)! Watch out Gore, Mataura, Edendale, Wyndham and that surrounding area! Tonight Brendan and Andrea brought me out for a dinner treat, and we had Noodle Canteen for dinner, and Macdonalds for dessert! Yum =)! Now I am sitting back and enjoying to Tennis. Took them sometime to warm up, but now Djokovic and Murray are going for it! Anyway off to bed. Here is the picture of the cache I had so much trouble with, but it actually is real cool =)!

Day 89:

It's a cool cache ;)

Day 88: House move

2012-01-26T23:23:00.000+13:00

Yes today was the big house move, not mine but Brendan and Andrea's. So I was woken up just before 8am by Mrs Greer, because they were moving the house at 8.30/40. It is actually quite an amazing thought, to think that we can move houses around like that. So we went early and ended up just behind the house. So we followed behind then went up ahead after awhile to clear the path for the house. We spent the rest of the time watching them remove the house from it's trailer, and getting it ready to be placed in positon. After doing that we went back and started a pattern of running errands and having small breaks in between. First helped Mrs Greer get some frozen meat. After that we picked Mr Greer up from the house site. We (Phil and I) then went to Gore to run more errands and also met up with David West. When we came back we were tasked with helping Mr Greer and Brendan move a 4 tonne water tank over to the new house. All I can say is rain is not helpful in moving something so heavy. Almost had it topple at one point. At least I was some help, though in the wrong clothes :p! haha. oh well. Brendan and me then had an early dinner, before going with Andrea to meet my friend Sandy about making their wedding cake. Then a nice relaxing time at Bustercrab, and now watching Federer vs Nadal. A very good day I think =)! Here is a picture of the house move.

Day 88:

Yes a house being moved =)!

Day 87: Life after 50.... caches of course! haha

2012-01-25T17:40:00.000+13:00

So today I woke up a little later than what I wanted to, then again I decided to stay awake till pretty late last night watching tennis :p! So I had to deliver an assignment for my dad to SIT and after I decided to go find 3 caches which were pretty close to each other. The first one was easy, but I had to wait for a funeral precession to go past first before I could attempt it. It was quite well hidden, but I found it anyway. In it I also found a TB (Travel Bug) surprisingly =)! The next one was pretty easy, but the log book was full. Anyway I went to find my third one near the water tower, however failed (and this was my second attempt). I decided to stop looking and go back and regroup, and go home and gear up for a second wave of 3 caches. 2 were in the graveyard, and one was in the eastern entrance to Invercargill. All of them were relatively easy finds. Dropping off a TB in the world fastest Indian one where Burt Munro now lies, it was a suitable drop as the TB was attached to a car =). After that I decided to have another shot at finding the one at the water tower. After doing more research, I found this one. I then decided to treat myself to some juice, Nutella and also to buy a cake since I was going over to the Greers for tea and to stay over tonight. So another successful day of caching =)!

Day 87:

Travel bug that I found today =)!

Day 86: I have my Nursing Star and cache find number 50 =)!

2012-01-24T23:57:00.011+13:00

So today has been a real relaxing day. I spent most of the day watching tennis and cricket. First watched a hilarious Legends doubles match. I then watched Azarenka beat Radwanska and Clijsters beat Wozniacki, while channel flicking between the Australian Open and the Australia vs India cricket test match, I also watched Ponting(137 runs) and Clarke(140 runs) hit centuries against India in the first day of their 4th test, to bring up a partnership of 251 runs and a score of 335 runs with 3 out for Australia. Federer destroyed Del Potro next, after which I went to find my 50th cache, and leave a TB in the process :p! Now Nadal and Berdych have taken a set each in a very thrilling contest, and they are still going :p! The highlight of my day though is finally recieving my nursing start, it even has my Surname and initials and my register number engraved into it =D! Here is a picture of which the coloured version has been posted on facebook =)! Enjoy!

Day 86:

Thank you to everyone who has supported me in someway or another to accomplish this dream =D! Thank you to God for getting me through, opening the doors and sending me such wonderful people in many hard and good times =D! Thank you Hannah for being such a pillar for me, especially in my final year =D!

Love you Babe =D!xxx

Day 85: Sleep in, NFL, caching catastrope

2012-01-23T23:39:00.017+13:00

So today I slept in till 11, which was a real surprise to me, but I must have been very tired from the trip to Te Anau :p! Anyway I woke up to watch NFL and yay the Patriots are through to superbowl 46 =D. I am supporting them because the Packers have been eliminated :p! After that I watched some more NFL and Australian open tennis, did some blogging, caught up on sports on the internet, and also caught up on my reading the bible in a year thing. I hope I can keep up with it =D! After that I decided to go find some caches, and also hoped to make my 50th find. However after a positive start and finding my first of 2, after finding the second one, I couldn't open the 2nd cache! No matter what I used to try to open up the cache, I couldn't open it! grr! Oh well I reported it as needing maintenance, and hope for the best. Today was also Chinese New Year so I wished my dad GONG XI FA CAI and got myself an Ang Pau or red packet. so here is a picture of my red packet and other Chinese New Year related stuff =)!

Day 85:

I wish I had some more Chinese New Year's food :p!

Day 84: Sleep in and more caching

2012-01-22T13:35:00.001+13:00

So after our late night, the plan was to wake up early and make it to church. However after a late night, we slept in and decided to take our time to drive back. After a cup of tea each and slowly working through sudoku and some word puzzles in the newspaper, we went into town to get some branch. After branch we did some window shopping, and saw the 2nd biggest piece of greenstone (or Jade) on display in New Zealand. After that we found 2 more caches in Te Anau and also found another Trackable =)! We then left and took the drive back to Winton to get my car. On our drive we tried to find another 2 caches, and managed to find one =)! We got to Hannah's gran's place and then spent sometime there before heading back in. We tried to find one cache which I tried to solve, but couldn't find it, then decided to buy some Sistema containers to replace the cache we hid, and also for possible future hides. We then went to find a cache that Hannah had not yet found yet(and surprisingly I found before her:p). Then we came home bumped into Andrea and Brendan. Hannah wished my Dad a happy Chinese new year with oranges, and got an Ang pau or Red packet with some money on it. Then I cooked dinner, before dropping Hannah off. Another great weekend spent with my girl =)! Here is a picture of the travel bug we found.

Day 84:

Since I made you wait I took a picture of all three TB's we found.

The car we found today, the other 2 we found on Saturday =).

Day 83: Rob and Caroline are Married =)

2012-01-21T12:58:00.007+13:00

So today we woke up early (for us) and headed for Te Anau. So we decided to do some caching before Hannah's friends wedding. Along our drive in we found 4 caches, one of which was my first shot at an Earth Cache.Earth cache being one where, in this case, you find what you call an Erratic rock and you are asked a few questions about this rock. We also dropped off my 2 trackables and picked up another 2 in the process :p. After settling in at her family's place in Te Anau, Hannah and me went in to Te Anau to buy some stuff that Hannah needed, then we went to find another 2 caches too. one of which was a multi, which was probably another first for me =)! A multi being one where you have to find a series of way points before you find the final location of the actual cache. After that we met up with Jordan (Hannah's friend) and went to the wedding together. It was an outdoor wedding on the shore of a pond/lake (not sure :p) and it was kind of cold because of the wind, but it was a cool wedding other than not having any music. We went back to hang at home for awhile, then went for the reception. The food was real good, and I really loved the Ham =D! The dessert was good too. After going home, we chatted with Jordan for ages, and so in the end we all decided to stay the night. Here is a picture of the wedded couple at the reception =).

Day 83:

A very happy day for Hannah's friends =)

Day 82: Caching planning, and more cache finds =)

2012-01-20T12:17:00.018+13:00

So today was the first time I had a real problem caching other than my first cache. I went to search for 3 on my first go in the morning/afternoon, but only came back with 1. Had to go back to pack to go stay over at Hannah's Gran's place. Also had to get all the coordinates for the caches we would find in Te Anau or along the way. After packing and getting ready for the stay over and the wedding in Te Anau the next day I decided to hunt down the two I missed out on, and found them in DUH places. Also went to buy some some short bread to take to Hannah's Gran's place. Mum always said to never go to a person's place empty handed. Here is a picture of me planning the caching in Te Anau.

Day 82:

Yes, those green and yellow symbols are caches =).

Day 81: More Caching and doing homework

2012-01-19T22:53:00.000+13:00

So today I woke up relatively early for holidays and went to the hospital to drop off my MRSA swabs for my new job at the hospital! YAY! I am going to be working in the operating theater if you didn't already know :p! haha. Anyway after that I went to find 3 caches relatively close to the hospital, all of which I found surprisingly easily. I also found 1 that Hannah hasn't found before yet too. I found a trackable too, which Hannah told me I should place in our cache, and so I did that, not before getting lost (a little). Thank God for maps! So today we had our first two people finding it =)! After that I came home to do my "homework" and was able to do most of it, but still not sure about some. After that I sort of cooked dinner (my mum did most of the work...). The power died for awhile, which was strange. So I did some reading, and while doing that, sudden I felt my bed shaking, and after that a second shake more or less straightaway, my parents felt it too! Apparently it was a 5.8 off the coast 180km southwest of Tuatapere. Oh well, after that I was restless so I went to find another 2 caches, and ended up finding a third one near the crematorium. I know most Kiwi's aren't as freaked out as I would be, but I was considering I was the only one seemingly there. Also graveyards back home are way scarier. Anyway found 3 more, and another one that Hannah hasn't found :p. Here is a blur picture of the TB I found.

