Somewhere Between Dreams

Today I'd Like To Move...

2009-06-09T21:55:00.000-07:00

Hello again!!

I arrived in San Francisco for a wonderful two days with the Bay Area rep -- Matthew Rutledge. He's a total rock star and what has been recently decided the "male version" of me! He picked me up at the airport and we headed off to see a new surgery center in Oakland. After our stop, we went to the Deadfish restaurant that overlooks the bay and had an appetizer, beverage, and chat over some of the things I have been learning. He then dropped me off at my hotel so I could get settled in. For dinner, I went to another great little place on the bay and met Matthew's wife and youngest daughter, Caroline. What sweet people! It was a lovely dinner and I thoroughly enjoyed meeting his family. They are great! After dinner, I went back to the hotel, had a nice little workout, checked emails and headed to bed.

A beautiful rose bush in a garden in Napa Valley

Today, Matthew picked me up and we had a busy day in Napa. We first went to visit a doc and see some ultrasound injections. This was very interesting because he is the FIRST and one of only a few doctors who does procedures using ultrasound. Super nice guy and very knowledgeable.

When we left the doctor's office, we stopped by one of Matt's favorite restaurants just near Napa. They weren't quite open for lunch but we did a bit of browsing around their property before we headed to another restaurant.

I never knew artichoke actually bloomed first -- so pretty!

The restaurant we ended up eating lunch at was great! A total dive restaurant downtown called the ABC Cafe! I had a wonderful portabella mushroom, sun dried tomato, and lettuce sandwich and Matthew and I made a game plan for the rest of the day. After lunch we saw a bit more of Napa and then we were off to Brentwood for some procedures!

We arrived in Brentwood early so we headed off to It's A Grind -- a fabulous little coffee shop. Here, we caught up on emails and phone calls before heading to the surgery center. Once we arrived at the center, we scrubbed in for our upcoming procedures. The first procedure we did was a simple cervical facet block. Basically, in this procedure needles are injected into the cervical vertebrae (the top 7 vertebrae in your neck) and then local anesthetic is used to block the nerve, thus relieving pain. After the injections was when the fun began! We did a SInergy procedure which is what I will be specializing in! Matthew stepped back, let me take control, and before I knew it -- I was rocking it out! We managed to get a 2 hour procedure done in an hour and a half and the greatest news -- it was only the doctor's second procedure of this type! Basically, this means -- we did a great job! yay!

Now for those of you who are curious -- the SInergy case is basically this: use of a radio-frequency machine (what my sales reps sell the doc) to burn the medial (going away from the center) nerves of the sacroiliac joint (the space between your sacrum and your ilium). The sacrum is the lower portion of your back that leads to your buttock that consists of fused together vertebrae. Your ilium is essentially where your hip attaches to the spinal column.

We go into each foramen (the big holes in your sacrum) and do several burns to catch all the nerves that may be causing pain. If this is done properly and works -- then most patients can go with little to NO pain for at least a year and for as long as 3 years until the nerves regenerate.

Pretty cool huh?!?! I love my job!

Looking forward to the next time I get to come to San Fran and have more of a chance to see Napa! What a beautiful place! I think I could move here :) But for now -- I'm tired and I have a big day tomorrow -- off to VEGAS for my first time ever!

Hope all is well with my dear friends and family.

Lots of love.

xoxoxo

I totally look like I'm from a warmer climate in my North Face -- but this is me at one of the winery's in Napa!

Out with the OLD, In with the NEW -- well sorta?!?!

2009-06-06T09:13:00.000-07:00

It's the weekend! yay! Hopefully everyone is finding some time for a little R&R and maybe even a little sunshine! I know it is absolutely PERFECT here in Arizona :) I love days when I wake up and it is 74 degrees and on its way to 90 with a slight breeze for the day! Ahhhh LOVE! I'm happy to be "home" for a few days before heading back out on the road.

Not much new. I finished my week in Toronto and made it back safely. We had horrible head winds on the flight back so it made for a very LONG flight. We left Toronto at 7:30 am EST (4:30 am MST) and arrived back in Arizona at 9:30 MST (12:30 EST) -- 5 hours! Fun!

Driving out of the city -- en route to the airport -- 5:00 am EST

It was a pretty crazy day for me! Upon my arrival back I had noticed a very strong smell coming from my luggage! Wouldn't you know -- my well protected, carefully packed Chanel perfume got broken inside my suitcase by you guessed it -- my FAVORITE AIRLINE -- US Airways! Then, I had to make an depressing trip to the BMW dealership to get an estimate for this lovely little set of scratches that magically appeared on the front left side of my car. Doesn't that always happen right before you're turning it in on the lease!?! Needless to say -- the damage wasn't as bad as I had thought and I am very thankful for kind people who are willing to help a young girl out -- not take advantage of her!

