Today, I had a lot of time to remember and think about a lot of things.
A whole lot of memories came flooding back, and most will remain sequestered! Ahem...
However...
I just got back from a little adventure...
I rode over to a previous residence, and met/found a friend there!
To make a long story short, his aunt has terminal cancer and tonight he wanted to go see her. I tagged along, thinking I would stay outside near the vehicle, and wait.
Yet I am in Yuma...
So as I friend of a family member, I am also considered family! And I was quickly ushered in and introduced to mi tia! Seems that my friend was a sobrino (nephew), and this was his aunt. The fact that I was there, instantly made me part of this extended family!
My broken Spanish, and equally broken English/translation by family members, made me the instant celebrity! I am sure that they were mostly congratulating me on my attempt to converse... yet I did pick up on a few words that I realized, some jokes were being passed around too!
A bit out of my element, yet I still was able to meet someone, and offer I bit of advice to her and the family members that were the caretakers.
Tonight, I gained and Aunt (una tia)! And a few more family members too!
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Saturday, September 29, 2012
A day off!
Got off work early this morning, unwound, went to sleep. Got up around 1:00pm... not because I was done sleeping, it was, that I sensed something wrong!
And then I heard it again!
My room has one of those walk thru doors... one that connects two adjacent rooms... and someone was pushing on, trying to enter, thru this door! A moment later, I heard the voices of small children. Their family had just checked in to the room next door, and as little kids do, they explored!
Alert over... I actually fell back to sleep for a little bit more!
Finally roused myself up! Ran up to the front desk, sent a fax, swung by the pool to grab a soda out of the vending machine, and got back to my room. Sorted laundry, will probably do that tonight. Picked up a book my dad loaned me while in Las Vegas...
I have been reading it ever since! Can not put it down! Had I not been starving and finally ordered/ate some pizza, I would have finished the book already! Brief dinner break, and a post, I will dive back into this book!
Another day off tomorrow...
And then I heard it again!
My room has one of those walk thru doors... one that connects two adjacent rooms... and someone was pushing on, trying to enter, thru this door! A moment later, I heard the voices of small children. Their family had just checked in to the room next door, and as little kids do, they explored!
Alert over... I actually fell back to sleep for a little bit more!
Finally roused myself up! Ran up to the front desk, sent a fax, swung by the pool to grab a soda out of the vending machine, and got back to my room. Sorted laundry, will probably do that tonight. Picked up a book my dad loaned me while in Las Vegas...
I have been reading it ever since! Can not put it down! Had I not been starving and finally ordered/ate some pizza, I would have finished the book already! Brief dinner break, and a post, I will dive back into this book!
Another day off tomorrow...
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Humbling...
WARNING: Medical Terminology and Advanced Medical Discussion
For the most part I am a low-key person. Often my co-workers comment on my "quietness" or my "calmness" during perceived crisis. I attribute this aspect of my personality to my years of experience. Specifically to when I was working in the pre-hospital environment.
People call 911 for help, they go to an Emergency Department.... People expect responders and providers to remain calm, take charge, and help to rectify whatever situation is at hand.
A little secret... most responders/providers are first and foremost concerned about their safety. One does not just rush in! They typically want to be part of the solution, not become part of the problem! When I was an instructor for a Public Safety/Governmental organization, I emphasized what I called the "STOP" principle when responding to, coming onto a scene, and addressing a problem:
S = STOP! Literally, stop. Take a breath, prepare to prepare.
T = Think! What is the situation, what has to be done, and where are the escape routes if needed.
O = Observe! What is the actual situation, environment, hazards, immediate priorities.
P = Plan! Identify the first three things that need to be done, call for help if needed, and identify the exit.
The above process can literally occur in a few seconds, or can take a few minutes, depending on the situation. More importantly, it can be applied to anything an individual experiences.
Now, last night was busy in the Emergency Department. Every bed/room was filled and flex/hallway beds were in use. I was assigned to the flex/hallway beds. I had six patients I was caring for. I declined accepting a seventh, based on the acuity or needs of the current assignment/load. I am flexible, and will take on added responsibilities as needed. Yet I will not cross a personal line, when patient safety becomes compromised. Later in the evening, I took on a seventh patient.
Within the HIPPA guidelines, I had an ill person with non-cardiac chest pain, a confused person s/p surgery with multiple comorbidities, a person with an acute mental status change related to Alzheimer's disease, a person with heart palpatations that had a cardiac history and comorbidities, a person that had a neurological history who experienced a syncopal episode, and a person that had a reaction to a suspected toxin. A lot of medical lingo, I know... needless to say, it kept me busy for quite a few hours!
Later I took on another patient that experienced a fall and had no complaints, just literally a bump on there forehead.
Now, out of all of these patients, the one that I originally prioritized as the least concerning, the one that was not going to suddenly become unstable, or need a lot of interventions... ended up being the sickest patient I had, and was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit! In retrospect, I was so busy that, although I looked at lab results, I didn't connect two things.
I was reviewing the patient's chart, lab results, etc, in preparation to calling report to the floor nurse, when I finally saw it, connected it, and had a STOP moment! All of the treatment so far had been appropriate, an elevated blood sugar requires IV fluids; this patient had received 2 liters of fluids. It was this pesky, often overlooked and misunderstood number on the Basic Metabolic Panel, or Chem-7 that caught my eye! This patient's Glucose was 350, the CO2 was 15! High Glucose, low CO2... this patient was probably in Diabetic Keto-Acidosis (DKA)! A look at the urinalysis... yep... spilling glucose and ketones!
An added STAT ABG (Arterial Blood Gas) confirmed it! A brief conversation with the ED Physician and a call to the admitting/accepting Physician, a continuous Insulin infusion started, and this patient was admitted to the ICU! Luckily, it was an early DKA and no further aggressive electrolyte replacement was needed.
I missed it initally, the ED Physician missed it too. I was just happy that it was caught and identified!
And the patient that had the fall, the one with a bump on there forehead... you know, a "goose egg"... ended up having an ICH (intra cranial hemorrhage)! A small sub-dural bleed/hematoma... was transferred and flown by a Med-Evac to Phoenix!
The purpose of this post...
I was humbled last night.
As an experienced ED Nurse, I was once again reminded that as a medical professional, patients don't read the textbooks! Every patient is unique, every presentation is different. And atypical results/findings are God's little reminder that we really don't know everything!
For the most part I am a low-key person. Often my co-workers comment on my "quietness" or my "calmness" during perceived crisis. I attribute this aspect of my personality to my years of experience. Specifically to when I was working in the pre-hospital environment.
People call 911 for help, they go to an Emergency Department.... People expect responders and providers to remain calm, take charge, and help to rectify whatever situation is at hand.
A little secret... most responders/providers are first and foremost concerned about their safety. One does not just rush in! They typically want to be part of the solution, not become part of the problem! When I was an instructor for a Public Safety/Governmental organization, I emphasized what I called the "STOP" principle when responding to, coming onto a scene, and addressing a problem:
S = STOP! Literally, stop. Take a breath, prepare to prepare.
T = Think! What is the situation, what has to be done, and where are the escape routes if needed.
O = Observe! What is the actual situation, environment, hazards, immediate priorities.
P = Plan! Identify the first three things that need to be done, call for help if needed, and identify the exit.
The above process can literally occur in a few seconds, or can take a few minutes, depending on the situation. More importantly, it can be applied to anything an individual experiences.
Now, last night was busy in the Emergency Department. Every bed/room was filled and flex/hallway beds were in use. I was assigned to the flex/hallway beds. I had six patients I was caring for. I declined accepting a seventh, based on the acuity or needs of the current assignment/load. I am flexible, and will take on added responsibilities as needed. Yet I will not cross a personal line, when patient safety becomes compromised. Later in the evening, I took on a seventh patient.
Within the HIPPA guidelines, I had an ill person with non-cardiac chest pain, a confused person s/p surgery with multiple comorbidities, a person with an acute mental status change related to Alzheimer's disease, a person with heart palpatations that had a cardiac history and comorbidities, a person that had a neurological history who experienced a syncopal episode, and a person that had a reaction to a suspected toxin. A lot of medical lingo, I know... needless to say, it kept me busy for quite a few hours!
Later I took on another patient that experienced a fall and had no complaints, just literally a bump on there forehead.
Now, out of all of these patients, the one that I originally prioritized as the least concerning, the one that was not going to suddenly become unstable, or need a lot of interventions... ended up being the sickest patient I had, and was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit! In retrospect, I was so busy that, although I looked at lab results, I didn't connect two things.
I was reviewing the patient's chart, lab results, etc, in preparation to calling report to the floor nurse, when I finally saw it, connected it, and had a STOP moment! All of the treatment so far had been appropriate, an elevated blood sugar requires IV fluids; this patient had received 2 liters of fluids. It was this pesky, often overlooked and misunderstood number on the Basic Metabolic Panel, or Chem-7 that caught my eye! This patient's Glucose was 350, the CO2 was 15! High Glucose, low CO2... this patient was probably in Diabetic Keto-Acidosis (DKA)! A look at the urinalysis... yep... spilling glucose and ketones!
An added STAT ABG (Arterial Blood Gas) confirmed it! A brief conversation with the ED Physician and a call to the admitting/accepting Physician, a continuous Insulin infusion started, and this patient was admitted to the ICU! Luckily, it was an early DKA and no further aggressive electrolyte replacement was needed.