Day 81:

First to Find picked it up too =)

Day 80: Painting AGAIN??? + I AM GOING TO BE AN OT NURSE =D!!!

2012-01-18T21:42:00.000+13:00

DAY 80 =D!!! So guess what I did again today? Yes I did go caching again, but that is a given :p. It is established that I am addicted to caching at the moment, and I hope to continue loving it =). However today I went to help my friend Sandy paint her house, or at least her hall way =)! We managed to get like 2 coats of paint on in 3 to 4 hours. Which actually I am quite impressed with. Had a great chat with Sandy too. She too caches and so we also exchanged tips which was cool ;)! Also today I received more paperwork from my work, and so I have homework to do now. But I also found out today that I am going to be working in the OT! Yes!!! God is so so good! I have my dream job now =)! Firstly it said in my letter to report to the theatre on the 1st of February, and my preceptor was my OT preceptor on electives last year. Also because Sandy's mum-in-law works in OT too, she popped by while we were painting and she confirmed that I have been recruited into the OT! YES! PRAISE GOD =D!!!! So forgot my camera while painting, so here is a picture of the cache I found today.

Day 80:

Expected it to be very hard to find, but I found it almost straight away :p!

ps I AM GOING TO BE AN OT NURSE =D!

Day 79: Solo Caching craziness, and a great dessert outing at the Greenwoods.

2012-01-17T21:30:00.000+13:00

So today I went on an 8 caches solo mission. All these caches had been found by Hannah before, mostly one's we found together before I set up my account, and 1 or 2 that she had found without me too. There was one cache were I got dirty because I got a little too extreme for that was required :p. Yes I think it's official, I am addicted to caching. If it was a job, I would probably prefer it to nursing, only just though :p! haha. Hence it is a good hobby to keep me sane when I get deeper into nursing :p! Anyway found one Trackable too, and was disappointed not to find another. I wish people logged their trackables. Hannah then came in in the evening and we had an awesome time of chatting and good fun with the Greenwoods, and YUMMY dessert =D! hehe. Anyway here is a picture of the trackable or TB(Travel Bug) that I found.

Day 79:

Great day of caching and can't wait to plan this in Te Anau =)!

Day 78: Painting is fun :p

2012-01-16T21:19:00.000+13:00

So today I went out to Winton to help Hannah paint one of the properties that her family owns. We were supposed to paint 2/3 of the rooms, or at least put down a base coat. So we managed to paint all the walls of two of the rooms. We also managed to have quite a bit of fun too =)! Playing hide and seek and just being plain awesome as we usually are :p! Ended off the day by having tea at her Gran's place. I also sneaked in a cache find just before going home :p. haha, Here is a picture of us =).

Day 78:

I even had overalls on and looked the part :p!

Day 77: 12 points for 2012, 20 cache finds....

2012-01-15T19:01:00.000+13:00

77!!! Double Perfection :p! Today we went to church, which was so awesome. Just a simple worship team of a worship leader/guitarist plus a back up singer, and the annointing was so strong, so refreshing. Pastor David then preached about 12(actually 13) points for 2012, all simple but so good, I hope to be able to keep up with them all :p! Or at least do my best, and let God do the rest. After church we had lunch, and we just relaxed in the living room and also managed to watch the latest episode of BBT =)! Before Hannah left for Winton, we went to find suitable sites for a geocache placement, all three were good, but there was one that was especially promising =)! After Hannah left I came home, and then remembered I had to return a DVD we borrowed last weekend, so after that I decided to find some geocaches that I found with Hannah so that I could logged them for myself :p! I found six, and so now I am up to TWENTY =D! On the way home I took this photo which was very relevant to todays sermon =)!

Day 77:

Today Pastor David referred to Noah's Ark, a rainbow represents one of God's Covenants with us.

If you look carefully you can see the double rainbow =)!

Day 76: 14 caches on the 14th, Hannah's 200, Cabbage Tree and police excitement...

2012-01-14T00:58:00.000+13:00

So today Hannah and I went geocaching and found ourselves 14 caches on the 14th of January! Including 4 mystery ones! An epic day of caching if I say so myself =D! We also visited the Jagz, whom are the one's who introduced Hannah to caching, Aaron (Hannah's old school teacher) helped us to solve one of the mystery caches which I almost gave me a headache, it ended up being very easy. haha. After even more caching, we went home and got ready for our date to Cabbage Tree =D! Hannah had the Chicken Mint and Apricot, I had the lovely Seafood Fettuccine, we shared a Pavlova for dessert, and looked at some puzzles for our possible mystery cache =). After which we went to find another cache at the airport which had 2 trackables in it, and so we logged that we discovered them =)! We then went home and decided to go out to try and buy something to plant our cache. On the way back we went to find the cache that was my first find. Drama ensued and we got pulled over by the police because someone reported people climbing on the roof top of a shop, and they thought it was us, so we explained that we were geocaching, and eventually had to bring home the cache because the police advised us not to plant it tonight. Oh well. What a way to end an already exciting day =D!

Day 76:

We have been through a lot together, today was another one worth remembering.

I love you Hannah =)!x

Day 75: Watership down

2012-01-13T16:11:00.000+13:00

I started reading Watership down again. I first read it during army because one of my officers recommended it. It is one book that if i really get into it, I wish it will never end. Full of adventure, politics, and so many other themes that even I don't know about. Overall one of my favourites. Here is a picture of the book, a tad worn down from it's journey from Singapore.

Day 75:

Highly recommended =)! May be about rabbits, but it is an exciting adventure nevertheless ;)

Day 74: Farewell Janelle

2012-01-12T21:20:00.000+13:00

Today Janelle and Phil came to visit, because Janelle is leaving for Australia on Saturday. Also they came to bring some bowls, plates, trays and so on that we left in Cromwell/Tuturau. She also tried on her bridesmaid's dress for Andrea's wedding. Anyway she will be back for Andrea's wedding, but farewell Janelle, as we say in Chinese 再见(Zàijiàn), even though we use it to say goodbye, it literal translation is see you again ;)!

Day 74:

See you ;)

Day 73: Today I cooked Kutumba (Corriander) Chicken

2012-01-11T20:03:00.000+13:00

I basically just relaxed today, watching shows, reading Watership down, and playing some games. I also cooked Kutumba (don't know how to spell it) Chicken, or chicken marinated with ground corriander and some suger (chilli for those who like it hot), and just bake it till the chicken is cooked.

Day 73:

My dad said it as a little under cooked. So next time I will let it brown a lot more. Oh well I liked it =)!

Day 72: Geocaching Mania

2012-01-10T23:53:00.000+13:00

So today I woke up at 5am to go find the mystery cache that has been bugging me since Hannah and me tried to last find it :p! I even endured having eggs thrown at me and at my car! Gosh. However it was way too busy in the morning and had no one to watch my back, so i re-did the pod cast (cache) route we did to find the clues and had another look at the clues. I then decided to recruit my parents to come help me to find it, for my evening try. With my parents watching my back (and pretending to take photos :p) I had a quick look and found it to my delight! My first official find =D! And to add to it, I found 2 trackables too =D! And to add to that, because I am the first to pick up one of the trackables, I also get a pin =D! YAY! Such an awesome day! Here are the trackable (and my pin) in case you wondered how they look :p!

Day 72:

Now to find these new homes =)! Minus the pin of course :p

Day 71: Jump starting my car, going on a nice long drive, visitors for tea...

2012-01-09T22:20:00.000+13:00

So I slept in a tiny bit today, but woke up and we (my dad and I) decided to quickly jump start my silver car. Yesterday before I went out to try and find the mystery geocache, I found out that my silver car was totally dead! Couldn't start it. So my dad and I pushed it out, and used to the red car to jump start it. After doing that I took the car on a drive to otatara and back, round to the hospital, back up rockdale road, round dome street and just generally the long way home to charge up the battery. After that we had visitors of tea. Been real tired today too. Here is a picture of us jump starting my car.

Day 71:

The Tank (as I call my car) took ages to be jump started! At least it was going after awhile =)!

Day 70: Anderson park, teaching parents about geocaching, being egged on...

2012-01-08T23:59:00.000+13:00

YAY 70 days =D! Well today we went to Anderson park for C3 gathering at the park. It was not too bad an event. I learnt that I probably need to get to know more people in C3. Hannah and me went to look for 2 caches, then had a short play in the play ground. After having some lunch and just before we left we let my parents help to find a geocache. We then went to Mcdonalds and had ourselves super super super sundaes! Yum! After that we searched for one more cache in Queens Park, however I think that someone muggled(stole) it! After we got home, we logged our caches, and went to find 2 more caches that we were supposed to find on that day we bumped into that dog that followed us. We then came back and Aaron came to pick Hannah up to go to Wanaka for a holiday with her family. After that I spent the rest of the night preparing the wedding invites. After which I went to hunt for another of the geocaches we couldn't find on friday. However while doing that, some drunken idiots tried throwing eggs at me. The first time I was walking, and the egg landed in front of me. Second time I was in the car waiting for things to quieten down in the car, and they plastered the car with an egg. Man I love how "friendly" Invercargill is sometimes. Can't wait to move, but God wants me here for some reason so I stay. Anyway other than that stupid egg incident, it was a good day =)!

Day 70:

I love this girl =)! How did I get her?

Day 69: Nikki is Married =D!