Once I left the dealership, I was starving so I made my way to Trader Joe's to buy some healthy groceries to get me through the weekend! I love that place! It makes me actually feel like I'm somewhat healthy and fit! :) I came home and made a yummy mozzarella, tomato, and basil salad and began settling back in.

The lovely mozzarella, tomato and basil salad I made :)

I did laundry, caught up on emails, read through some papers and ran errands. About the time I laid down to take a siesta my phone rang... HARK! You'll never believe who it was!?!?!

IT WAS JIM!!!!!!!!!

Now you're probably wondering who Jim is -- but Jim brought me the best gift ever! A 2008 White Chevy Impala with grey cloth interior! JEALOUS?!?! haha. My company car finally arrived and while it isn't quite like the X3 and isn't really a dream come true for me, it is a dream come true! I thoroughly enjoy the fact that I will no longer have a car payment, a gasoline bill, a routine maintenance bill, or the daily stress of going over my "mileage allowance." I'll just pimp it out, roll with it, and say, "Thank you God" or Jim! :) ha.

The beautiful BEAUTY and the new BEAST :)

After the car came, I took a nap, ran some more errands and came home and ate my Pei Wei. Seriously -- their Thai Mango Chicken rocks my world! I stayed up way too late (I managed to be up for 25 straight hours) and then FINALLY went to bed.

Yesterday, I woke up and went to get my required shots to work in the OR (yes -- I'm a little behind). I did the ever so graceful act of passing out when they gave me my Hepatitis B shot. Talk about embarrassing. Here I am, a support specialist for a major medical company, and I watch massive needles be stuck in people every week. But... I can't suck it up and get a little prick myself? haha. I think it was a combination of being tired, hungry, and well just dehydrated. :)

I came home and worked most of the morning/afternoon before heading to the pool for a few hours. It was once again a beautiful day and while I laid by the pool I actually read a TON of paper work so I was "semi-productive."

Last night, I went to the zoo with the Frick's (the people I was nannying for to job your memory). It was so fun. The Phoenix Zoo is such a cute little zoo and it was so fun watching Scarlett and Tyler explore. They are precious kids and a great family! I am so lucky to have them here and even more excited for when they move to San Francisco! It will be nice to have friends in town when I'm there on business and Steph and I are already plotting for a night away in Napa :)

Today I am just hanging out -- packing -- laying by the pool -- living the dream. Busy few weeks ahead. Next week I am off to San Francisco -- Monday, Napa -- Tuesday, Las Vegas --Wednesday - Friday, then Ohio for TWO WEEKS (some business some pleasure) on Saturday!

Have a sunshiny, happy, and wonderful weekend!

xoxo,

Kels

P.S. I am so excited to see my niece -- how cute is she?!?!

Gracie Renee is going to 6 months old on Wednesday!!!

Harbour View Room...

2009-06-02T17:28:00.000-07:00

I survived! I am officially done with my training at Baylis Medical and out of my room at the Best Western! SCORE! It was a great two days at Baylis as I learned heaps of new information in regards to Simple Radio Frequency (RF), Cooled RF, Multi-RF, and Trans-discal procedures of the back and spine. It definitely feels like I am in a major college Anatomy course sometimes but I am SO THANKFUL for the opportunity and eager to apply the things I have been learning in the months ahead. I worked very closely with Mark Hynes who is a Clinical Support Specialist for Baylis! What a rock star! He is very near my age and we had a great time together! It is always nice to see fresh, young, successful faces and to get along with someone you will work very closely with! He definitely is one intelligent dude and treated me with the utmost respect and hospitality! So fun! I am very much looking forward to my next trip to Toronto -- July 22nd!

Now that I am done with training I am staying a few more days in the city. I moved downtown to the Westin this afternoon that is located on the Harbour! It is a nice change of pace from the Best Western and I was lucky enough to score a Harbour View room. Tonight as I was on iChat (video conferencing) with Mom, I looked out the window and much to

my surprise -- there was a sailboat race! Very neat. I have just gotten back from a nice little workout and a yummy dinner at the hotel restaurant!