I missed it initally, the ED Physician missed it too. I was just happy that it was caught and identified!
And the patient that had the fall, the one with a bump on there forehead... you know, a "goose egg"... ended up having an ICH (intra cranial hemorrhage)! A small sub-dural bleed/hematoma... was transferred and flown by a Med-Evac to Phoenix!
The purpose of this post...
I was humbled last night.
As an experienced ED Nurse, I was once again reminded that as a medical professional, patients don't read the textbooks! Every patient is unique, every presentation is different. And atypical results/findings are God's little reminder that we really don't know everything!
A few more pics...
From my recent Vegas Road trip...
So as my parent's and I were walking out of The Orleans one night, we passed a shoe shine stand. My dad made sure that I knew I should get my boots shined, and the attendant at the Stand echoed the idea, and tried to coax me over.
So I sorta said back, over my shoulder, that if I won that night, I would return... and fulfill the promise. You see, I did promise to return. However, I am sorta ashamed that I put a condition on my return.
However, I did win, and I did return! Just above the cut off of the pic, the sign says that a "Boot Shine = $10.00" I ended up handing over a $20.00!
I admit, I splurged, got some boots shined that I thought I would eventually wear into the ground. I still might! Yet they looked good for two days!
Not in any way superstitious, yet after this shine, I never lost! Even got a free touch up the next day! So from this day forth, when I wear these boots... seeing the opportunity, I will stop for a shine! And I will make someone's day!
I packed light, so the next day, being a free day, I wore the same clothes. Some will think that is sorta weird, yet I had a pair of jeans for riding, two long sleeve t-shirts for riding, two dress shirts, one pair of dress pants, and the appropriate number of socks and underwear for my trip!
Told you I packed light!
Regardless, had a quick stop for a pic to send to my Aunt in Georgia...
Far enough back that my rider/face/sunglass tan is not so apparent... and the long sleeved shirt hides the arms tan... sans the hand's (being not so tan from riding gloves).
This is pre-haircut! Got one when I got back to Yuma a few days later! Sorta was getting a tad long/mangy! As a non-military person... I still prefer shorter than longer!
And then there was the final departure from the Orleans.
Not much, but a different perspective. I was thinking about load distribution and weight. My parents just snapped a few pics!
I was more worried at this point that they were in a traffic lane and blocking! Kept encouraging them to move around to an open parking space...
Ultimately, they moved around!
I had a short ride up to Red Rock HD to complete a "mini-quest." Then on the road back to Yuma.
Anyone following, already read the story... just a few added pics!
And blogspot it acting weird, so fonts are off as well as colors... perhaps tomorrow it will be back!
So as my parent's and I were walking out of The Orleans one night, we passed a shoe shine stand. My dad made sure that I knew I should get my boots shined, and the attendant at the Stand echoed the idea, and tried to coax me over.
So I sorta said back, over my shoulder, that if I won that night, I would return... and fulfill the promise. You see, I did promise to return. However, I am sorta ashamed that I put a condition on my return.
However, I did win, and I did return! Just above the cut off of the pic, the sign says that a "Boot Shine = $10.00" I ended up handing over a $20.00!
I admit, I splurged, got some boots shined that I thought I would eventually wear into the ground. I still might! Yet they looked good for two days!
Not in any way superstitious, yet after this shine, I never lost! Even got a free touch up the next day! So from this day forth, when I wear these boots... seeing the opportunity, I will stop for a shine! And I will make someone's day!
I packed light, so the next day, being a free day, I wore the same clothes. Some will think that is sorta weird, yet I had a pair of jeans for riding, two long sleeve t-shirts for riding, two dress shirts, one pair of dress pants, and the appropriate number of socks and underwear for my trip!
Told you I packed light!
Regardless, had a quick stop for a pic to send to my Aunt in Georgia...
Far enough back that my rider/face/sunglass tan is not so apparent... and the long sleeved shirt hides the arms tan... sans the hand's (being not so tan from riding gloves).
This is pre-haircut! Got one when I got back to Yuma a few days later! Sorta was getting a tad long/mangy! As a non-military person... I still prefer shorter than longer!
And then there was the final departure from the Orleans.
Not much, but a different perspective. I was thinking about load distribution and weight. My parents just snapped a few pics!
I was more worried at this point that they were in a traffic lane and blocking! Kept encouraging them to move around to an open parking space...
Ultimately, they moved around!
I had a short ride up to Red Rock HD to complete a "mini-quest." Then on the road back to Yuma.
Anyone following, already read the story... just a few added pics!
And blogspot it acting weird, so fonts are off as well as colors... perhaps tomorrow it will be back!
Monday, September 24, 2012
Road Trip - Part Three: The Ride Home!
When it was time to depart, my parents and I took a few more pictures, then I loaded up and prepped for the ride home.
I had one side trip still to make though...
A quick trip up to a HD Dealership!
I can't explain it really. There is a community, a lifestyle, an understanding that exists. Ride up to a HD shop, and walk in... one is treated as family. I took a break, purchased a few souvenirs, looked at some vintage bikes, and talked with a few fellow riders.
I got on the road around 1:30pm. My route was basically a reverse trip up to Needles, CA. I took a direct route down I-15, to I-215, to I-515, then South on US-95.
A brief stop in Searchlight, NV for a water/seat break, and a bike/load check, then back on the road.
I stopped at the road surface change that marked the border between Nevada and California. This sign/announcement, was very apparent. Bigger and less than 10 feet from the road! As I admitted before, as I looked across the road, I saw the sign welcoming me to Nevada. So I scooted across and staged my earlier photo of entering Nevada.
The ride back to Needles was uneventful. Light traffic, only two truckers, and just one stop at a railroad crossing! I didn't take any pics, yet I had to wait about 5 minutes as a freight train passed. The Engines were already well to the West, just had to wait for the railcars to go by.
Got into Needles and stopped for a fuel/water/snack/rest break. Now my bike requires high octane fuel, so the 91 octane cost me $4.99/gal here. Good thing I only have a 4.7 gal tank and get incredible mpg!
This is were I took an alternative route. I rode through Needles along I-40 into Arizona...
Couldn't stop on the bridge over the Colorado River. There was a sign midway that said "Arizona State Line" that I wanted to take a pic of, having the river in the background... but alas, I had to settle for this.
About 10 miles into Arizona, I took a right turn onto AZ-95. From I-40 this road would pretty much take me along the Colorado River, thru Lake Havasu City, into Parker.
Overall, this was a much better road! A little more traffic, yet one never felt alone. I stopped in Lake Havasu City. Just a quick stop for a seat break and a take care of nature! But I stopped at the London Bridge!
There it is! The London Bridge! I might go back to Lake Havasu City. It has all of the modern conveniences, shops, amenities a traveler expects/needs. Summer is the "high" season here, so some things were closed/shut down. Yet it is a thriving community! When there is a Home Depot and a Lowes within two miles of each other... one has to acknowledge that things here are good!
From Lake Havasu City down to Parker, the ride was nice! Scenic, as I could often see the river to my right; lot's of curves, dips, and climbs! Had to get over the Buckskins... then a gentle downhill ride to Yuma!
Once in Parker, I stopped again for a break. Short seat break, then back on the road.
My ride from Parker to Yuma was for the most part uneventful. It was getting late and the sun was going down. As I was riding, there are the "patches" or really black marks on the road. As I was scanning ahead, I kept these differences in the road surface in mind. At night, that is after sunset, these dark spots on the road tend to blend in a bit.
South of Quartzsite, I noted one of these dark spots ahead and moved a little to one side. As I approached, I realized that this dark spot I saw on my scan was an animal! So a quick swerve to avoid, another quick swerve to correct. It was instinctual. A push left, went right, then a push right, went left... hazard avoided! It wasn't till I thought about it that I got a little excited! That is, the adrenaline finally kicked in!
I rolled in to Yuma around 8:00pm. 7.5 hours after I left Las Vegas. The ride/route was longer, and I made a few stops along the way. It was a great ride! I got to see and experience things that very few others will ever! It is not about the pics, nor the story... it is ultimately about the experience!
And for that, I am thankful!
I had one side trip still to make though...
A quick trip up to a HD Dealership!
I can't explain it really. There is a community, a lifestyle, an understanding that exists. Ride up to a HD shop, and walk in... one is treated as family. I took a break, purchased a few souvenirs, looked at some vintage bikes, and talked with a few fellow riders.
I got on the road around 1:30pm. My route was basically a reverse trip up to Needles, CA. I took a direct route down I-15, to I-215, to I-515, then South on US-95.
A brief stop in Searchlight, NV for a water/seat break, and a bike/load check, then back on the road.
I stopped at the road surface change that marked the border between Nevada and California. This sign/announcement, was very apparent. Bigger and less than 10 feet from the road! As I admitted before, as I looked across the road, I saw the sign welcoming me to Nevada. So I scooted across and staged my earlier photo of entering Nevada.
The ride back to Needles was uneventful. Light traffic, only two truckers, and just one stop at a railroad crossing! I didn't take any pics, yet I had to wait about 5 minutes as a freight train passed. The Engines were already well to the West, just had to wait for the railcars to go by.