2012-01-07T23:59:00.000+13:00

Today Hannah and me woke up and had funny shaped oat pancakes for breakfast with my parents. We then went out to find a cache nearby, which was irritating to find because you had to search through the bush. After that we went to my good nursing friend Nikki's Wedding =)! Man I am so happy for her! I still remember the day 2 years ago that she showed us her ring! I am so excited for her =)! I also can't wait for our turn =D! It was a beautiful day, sun out, little or no clouds, the rose garden was in it's full splendor, just a beautiful outdoor wedding =)! We then came home and watched a movie before going to the reception. A great day with Hannah, and a great day for my good friend Nikki =)!

Day 69:

Day 68: 7 Caches with Hannah =)!

2012-01-06T23:59:00.000+13:00

Today was supposed to be a productive day of getting wedding invites posted out, however due to circumstances out of my control I didn't end up doing that. Anyway HANNAH came in the afternoon and we went geocaching =D! We were supposed to find 10 today, however due to some distractions we only found 7. First a stray (lost) dog followed us for our first 3 finds. So we changed our walking plan and decided to get a car to lose the dog. We continued finding 4 more caches before getting caught up eating SUPER SUPER SUPER Sundaes at McDonalds. After which we ran out of time (and had too many people watching us for one cache) and light, and so ended our cache count at 7. Which is real cool because that's the most we have done together thus far =D! YAY! I really like geocaching with Hannah, can't wait to do more of it, and hopefully in way more different countries :p! Until then, let's clear out Invercargill =D!

Day 68:

Hannah after a Cache find, posing with an interesting smiley face.

Day 67: Replacement luer, car clean up and good old fashion talking...

2012-01-05T23:44:00.003+13:00

Today I woke up at 9am to watch my soccer match, only to watch my team get trashed 3-0. I think this year is definitely not their year. Hopefully they buy a few star or world class players in this transfer window. Well maybe one? We can only hope. Oh well it's just a game in the end. After that I went out shopping with my parents (to save petrol in my car), I had to buy a replacement luer for Phil as I lost the present I gave him while I was at Cromwell! Real embarrassing :p. But line snapping does happen :p! After that I cleaned up my car, gave it a good vacuum (or lux for some), and got rid of the car seats and stuff in my car. It is quite clean now. After dinner I went to Catherine's to pick up the invites I need to do, and to catch up with Andrei. Had a good chat at KFC, and had wicked wings which went straight to my thighs (as Hannah says) :p! Oh well here is a picture of Phil's new prized luer :p!

Day 67:

Sorry for the poor quality, I should have done the photo in better light :p!

Day 66: I cooked dinner today.

2012-01-04T18:54:00.000+13:00

Today was once again a slack day. I watched 50 first dates, and continued to watch a combination of BBT and Glee. I am at least happy I am catching up with 2 shows I like. I also had to cook dinner today, and so I cooked pasta. Here is what I came up with.

Day 66

Yum is I dare to say so myself :p!

ps I never knew I could miss someone so much. Miss you Hannah. xxx

Day 65: Day one post Holiday

2012-01-03T23:57:00.000+13:00

Today I really just bummed. I feel like something is missing now that Hannah is not around. I slept in, then woke up and ate oat pancakes (my parents are on a new special diet thing for my mum's diabetes). I just watched Glee and Big Bang theory most of the rest of the day. I also signed up with the Geocaching website, and solved one mystery cache out on the way to oreti beach. Can't wait to see Hannah again, and just give her a big hug. Miss you babe.

Day 65:

I actually quite like geocaching =)! I like that Hannah introduced it to me! Thanks babe =)!

Day 64: Travelling Home with Hannah

2012-01-02T23:59:00.001+13:00

Today Hannah and me had a roadie together back home =). Before leaving, early in the morning we experience a 5.5 earthquake! It felt pretty big and lasted quite a bit too! No wonder people get so freaked out, if a 5.5 (the 11th biggest so far since the first earthquake) can make me go into fight and flight mode, then a 6 or more would be real scary. We left Christchurch a little later than expected, and on the way to Arrowtown (to pick up Hannah's car and meet Alice) we found 2 more geocaches =)! After meeting up with Alice and Matt, we went to play mini-golf in good old Qtown. Matt won by a mile, Hannah got a hole in one, Alice had a boomerang ball, and I played trick shots :p! After saying our goodbyes, Hannah and me convoyed to Garston to find our third cache of the day before parting ways, to go back to our respective homes. An awesome roadie with Hannah, and a good time meeting up with Alice =)! Just a great day with my girl =)! I love her, and miss her already... anyway here is a photo of the four of us at mini golf.

Day 64:

ps It was my first time driving from Christchurch to Invercargill, and not only that we took the long way going through Cromwell-Arrowtown-Queentown on the way to Invercargill.

pps It was also my first time driving through the Devils Staircase as the driver =)! YAY!

Day 63: HAPPY NEW YEAR =D!

2012-01-01T21:05:00.000+13:00

After staying up to wait for New year, we decided to watch Love Actually. Which is actually quite a cool movie, minus all the explicit stuff :p! Then had to wake up early to go set up in church. Pastor John preached about pressing on, which was something I really needed to hear =)! Thank you God! Spent most of the rest of the day watching glee. Hannah cooked dinner which was yum =)! Another good day of holiday I think =)!

Day 63:

This is actually quite a nice photo of us =)! Love you Babe =)!x

Day 62: Geocaching and dating Hannah =)!

2011-12-31T23:59:00.000+13:00

Today Hannah and I went geocaching, and we found 4 caches and almost a fifth one :p! We also went to watch We bought a zoo, and have dinner (McDonalds, just to be a little fancy :p). I wasn't sure if the movie was going to be good or bad, but it did end up being quite good actually =)! We also stayed up for new year =)! Over all an awesome day hanging out with my babe =)!

Day 62:

My Beauty logging her cache find =)!

***

HAPPY 14 Months Babe =)! I have never been so happy ever! Best time of my life =)! I just really like being with you Hannah. Can't wait to marry you and have a family with you! Thank you for being my rock in hard times, and my joy in the good =)! Looking forward to our exciting journey to come =D! I love you! xxx

Day 61: Cooking for my darling =)

2011-12-30T22:29:00.001+13:00

Today my parents and I sent Joseph, Renee, Isaac and Benjamin off at the airport. They are off to Auckland for Joshua's wedding. After which I came over to Hannah's place and spent the day blogging, watching movies and tv shows, and just being awesome as usual with Hannah. I also cooked dinner tonight =)!

Day 61:

Hannah quite liked it =D! YAY!

Day 60: Hanging with my beauty

2011-12-29T23:59:00.000+13:00

YAY 60!!! Today I hung out with my gorgeous Hannah; we spent the day baking, cleaning and just being generally awesome =D! We also celebrated Joseph's birthday.

Day 60:

BANANA CUPCAKES =D! YUM!

(Caution: They go straight to your thighs!!!)

Day 59: Zàijiàn Eric Jr.

2011-12-28T23:59:00.001+13:00

Today we sent Eric Jr. off to Singapore. My dad almost booked him the wrong date and nearly sent him a day later than today. However He couldn't afford that as he had his army medical to attend. After sending him off, I got to hang out with HANNAH =D! Yay! It was awesome. Helped her to unpack her bookcase, and we made food, and we watched movies =)! The end.

Day 59:

Good bye Zhi Ming forever.... nah I'll see him at AnGreer's wedding :p

Day 58: Travelling to Christchurch

2011-12-27T23:59:00.001+13:00

This day was spent travelling up to Christchurch mostly. We left at a reasonable time from Cromwell. I got to sit with Hannah on the way up, which was awesome =D! We stopped at Lake Tekapo for Sashimi (Raw Salmon) lunch (Hannah had a pie :p). Then we continued on our adventure up to shaky land. Here is my picture for the day.

Day 58:

Lake Pukaki, with Mount Cook in the background.

Day 57: Boxing Day fun.

2011-12-26T23:59:00.000+13:00

So we mostly slept in, the four boys sleeping in the lounge area. Woke up and went to Queenstown for a double date with Brendan and AnGr... oh sorry I mean Andrea, and of course Hannah and me =)! We had Patagonia Ice cream. Yum =D! I also had sushi for lunch. I had a lazy day after that, then we went to find another 3 geocaches =D! I managed to find one this time (usually hannah is too good and finds them :p).
Here is a picture from the day.

Day 57:

I just really love this girl =)!

Day 56: Christmas Day, Presents, Cromwell, Hannah is with me =D!

2011-12-25T23:59:00.000+13:00

Today we made the windy journey from Invercargill to Cromwell. Had a HUGE Christmas lunch, sang carols, opened our presents (I got socks from Robin who was my secret santa), fished (and lost the luer I bought for Phil's present :p), and then HANNAH CAME =D! We had dinner, and we went Geocaching, and found 3 and a half Caches =)! She also gave me a present which is this I wore, here is a picture. An overall good day =)!

Day 56:

No it isn't a headscarf, it is a beach towel which I am sure Hannah and me will put to good use =)!

Day 55:Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T22:43:00.001+13:00

So today I really felt tired. Opened our presents from Brendan and Andrea after a Roast ham and chicken dinner. This is what I got:

Day 55:

I did consider buying this once, let's hope it's good =)! Thank you Bren-Drea =D!

ps TOMORROW I GET TO SEE HANNAH =D!!!!