Atlantic Salmon with Broccolini and Mashed Sweet Potatoes

I haven't been sleeping so well so it is off to bed for the night now! Tomorrow I plan on working for a bit then heading out to explore the town and possibly meet up with Mark for lunch. Tomorrow evening is TBD but hopefully we will be squeezing in a concert, show, or baseball game before I head back to Arizona!

Love to all :)

Ahhh....Showers!

2009-06-01T05:23:00.000-07:00

Oh good morning! It's me again! Just wanted to post a little update for all of you who were worrying and praying for me this morning as I jumped into my "Best Western" shower. I am happy to report the shower was LOVELY! And no -- I am not being sarcastic this time. It appears as though the showers have been replaced! They were pearly white with MASSAGE SHOWER HEADS! I'm pretty sure I felt like I was at the Westin. Now mind you, the fan still sounded like a college frat party and I managed to get the light to go into "strobe" mode to further heighten the party mood. But silly me -- there is actually a TWISTY knob on the wall that works the main bathroom light :) So here I was this whole time operating in the dark! I mean I should have thought to look at that knob from the beginning and not just assumed everyone in Canada was into strobe lights in their bathrooms!

Ok, must get ready for work so I have time to eat a little breakfast. Off to IRON my white dress shirt (ironing is something I haven't done in a few years) with the hotel iron. Pray it doesn't leave marks! :/

Happy Monday Friends!!!

Humble Pie 101

2009-05-31T20:49:00.000-07:00

Howdy! How are my fellow Americans? I know I haven't updated as often as I have planned but I PROMISE this will be a blog worth reading. I'm in TORONTO, CANADA now!!!!

Last week I spent a wonderful 6 days in Southern California visiting friends and working (a little bit!) I spent Saturday-Monday in Poway, CA with my dear friend Amanda Young celebrating her graduation from TCU!

The pretty TCU cupcakes I made for Amanda's Party

On Tuesday, Amanda, two other friends, Ally and Marin, and myself headed to Disneyland for Amanda's 22nd birthday celebration! What a blast! I had so much fun seeing Amanda's home and getting to know her family and friends better!

TCU Girls: Amanda, Marin and Myself (at Ally and Matt's Grad Party)

After Disneyland, Amanda and Marin dropped me at my hotel in Foothill Ranch, CA (basically Orange County). There, I spent two days doing administrative things and training with the OC Kimberly-Clark rep Ron Borst! He was such a fun guy and I really learned a lot! Information overload! I also managed to find sometime to hang out with Sara Phares (of course we ate sushi and shopped) and I even got to go to Phil's BBQ in Mission Beach with some new friends!!!! What fun! I absolutely LOVED Sara's hometown of Irvine, CA but I quickly learned it is going to be REALLY tough to play and work all at the same time! I was MORE than ready to be home when I arrived Friday afternoon back in Phoenix.

I spent Friday settling back in, catching up with my territory manager (Neil), getting a pedicure, doing laundry and made a late night stop at RA Sushi Bar! On Saturday, I got up and worked on a few "office things", then headed over to Ryan and Stephanie's house (they are the family I was nannying for before I took the job with KC)! It was so great to see them and to see the kids! It's amazing how much they have grown in just two weeks! We had a nice chat and I am looking forward to this coming Friday when Steph and I hit the pool with the kids and go for a hike?! :) After I visited the Frick's I ran a few errands, got my eyebrows waxed, packed my bags and then spent the evening with Matt and Tatum (my good friend Nichole who works at RA -- boyfriend and daughter). We ate sushi at RA since Nichole was working and then I took Tatum to Barnes and Noble for her to pick out a book! She turned 1 while I was away! What a great evening! This morning, I went to church with Matt, Nichole, Dilyn and Tatum and had a wonderful service. After the service it was off to the airport and SO THE FUN BEGINS....

Let me preface this by saying, "I have never been and probably WILL NEVER be a fan of US Airways!" However, I am a sucker for nonstop flights and since one of their hubs is in Phoenix -- it doesn't always leave me with much a choice for "East Bound Flights!"