Got into Needles and stopped for a fuel/water/snack/rest break. Now my bike requires high octane fuel, so the 91 octane cost me $4.99/gal here. Good thing I only have a 4.7 gal tank and get incredible mpg!
This is were I took an alternative route. I rode through Needles along I-40 into Arizona...
Couldn't stop on the bridge over the Colorado River. There was a sign midway that said "Arizona State Line" that I wanted to take a pic of, having the river in the background... but alas, I had to settle for this.
About 10 miles into Arizona, I took a right turn onto AZ-95. From I-40 this road would pretty much take me along the Colorado River, thru Lake Havasu City, into Parker.
Overall, this was a much better road! A little more traffic, yet one never felt alone. I stopped in Lake Havasu City. Just a quick stop for a seat break and a take care of nature! But I stopped at the London Bridge!
There it is! The London Bridge! I might go back to Lake Havasu City. It has all of the modern conveniences, shops, amenities a traveler expects/needs. Summer is the "high" season here, so some things were closed/shut down. Yet it is a thriving community! When there is a Home Depot and a Lowes within two miles of each other... one has to acknowledge that things here are good!
From Lake Havasu City down to Parker, the ride was nice! Scenic, as I could often see the river to my right; lot's of curves, dips, and climbs! Had to get over the Buckskins... then a gentle downhill ride to Yuma!
Once in Parker, I stopped again for a break. Short seat break, then back on the road.
My ride from Parker to Yuma was for the most part uneventful. It was getting late and the sun was going down. As I was riding, there are the "patches" or really black marks on the road. As I was scanning ahead, I kept these differences in the road surface in mind. At night, that is after sunset, these dark spots on the road tend to blend in a bit.
South of Quartzsite, I noted one of these dark spots ahead and moved a little to one side. As I approached, I realized that this dark spot I saw on my scan was an animal! So a quick swerve to avoid, another quick swerve to correct. It was instinctual. A push left, went right, then a push right, went left... hazard avoided! It wasn't till I thought about it that I got a little excited! That is, the adrenaline finally kicked in!
I rolled in to Yuma around 8:00pm. 7.5 hours after I left Las Vegas. The ride/route was longer, and I made a few stops along the way. It was a great ride! I got to see and experience things that very few others will ever! It is not about the pics, nor the story... it is ultimately about the experience!
And for that, I am thankful!
Road Trip - Part Two: Vegas! Continued...
Overall, my trip to Las Vegas was awesome!
I won some money gambling, I took a class and increased my knowledge/preparedness, and I got to spend some time with my parents!
I owed my dad some money, so out of my winnings I paid him back. My parents were impressed with my "winnings," so I brought my dad to the craps table. He was joking with me that he shouldn't gamble with money that was "tainted." I assured him that it was "lucky" money and to give it a try. He did, and I am sure he was satisfied!
A few hours later, the two of us finished our session. I did not tell my dad how to play, as he already knows the game, yet I did explain my strategy and my bets to him when asked.
We both did well...
I once again turned $100 into $300. And my dad...
Turned his $100 into $231!
As this was my last night, I stayed out/up late. I walked down to the far end of the Casino and listened to a Classic Rock band playing at a bar for awhile, walked back to the other end stopping every once and awhile to play a slot machine. Ended up back near the pit... so I bought in again at Craps for another $100.
Well...
That turned into more!
The next morning was check out day. I met my parents for breakfast. We talked quite a bit and then went to again, take some more pictures for family. A few hours of Casino time, no more live craps for me though. I stayed with my mom and played a few slots with her. I put $20 in a penny slot and after a few minutes, was up to $20.14... So I cashed out!
I walked over to a non-live/slot-like craps game. I put my $20.14 ticket in and expected to lose it all. Thirty minutes later, my mom found me and sat down in the next seat. A few minutes later my dad found us as well. In this, my last blast... I turned my $20 into $94!
I am sure The Orleans Hotel and Casino has me marked now! I came with $200, won about $900, walked away with $600.00. And that includes paying my dad back!
Yes, the winning was memorable and something to talk about. Not to be an advertisement for Las Vegas, but I did "beat the odds," and I left with more than I came with. First time in many years! I think I am still a few thousand behind...
As a Travel Nurse, I am working. Being away from "home," I look and perceive my 13 week contract as a paid vacation. I get to go somewhere, experience it, and only work 3 out of 7 days per week. As the past week shows, I still have the flexibility to take a trip, have fun, experience something new.
I am open to any destination as a Travel Nurse. Although, as a rider, I have to consider seasons... Winter is fast approaching, so I want to stay in the southern US until Spring. I guess I have become a snowbird! LOL
This week I will be venturing into California! I have applied for my California Nursing License and need to get fingerprinted... again... I might combine this with a trip down to Algodonas, MX.
Next is Part Three of my Road Trip - The Ride Home!
I won some money gambling, I took a class and increased my knowledge/preparedness, and I got to spend some time with my parents!
I owed my dad some money, so out of my winnings I paid him back. My parents were impressed with my "winnings," so I brought my dad to the craps table. He was joking with me that he shouldn't gamble with money that was "tainted." I assured him that it was "lucky" money and to give it a try. He did, and I am sure he was satisfied!
A few hours later, the two of us finished our session. I did not tell my dad how to play, as he already knows the game, yet I did explain my strategy and my bets to him when asked.
We both did well...
I once again turned $100 into $300. And my dad...
Turned his $100 into $231!
As this was my last night, I stayed out/up late. I walked down to the far end of the Casino and listened to a Classic Rock band playing at a bar for awhile, walked back to the other end stopping every once and awhile to play a slot machine. Ended up back near the pit... so I bought in again at Craps for another $100.
Well...
That turned into more!
The next morning was check out day. I met my parents for breakfast. We talked quite a bit and then went to again, take some more pictures for family. A few hours of Casino time, no more live craps for me though. I stayed with my mom and played a few slots with her. I put $20 in a penny slot and after a few minutes, was up to $20.14... So I cashed out!
I walked over to a non-live/slot-like craps game. I put my $20.14 ticket in and expected to lose it all. Thirty minutes later, my mom found me and sat down in the next seat. A few minutes later my dad found us as well. In this, my last blast... I turned my $20 into $94!
I am sure The Orleans Hotel and Casino has me marked now! I came with $200, won about $900, walked away with $600.00. And that includes paying my dad back!
Yes, the winning was memorable and something to talk about. Not to be an advertisement for Las Vegas, but I did "beat the odds," and I left with more than I came with. First time in many years! I think I am still a few thousand behind...
As a Travel Nurse, I am working. Being away from "home," I look and perceive my 13 week contract as a paid vacation. I get to go somewhere, experience it, and only work 3 out of 7 days per week. As the past week shows, I still have the flexibility to take a trip, have fun, experience something new.
I am open to any destination as a Travel Nurse. Although, as a rider, I have to consider seasons... Winter is fast approaching, so I want to stay in the southern US until Spring. I guess I have become a snowbird! LOL
This week I will be venturing into California! I have applied for my California Nursing License and need to get fingerprinted... again... I might combine this with a trip down to Algodonas, MX.
Next is Part Three of my Road Trip - The Ride Home!
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Road Trip - Part Two: Vegas!
WARNING: This is a long post, with some pictures.
After a bit of a rocky and delayed start to my ride to Las Vegas, I finally arrived at The Orleans Hotel and Casino. About 300 miles, over 5 hours, multiple stops, three States... it was an awesome experience!
It is hard to explain. When one is in a car/truck with four wheels, air conditioning, radio, power steering, etc... there is a subtle loss of awareness. I myself have experienced it. Four wheeled vehicles tend to track and self-correct; let go of the steering wheel and the vehicle tends to straighten out. Personal comfort provides a relaxed driving experience; seats with backs and head rest, environmental controls, and reduced noise.
Riding is much different!
Once learned and practiced, it becomes instinctual. For example, steering is counter-intuitive, I want to go right, I turn/press left. Every extremity is involved: right hand is throttle and forward brake, left hand clutch, right foot rear brake, left foot shift lever. And one's awareness of conditions is heightened. When I ride I am scanning everywhere! Ahead, to each side, and behind! I am looking for potential hazards up ahead and planning paths and escapes routes, while being aware of immediate hazards right in front of me, and keeping track of what is behind me, like those that don't notice my braking/slowing/stopping.
My dad actually said to me once, "There are two types of motorcycle riders... There are old motorcycle riders, then there are bold motorcycle riders... but there are no old, bold motorcycle riders." Now I appreciate that bit of wisdom; however, as a rider, I have come to appreciate the difference between offensive and defensive riding! Like when making a left turn on a green arrow, only to realize that someone is coming at you and about to run the red light... throttle up, scoot through a turn, accident avoided. The passing of a semi, or a sudden stop or road hazard. What some people may think of as an "offensive" riding technique, like a sudden lane change, or splitting the lane (i.e. riding the lane line) between cars, swerves, etc...can in reality be very much "defensive!" There are the idiots that just drive that way normally, they are the bold riders... they probably won't get to the old rider stage, if they keep it up.
I digress...
I arrived in Las Vegas, and more specifically the hotel around 5:15pm. A mere 5 hours and 45 minutes later! I was tired, a little hot, and all I wanted was a nap! However, working nights, I knew if I went to sleep, it would be for 7+ hours. So, waking up at midnight, then up all night, when I had an all day class the next day, was not an option! So I opted to meet my parents and have dinner instead.