Day 54:Engagement party madness

2011-12-23T23:59:00.001+13:00

Today I spent most of the morning helping to chop up broccoli (into tiny bits) and capsicums for Andrea's two salads for Brendan and her engagement party. 80 plus people were supposed to come, but many couldn't make it and we had 40-50 people. Food was good, company too. I will add that the salad which had the broccoli that i cut up into tiny pieces was all finished :p! Overall a good day I think. Here is a family photo with the cakes.

Day 54:

Greer and Tan Family photo

Day 53: Watching Soccer, Starbucks, Movie...

2011-12-22T16:14:00.000+13:00

Today I woke up relatively early, because my dad reminded me I needed to bring in the rubbish bin. After which I watched the first half (or most of it at least) Of Man Utd vs Fulham. My Nephew chasing me off the TV, tell me "Switch off TV Uncle, press the Red button" or something like that. I was also forced to give up their Ipad so that they could entertain themselves. After which Andrei came and we had a starbucks and Puss in Boots date, forgot to take a photo of us, so I took this instead.

Day 53:

It was a decent movie, hopefully all the movies out next year will be awesome.

ps forgot to use my student ID! Dang it :p!

Day 52: Taking care of the boys in the sun...

2011-12-21T12:21:00.000+13:00

Today I have had to help take care or at least keep an eye out for the boys. Here is a picture of the boys watering our vege garden.

Day 52:

My Nephew Ben having a go at spraying the Veges(and also maybe my mum :p)!

Day 51: Christmas Shopping

2011-12-20T16:05:00.000+13:00

So we are having sort of a secret santa at Cromwell for Christmas, and Phil is mine. So I bought him some stuff which I hope he likes =)!

Day 51:

I hope His fishing improves with this :p! hehe

Day 50: Boys playing in the garden.

2011-12-19T19:20:00.000+13:00

Today was a sleep in day for me. Stayed up to watch beautiful football, watching Barcelona thrashing Santos 4-0 in the Club World Cup, it was a sight to behold, Barcelona just look untouchable when they are at their best! I also watched Manchester United beat QPR 2-0. Manchester wasn't as beautiful a Barcelona, but there were glimpses of what they can do when they are at their rampaging best. Let's hope United can bring back some silverware this year. Anyway here is a picture of my nephew's playing in the sunny weather in the tree house.

Day 50:

Here are my beautiful nephews Isaac(right) and Benjamin(left) =)!

Day 49: Te Anau and the scenic route home...

2011-12-18T16:18:00.000+13:00

So we went to Te Anau yesterday to stay over night. Got there and needed to pee, and found toilets where you had to pay 1 dollar to pee! Gosh! After checking in, went for a walk, had dinner at home, and then went to watch a 30 minute "movie" on the Fiordlands. It had beautiful shots, but was so boring with only music. lol. Next went to the fat duck for dessert, which wasn't all it was cut out to be. Today we had to get up early to leave, we went to the mirror lakes, then took the scenic route home. Here is a picture from one of our stops along this scenic route:

Day 49:

Resting with McCracken :p.

Day 48: Off to Te Anau, I have a degree and I am officially a Registered Nurse =)

2011-12-17T11:13:00.000+13:00

So today I am off to Te Anau, but decided to take a picture of my Bachelor's Degree Certificate and my Nursing Council Of New Zealand Certificate to say that I am a Registered Nurse =)! Here it is:

Day 48:

Still need an Annual Practicing Certificate to be a REAL nurse.

Day 47: My Sister and family are here =)!

2011-12-16T20:38:00.000+13:00

So I drove up yesterday to Dunedin. To pick my Joseph, Renee, Isaac and Benjamin Koh. Today I more or less spent the day taking care of my nephew/nephews. It has been loads of fun, but exhausting too :p! Now back in Invercargill. Feel like I have been driving around heaps for a week:p. haha. Here is a picture of my nephew Benjamin and me at breakfast =D!

Day 47:

He ended up only eating the strawberry and the icing :p! haha

Day 46: It's 6am and I am off to Dunedin

2011-12-15T06:02:00.000+13:00

Just thought I would update my blog before I leave to Dunedin. Dedicating this blog post to my Bestest Friend and Girlfriend Hannah =)! I miss you and love you babe =)! xxx

Day 46:

Me being super Asian as you would call it babe +D! Bahahaha....xxx

Day 45: Aliens vs Cowboys vs David West???

2011-12-14T19:25:00.001+13:00

Today I didn't end up doing much, just went to the bank to get my credit card sorted. After which I cooked for my guest of honour David west. I cooked a mince meat stir fried dish and baked some chicken along with our usual rice. We also had dessert, compliments of Andrea (Cheese cake), with some ice cream I bought with my credit card =)! And we finish off the evening watching Aliens versus Cowboys. Here is a picture of me with Chef David:

Day 45:

I managed to satisfy a chef, so my cooking must be at least ok :p! haha

Day 44: Just being lazy in hot Invercargill

2011-12-13T18:12:00.000+13:00

Today we met up with Pastor Dave from C3 Church, and it was real cool that he was willing to listen to our stories and our passions and willing to use us where we want to serve with our talents. I am not in the mood to serve yet, but I will start by early next year, and I thank God I am not judged for feeling that way. The rest of the day I have been lazy watching movies, playing computer games and even taking a nap because I didn't sleep too much the night before. It has been real hot here, take a look at this picture.

Day 44:

Been this way for quite a few days! haha.

Day 43: Skyping Hannah

2011-12-12T12:47:00.000+13:00

Today I skyped Hannah. That always makes my day =)! Thank you Hannah =)! x

Day 43:

Sorry for the poor quality shot :p! I love you babe =)!xxx

Day 42: Mini Golf =)!

2011-12-11T23:59:00.000+13:00

Today we slept in again, then went for lunch in Wanaka, where I had pasta salad which was yum =)! After which we went to play mini golf =D! I wasn't that fantastic, but i think 85 is probably a huge improvement from my last time! haha. So I will take that. After which we went back to Cromwell packed up, and left for the Greers for dinner(which was real yummy), before coming home =)!

Day 42:

Proof that I can sink a gold ball into the hole =)!

Day 41: Kayaking, fishing, Ferg burger and Patagonia ice cream =)!

2011-12-10T23:59:00.000+13:00

After a long tiring journey through Queenstown we finally were in Cromwell =)! We slept in, and then went Kayaking for ages, and saw some really cool houses built partially on the water! I even kayaked under the beam supports that were built, ready for new houses to be built on them! After that and lunch, we went fishing for some time too and managed to catch a fish =)! Would put a picture of the fish up, but only took a picture of it after it was gutted. We went for dinner, getting Fergburger, Sweet Bambi never failing to satisfy my stomach =D! After which we had Patagonia ice cream for dessert =)!

Day 41:

We really need a Fergburger and Patagonia date Hannah =)!

Day 40: Pass States + Graduation = Charles Tan RN

2011-12-09T21:20:00.000+13:00

Today we went to have an awesome breakfast at Hannah's Gran's place, and also played some cricket. After which we got home and I checked my state finals exam results and found that I passed (I heard SIT was 100%). Today was also my graduation, a day filled with happiness and sadness, happiness that we are now nurses, but sadness that most of us would have ended our journeys together. What made me most happy was that Hannah was here at my Graduation =D! Thank you Lord!

Day 40:

I LOVE YOU HANNAH THANK YOU FOR COMING =D!

Day 39: HANNAH IS HERE =D!

2011-12-08T22:34:00.000+13:00

Hannah is here, enough said =)! I love you Hannah!x

Day 39:

Hehe=D

Day 38: Catlins and Greer's for tea.

2011-12-07T22:42:00.000+13:00

Our guest came last night from singapore. So today we went to the Catlins. Over there we firstly saw a seal that after lazing around for awhile, started posing for us. Then at our next location, we saw a lone penguin come up from the sea and walk/waddle up to it's nest/home. Very blessed because we were there around 12 noon and they only usually come in around the evening time. After Catlins, we went to the Greer's farm, and we first went fishing, which ended up with us having zero bites. Came back and our guests were shown around the farm, and to top it all off we had an awesome Kiwi tea an dessert =)! Here is a picture of our friendly penguin:

Day 38:

Who says penguins can't fly?

ps Can't wait for my babe to come tomorrow =D!

Day 37: Lazy day.

2011-12-06T17:15:00.000+13:00

Today I have just really been a lazy bum. Been real tired from late nights, and early mornings. I am not complaining, because I love waking up early to talk to Hannah. Also she has had to take care of 3 kids for the last three days! Anyway to keep long stories short here is a picture that sums up my day.

Day 37:

2 More Sleeps babe =D!

Day 36: Graduation Regalia, running errands, and handing in my contract...

2011-12-05T15:28:00.000+13:00

Today has been a relatively busy day :p! I woke up early to talk to Hannah, which is always awesome =)! Later in the morning I went to SIT to pick up my graduation Regalia and tickets, they gave a free parker pen too =p! I also caught up with quite a few good friends, which was cool, and found out that results are out on Friday :o! After that I just ran some errands (groceries and banking stuff) and bumped into more friends :p. After that I came home for lunch and Kirsty came over with Zavier. Then I went to send in my contract and that was way faster and easier than I expected. Anyway here is a picture of my Regalia

Day 36:

Thank God it's not bright Orange :p! haha.

Day 35: New church building, noodle canteen lunch at estuary, and hair cut...