Arriving nearly 1.5 hour prior to my flight (which anyone who knows me knows this is WAY early) I waited in line to do curbside check-in as I "discretely" parked my car, locked it and left the hazard lights flashing. I waited 10 minutes and when I finally got to the counter I was greeted by a rather HAPPY man who informed me that I must go inside to check in for my INTERNATIONAL flight. Ugh! Bummer! Strike One! So I left my car flashing and took a chance. Of course when I went inside the "International" desk was closed and I was directed to wait in a different line for the next available person. Suddenly, I felt like I was reading the childhood book -- The Tortoise and the Hare. And no -- the US Airways desk representative was NOT the hare! Now, here I was pushing the 1 hour cut off for checking my bags and stressing because my car was hanging out on the curb. I finally reached the line and was greeted by yet ANOTHER HAPPY man who clearly did not care how slow he moved. After all, the slower he went, the less people he had to deal with. I survived the check-in process and made a nice little jog out to the curb! Whew! The car was STILL there and there was not a ticket! Lucky duck! As I pulled out to head to the long-term parking I couldn't help but notice the two police vehicles that were parked in front of my car anxiously awaiting to ticket people much like myself! I guess the good Lord was looking out for me AGAIN!

I parked the car and headed into the airport. I grabbed a quick lunch to go at Paradise bakery and made my way through security! As I arrived at my gate, they were boarding my zone so I waited in line and proceeded to the gate. When I got to the representative they informed me I needed "THE STAMP!" Of course I had no idea what STAMP they were talking about and I instantly became annoyed with US Scare further. I eventually was directed to ANOTHER line, got my stamp and proceeded to get back in line to board the plane. This time however, it was FINAL boarding call and I was nearly the last one on the plane. Not a big deal right!??! Oh yes, huge deal! There was no place for my travel briefcase (which mind you weighs more than me) so I had to have a "nice, friendly, conversation" with the flight attendant who insisted the computer had to go under the plane and blah, blah, blah. Well let's just say I had to get a little stubborn because there was NO WAY I was putting two laptop computers and all my business materials under the plane. Eventually I won (I'm such a toughie...haha) and settled into my seat. The flight was 4 hours and it was tolerable... I just got lucky enough to sit next a lady who was getting over bronchitis, coughed the whole time, and had a HUGE desire to talk my leg off about her new "cleansing products" that would be PERFECT for me! She had to be crazy if I thought she talked to much :) haha. Regardless, I landed in Toronto safely, I got away from the US Airlines people and I am excited to be working with the manufactures of our radio frequency machine -- Baylis. To be honest though -- I am lucky to be here. After my "innocent" conversation with customs/border patrol I learned to K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple STUPID). Here I was flirting with him because it was late at night and I wanted him to smile. He proceeded to ask me about my job and I went on and on and on never thinking he was actually asking me as part of the "screening" process. Of course he was trying to walk me into a trap and when I told him I train doctors he informed me I needed a work visa. Then, I had to convince him that I was hear to learn how to train doctors and I would be training in the US. Oops! Silly me! Anyhow, safe and sound. Looking forward to a day with Baylis and their team tomorrow.

Now this is where it gets good -- so you can't act like you're sick of reading my blog. Just go get a glass of water and a cookie and come back! It'll be worth it! I promise! :)

My hotel accommodations were previously arranged for me. As I crawl into my bed to go to sleep I can't help but giggle. I don't know if I am laughing out of disbelief or out of the pure irony of my life?!?!?

You see I got spoiled traveling on TOUR and I have a tendency to like the "resorty" hotels. Now I'm not a total snob but I do like to feel "at home!" As I walked into my hotel I was overwhelmed by a smell of smoke and musty linens. However, I tried to tell myself that this was just me convincing myself it was going to bed bad and that I needed to suck it up! So I did! I waltzed down the hall to my room that once again smelled like a pack of Marlboro Lights. I, however, was exhausted by this point so I began to unpack. All the while just smiling and telling myself that I can do ANYTHING for a few days and reminding myself of a time last summer in Hilton Head when Mom and I were up all night in a first class Days Inn fighting off bugs. :) As I unpacked I thought to myself, "How is it that places like the Westin cost soooo much and they also charge for breakfast and internet and places like this are cheap, offer free breakfast, and free internet!?" I mean it's like heaven on earth right?!?!? Hahahahaha NOT! I went into the bathroom because my bladder was about to burst and I couldn't help but notice a little termite racing across the floor. Eek! Oh Kelsey, get it together you'll be fine! So I flushed the toilet and went to turn on the light to unpack my toiletries (why I didn't pee with the light on -- don't ask!) I flipped the switch and hmmm nothing happened. So I flipped another... all the sudden a fan turns on. This was not your typical fan though, it was more of a fan that sounded like the floor above me was having a college frat party with music and had the sub woofers on max! Oh and the light didn't come on! Oh well :) Guess I'll bath and brush my teeth in the dark. It's the new way to stay GREEN apparently. I did notice however when I wiped my hiney that it felt very nice -- I guess it's because they were using "SCOTT" toilet paper! Let's hear it for Kimberly-Clark! Chalk it up!