I met them at there room and we talked for awhile. Discussed my trip/road experience, a few current events, etc. And then went down to a restaurant in the hotel for dinner. In retrospect, I should have warned/reminded my parents about the Las Vegas servings! We each ordered a hamburger, the size and quantity was such that not one of the three of us was able to finish/eat all of the burger! And I have a healthy appetite too! As my dad said... "At least the pigs will eat well."
A few people know, yet now more will too, Las Vegas is a big pig farming region. All of the waste food from the Casinos are brought to the pig farmers and fed to the livestock. A lot of the US pork is grown and raised in Las Vegas! So in about three months, when you have that bacon for breakfast, just wonder if it came from our left-overs! ;)
I calculated that I had to go to bed by 11pm that night, in order to arrive at my class by 7am to register, get the course materials, and enjoy the free breakfast. So, my parents and I finished dinner and walked around the Casino. Every now and then a slot machine would catch someones eye and a few dollars were wagered. Now it has been a while since I have been to Las Vegas, but almost every slot machine I saw was a $0.01 slot! Penny slots abound now! There are a few quarter and dollar ones too.
The catch is that there are sometimes multiple pay lines, and one can wager or bet multiple pennies per line... so yes, it is a penny slot machine, yet each spin might cost you $1.80! And people that are averse to wagering at a dollar slot, it seems, think nothing of the $1.80 bet just made at the penny slot! Psychology and marketing at it's finest!
So as the evening progressed, I had about $40.00 left of my daily bankroll, or the amount I was willing to wager. I am not a big slot fan. I used to play Blackjack, until the Casinos started to change the rules and increase the number of decks in play at a given table. Now my favorite game is Craps.
There were six craps tables at the Orleans, only three of them were open that first night. I sorta hover and watch a table before I buy in to the game. Not superstitious, I just want to get an idea of the play, the shooters, and whether or not the table is paying.
I bought into a game for my last $40.00. I am a conservative player, in that I don't make a lot of bets, side bets, horn bets, etc. I typically will make a bet on the Pass line, take the odds, depending on the point up to two Place bets on the 6 and 8. I will not explain the game to you, nor give you any rationale/strategy. However, after an hour, I turned my $40.00 into...
More than doubled my money! Time to walk away and go to bed!
The next morning, Wednesday, was the first day of my review class. I arrived in plenty of time to register/sign in, get the course materials, and enjoy the breakfast spread! It was advertised as a "complimentary continental breakfast," yet it was scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, hash browns, fruit, pancakes, danish, muffins, coffee, tea, OJ, etc... An example of the Las Vegas "amp" to everything!
Proof that I actually was taking a class...
This was a class/course for preparation to take the CEN (Certified Emergency Nurse) exam. There were about 100 attendees from all over the US. A two day, eight hour/day review of not only basic concepts, but advanced rationales for why certain things are done/how/and why they present themselves.
A great review, that I would recommend to any fellow Emergency Nurse! Today, three days after the course, I took an online practice exam cold... no review, no reference to the materials provided, and I passed the practice exam! I bit of review and study before I take the actual Certification Exam, and I know I will pass, and even do better on my score!
On the evening of day two of my Las Vegas adventure, I went back to my room after the end of the class and took a 'power-nap.' It was one of those naps that you quickly fell into sleep, to the point you would jerk/jump and wake yourself up! Brief dreams and yet when you finally woke up and got moving, felt rested and rejuvinated! I met my parents afterwards. We took the free shuttle to a sister hotel/casino. We all walked around again, just experiencing and seeing the Casino. A few stops to "drop" a few dollars here and there in slot machines.
Back at the Orleans and I was once again faced with a next morning wake-up time, knowing my sleep-cycle, an 11pm bed time. So after my parents retired to their room, a few hours at the craps table. After my "surveillance," I bought into a table for $100.00...
Not a bad walk away!
However, as I mentioned in my Interlude, this was not about the class, nor the gambling/wagering. I signed up for a class to help me prepare for a specialty Certification in Emergency Nursing. It just so happened to be in Las Vegas. Close to where I am, easy to get to, etc. Also close for my parents to meet me and have a quality experience/time together! This became my focus for the trip!
The class was a great review, I even learned a few things!
However, I will always remember this trip for the time I spent with my parents! My dad joked about me getting a shoe (boot) shine, as we were walking out of the Orleans, as we passed a Shoe Shine Stand. You know, one of those elevated, throne like, shoe shine stands... I said, if I win tonight, I will get my boots shined...
As we got back to the hotel, and as I had won some more playing craps, my dad called me on it! And I got my boots shined! The posted price was $10.00. At the end, I handed over a $20 bill. It was early in the evening for me, so I stayed up and played some more. My boot shine was a lucky stop, as I could not lose for the rest of the evening!
I ventured to the Craps table, wagered $100.00 and walked away with...
I met my parents each afternoon for lunch. There were multiple restaurants and a food court in the Orleans. On the second day of my class, as I was now ahead, I bought them lunch! And I treated myself to a premium sandwich as well! Only 4 more hours and I would complete the course. I told my parents that I wanted to go ride the LV Monorail. Not a big thing, really. Just one of those, "I did it!" things.
So after my class, I met my parents in there room. After a while, we ventured out to the Casino and took some pictures, to share with close family. Then my dad and I ventured out to catch the shuttle, down to the Las Vegas Strip. Mom stayed back, to play the penny slots and have some alone time. Father/son time vs. mother alone time... this is actually a good thing!
My dad and I disembarked from the shuttle stop across from Bally's. There is a monorail station/stop there at Bally's, so we started to walk down the street. As we got to a light and pedestrian crossing, the light started to change, and we had a bit of a race across the street to beat the light! I was impressed with my dad's performance, as we started about 20 feet back from the actual crosswalk... yet he was one step back from the finish line, that is stepping onto the actual sidewalk after the crossing! Like father, like son... we were both saying/yelling out the countdown of the crossing signal!
We walked through Bally's to the Monorail Station. For those that are unfamiliar, the LV Monorail runs behind the Hotels on the North side of the LV Strip. And to get to the Station, or disembark from a Station, one has to walk a bit of a distance. I have a few ideas and comments, however, I will withhold them at this time.
Dad and I rode the monorail to the most Northern stop, then an automatic reversal back to the Southern end. We talked about railroads, trains,the Chicago EL, his father (my grandfather), riding a local Illinois rail, Stations being closed, rail lines shut down... We stopped and departed at the Southern most stop of the Monorail.
We stayed at the platform for almost an hour! Now this monorail is a non-conducted train. There is no person, no individual, no one operating the train. Everything is automated. We walked around the platform and noticed the details of the monorail... like a 750+ Volt electrical supply, the main wheel (suspension) track, as well as the two stabilizing wheel tracks. [Tracks are the black stains on the concrete. As a monorail, there is no "steel" track. The weight of the train (cars) keep it on the route, with a little boost from the stabilizing wheels.] Things like the expansion joint between concrete "rails," the "third rail," or the power supply for this electric train, the concrete spooling that was apparent!
So there is more to say about Vegas. Perhaps an interlude is in order...
After a bit of a rocky and delayed start to my ride to Las Vegas, I finally arrived at The Orleans Hotel and Casino. About 300 miles, over 5 hours, multiple stops, three States... it was an awesome experience!
It is hard to explain. When one is in a car/truck with four wheels, air conditioning, radio, power steering, etc... there is a subtle loss of awareness. I myself have experienced it. Four wheeled vehicles tend to track and self-correct; let go of the steering wheel and the vehicle tends to straighten out. Personal comfort provides a relaxed driving experience; seats with backs and head rest, environmental controls, and reduced noise.
Riding is much different!
Once learned and practiced, it becomes instinctual. For example, steering is counter-intuitive, I want to go right, I turn/press left. Every extremity is involved: right hand is throttle and forward brake, left hand clutch, right foot rear brake, left foot shift lever. And one's awareness of conditions is heightened. When I ride I am scanning everywhere! Ahead, to each side, and behind! I am looking for potential hazards up ahead and planning paths and escapes routes, while being aware of immediate hazards right in front of me, and keeping track of what is behind me, like those that don't notice my braking/slowing/stopping.
My dad actually said to me once, "There are two types of motorcycle riders... There are old motorcycle riders, then there are bold motorcycle riders... but there are no old, bold motorcycle riders." Now I appreciate that bit of wisdom; however, as a rider, I have come to appreciate the difference between offensive and defensive riding! Like when making a left turn on a green arrow, only to realize that someone is coming at you and about to run the red light... throttle up, scoot through a turn, accident avoided. The passing of a semi, or a sudden stop or road hazard. What some people may think of as an "offensive" riding technique, like a sudden lane change, or splitting the lane (i.e. riding the lane line) between cars, swerves, etc...can in reality be very much "defensive!" There are the idiots that just drive that way normally, they are the bold riders... they probably won't get to the old rider stage, if they keep it up.
I digress...
I arrived in Las Vegas, and more specifically the hotel around 5:15pm. A mere 5 hours and 45 minutes later! I was tired, a little hot, and all I wanted was a nap! However, working nights, I knew if I went to sleep, it would be for 7+ hours. So, waking up at midnight, then up all night, when I had an all day class the next day, was not an option! So I opted to meet my parents and have dinner instead.
