Just like that, another 13 week travel nursing assignment has come & passed, seemingly quicker than the previous. Typically, after the end of a contract I treat myself to a week… or two… or three… off of work because that’s just one of the many perks of #travelnursing, but this time is very different. During this past month, our entire globe has been completely flipped upside down as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Similarly, the patient population I have been caring for has drastically changed, as my unit was designated the COVID-19 floor for the entire hospital. Young & healthy, pregnant, husband & wife, doctors- this virus does not play favorites; I saw it firsthand. While my goal is not to ignite a sense of fear or panic, my mission has always been to be an informative, reliable resource, especially now, as the media has painted conflicting realities.
Many cities across the U.S. have now made it a requirement that citizens wear masks or some type of nose/mouth covering while in public, in addition to continuing to practice social distancing, that is, maintaining 6+ feet apart from others at all times. Homemade masks can be purchased through sellers on www.etsy.com or can be created at home using bandanas or cloth by following these simple directions. Masks serve a double purpose- to protect you & protect others, from spreading COVID-19.
Stay calm. Stay healthy. Stay aware.
Bye for now, L.A.
I worked for the first time at a Kaiser Permanente Hospital- a large private hospital system in California. Ryan had a great Strength & Conditioning internship at Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA. We ran the Rose Bowl Half Marathon & the L.A. marathon. My parents came to visit & we explored the entire city. Los Angeles, & the rest of the nation, shut down. Our other visitors had to cancel their trips to visit (thanks coronavirus), BUT we’re still alive, smiling, grateful, hopeful & newly located in…
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San Diego!
Today marks one week of living & working in San Diego! While we are still bummed about the current circumstances & closures, we are determined to make the most of our time while here in this beautiful city! Last week on an especially windy day, we took a drive over the immaculate Coronado Bridge to Coronado Island, & well, I’m just glad we made it over & back alive.
How has life been otherwise while in quarantine you may wonder? Well, I’d say it’s definitely… different. My mind & body are typically always “go, go, go,” so I am thankful for this time to just slow down. Read a page turning book. Go for a walk. Video chat with family/friends. Time with God. Self care. Glass of wine… or two. TV marathons. Online shopping (whoops). Goal setting. New hobbies. Scrolling through old photos. New recipes. & when I feel like it- absolutely nothing. Truthfully, there’s no right answer as to what each of our lives should look like during this time of quarantine & that is totally, absolutely, 100% okay.
If you are ever in need of a listening ear or happy hour friend, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me! Remember, asking for help is a strength not a weakness, & you are never alone.
When things fall apart, we must lean on each other.
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Another fabulous post! I love reading about your adventures and what a great way of keeping in touch! I miss you both and welcome you to visit any time! Hugs and Live!