Quality Product by KIMBERLY-CLARK -- SEE :)

I finished putting my clothes in the drawers and hanging up my clothes in the closet. Once again I found myself giggling! This time, it was because the closet was stocked with hangers but they are the kind you ABSOLUTELY CANNOT REMOVE from the closet. Funny! I think they need to worry about other things than me stealing their hangers! Perhaps fixing my bathroom light?!?! Oh well! I smile, nod, and realize that maybe I just need humble pills every once in awhile and that I should be glad that not only do I have a phenomenal job but I have a roof over my head! I'm sure the Best Western would look like the Loew's Santa Monica Beach Resort to someone who is living out on the street!

It is good to be in Toronto. It is very COOOOOOOL but I am well prepared with pants, sweaters, and my North Face fleece! I will try to write more later this week about my experiences since I will not have the distraction of my "FRIENDS" this week!

It is time for bed now -- big day tomorrow -- oh no! Here goes the laughing again! I just crawled into bed and saw a dirty footprint on the white sheets! Guess that would be MINE from walking around on the floors in here in my bare feet! :) Oh this is getting more and more funny by the minute!

My luxurious bed :)

I can't wait until I shower in the morning! I've ALWAYS loved hotel showers! Let's just hope I don't end up standing on a chair, in the shower, squealing... as I vaguely recall -- my Mom did that once and ever since I have been scared of hotel showers :)

At least I am smiling, have my blankie and my pillow! Oh to be me...

Adios from Canada land!

What a Week

2009-05-22T21:16:00.001-07:00

GOOD NEWS: I survived my first full week with Kimberly-Clark! It was rather eventful and busy but I simply LOVE MY JOB!

Monday morning I took Dad to the airport and thought I would head to work around 10:00. Well, the day got away from my boss and I ended up not having to go to work at all. So, I ran some errands, melted in the heat....

I told you I melted :) This is my car thermometer sitting in a parking lot under a "tree"

...and had a fabulous lunch at this WONDERFUL new place I found -- Pita Jungle! After my outing, I spent the rest of my day preparing for my dear friend Whitney's birthday party! I made a fruit pizza, meatballs, and Whit's birthday cake! It was so much fun and it was great seeing everyone and getting together to celebrate the wonderful gal that she is.

My Sweet Friends Linda and ReAnne

The Birthday Girl Whit and Me :)

Tuesday morning I got up at 4:00 in order to shower, get ready, and leave for my first day with Dr. Calkins at Khatali Headache and Pain Center in Chandler, Arizona. I headed out around 5:30 am and made a few stops: 1)Krispy Kreme Doughnuts to treat the staff 2) Fry's Supermarket to get myself some yogurt and bananas :) Upon arrival, I was greeted by Dr. Calkins and his wonderful staff. At 8:00 am SHARP we had the first table on the table for the first procedure of the day and my first procedure since coming on board with Kimberly-Clark. I was simply amazed by the procedures and quickly realized that this is exactly where I wanted to be! I love helping patients but not having to do the "down and dirty" tasks. Whew! Anyhow, between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm, we did a total of 14 procedures. We stopped for a little under an hour for lunch so Michele (the sweet physician assistant who I adore) and I ran to AJ's for lunch. I slammed some sushi and a salad and back in the room we went! It was a great day and I learned tons! After I finished, I headed to my hotel -- the BRAND NEW -- Hilton! (I had decided to stay in the hotel as it was much more convenient then driving back and forth all week). Once I settled into my room, I went for a workout in the gym, a quick shower, then a yummy dinner at California Pizza Kitchen. Before I knew it, it was time for bed!

On Wednesday, I was back a Khatali shadowing Dr. Calkins on his "office" day. It was a short day (I work 7:30a - 11:30a) but I really gained knowledge of how well our procedure helps patients. It is amazing to see how some people go about life and what they do in order to "tolerate" their pain. After I left Dr. Calkins office, I went back to my hotel to do some Anatomy of the Spine studying and anxiously awaited the arrival of my college friend, Sara Phares. Sara was driving from Fort Worth back to Los Angeles and she just happened to be driving straight through where I was!! She stopped and we hit up California Pizza Kitchen again and the Nordstrom Half-Yearly sale. It was so great to see her and to catch up and I am really looking forward to more time with her when I visit LA next week on business.