I met them at there room and we talked for awhile. Discussed my trip/road experience, a few current events, etc. And then went down to a restaurant in the hotel for dinner. In retrospect, I should have warned/reminded my parents about the Las Vegas servings! We each ordered a hamburger, the size and quantity was such that not one of the three of us was able to finish/eat all of the burger! And I have a healthy appetite too! As my dad said... "At least the pigs will eat well."
A few people know, yet now more will too, Las Vegas is a big pig farming region. All of the waste food from the Casinos are brought to the pig farmers and fed to the livestock. A lot of the US pork is grown and raised in Las Vegas! So in about three months, when you have that bacon for breakfast, just wonder if it came from our left-overs! ;)
I calculated that I had to go to bed by 11pm that night, in order to arrive at my class by 7am to register, get the course materials, and enjoy the free breakfast. So, my parents and I finished dinner and walked around the Casino. Every now and then a slot machine would catch someones eye and a few dollars were wagered. Now it has been a while since I have been to Las Vegas, but almost every slot machine I saw was a $0.01 slot! Penny slots abound now! There are a few quarter and dollar ones too.
The catch is that there are sometimes multiple pay lines, and one can wager or bet multiple pennies per line... so yes, it is a penny slot machine, yet each spin might cost you $1.80! And people that are averse to wagering at a dollar slot, it seems, think nothing of the $1.80 bet just made at the penny slot! Psychology and marketing at it's finest!
So as the evening progressed, I had about $40.00 left of my daily bankroll, or the amount I was willing to wager. I am not a big slot fan. I used to play Blackjack, until the Casinos started to change the rules and increase the number of decks in play at a given table. Now my favorite game is Craps.
There were six craps tables at the Orleans, only three of them were open that first night. I sorta hover and watch a table before I buy in to the game. Not superstitious, I just want to get an idea of the play, the shooters, and whether or not the table is paying.
I bought into a game for my last $40.00. I am a conservative player, in that I don't make a lot of bets, side bets, horn bets, etc. I typically will make a bet on the Pass line, take the odds, depending on the point up to two Place bets on the 6 and 8. I will not explain the game to you, nor give you any rationale/strategy. However, after an hour, I turned my $40.00 into...
More than doubled my money! Time to walk away and go to bed!
The next morning, Wednesday, was the first day of my review class. I arrived in plenty of time to register/sign in, get the course materials, and enjoy the breakfast spread! It was advertised as a "complimentary continental breakfast," yet it was scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, hash browns, fruit, pancakes, danish, muffins, coffee, tea, OJ, etc... An example of the Las Vegas "amp" to everything!
Proof that I actually was taking a class...
This was a class/course for preparation to take the CEN (Certified Emergency Nurse) exam. There were about 100 attendees from all over the US. A two day, eight hour/day review of not only basic concepts, but advanced rationales for why certain things are done/how/and why they present themselves.
A great review, that I would recommend to any fellow Emergency Nurse! Today, three days after the course, I took an online practice exam cold... no review, no reference to the materials provided, and I passed the practice exam! I bit of review and study before I take the actual Certification Exam, and I know I will pass, and even do better on my score!
On the evening of day two of my Las Vegas adventure, I went back to my room after the end of the class and took a 'power-nap.' It was one of those naps that you quickly fell into sleep, to the point you would jerk/jump and wake yourself up! Brief dreams and yet when you finally woke up and got moving, felt rested and rejuvinated! I met my parents afterwards. We took the free shuttle to a sister hotel/casino. We all walked around again, just experiencing and seeing the Casino. A few stops to "drop" a few dollars here and there in slot machines.
Back at the Orleans and I was once again faced with a next morning wake-up time, knowing my sleep-cycle, an 11pm bed time. So after my parents retired to their room, a few hours at the craps table. After my "surveillance," I bought into a table for $100.00...
Not a bad walk away!
However, as I mentioned in my Interlude, this was not about the class, nor the gambling/wagering. I signed up for a class to help me prepare for a specialty Certification in Emergency Nursing. It just so happened to be in Las Vegas. Close to where I am, easy to get to, etc. Also close for my parents to meet me and have a quality experience/time together! This became my focus for the trip!
The class was a great review, I even learned a few things!
However, I will always remember this trip for the time I spent with my parents! My dad joked about me getting a shoe (boot) shine, as we were walking out of the Orleans, as we passed a Shoe Shine Stand. You know, one of those elevated, throne like, shoe shine stands... I said, if I win tonight, I will get my boots shined...
As we got back to the hotel, and as I had won some more playing craps, my dad called me on it! And I got my boots shined! The posted price was $10.00. At the end, I handed over a $20 bill. It was early in the evening for me, so I stayed up and played some more. My boot shine was a lucky stop, as I could not lose for the rest of the evening!
I ventured to the Craps table, wagered $100.00 and walked away with...
I met my parents each afternoon for lunch. There were multiple restaurants and a food court in the Orleans. On the second day of my class, as I was now ahead, I bought them lunch! And I treated myself to a premium sandwich as well! Only 4 more hours and I would complete the course. I told my parents that I wanted to go ride the LV Monorail. Not a big thing, really. Just one of those, "I did it!" things.
So after my class, I met my parents in there room. After a while, we ventured out to the Casino and took some pictures, to share with close family. Then my dad and I ventured out to catch the shuttle, down to the Las Vegas Strip. Mom stayed back, to play the penny slots and have some alone time. Father/son time vs. mother alone time... this is actually a good thing!
My dad and I disembarked from the shuttle stop across from Bally's. There is a monorail station/stop there at Bally's, so we started to walk down the street. As we got to a light and pedestrian crossing, the light started to change, and we had a bit of a race across the street to beat the light! I was impressed with my dad's performance, as we started about 20 feet back from the actual crosswalk... yet he was one step back from the finish line, that is stepping onto the actual sidewalk after the crossing! Like father, like son... we were both saying/yelling out the countdown of the crossing signal!
We walked through Bally's to the Monorail Station. For those that are unfamiliar, the LV Monorail runs behind the Hotels on the North side of the LV Strip. And to get to the Station, or disembark from a Station, one has to walk a bit of a distance. I have a few ideas and comments, however, I will withhold them at this time.
Dad and I rode the monorail to the most Northern stop, then an automatic reversal back to the Southern end. We talked about railroads, trains,the Chicago EL, his father (my grandfather), riding a local Illinois rail, Stations being closed, rail lines shut down... We stopped and departed at the Southern most stop of the Monorail.
We stayed at the platform for almost an hour! Now this monorail is a non-conducted train. There is no person, no individual, no one operating the train. Everything is automated. We walked around the platform and noticed the details of the monorail... like a 750+ Volt electrical supply, the main wheel (suspension) track, as well as the two stabilizing wheel tracks. [Tracks are the black stains on the concrete. As a monorail, there is no "steel" track. The weight of the train (cars) keep it on the route, with a little boost from the stabilizing wheels.] Things like the expansion joint between concrete "rails," the "third rail," or the power supply for this electric train, the concrete spooling that was apparent!
So there is more to say about Vegas. Perhaps an interlude is in order...
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Road Trip - An interlude...
So after ~300 miles and 5+ hours later, I arrived in Las Vegas.
I went there because a conference/class was being held that I wanted to take. It was a holistic and unselfish decision on my part. I do what I do. Regardless of any letters after my name, I will do what I do for everyone and anyone that I come in contact with.
This conference was to prepare me to obtain my CEN, that is, the "Certified Emergency Nurse" designation. After 16+ years of both working and actual experience as a Nurse specializing in emergency medicine, a whole lot more if you consider my career before becoming a nurse... This was a review/prep, that just happened to be in Las Vegas.
I mentioned it to my parents, and asked them if they were interested in going. I could book there room under the conference rate, and get them a good deal. They accepted/agreed and then this became the primary purpose of the trip! Not so much the class, yet an opportunity to visit, and spend time together... a walk about the casino, adventures, meals, memories, discussions, stories...
Something as simple as taking a shuttle, then a walk/run across the street racing a light... then a long walk to a station to catch the LV Monorail... My dad and I, we rode it to the end, back, then back up to another station closer to were we needed to be to catch the shuttle back to The Orlean's. An adventure. An experience. A hot dog. A shared time, just a togetherness.
Simple as that seems, that is my truth!
Today is another day, perhaps I will continue this interlude, or finish "the rest" of the story...
I went there because a conference/class was being held that I wanted to take. It was a holistic and unselfish decision on my part. I do what I do. Regardless of any letters after my name, I will do what I do for everyone and anyone that I come in contact with.
This conference was to prepare me to obtain my CEN, that is, the "Certified Emergency Nurse" designation. After 16+ years of both working and actual experience as a Nurse specializing in emergency medicine, a whole lot more if you consider my career before becoming a nurse... This was a review/prep, that just happened to be in Las Vegas.
I mentioned it to my parents, and asked them if they were interested in going. I could book there room under the conference rate, and get them a good deal. They accepted/agreed and then this became the primary purpose of the trip! Not so much the class, yet an opportunity to visit, and spend time together... a walk about the casino, adventures, meals, memories, discussions, stories...