2011-12-04T17:23:00.000+13:00

So today Pastor David announced that C3 Church Invercargill will be looking into the possibility of buying a place in Teviot Street. It basically has 2 halls and will be real awesome for a new church building =)! Hoping to give at least 300 by March. Then we went to the Estuary for lunch on such a beautiful day in Invercargill. After which we men/boys had our hairs cut. I didn't notice how thick my hair was until today while Katy was thinning my hair and I felt how hard it was to pull a comb through my hair. Here is a picture of me after my hair cut.

Day 35:

Somehow feel lighter up top :p!

Day 34: Lazy day, missing Hannah...

2011-12-03T17:41:00.001+13:00

Today I haven't accomplished anything of much value, really needed a day like this, and the weather has matched me. Been playing football manager, finished reading my book and took a nice nap in the coolness today. Have been missing my darling Hannah heaps too. Here is a picture of my football manager game.

Day 34:

Babe I play this to distract me from thinking about you, because if not I just start missing you. Yet the longer we are together the harder it is to distract myself. I love you Hannah, and I miss you heaps!
ps. I did end up going for a walk in the end :p!

Day 33: Signing contract, credit cards, student account....

2011-12-02T15:38:00.000+13:00

Today I went for my walk and went to the bank to get some stuff done, I went to change my account back to a student account, so free banking till 31st of march. Then I can change it to a graduate year one next year, so another year free =D! I also signed up for a credit card for free =)! which is cool. haha. So quite a useful day today. Yesterday I got my contract and paperwork for my job. Here is a shot of the folder that the huge amount of documents came in:

Day 33:

Never knew there was so much do to to get a job :p!

Day 32: Farewell Steve...

2011-12-01T16:55:00.000+13:00

Today Steve came over for lunch (Tess also came over =) ) and it was sort of a mini farewell for steve. He has been a good friend, and as shocking as it may be to some, I will miss him and his enthusiasm and energy. I know God has an awesome plan for him, and that I will probably see him when I now do make visits to Christchurch. So I am very glad that he is making a step out in faith so that he can grow. If you ever read my blog, I will miss you steve! God has your back, and has many blessings install for you! Much love.

Day 32:

Go to grow my brother! God will be with you every step of the way! God speed!

Day 31: Found employment, washing, shopping, cooking, and basically being a domestic King.

2011-11-30T17:20:00.000+13:00

So the biggest news of today is that I HAVE A JOB!!! haha. after calling me yesterday to tell me i missed out on the job, they called me to offer me something else! Man God is good! such a miracle. Working in day surgery which isn't my final goal, but it is a huge huge step in the right direction! Praise God! Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! I also washed my clothes on this hot day, when for a walk, did grocery shopping, came home to cook and helped Hannah a tiny bit with her charity fashion show idea =)! Here is a picture of my cooking:

Day 31:

Satay Chicken. Bon appétit!

Day 30: Still job hunting and starting to walk again.

2011-11-29T17:12:00.000+13:00

Well today was the big day, with me waiting for a call about the job I applied for down here, unfortunately I lost the job to someone who had "more" experience. Well I am disappointed, and a little demoralized, but God keeps telling me not to worry, so I will keep clinging on to His promises and know that He will provide me something somewhere, and it will be awesome! Just came back from my walk not too long ago and found this self made sign quite cool, so I took a picture of it :p!

Day 30:

Unrelated to the picture but related to the bulk of my post:

"And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

Amen!

Day 29: Federer wins, Interview...

2011-11-28T11:48:00.000+13:00

Today I woke up and called Hannah, which is always an awesome way to start my days =)! Then I went out had a light breakfast, and watched Federer win the year end championship. Today I went for my interview of the job I really want at the moment, Thank you Lord for the opportunity to have an interview =)! It is now in Your Hands Lord =)! Here is a picture of the email I got, and a map of where I had to go to.

Day 29:

I had to go to building 4 on the map for my interview

ps they will be calling me latest tomorrow :O!

pps I am so in love with you Hannah!

Day 28: Back home and mail

2011-11-27T18:25:00.000+13:00

Today I sadly had to leave Christchurch and come back home to Invercargill. It has been a week well spent in the company of Hannah, and many other awesome people =)! Thanks babe for awesome times! I came home to mail, a wedding invitation to Nikki and Dan's wedding, and the last component to my Christmas Present to Hannah =)! hehe. Here is a photo of that.

Day 28:

Ps the trip down was good, went by faster than I thought =)!

pps Miss you already Hannah!

Day 27: Wedding bells are ringing...

2011-11-26T16:56:00.000+13:00

Today I went with Hannah to Barrie and Toni (Antonia) Smith's (now) Wedding. Barrie is Hannah's uncle (Hannah's Dad's cousin) and she lived with him for most of the year. Here is a photo from the day =)

Day 27:

Hannah, Brittany, Nikita (whom may sing at my wedding), me =)

Day 26: Drexels, Fiesta, and just plain awesomeness

2011-11-25T23:13:00.000+13:00

Today Hannah and me had a date at Drexels. I bought yummy waffles with bacon and sliced bananas, and Hannah ordered French toast with peaches, and we washed it down with yummy smoothies=)! It was so yummy! Spent the rest of the day with Hannah going to the Fiesta at Middleton Grange, and just being plain awesome with Hannah =D! Love you babe! Photo of us at Drexels:

Day 26:

Drexels should pay us for advertising their food ;)!

Day 25: Monopoly Deal, Shopping, talking, etc...

2011-11-24T23:04:00.001+13:00

Today Hannah decided she wanted to handle Dave on her own, which is cool, I know how challenging kids can be, Dave is a pretty good kid though ;)! So I met up with Hannah at around 4 after going to the mall for awhile. Was nearly lost, but managed to get myself from the mall to her place. Ate an awesome tea made by her(I love the mushrooms!), then we played monopoly deal, we also went shopping and just hung out which was real cool! Here is a picture of Monopoly deal:

Day 25:

ps I managed to beat Hannah a fews times, an amazing feat because she is normally unbeatable at Monopoly Deal! I have a suspicion that her being tired helped me alot! haha. I love you Hannah =D!x

Day 24: Gingerbread man, movies, swimming, mini accidents, and sleep...

2011-11-23T19:49:00.000+13:00

Today Hannah had Dave, Pastor John and Kerryn's son, and I tagged along. First when I turned up at Hannah's flat I found them making gingerbread men. We then watched most of Megamind before taking Dave for his swimming lesson. Plus we did heaps more before dropping the kids (we picked up the 2 older ones), after which I just came back to sleep. Anyway here is a picture of Hannah with her finished gingerbread men and gingerbread flowers.

Day 24:

A good balanced day for me =)! Getting a nice nap after all the activities :p!

ps tea was awesome! I need to learn how to make lasagna!

Day 23: Extra time well spent =)

2011-11-22T23:32:00.001+13:00

Today Hannah had a free day, because she once again is unemployed(for now). So we spent the day hanging out in the sun, watching Big bang theory, and most fun of all Geocaching =)! Here is a picture of us enjoying ourselves out in the sun after finding our geocach of the day =)!

Day 23:

Fun times with beautiful Hannah =)!

Day 22: Hungry Girlfriend

2011-11-21T19:53:00.000+13:00

Today Hannah came over to the Manickams where I am staying and had tea. She was so hungry she was protecting her food. It was funny =)! She can protect her food and pose at the same time too :p! Have a look:

Day 22:

I love this woman =D!

Day 21: Dancing Hannah

2011-11-20T20:38:00.001+13:00

Today I spent my whole day at Equippers (Hannah's) Church. It was a real refreshing time, and I got to see my beauty dance =)! And I took this photo:

Day 21:

She looks so good here, like a model, this photo should be in a magazine =D!

Day 20: Reunited

2011-11-19T19:59:00.001+13:00

Yay! I am in Christchurch with my darling Hannah =)!

Day 20:

ps DAY 20 for our photo journey =)!

pps I love you my darling =D!xxx

Day 19: Me

2011-11-18T18:29:00.001+13:00

Too excited to think about what photo to take today. So just decided to take on of myself. Missing you babe (yes I know I will see you soon, but doesn't stop me from missing you right up till I am with you :p). Love you Hannah =)!

Day 19:

I know I should smile, but it is not always easy to smile when I am away from you Hannah...x

Day 18: Movies and popcorn

2011-11-17T17:39:00.001+13:00

So decided to get out of the house to get myself a dvd to watch and I decided to get "We are Marshall". A pretty happy/sad movie based on a real life story, about a university football team losing their whole team to an airplane crash, and how a whole town in mourning rebuilt their team from scratch. It became a team that went on to win multiple national championships in the future (our our past). Quite inspirational really.

Day 18:

The only thing missing from this picture is my darling Hannah sitting right beside me =)!

Day 17: Washing clothes... part 2

2011-11-16T12:56:00.000+13:00

Today was a nice sunny day, so I decided to wash my 2nd load of clothes for this week. ps it's also my brother's clothes too...

Day 17:

pps Had an awesome morning chat with Hannah today =)!

Day 16: It is finished...

2011-11-15T16:06:00.001+13:00

So after 2 one and a half hour exams (with 10 minutes of reading time), I have finally finished my nursing degree! YAY! It feels so unreal at the moment. The exams were ok, some real hard questions, about 4-5 of these, some i didn't know because i didn't touch on in my studies, some not sure. in the end I had more than the 54 per exam that I needed to get that I was quite or very sure of. So a good exam I think! Now for a decent holiday I think =)! Here is a picture of our important admission sheet.