Thursday was another procedure day at the clinic but it was much slower. We only had 8 cases to do instead of 14! However, it was a great day and it really gave me a chance to ask some questions and dive into the things I need to learn. I was very happy and extremely grateful for Dr. Calkins and his staff to let me visit them this week.

Today, I had breakfast with my boss (Neil Thorpe) and the Arizona/Southern California Sales Rep for KC (Charlotte). After breakfast, I shadowed Charlotte for the day and learned what it means to be a sales rep for KC and how I would be assisting her with her accounts. It was a pretty easy day (we finished at 3:00 and spent most of the day driving all over Phoenix) and I really enjoyed my time with her. However, boss man forgot to warn me that Charlotte wasn't the best driver so I ended up fighting car sickness most of the day.

This evening, I had a yummy dinner and then spent the evening doing laundry and packing for my next week. I leave tomorrow afternoon for San Diego where I will visit a college friend, Amanda Young! She graduated from TCU two weekends ago and is celebrating her graduation with a party in her hometown of Poway on Sunday! I will stay with her for the weekend and the first part of next week. On Tuesday, Amanda will turn 23 and we plan to celebrate her birthday at Disneyland! After Disneyland, I will get back into the groove with work. I will stay in Orange County and work with the KC rep for that region -- Ron Borst until Friday. While in Orange County, I hope to see Sara again, my friend Charlie Ebersol, and possibly make a trip to the Malibu country mart :)

Life is good and overall I had a great week! I am worn out but I know it is all part of the ramp up and the transition back into the "real world!" I hope everyone had a great week and will have a fabulous Memorial Day weekend!

More updates after my time in San Diego :)

xoxo,

Kels

A Visit from Dad

2009-05-20T19:29:00.000-07:00

Hey there everyone! It has been awhile since I have written but I have a great excuse -- Dad was in town all last weekend!!! What a blast :) I am the luckiest girl in the world and have two WONDERFUL parents!

Dad arrived on Friday night and as soon as I picked him up from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, we headed to Old Town Scottsdale for a little dinner. We had a great time and a great meal at one of the local hot spots -- Sauce! After our fabulous dinner I took Dad to one of my personal favorites -- The Gelato Spot! Yummy! They have over 40 flavors of gelato and it is fabulous! Needless to say we were stuffed! But how fun! Then, we made our way up "north" so Dad could see my new place. I think he liked it! We settled in and called it a night.

Saturday morning we were up early and had one of those "life talks" that was just ridiculous. Who ever would believe that I actually struck up a conversation about 401k, stocks, bonds, the IRS, and all the other people and places who steal my money (and yours)! After about an hour of intellectual conversation I was done and it was time for some FUN! We headed to Anthem (a small town just north of where I live) and ate breakfast at yet another one of my favorites -- The Good Egg. It was gorgeous out (only about 92 at 9:30am) so we sat outside and enjoyed the beauty that IS Arizona and of course the world famous "Arizona Misters!" After we finished lunch we headed to the outlet mall for some shopping and browsing. We were on a mission to find me a "travel briefcase" -- ON WHEELS!

Now this may not seem like a hard task but let me tell you. This search started at 10:00am and it did not cease until nearly 9:00pm that day. We of course did some other shopping in between. We hit up J. Crew, Banana Republic, Nike, Dick's Sporting Goods (I got some sweet shoes for work!), the Scottsdale Fashion Mall and about a million other places. Would you believe it... they don't make HOT PINK BUSINESS SUITCASES ON WHEELS!!! How ridiculous!! Haha. Seriously. We had a great day of shopping but I think when it was all said and done Dad was ready to throw me and my desire for a "non-black" briefcase out the door. Needless to say, I ended up with a black wheeled suitcase... just like every other businessman/woman in America. Thank you!

After the torture of a 24 year old daughter dragging him to malls and stores all day, I figured the least I could do was take him to a nice dinner, but let's face it. He still paid. Anyhow, we went to -- guess what -- ANOTHER FAVORITE! :) We went to the Wildfish which is a great little seafood place in the Camelback area of South Scottsdale. I had a $50 gift certificate and I thought -- great... a lovely meal and we won't have to spend too much! WRONG! Dad and I literally ordered EVERYTHING off their menu! haha. We started with a glass of wine (we both love Pinot Grigio), then we enjoyed some scrumptious calamari (one of the best ever), Dad enjoyed a Fuji apple salad, then we had our entrees....Halibut for me and Red Snapper for Dad. As if that wasn't enough we indulged in a pineapple upside down cake to top it off. Let's just say -- being on a diet when Dad was in town really didn't work! But it was yummy and we had a blast.