Something as simple as taking a shuttle, then a walk/run across the street racing a light... then a long walk to a station to catch the LV Monorail... My dad and I, we rode it to the end, back, then back up to another station closer to were we needed to be to catch the shuttle back to The Orlean's. An adventure. An experience. A hot dog. A shared time, just a togetherness.
Simple as that seems, that is my truth!
Today is another day, perhaps I will continue this interlude, or finish "the rest" of the story...
Road Trip - Part One: Just getting there!
WARNING: This is a long post, with a lot of pictures.
Remember a few posts back about the best laid plans...
Well, I overslept on Monday and was an hour and a half late to work. Why? Well, I had to talk to a manager of the hotel I am staying at, and she arrived at 9am. So I got up to take care of a situation. When I checked in, I was told I could make a payment every two weeks... seems they actually require a weekly payment, and I was a day late. Situation has since, been resolved.
Now working from 4pm to 4am, there is some flexibility. That is, I am not relieving anyone, I am an "extra" person coming on-shift. So a quick call to say, "Sorry, I overslept. I'm on my way" and everything was OK. Unfortunately, this meant I would have to stay late in order to work my 12 hours. However, I got a reprieve as it was so busy Monday night, that several nurses did not get a lunch break, myself included. So I was able to get out 30 minutes earlier, taking a "no lunch" exception!
After a short nap, I got up and made my final preparations for my ride on Tuesday. Showered, loaded up the bike, and ready to go! Just a quick trip to top off the fuel and on the road!
Yes... I packed light for this trip... it's only four days! There is my camel-pack and rain gear in my saddle bags though. Water, good. Rain gear, prepared. Weather, hot! It was hovering around 100 degrees as I neared the end of this ride.
Now this is where the story takes a twist...
Right after I took this picture around 8:45am, I got on, powered up, hit the starter switch, and "click." Tried it again, "click." Looked down, no power. Backed the bike out of the parking space, dropped into neutral, tried to push start... nothing. Battery was dead!
As a card carrying member of HOG (Harley Owners Group), one of the benefits is nationwide, 24-hour, roadside assistance. So I decided to cut out the middle man, and called the local HD dealership vs. the 1-800 number. Figuring why call someone far far away, only to have them dispatch the call to the only place for 300 miles that would respond...
About 2 hours later, my bike was being loaded up in a trailer, and off to Bobby's Territorial HD to rectify this situation.
Now while I was living in Phoenix, there was one night that I didn't lock the ignition/accessory switch. Went to start the bike to run an errand the next morning, and the same thing. "Click." I looked down and realized that someone had turned the switch to ignition, which brings on the headlight, and overnight my battery was drained. Had to replace the battery. This was in July of this year. Since then, when I stop, I religiously power off, and lock down the bike. Forks, ignition, and attach a front brake disk lock. There was no way I inadvertently left the ignition on and drained the battery!
A "shout out" to Jesse at Buddy Stubb's HD in PHX! Very helpful and informative regarding the purchase and warranty information on the battery I got from them in July. Even in the extreme heat, the battery should last a minimum of two years!
My actual ride started at 11:30am and my planned route was basically North along AZ 95 to Parker, AZ. Then a few zig-zags to get onto US 95 just West of Needles, CA. Then for the most part a Northerly course to Las Vegas.
My first stop was in Quartzsite, AZ, about 84 miles and 90 minutes North of Yuma. (http://mapq.st/UAxH8B)
This was a quick stop for a water/seat break and a load/bike check. Then back on the road to Parker!
I stopped in Parker for a longer break. This leg was just over 34 miles, yet took about 45 minutes to get there due to traffic. (http://mapq.st/Uo1kHq)
Semi's and limited passing opportunities were the main culprits. Bikes and big-rigs are like oil and water... they don't mix! So I would hang back from a trucker, to avoid the turbulence, and someone would pass me, which then caused me to hang back a bit more, etc, etc.
I decided to fuel up, eat, drink more water, and add some ice to my camel-pack. I didn't take any pictures while in Parker. In retrospect, there were a few things that I saw that I wish I had, so I could share them. Yet as it was the middle of the afternoon, already getting hot, and I still had a ways to go to get to where I needed to be, pictures were not on my priority list. So back on the road after about 30 minutes...
From where I stopped in Parker, it was less than two miles to the Colorado River crossing, that officially brought me into California. Unfortunately, there was construction over the bridge and I could not stop until I got into Earp, CA. No real photo opportunities, so I rode on to Needles, CA. (http://mapq.st/OKxD6s)
It took another 90 minutes to travel these 67 miles! Between the same problems as before, California has much lower speed limits than Arizona, so the problem was compounded! The ride was still fun! Lots of curves and dips, speed changes, traffic... this would be a good training ride for someone just starting out riding. In Needles, I stopped for awhile again. Water was no longer enough, as I noticed white rings forming on my riding gloves where my knuckles are. It was now officially hot! The big LED display that flashed the time/temp at a business was reminding everyone that it was 107 degrees, and I was sweating! Although while riding, the wind helps cool not only the bike, but the body as well. Stopped in Needles, I could feel the oppressiveness of it. So it was a "park in the shade/go inside an air conditioned building/buy some Gatorade/get a snack" break!
Then on to my final planned stopping point... Searchlight, NV. (http://mapq.st/PJ5XeV)
A 54 mile leg, accomplished in under an hour! Thank you Nevada for instantaneously increasing the speed limit by 20mph!
In full disclosure, this is a staged picture. It was taken on my return trip. As I was going to Las Vegas, the only indication that I got, that perhaps I was in Nevada, was that the road surface changed from asphalt to concrete - and less than a mile later was a Nevada exit! It wasn't until my ride back home, that I was looking for the highway surface change, that I noticed the Welcome to California sign. I looked across the road and it was an "Oh! There it is!" moment... The Nevada sign is actually quite small, and off to the side of the road by about 20 feet. If one is paying attention to the riding/driving... this sign definitely goes unnoticed!
My stop in Searchlight, was primarily to just take a break. Get off the bike, walk around, take care of nature, etc. While there I decided to top off the tank to give me some room with distance and time. I could have easily made it to my destination in Las Vegas without fueling, yet I just wanted to insure I had a margin just in case traffic was horrible, a detour was needed, or I ended up taking a side trip. I had yet reached my decision point regarding the loop around Henderson to see Lake Mead or beeline it to the Hotel. Now, I have stated before, I am the kind of rider that will park in shade regardless...
This was not an "official" parking space! Yet it was perfect for me! Not blocking anyone/anything... if the garbage truck came to empty the dumpsters behind the gate behind my bike, no problem... not interfering in anyway... except for someone else as like minded as me. Then again, as you can see, plenty of shade to be shared... behind my bike, to the left of the bike... even my own bike provides some shade to someone else that might pull up next to me! My primary concern was the saddle! Don't really want to sit down on a black leather seat that has been baking in the sun... ;)
So on to Las Vegas! The final push! Almost there! Just go North on US 95!
The ride from Searchlight to Las Vegas is an easy ride for the most part. It got complicated where/when my "decision point" came. As US 95 comes to a junction with US 93 and I-515, I needed to decide...
Turn right and take the scenic route, or turn left and beeline it to the hotel!
I went left. I chose not to take the loop up to Lake Mead and around back to Henderson. It was getting late, it was hot, I was hot and had been riding for 5+ hours at this point! All I wanted was a shower and a nap! I did take a slight detour though...
I took the I-515 to I-215, then took the McCarran Airport exit off of I-215 up to Tropicana Ave. Why? Well... this little detour will afford one the opportunity and experience of riding/driving on a roadway that actually travels underneath one of the busiest airports in the Country! Yes, there is a tunnel that actually crosses underneath the active runways of McCarran Airport! Couldn't stop to take a picture though, as I was on a highway/freeway spur...
This is the route. (http://mapq.st/PwaykL)
And finally... over 5+ hours later... I arrive! I finally, just got there! Thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and wishes!
This was a training ride for me. One of the longest I have done so far! And the return trip, was even longer, as I took an alternative route. Every ride is different. A new experience. An ability to practice skills, experience challenges, and hone some of the finer points... like the sudden road hazard after sunset... it was instinctual... without thought... a swerve to avoid, an equal swerve to correct course. I didn't really get excited about it until I started to think about it! Suddenly, it turned from an automatic response to a, "Holy Moses! That was close!"
So, come back in the next few days for:
Road Trip - Part Two: Vegas!
And, Road Trip - Part Three: The Ride Home!
Keep the rubber side down, and the shiny side up!
Remember a few posts back about the best laid plans...
Well, I overslept on Monday and was an hour and a half late to work. Why? Well, I had to talk to a manager of the hotel I am staying at, and she arrived at 9am. So I got up to take care of a situation. When I checked in, I was told I could make a payment every two weeks... seems they actually require a weekly payment, and I was a day late. Situation has since, been resolved.
Now working from 4pm to 4am, there is some flexibility. That is, I am not relieving anyone, I am an "extra" person coming on-shift. So a quick call to say, "Sorry, I overslept. I'm on my way" and everything was OK. Unfortunately, this meant I would have to stay late in order to work my 12 hours. However, I got a reprieve as it was so busy Monday night, that several nurses did not get a lunch break, myself included. So I was able to get out 30 minutes earlier, taking a "no lunch" exception!