Day 16:

Feel like ripping it to shreds but still need it for my results yet :p! haha

Day 15: HANNAH IS COMING FOR MY GRADUATION =D!

2011-11-14T08:21:00.001+13:00

Thank God I called Hannah This morning! Nek Minnit I checked grabaseat and there were flights for her to come down for my graduation! All up 118 dollars! What is more my parents are willing to reimburse me =D! Praise Jesus! YES YES YES!

Day 15:

YAY! YAY! YAY! YAY! PRAISE JESUS =D!

Day 14: Like a rose... trampled on the ground...

2011-11-13T01:20:00.001+13:00

So I decided that since I was blogging, that I would continue blogging my next day's picture. Since it's a Sunday this picture I took reminded me of a worship song; Above All by Michael W. Smith. Not sure if you have heard it but you should listen to it if you haven't, it is a very meaningful worship song. Anyway here is my picture:

Day 14:

"Like a rose
Trampled on the ground
You took the fall
And thought of me
Above all"

- Above all (Michael W. Smith)

Day 13: I hear Wedding bells ringing...

2011-11-12T23:59:00.004+13:00

So yesterday night (Friday) we were told by the Greer's that we HAD to go for dinner(tea) at their place on Saturday night. To add to the drama my father was just going to have reached back to Invercargill from Singapore at 7.20pm that night. The reason we went there for tea was this:

Day 13:

You probably won't see my blog but Congratulations Brendon and Andrea (soon to be AnGreer) on getting engaged =D! Can't wait for our turn :p!

Day 12: Grocery boy and chauffeur

2011-11-11T16:55:00.001+13:00

On today the 11.11.11 it has been a rainy day, and once again, one of the joys of being able to drive equals to people asking you to run errands. Which means driving people around and buying stuff my mum doesn't think of buying when she has the chance. Oh well.

Day 12:

Proof that I do do grocery shopping albeit a little reluctantly.

Day 11: Boy hood dreams and games...

2011-11-10T16:09:00.001+13:00

Haven't done much today. So I decided to look around the yard, and took a look at the "tree" house my mum built if some kids come along to our house. Here it is.

ps totally forgot that we got to double digits for number of days worth of our year in photos =)! YAY!

Day 11:

"Childhood faded away,
to a far away land,
simple, so simple were we,
Days of Play,
Going our Way,
Having fun, no care,
for another day,
time for us stood still,

playing king of the hill"

- Jim Foulk

Day 10: Cross Roads

2011-11-09T15:00:00.002+13:00

Had to drop the boys off for school, then do grocery shopping for the stuff my mum forgot, because she NEVER uses a list. After which I went to the car park along queens drive, at the edge of queens park and boys high, decided to go for a walk and I found todays picture (which will turn up below). It describes how I feel now, I feel like I am at the cross roads for many things in my life, not just a cross road that splits into 2, but one that splits into many. Just so many things to think about, and it feels like so many decisions over a short space of time. Thank You God for being in control!

Day 10:

Which way do I go Lord?

Day 9: NEW GRAD POSITION!!!!

2011-11-08T16:10:00.002+13:00

Yus a New Grad position opened up again at SDHB, and it is in perioperative services too! Oh God You have opened up this door for me, and I have done all I can by applying for it, so Lord I lift it into Your Hands that I may do Your will! Thank You God for this opportunity! In Jesus name I pray, AMEN!

Day 9:

God I want this job!

Day 8: Emperor

2011-11-07T16:20:00.002+13:00

Decided sometime last week that I wanted to re-read the Emperor series. In my life I have never felt as if I have had a mentor, and I have always told myself that my mentors are men from history. Some of these men are military Geniuses like Caesar, Alexander, Genghis and Napoleon. Surprisingly I have read historical fiction books about all of those men. This series in particular is about Caesar. Here is a picture of the series.

Day 8:

Book 1: The Gates of Rome

Day 7: The end of a good time away from it all =)!

2011-11-06T21:47:00.000+13:00

It was a very good relaxing weekend after all. Managed to have a sleep in for once =)! Also had an awesome risk game which was intense all round. Here is a photo at the end of the trip with Phil, such an awesome young man!

Day 7:

Phil the man and me

Day 6: Sniping Practice

2011-11-05T23:59:00.001+13:00

So I will be putting up 2 posts today as I have been away in Cromwell for the weekend. It was just a good time of kayaking, Risk, and just good old relaxing. Here is a photo of me in the Hunting and fishing shop, having a play with one of the rifles.

Day 6:

Watch out animals, hunter Charles is in town!

Day 5: Saving Lives

2011-11-04T10:34:00.005+13:00

So this morning we had CPR peer assessment. Hopefully the LAST sit assessment before states. We decided that each person do one scenario, and then ticked and signed each other off. Here is me being heroic:

Day 5:

You do compressions on the lower half of the sternum.

At a depth of 1/3 of the chest.

30 compressions to 2 breaths

At a rate of 100 compressions/min

Day 4: Second Breakfast

2011-11-03T10:18:00.005+13:00

Today went on a mission to drop off my CV for a job! (God it's in Your hands!) So after that nervous drop off I decided to have a proper (2nd) breakfast :p! Here is a photo of my humble breakfast :p! hehe.

Day 4:

A cup of tea and a crumpet =D!

Day 3: Study Study Study

2011-11-02T17:51:00.004+13:00

So even though it is my 3rd day past my final elective placement, I have been stuck having to go to tech to revise nursing stuff for state finals. State finals in just 13 DAYS!!! Here is a picture from my mental health lecture today (which was kinda beneficial).

Day 3:

If you look carefully you can see our lecturer/tutor.

He lacks some hair :p.

Day 2: Reminicing about Star Gazing

2011-11-01T16:49:00.004+13:00

So Ray came over yesterday and passed us data sheets on what we looked at while star gazing last week. So I decided to take a photo of the sheet he gave us and put it up here. Enjoy =)!

Day 2:

"Was a great night with my guests asking many intelligent questions."

-Ray Murray

Day 1: HAPPY ANNIVERSARY =D!

2011-10-31T16:32:00.006+13:00

So I have decided to restart my blog after many years of absence :p! First things first HAPPY ONE YEAR HANNAH =D! It has been an awesome year, best of my life, and I really can't wait for more! I love you crazy my beautiful darling =)!xxx

So here we are, Hannah and me deciding to start a photo blog of the next 365 days! of our next year =D! Let's see what we can come up with=)! here goes.

Day 1:

Happy Anniversary Babe =D!

Character

2010-10-25T13:31:00.003+13:00

I just want to like (or even love) you even when I feel the worst ever...