Sunday came and I took Dad to one of the churches I attend here -- Highlands Church. We had a great service that was definitely a must hear for us and Dad had the chance to meet two of my friends who were actually still in town -- Wong and Nooner. What a combo right? Seriously though, two great guys and I was glad for him to meet them.

After church we went to a lovely lunch at Paradise Bakery (Panera like for you Ohioans) and ended up walking out with free meal coupons and a dozen cookies. Let's just say -- Dad bit a pebble in half that was in his salad! Not so good on the teeth!

Then, I drove Dad to Fountain Hills, AZ where the views are beautiful. There is also the world's largest fountain in the town and so he had the pleasure of seeing what I originally thought was a "natural geyser". It was bloody hot (as Dad would say), and ended up being day 12 of 14 consecutive days in the triple digits! Yes folks, it is HOT in AZ.

Later in the day we hit up a few more places and I introduced Dad to wonderful world of In-N-Out Hamburgers. Of course -- further stuffing ourselves. We rested at home and looked over a "budget sheet" then headed off to Pinnacle Peak Mountain for an early evening hike. It was fabulous (except for the annoying gnats that wouldn't go away because there was NO BREEZE). It was hard to believe time was coming to an end after our hike. We ran a few errands, had a quick dinner at Pei Wei then it was time to head home to pack up and get ready for Monday.

The time went entirely too fast and of course my heart broke when Dad left town. It amazes me that after all the times I've had to say goodbye I still cry when my Daddy leaves. But -- it as also a weekend I would never forget. We had a great time hanging out, chatting, and laughing (sometimes because we were making fun of Mom) and I constantly found myself amazed at what an amazing Daddy (and Mommy) I have. I don't know of many parents who would tolerate what I have put them through the last 11 months but every step of the way they have been there to love me, hold me, laugh with me, and to tell me it's OK. Because of them I am a stronger woman, a better person, and a happier person in general. I am so thankful for our time together and will look forward to June 12th when I get to head back to Ohio and see the WHOLE FAM for a week in Lakeside :)

This week -- I have been in Chandler, Arizona working with Dr. Calkins at the Khatali Headache and Pain Center. It has been such an amazing learning experience and I am simply loving my new job! New updates and information on my week in Chandler tomorrow or Friday! Check back :)

I'm signing off for now -- I have some Anatomy Coloring Book to complete :)

xoxoxo,

Kelsey

A Tough Goodbye...

2009-05-14T21:36:00.000-07:00

It has been a few days since I have posted but as you can imagine -- I've been sooo busy and tired for that matter! Not sure what my deal has been but I definitely was in need of some major sleep going into this week and it wasn't until last evening I finally slept --- PRAISE THE LORD!

It has been a great week anxiously awaiting my new job with Kimberly-Clark and spending some final moments with The Frick's. I have been nannying for them since the beginning of April.

As some of you may know, I was introduced to them (Ryan and Stephanie) through a friend here in Arizona (Bryan Noonan). Bryan's Mom is friends with Ryan's Mom. They got to chatting about how Bryan had this friend who was looking to find employment (that's me!) and how the Frick's had just temporarily moved to AZ, and with 2 kids ages 3 and 17 months and a baby due any day they needed help! Of course when Bryan called asking if he could pass my name along, I jumped all over the opportunity and the rest was history!

I met Stephanie and Ryan just ONE WEEK before their third child was born, a sweet little girl, Juliet. At merely 4 days old, I began helping them out part-time every week. Tyler (3), Scarlett (19 months), and Juliet (5 weeks) have been such a blessing. We have spent many hot Arizona days playing in the backyard, the baby pool, going to the park, coloring, learning how to spell things (Tyler can spell and write ELEPHANT perfectly -- so smart!), eating avacados, making baby bottles, sipping on lemonade, and transitioning with "new baby's" arrival!

Juliet -- 4.5 weeks old

Yesterday, Steph and I got brave and made the first MAJOR outing since Juliet's arrival -- a trip to the Phoenix's Children's Museum. The kids loved it and it was so fun for Steph and I as well. I'm going to miss our days together!

It has been such a blessing getting to know their family and although our time was cut short due to my opportunity with Kimberly-Clark, I know that I have made friends for a lifetime! I have so much enjoyed the days spent with them, my chats with Steph, and the feeling of pure joy that 3 kids under 3 brings! So many times it reminded me of my days with the Leonard kiddos and how FAST they grew up. Crazy how time flies.