After a short nap, I got up and made my final preparations for my ride on Tuesday. Showered, loaded up the bike, and ready to go! Just a quick trip to top off the fuel and on the road!
 | |
| Loaded and ready! |
Yes... I packed light for this trip... it's only four days! There is my camel-pack and rain gear in my saddle bags though. Water, good. Rain gear, prepared. Weather, hot! It was hovering around 100 degrees as I neared the end of this ride.
Now this is where the story takes a twist...
Right after I took this picture around 8:45am, I got on, powered up, hit the starter switch, and "click." Tried it again, "click." Looked down, no power. Backed the bike out of the parking space, dropped into neutral, tried to push start... nothing. Battery was dead!
As a card carrying member of HOG (Harley Owners Group), one of the benefits is nationwide, 24-hour, roadside assistance. So I decided to cut out the middle man, and called the local HD dealership vs. the 1-800 number. Figuring why call someone far far away, only to have them dispatch the call to the only place for 300 miles that would respond...
About 2 hours later, my bike was being loaded up in a trailer, and off to Bobby's Territorial HD to rectify this situation.
 | |
| Pushed up onto trailer for a tow to HD Dealer |
Now while I was living in Phoenix, there was one night that I didn't lock the ignition/accessory switch. Went to start the bike to run an errand the next morning, and the same thing. "Click." I looked down and realized that someone had turned the switch to ignition, which brings on the headlight, and overnight my battery was drained. Had to replace the battery. This was in July of this year. Since then, when I stop, I religiously power off, and lock down the bike. Forks, ignition, and attach a front brake disk lock. There was no way I inadvertently left the ignition on and drained the battery!
A "shout out" to Jesse at Buddy Stubb's HD in PHX! Very helpful and informative regarding the purchase and warranty information on the battery I got from them in July. Even in the extreme heat, the battery should last a minimum of two years!
 | |
| Bike being backed out after service, and now ready to go! |
My actual ride started at 11:30am and my planned route was basically North along AZ 95 to Parker, AZ. Then a few zig-zags to get onto US 95 just West of Needles, CA. Then for the most part a Northerly course to Las Vegas.
My first stop was in Quartzsite, AZ, about 84 miles and 90 minutes North of Yuma. (http://mapq.st/UAxH8B)
 |
| Coming up to my first planned stop |
I stopped in Parker for a longer break. This leg was just over 34 miles, yet took about 45 minutes to get there due to traffic. (http://mapq.st/Uo1kHq)
Semi's and limited passing opportunities were the main culprits. Bikes and big-rigs are like oil and water... they don't mix! So I would hang back from a trucker, to avoid the turbulence, and someone would pass me, which then caused me to hang back a bit more, etc, etc.
I decided to fuel up, eat, drink more water, and add some ice to my camel-pack. I didn't take any pictures while in Parker. In retrospect, there were a few things that I saw that I wish I had, so I could share them. Yet as it was the middle of the afternoon, already getting hot, and I still had a ways to go to get to where I needed to be, pictures were not on my priority list. So back on the road after about 30 minutes...
From where I stopped in Parker, it was less than two miles to the Colorado River crossing, that officially brought me into California. Unfortunately, there was construction over the bridge and I could not stop until I got into Earp, CA. No real photo opportunities, so I rode on to Needles, CA. (http://mapq.st/OKxD6s)
It took another 90 minutes to travel these 67 miles! Between the same problems as before, California has much lower speed limits than Arizona, so the problem was compounded! The ride was still fun! Lots of curves and dips, speed changes, traffic... this would be a good training ride for someone just starting out riding. In Needles, I stopped for awhile again. Water was no longer enough, as I noticed white rings forming on my riding gloves where my knuckles are. It was now officially hot! The big LED display that flashed the time/temp at a business was reminding everyone that it was 107 degrees, and I was sweating! Although while riding, the wind helps cool not only the bike, but the body as well. Stopped in Needles, I could feel the oppressiveness of it. So it was a "park in the shade/go inside an air conditioned building/buy some Gatorade/get a snack" break!
Then on to my final planned stopping point... Searchlight, NV. (http://mapq.st/PJ5XeV)
A 54 mile leg, accomplished in under an hour! Thank you Nevada for instantaneously increasing the speed limit by 20mph!
 | |
| Getting closer! |
My stop in Searchlight, was primarily to just take a break. Get off the bike, walk around, take care of nature, etc. While there I decided to top off the tank to give me some room with distance and time. I could have easily made it to my destination in Las Vegas without fueling, yet I just wanted to insure I had a margin just in case traffic was horrible, a detour was needed, or I ended up taking a side trip. I had yet reached my decision point regarding the loop around Henderson to see Lake Mead or beeline it to the Hotel. Now, I have stated before, I am the kind of rider that will park in shade regardless...
 |
| Shade!!! |
So on to Las Vegas! The final push! Almost there! Just go North on US 95!
The ride from Searchlight to Las Vegas is an easy ride for the most part. It got complicated where/when my "decision point" came. As US 95 comes to a junction with US 93 and I-515, I needed to decide...
Turn right and take the scenic route, or turn left and beeline it to the hotel!
I went left. I chose not to take the loop up to Lake Mead and around back to Henderson. It was getting late, it was hot, I was hot and had been riding for 5+ hours at this point! All I wanted was a shower and a nap! I did take a slight detour though...
I took the I-515 to I-215, then took the McCarran Airport exit off of I-215 up to Tropicana Ave. Why? Well... this little detour will afford one the opportunity and experience of riding/driving on a roadway that actually travels underneath one of the busiest airports in the Country! Yes, there is a tunnel that actually crosses underneath the active runways of McCarran Airport! Couldn't stop to take a picture though, as I was on a highway/freeway spur...
This is the route. (http://mapq.st/PwaykL)
And finally... over 5+ hours later... I arrive! I finally, just got there! Thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and wishes!
 |
| Thank you God! Finally there! |
This was a training ride for me. One of the longest I have done so far! And the return trip, was even longer, as I took an alternative route. Every ride is different. A new experience. An ability to practice skills, experience challenges, and hone some of the finer points... like the sudden road hazard after sunset... it was instinctual... without thought... a swerve to avoid, an equal swerve to correct course. I didn't really get excited about it until I started to think about it! Suddenly, it turned from an automatic response to a, "Holy Moses! That was close!"
So, come back in the next few days for:
Road Trip - Part Two: Vegas!
And, Road Trip - Part Three: The Ride Home!
Keep the rubber side down, and the shiny side up!
Monday, September 17, 2012
Vegas!
For the past few days, I have been preparing for my ride up to Las Vegas to meet my parents and take a class. Unlike preparing for my current Travel Nurse assignment, I have commitments that preclude me from leaving until tomorrow morning, and require me to return on Friday, Saturday morning the latest. However, there is still the laundry, packing, etc. that has to be done. My goal is to be ready to go, by the time I leave for work tonight. That way I can get off shift tomorrow morning, get home, sleep for a couple of hours, and get on the road by 9am! So, that is what I have been doing for the past 2+ hours.
The shortest route from where I am to Las Vegas is about 298 miles, and would take just over 5 hours of riding, straight through. However, even though I am getting incredible gas mileage on my bike, it will still require at least one, two to be safe, fuel stops. Plus, you never know, I might want to stop every now and then to take a break, check something out, take a few pictures, etc.
Tonight I was talking to another Nurse, who I have worked with before at another hospital, who is also a rider. I reviewed with him my planned route, and one with a small detour that was suggested to me by my dad. He reaffirmed what I have already told my dad, that there will be a final decision point. Turn left and beeline it to the hotel, or turn right and take the detour. It will all depend on how I feel, how tired I am getting, how late in the day it is, etc.
This will by no means be an "Iron Butt" ride (1000 miles in 24 hours), yet this will be the longest one-way ride I have taken so far. And, four days later I will repeat it, in reverse, for my return trip to Yuma (minus the detour)! I'm considering it a training/conditioning ride for just such an achievement.
So as bedtime quickly approaches, one more shift, a nap, then on to Vegas! Wishes of luck, love, and safety are always welcome!
The shortest route from where I am to Las Vegas is about 298 miles, and would take just over 5 hours of riding, straight through. However, even though I am getting incredible gas mileage on my bike, it will still require at least one, two to be safe, fuel stops. Plus, you never know, I might want to stop every now and then to take a break, check something out, take a few pictures, etc.
Tonight I was talking to another Nurse, who I have worked with before at another hospital, who is also a rider. I reviewed with him my planned route, and one with a small detour that was suggested to me by my dad. He reaffirmed what I have already told my dad, that there will be a final decision point. Turn left and beeline it to the hotel, or turn right and take the detour. It will all depend on how I feel, how tired I am getting, how late in the day it is, etc.
This will by no means be an "Iron Butt" ride (1000 miles in 24 hours), yet this will be the longest one-way ride I have taken so far. And, four days later I will repeat it, in reverse, for my return trip to Yuma (minus the detour)! I'm considering it a training/conditioning ride for just such an achievement.
So as bedtime quickly approaches, one more shift, a nap, then on to Vegas! Wishes of luck, love, and safety are always welcome!