Clinical Stage 3 Day 16,17,18, 19, 20 & 21

2009-10-16T23:37:00.009+13:00

Oh yes I do believe this post = to 6 days of clinical,
Its not that I have nothing to blog about,
Its really all to do with that darn portfolio!
Don't worry I will get it done:)!
Here we go...
*****
Day 16, Thursday 8th October
***
Looks like this day will be a short one,
Can't remember too much.
Ah well.
***
There was a new staff,
Julia,
That came today,
It was her second day of Orientation.
So Kay was too busy with her most of the day!
***
Had a walk for the first LSP,
Which was a good relaxing walk as usual.
***
After that the next LSP was going to the museum to have a look around,
They has some science fair stuff,
Had some fun playing with the stuff with 2 of the residents.
***
After that I managed to get my 5th holistic assessment done,
Which is always good!
6 times of crapping isn't fun:p!
haha.
***
Went for the third LSP,
which was touch!
***
Had a 4 on 4 match,
Which my team somehow sneaked a win!
Always fun to do activities with the guys!
***
After that I did the gathering of some information,
For the teaching session I was going to conduct the next day.
***
Had a meeting with our clinical lecturer,
Plus Talia and Katie,
At Youth.
***
As usual I ended up listening lots,
Listening to all the exciting stuff ,
That Talia and Katie did at Youth together,
Which was so good to hear for Katie!
***
I didn't say much though,
I am having a great time at clinical!
Its just that I am no story teller,
I don't want to tell people unless they are really interested!
***
Another good day at clinical!
Thank God:)!
*****
Day 17, Friday 9th October
***
Morning there were no LSP's,
Because Sam called in for a "mental health day".
Plus it was raining quite a bit
***
I skipped the second LSP,
Only because I had to prepare for my teaching session.
***
Plus I was taught by Theresa,
How to write up a blister pack of medications!
She is just such a lovely women,
Always ready with that lovely smile of her's!
***
I don't know why,
But I feel like I have met her before.
Ah well,
I like everyone at my placement:)!
***
The "teaching" session was good,
She taught me,
Much more than I taught her
***
I just felt that I wasn't in a place to teach her!
She had the health concern,
And even had family history about it,
So I thought that she telling me stuff,
Was going to be way better,
Than me "teaching" her stuff she already knew!
***
Managed to do my final holistic assessment on her!
Which killed 3 birds with one stone,
Because I also did my MDT thing on her!
I really Thank God for helping me,
To get that all done eh!
***
Arranged with the Team leader,
For me to have some time to do my MDT presentation,
During the Team Meeting,
On the next Wednesday!
So happy to sort that out quick!
***
Went op shopping for the 3rd LSP,
Which is shopping at second hand shops,
Like Salvation army and stuff.
***
I bought myself a painting!
Well at least a reprint of one!
Slightly bigger than my small one,
Lots of detail though!
Which I love!
***
Its a picture of a cricket game being played,
And watched by some people on a park bench.
Its title is:
CRICKET IN THE PARK
(BOTHERWICK, HAMPSHIRE)
BY
Terry Harrison.
I like it:)!
***
After that i stayed back over time,
To make sure I got all the information I needed,
For my MDT presentation,
Plus all the information I needed,
To complete the Holistic assessment stuff as well.
***
Managed to get loads done,
And to get back on track!
Thank God really for all His blessings!
*****
Day 18, Tuesday 13th October
***
Had group poster presentation on Monday,
Plus WH exam preparations,
Where I managed to acquire some good notes again:)!
THANK YOU GOD!!!
***
The presentation was ok,
I was just so flustered for some reason,
I did it somehow!
Though I was very nervous though!
I really hate feeling that way!
Anyway I got through it!
So Thank God once again:)!
***
We went to Rapaki Rock for All day group again!
To rock climb of course:)!
***
This time everyone went up at the same time,
And some of us went up,
to help Paul set up the climbs.
Including me:p!
Very heavy bag to carry though!
***
One client decided to walk all the way back though,
He felt like he was forced to go,
And was angry!
Well in the end he still had to walk!
And quite a big distance,
If I may add!
***
We set up different climbs though,
Because there was another group there that day.
***
Had a good time again,
Most of the residents attempted going up,
Some unexpected people even managed to get near the top!
***
Sophea did push himself too much,
Wants to conserve energy for exams.
Haha.
***
I managed to get up quite far up!
About 2/3 to 3/4 way up?
And it was a harder climb then the week before!
No joke:p!
Which really made me glad,
Because I had to struggle past 1/2 tough spots!
***
I still really love rock climbing :)!
And had a great time!
Thank you God for a good and safe day of rock climbing;)!
*****
Day 19, Wednesday 14th October
***
Wednesday was the day I was to present my client to the MDT,
Which was to be done during the team meeting,
Which they have every other Wednesday.
***
I was very nervous about it,
Yet also very confident,
Because I knew,
And liked these people very much.
***
I went early so as the check up some notes,
And so as to be relaxed.
***
While reading the notes,
A client rang the bell,
And asked to talk to staff,
But they were all busy having supervision,
And the client also looked very distressed!
***
I tried to talk to her,
But I didn't know what to say,
Or ask.
***
So I just stood there and let her cry,
Standing there if she needed anything,
Remembering not to offer her tissue,
Because that says,
"Crying is bad!"
***
Really felt helpless,
And just didn't know what to do,
But I knew that the client could be all messed up one moment,
And fine the next.
So I left it at that.
***
Well onto the main office,
For the team meeting
***
Nel said she would make me wait for a long time,
And that I did,
They did celebrations,
And talked about everything on the agenda,
Before it came to my turn.
***
Which was quite a nerve racking wait,
But I tried to stay calm,
And cool.
***
I decided I was going to be honest,
Just said why I was doing it,
And stated I was willing to take questions,
And that I have no promises,
That I will be able to answer the questions.
***
So i just read off my piece of paper,
And did what was required,
They had a few questions,
Which I answered with tonnes of help from Kay.
***
It was good to get it out of the way,
And everyone was so nice about it!
Even though I think I only did ok.
***
After that we had a mini farewell celebration,
One staff was leaving,
It so nice how they have these,
For all their staff!
They really love celebrations!
***
The rest of the pm shift was doing some stuff,
Help residents cook tea,
Then practice filling medication dossett boxes,
And writing that an blister pack medications up,
In the medication file.
***
The defining moment of the night,
Was when a client which creates music tracks,
Whom I promised and wanted to listen to,
Let me listen to his track when I went over to his flat.
***
It was a real sense of connection eh!
And he actually did a good job I think.
Not saying that I am a pro at judging these things,
But it was definitely good!
***
His music track,
Was also very relaxing.
***
Another good day!
Thank God for getting me through that day:)!!!
*****
Day 20, Thursday 15th October
***
Went to school before hand to get work done,
Which wasn't as fruitful as I had hoped,
But at least I got some portfolio work done!
***
Had Indian curry for lunch!
Yum!
But very filling!
***
Bought sushi for dinner,
And left to get to placement earlier,
I planned to come earlier,
And so leave earlier too.
***
The LSP I joined in was table tennis,
It was ok,
I wanted a good match.
***
Not saying they are lousy,
But Chris is actually quite good at table tennis!
***
Eventually found someone with some skill,
But he was tired,
So we just had a hit around for awhile!
***
After that just played doubles for fun,
Which was all good:)!
***
After that back to shift,
And off to town for a client's interview with Catapult!
***
Catapult is really good eh!
Helps people get back on their feet!
Plus introduces people to PEEP if they wanted,
I think the client was happy with the outcome.
***
Helped people with tea again,
After that.
Which is fine,
Because I get to learn some stuff about cooking too!
***
After that it was quite a rush,
We had to pick up a client to do his flat's shopping,
Plus bring a resident to the hospital,
Because she wasn't feel well,
And her potassium levels were low!
***
It was so weird following this resident to her flat,
Because I had to make sure she didn't purge her meds,
It reminded me of the time I had to help,
A church mate move out of her house.
I kind of like that kind of excitement.
***
After that rush to get the resident,
Who was doing the grocery shopping
***
As usual I took a long time with the resident,
Firstly because I am a slow shopper,
I am inexperienced,
I am not too familiar with the super market,
And I also didn't want to stress the resident out,
As he suffered from high anxiety.
***
Anyway it was a great time spent with the resident,
And my nurse said it was nice to see us cruising around the supermarket,
And that we should have taken a photo.
***
My nurse once again being very encouraging,
Told me all the good feedback she was getting from the clients.
Which was real good to hear:)!
***
Overall another good day:)!
Thank God so much for making this time such a good experience!
God really loves to answer our prayers!
We really just have to ask!
*****
Day 21, Friday 16th October
***
Friday pm Shifts are usually quite quiet,
No cooking duty,
So I did some work before my tutor came.
***
Had a meeting with my tutor,
And Katie was there too.
It was a time of venting for Katie,
She really has had a bad clinical experience.
***
I feel really sad that a non-Christian has to face this,
I know Christian's aren't perfect,
But sometimes I wish we automatically were!
***
Managed to tick off more portfolio work!
Which was good:)!
***
Only had these things left:
2 Holistic assessments,
2 reflections,
Annotated bibliography,
And Group teaching session left!
***
Woot!
Not too far behind stuff as I thought I would be!
But with that comes complacency!
***
Anyway after that I had a quick dinner,
Because I was going to be Malcolm's partner,
For games night!
***
Oh I took the opportunity to do my group session before that,
Teaching some clients how to play Cranium for games night;)!
So one less thing on my list to do:p!
***
Games night was 3 hours plus!
And I really think the residents had a great time:)!
One of the residents made some scorns,
From scratch if I may add,
Which were really good!
***
In the end Malcolm and me won!
Haha,
Which came back to catch up with a team that was quite far ahead!
Another great night,
Which as you noticed,
I won't go into that much detail!
***
All you need to know is that we had great fun!
Thank God for the great time again!
Thank God for the great week:)!
I pray I will continue to have a great time,
In the remaining 2 weeks of clinical!
And that I will get my portfolio done on time:)!
I pray that I will be able to do well in my exams as well!
I just lift the remaining 3 weeks of school into God's hand!
May He bless me greatly those weeks,
So that I will be able to bless others greatly!
In Jesus's name I pray,
Amen!
***
There is 6 days of clinical for you!
Over and out!