Scarlett -- 19 months -- Playing piano with her pink woobie! :)

Today, when I left, I promised not to be a stranger. It was so tough leaving and knowing this page in life must be turned. But -- as I fought the tears, there was joy in knowing I had made a friend in Steph, I can go visit and watch the kids whenever I feel the urge, I now have a

Camelback Mountain hiking buddy, and when it's late at night and I'm alone traveling in San Francisco this fall -- my "Arizona family" will have moved to San Fran and I'll be able to quickly call them up and drop in for a visit! I am SO THANKFUL for the way they have blessed me the past month!

Slightly obsessed with Juliet's cute outfit!

Tonight, I have been preparing for Dad's arrival tomorrow! I am SOOOOO excited for him to come in town and for him to see the place I now call home. I did laundry, took the flannel sheets off my bed (pretty thoughtful when it's 104 huh?) and kindly placed a "yellow" towel in my pink girlie bathroom for him! :)

Tomorrow morning is my first day with Kimberly-Clark. I am very anxious but know it will be a great opportunity. Prayers are appreciated as I start this career and start a new chapter (perhaps the most exciting chapter yet) tomorrow.

For now -- I think it's time for more shut eye. It has been an exhausting and emotional day and I need to get ready for tomorrow!

All my love,

Miss Kelsey

P.S. Sorry no pictures of Tyler -- I guess he must have been sleeping when I got camera happy :(

A Day With New Friends

2009-05-10T21:12:00.000-07:00

Well first of all, let me say, "Happy Mother's Day" to the most fabulous Mom in the world! It was such a bummer that I didn't get to be home for the day (and that you didn't receive your card in time) but I had little blessings along the way that made today fabulous. First thing this morning, I went to a new church, NorthRidge Community Church, with my friends Linda and Kip. Kip's entire family was there which was nice. The kids at church led praise and worship and if that wasn't a tearjerker! Such cute little kids! Made me feel old. After that, Kip's mom kindly asked me to go to Kona Grill for lunch, however, I declined because I just wanted her to spend time with HER family.

Well, it worked out well because my friend Nichole (I worked with her at RA Sushi) called me right as I was leaving church and asked if she could come over to my pool! Of course I anxiously agreed yes and we had a blast! Nichole is my age and a total sweetheart. She has two sweet children Dilyn (5) and Tatum (almost 1). So, she and her boyfriend Matt brought the kiddos over and we had a blast in the 105 degree heat just hanging by the pool. I worked with both the kids on swimming and just enjoyed good fellowship. Nichole and Matt have become very good friends and I definitely think our friendship is needed for both of our sakes :)

After they went home, I ran a few errands and stocked up on bottle water. Of course, I am a water snob and our water in Phoenix is nasty tasting. So -- bottle water it is! While I was at Target, Nichole called me again and asked if I wanted to go to dinner. So of course I said, "Yes!"

We just got back from a wonderful evening at Olive and Ivy (super yummy)! She has such well behaved children and I know it topped off her Mother's Day for her! Matt and I had Halibut which was fabulous and Nichole had the Gnocchi Bolognese.

Well, I just got home and believe it or not I am exhausted from such a eventful day! I am so blessed to have a wonderful family and wonderful friends. Today was a good reminder to be a blessing to others when you can't be with the ones you love most. I certainly enjoyed my time at NorthRidge and the friends I have made in Kip and Linda. In addition, my time with Nichole, Matt, Dilyn and Tatum was also a blessing and I am so lucky to have met such wonderful new friends.

I will post pictures from our night once I get them from Nichole!

God is good!

Looking forward to a week of babysitting the Frick kiddos for ONE LAST WEEK and anxiously awaiting the arrival of my Daddy on Friday and starting my new job with Kimberly-Clark.

More later.

P.S. If you haven't had the chance -- check out my niece's blog -- www.gracierenee.blogspot.com -- I don't think she could be anymore precious! She sure brightens every day of mine!!

Not so sure about this...

2009-05-09T11:22:00.000-07:00

So I decided today that I would join the blogging world. I'm not sure what possessed me to do this but as I think about it there are two reasons:

1. I have a new job!! yay!

2. I get annoyed every time I log on to Miss Gracie's blog and it is not updated -- sorry Sis!

So here goes. I have no idea what I'm doing but I figure if Linds can figure it out, then surely so can I.

More to come later. Going to try to add some "cool stuff".

Happy Saturday friends!