Clinical Stage 3 Day 11,12,13, 14 & 15

2009-10-07T20:12:00.004+13:00

Oh yes its a 5 day update!
I have been lazy over the weekend!
Plus busy after that catching up on work I should have done over the weekend,
How typical of me!
hehe.
So here goes!
*****
Day 11, Wednesday 30th September
***
Was not on my A game that day eh,
Was real tired from the tramp the day before,
Really was more tiring than I thought it would be!
***
Still I soldiered on!
***
First was a team meeting early at 1.30pm
Which I reached early,
So I helped set up as usual.
***
They had their meeting stuff,
And had celebrations for Nel's Birthday.
Plus celebration for how Steve, Kay, Jacqui handled the week Nel was away.
It was all good having good food;)!
***
Kelley pulled me to go to Mobile Medications Service,
Which was quite interesting!
And actually quite an easy job,
But I guess I had a quite run,
So I didn't see what could go messy!
***
Some of the clients for MMS,
Their houses were real messy!
And council flats really are just bad stuff.
Comcare one's are way better looking!
***
It was great getting to know Kelley though:)!
Even though I was cold the whole time,
And found out I had a fever towards the end,
I still soldiered on anyway!
***
I think My fever was due to over heating,
After the previous days tramp!
Well Panadol really helped!
***
My stomach was real gassy too!
Not a good thing!
*****
Day 12, Thursday 1st October
***
First things first did my clinical formative assessment form with Kay,
Which was good,
She always is encouraging,
And she practically agreed with everything I said,
So either I have become at estimating myself,
Or she wasn't sure herself!
haha.
***
But it was good to go through everything with her,
She really is encouraging!
Which is always a good thing,
I mean even if she is trying to say something bad,
At least she is saying it in a good way!
***
Helped M cook a meal,
He did most of the work as usual,
But I think it turned out good in the end.
***
Managed to do my 3rd assessment interview,
I didn't even have to ask this time!
C just asked me if I had any assessments to do,
And there you go,
3rd interview done:)!
***
Went out grocery shopping with T.
I think I was as confused as him in the supermarket.
We were all over the shop!
haha.
***
It was fun though!
And funny:p!
And I think he was pleased too;)!
***
Oh and if you are wondering why I write names in letters,
Its client confidentiality stuff.
*****
Day 13, Friday 2nd October
***
One of the clients refused to go back to the hospital,
So the Duly Authorized Officer was going to take her in,
Which means police would be called in to make sure she didn' t run.
***
I though she would run,
But police have more of an effect on people than we know,
And she went calmly,
But it was interesting to watch a DA-O anyway.
***
Clinical Lecturer came,
And so we,
The group became 3 this week,
talked about stuff as usual.
***
I sometimes don't feel fit to be a nurse,
My peers always talk so nurse like,
Ah well.
***
Didn't do much the rest of the evening,
just a tour,
And a chat one of the clients flats,
Then back for a game of scrabble,
Which I suck at,
And I came in 3rd out of 4th.
Ah well.
***
Still very gassy,
I have my suspicions,
But i hope its not that!
*****
Day 14, Tuesday 6th October
***
Went to do outdoor rock climbing on this day!
Was really in the I give up mode even before I reached placement.
***
Paul's explaination changed everything though,
It sort of gave some hope of doing it,
Like the fact that he made us only do the lower levels.
***
We got there,
But it was bloody cold at the waiting point!
Its unbelievable how cold wind can be,
It was like fine without the wind,
But with it,
It was like freezing temperature!
***
Paul took some time setting up,
Because another group was there doing climbs,
Clients were starting to get restless!
***
After he did get ready,
One client really wanted to go to the toilet,
And after that a whole avalanche of clients went along.
Causing havoc to the locked van policy.
***
That aside I think the rest had a great time,
4 people made it up to the top of the climbs!
Even Marilyn whom I honestly didn't think could make it,
Not because of how she looked or anything,
But the way she sent out a signal like,
"I didn't really do this before" feeling.
***
She did do indoor climbing before,
So I guess that was indicator enough!
I should listen to facts more than my gut!
Lol
***
I made it about half or a third way up.
Definitely could have gone higher!!!
But I got myself stuck in a route that didn't work!
Should have tried again!!
Ah well,
I am just happy I made it up that far in the first place!
***
I understand why people like rock climbing now!
Its all about the tactics and the accomplishment of getting all the way up,
Or even just getting past your goal!
I so want to at least beat my previous distance next time round!
***
Overall I think it was a great time for the guys that at least tried!
Even those that were there to just to help!
Great stuff!
I am so loving outdoor rock climbing!
Well at least the easier standard for now,
Because I can actually get up that cliff/wall/whatever you want to call it!
***
Oh oh oh Grace is going to have a baby girl!!!
So exciting!
I am so visiting her when the baby is out:p!
*****
Day 15, Wednesday 7th October
***
The day started with chores,
Really got a big chore,
The cleaning up of the dinning area and hallway,
Plus sweeping the deck!
***
Real hard work eh!
But its all good,
A good time to show the residents your willing to put your back into it;)!
Good time to talk to residents too!
***
Rest of the day was mostly trying to do work!
Managed to do my MDT member interview thing,
Plus another Holistic assessment interview done!
***
Nothing much else happened!
But it was all good.
***
Sophea's wife and child were ok!
Thank God!
And Thank God for all He has helped me do so far!
Thank God for such a good time I am having!
I pray that I continue to have a great time!
I pray that I continue to learn lots!
And I pray that I will complete that portfolio somehow!
In Jesus name I pray!
Amen!
***
Over and out peeps!

Clinical Stage 3 Day 8, 9 & 10

2009-09-25T22:41:00.004+12:00

Again its a combined post for clinical updates.
Just been really busy really,
And if i bother to blog everyday,
I might as well not sleep!
Here goes.
*****
Day 8, Thursday 24th September
***
Kaye(the nurse I shadow) wasn't going to be around much,
So It was a day for me to do work.
***
First went on the first activity of the day,
Which was walking around the the area.
Always a good time to talk to clients,
And good exercise for myself.
***
While waiting for the 2nd activity,
I managed to do my second interview!!!
Did it with T,
I really like him eh,
We may have been friends in a different situation,
Actually I may have been friends with many of the clients in different situations.
***
Skipped the 2nd activity because they decided to go to the mall,
So I started to do some work,
Ended up answering lots of calls,
And helping Jenny TRY and wake up one of the clients,
Because she was unresponsive,
So we had to make sure she was ok,
We ended up calling the ambulance,
Who managed to wake her up with a sternum rub!
(We tried pinching her ear lob and poking the flesh in between you fingers.)
$50 bucks gone down the drain.
***
Went to the last group of the day after that,
Which was playing pool.
I will say that I can pull off decent shots,
BUT not all the time,
Or enough of the time to be good.
It was fun though.
***
Sam(programme facilitator) made a racist joke,
Which Sophea wasn't happy about.
I laughed along,
Because I really found it funny,
And because I am not ticked off by jokes.
I guess it depends on how,
And why it was said though.
***
Wanted to do more work before I left,
But Sophea ended up lecturing Sam about the joke,
Sophea was real angry eh.
But I respect him for sticking with his guns.
***
Had a meeting with Sharyn,
Talia,
And Katie.
They talked a lot about their placement,
And a lot of other things...
So I finished extra late even though I was on am shift.
***
Also found out I had to do a clinical daily dairy thing for the portfolio,
What a pain when I already do it myself,
Even more a pain because I have to make up stuff...
***
Sophea and Steve were cooking something special that day,
And I wanted to join in,
But Katie offered me a lift,
And so I ran off quickly,
Oh well...
***
On to the next day...
*****
Day 9, Friday 25th September
***
Kaye had a great day planned for me today,
A visit to North & South Sector base,
And a trip to Hillmorton Hopital!
***
Missed morning trip,
Because of the trip to the sector base for one of the new clients psychiatry interview.
***
It was interesting to see another member of the MDT do an interview,
He just did the interview without a sheet to refer too,
And many questions were very similar to the ones I have on my prompt sheet.
***
The Psychiatrist wasn't a Christian though,
Just the way he talked about the Bible,
And the "words speaking to you".
But I may be very wrong:p!
***
Went out for lunch with Sam and Sophea,
To dumplings in down,
Along Cashel Street.
A "cheap" place,
But I bought "expensive" food.
***
It was nice food though,
And I don't really care if they service is good or not,
I just want good(or at least decent) food.
Not TOO fussy about food eh.
***
It was nice to hang with the "bro's" though,
Sophea really makes Sam think very "deeply".
Which is very interesting to listen to.
***
After lunch Kaye brought me to Hillmorton,
To "drop" of an ex-clients stuff.
He was in the locked unit in Pipiri.
***
It was scary eh,
I really don't think I would like working there,
I seriously felt like running out of there!
***
It was like all my senses were telling me of danger,
Like a sixth sense shouting out to run for safety!
Like in anime were you could feel "killer intent".
LOL.
***
I think it was very spiritual too,
Very oppressive,
Very similar to the army feeling,
But worse.
***
As I told Chris,
It was like a step down from prison.
***
If mental heath is that,
Sorry I don't want to do that,
Its just not where my heart is,
And I rather not feel oppressed...
***
It was a great experience though!
*****
Day 10, Tuesday 29th September
***
All day trip today!
Sophea was going to be there:)!
***
Came early as usual,
But the thought of a decent sleep in made up for the 6hrs of disturbed sleep I got.
***
We were going to Mt Grey,
Which was about an hour plus away from AR(Adult residential).
It was out of Christchurch,
And about 15-20 minutes away from Amberley.
***
2 full van loads went,
And we slowly went up.
We were tracking up the 4WD track.
***
About 4 residents decided not to go up any further,
And headed back,
After about 15 minutes of tracking.
Not good for morale,
And for keeping track of where people were.
***
Thankfully we continued up the track with everyone else,
We took breaks and stuff,
But after about an hour or 2 of tracking,
We reached the destination!
***
It was so beautiful from the observation post!
South Alps to the right,
Canterbury plains in the middle,
And the Ocean to the left.
***
Too bad no camera!
At least I had floss bread!
And that was pleasing:p!
***
Had a track down the walking track,
Which wasn't maintained since 2004,
So it was quite dangerous.
***
The scrubs was irritating to track through,
Keep being pushed to one side by the overgrown scrub.
Slipped many times!
But thank God for no falls(for me:p)!
***
The tramping under the pines was no better,
Not well kept pathways,
And steep slippery slopes.
***
We were almost down,
And there were no falls or anything.
However one of the clients slipped on a steep slope,
And,
Thankfully,
Only sprained his ankle.
***
He was told to tighten his boot lace,
And use a stick to help him the rest of the way.
Thankfully we were only about 5 minutes away from the vans.
***
He was bandaged up,
And should be fine.
Just needs a check up from the doctor!
***
Got back and fell asleep on the way back,
Real tired eh.
Tramping up hill is more tiring than one thinks,
Even after you reach the top and feel fine!
***
Got back and helped to write notes for those on monitor,
A great learning experience eh!
Need to do it more to learn how to right nursing notes PROPERLY!
Thank God Kelley was there to instruct me,
And counter sign for me!
If not I would wrote blindly,
And may end up in trouble if something went wrong...
***
A good day I will say:)!
***
Very tired now;p!
***
Over and out!