Friday, September 14, 2012
It's a small world... Part 2
This afternoon after my service appointment, I spent some time detailing my bike. My leather saddlebags were beginning to look a little dirty, worn, and dry. So I cleaned them and used some leather conditioner to make them look a little cleaner, well used, and not so dry...
After that, I decided to spend some time at the pool. I am happy to report that my rider's tan is slowly starting to even out!
While at the pool, I met an older couple that was vacationing. As part of the conversation the gentleman mentioned that he was retired from a certain company. This took me aback, as one of my best friend's dad used to work for this same company. So after a quick text message to my friend to see if she knew this person and to confirm a few details, I mentioned his name. The gentleman was taken aback a bit, as he said he knew him well and saw him almost every month.
As the conversation continued, I mentioned that I was a Registered Nurse, learned his daughter is as well. She currently is a Flight Nurse. We talked about her experiences, his fears about the profession, my experience as a Flight Nurse, and the overall safety and impact of what she is doing. After two hours we finally parted. A connection was made and as this gentleman left, he said he will mention my name and this conversation/experience to his daughter.
I find it extremely interesting that in less than a month, I have randomly come across two people in Yuma, AZ, that I have a connection to, in some way, other than family.
Makes me wonder...
After that, I decided to spend some time at the pool. I am happy to report that my rider's tan is slowly starting to even out!
While at the pool, I met an older couple that was vacationing. As part of the conversation the gentleman mentioned that he was retired from a certain company. This took me aback, as one of my best friend's dad used to work for this same company. So after a quick text message to my friend to see if she knew this person and to confirm a few details, I mentioned his name. The gentleman was taken aback a bit, as he said he knew him well and saw him almost every month.
As the conversation continued, I mentioned that I was a Registered Nurse, learned his daughter is as well. She currently is a Flight Nurse. We talked about her experiences, his fears about the profession, my experience as a Flight Nurse, and the overall safety and impact of what she is doing. After two hours we finally parted. A connection was made and as this gentleman left, he said he will mention my name and this conversation/experience to his daughter.
I find it extremely interesting that in less than a month, I have randomly come across two people in Yuma, AZ, that I have a connection to, in some way, other than family.
Makes me wonder...
Last couple of days...
"The best-laid schemes o' mice an' men
Gang aft agley,"
Part of a verse, of a poem.
I've had the last three days(two nights) off, still got one more before I go back to work on Saturday, and had planned on doing a quick turn-around and making the most of my time off.
Yet my quick turn around on Wednesday did not happen and I woke up around 2pm. So, after a meal and a "cold" caffeine. No ride... :( Yet the rest of the afternoon was spent between the pool and doing laundry. So the day was not totally lost! I can say that my "rider's" tan is beginning to even out a bit. A few more days and I might have to actually start carrying my passport with me.
Thursday morning, as I went to sleep at 3am, I set my alarm for 7am. I figured I would force a turn-around... Well... after a snooze... or four, OK... five, I finally got up at 8am. I partook of a complimentary breakfast of scrambled eggs, potatoes, sausage and bacon, and OJ! Even took a to-go box of bread and some peanut butter and jam to make a sandwich for lunch later...
Got back to my room, and fell back to sleep sometime prior to 9am. As a healthcare professional, that would be classified as a post-prandial "nap!" And that my friends, explains the time honored tradition of the afternoon "siesta!"
I missed my 10K service appointment. As I awoke with a start, because I realized that I had actually fallen asleep, it was now noon. I called the HD Dealership and was lucky enough to reschedule my appointment for today.
This is an important service, as I am planning a trip to Las Vegas to attend a two day class next week. Round trip will be almost 600 miles and I am less than 250 away from the 10K point. As I mentioned earlier, I have noticed a slight difference in the way my bike has been running, since my ride down to Yuma. Likewise, I have to get to Vegas, without a breakdown, for two reasons. First, I invited my parents to meet me there. This will be the first time in over a month that we will have the opportunity to visit. Second, the class and hotel arrangements have already been paid for, and are pretty much non-refundable at this point.
So this morning, I once again awoke in time to partake of the free breakfast, and I am happy to report that my 10K service was completed at Bobby's Territorial Harley Davidson today!
I'm glad I got it done too! The reason my bike was running a bit rough was that the oil level was at factory level when I left Phoenix. A long ride, heat in excess of 100 degrees, with sustained speeds in excess of 70mph caused the oil to get hot, expand a bit, and thrown up into the intake. My air filter was basically clogged. The solution... a new air filter and don't fill the oil all the way to factory level, keep it in the "full hashmarks zone," just don't add up to the specifications.
And if you can't recognize that tidbit of a stanza of the poem at the beginning, here is the full verse in standard English:
But little Mouse, you are not alone,
In proving foresight may be vain:
The best laid schemes of mice and men
Go often awry,
And leave us nothing but grief and pain,
For promised joy!
"To a Mouse, on Turning Her Up in Her Nest with the Plough"
Written by Robert Burns in 1785... a Scot...
There's a modern joke that is a play on this premise...
"If you really want to make God laugh... Then tell him your plans!"
Gang aft agley,"
Part of a verse, of a poem.
I've had the last three days(two nights) off, still got one more before I go back to work on Saturday, and had planned on doing a quick turn-around and making the most of my time off.
Yet my quick turn around on Wednesday did not happen and I woke up around 2pm. So, after a meal and a "cold" caffeine. No ride... :( Yet the rest of the afternoon was spent between the pool and doing laundry. So the day was not totally lost! I can say that my "rider's" tan is beginning to even out a bit. A few more days and I might have to actually start carrying my passport with me.
Thursday morning, as I went to sleep at 3am, I set my alarm for 7am. I figured I would force a turn-around... Well... after a snooze... or four, OK... five, I finally got up at 8am. I partook of a complimentary breakfast of scrambled eggs, potatoes, sausage and bacon, and OJ! Even took a to-go box of bread and some peanut butter and jam to make a sandwich for lunch later...
Got back to my room, and fell back to sleep sometime prior to 9am. As a healthcare professional, that would be classified as a post-prandial "nap!" And that my friends, explains the time honored tradition of the afternoon "siesta!"
I missed my 10K service appointment. As I awoke with a start, because I realized that I had actually fallen asleep, it was now noon. I called the HD Dealership and was lucky enough to reschedule my appointment for today.
This is an important service, as I am planning a trip to Las Vegas to attend a two day class next week. Round trip will be almost 600 miles and I am less than 250 away from the 10K point. As I mentioned earlier, I have noticed a slight difference in the way my bike has been running, since my ride down to Yuma. Likewise, I have to get to Vegas, without a breakdown, for two reasons. First, I invited my parents to meet me there. This will be the first time in over a month that we will have the opportunity to visit. Second, the class and hotel arrangements have already been paid for, and are pretty much non-refundable at this point.
So this morning, I once again awoke in time to partake of the free breakfast, and I am happy to report that my 10K service was completed at Bobby's Territorial Harley Davidson today!
I'm glad I got it done too! The reason my bike was running a bit rough was that the oil level was at factory level when I left Phoenix. A long ride, heat in excess of 100 degrees, with sustained speeds in excess of 70mph caused the oil to get hot, expand a bit, and thrown up into the intake. My air filter was basically clogged. The solution... a new air filter and don't fill the oil all the way to factory level, keep it in the "full hashmarks zone," just don't add up to the specifications.
And if you can't recognize that tidbit of a stanza of the poem at the beginning, here is the full verse in standard English:
But little Mouse, you are not alone,
In proving foresight may be vain:
The best laid schemes of mice and men
Go often awry,
And leave us nothing but grief and pain,
For promised joy!
"To a Mouse, on Turning Her Up in Her Nest with the Plough"
Written by Robert Burns in 1785... a Scot...
There's a modern joke that is a play on this premise...
"If you really want to make God laugh... Then tell him your plans!"
Monday, September 10, 2012
A stormy night and rainy day...
Last night was an awesome night of thunderstorms! Lightning lit up the sky most of the afternoon and well into the evening. Pulled a chair outside and just enjoyed the show!
Today has been an off and on drizzle most of the day.
Last night I watched as a fellow rider pulled his bike up under the second floor walkway. After a minute I realized that I should do the same! So I still have an exclusive covered parking spot!
Talked to him a little this afternoon. He's a retired member of the ROMC from Oregon. You can google that. He rides a Road King. On his way back to Oregon from back east... taking the scenic route, as he said.
Have an appointment this coming Thursday to get my 10K mile service done, just in time for my ride to Las Vegas next week!
Had a thought earlier today. As a rider, I have to be totally aware, totally engaged. The road, traffic, weather, time, location, route, and destination. Yet I can still take the time to notice things and decide to stop to check things out. I am thankful for today's technology that is allowing me to share this journey; however, I am learning that I need to stop more often. Perhaps there is a lesson there for others too...
Today has been an off and on drizzle most of the day.
Last night I watched as a fellow rider pulled his bike up under the second floor walkway. After a minute I realized that I should do the same! So I still have an exclusive covered parking spot!
Talked to him a little this afternoon. He's a retired member of the ROMC from Oregon. You can google that. He rides a Road King. On his way back to Oregon from back east... taking the scenic route, as he said.
Have an appointment this coming Thursday to get my 10K mile service done, just in time for my ride to Las Vegas next week!
Had a thought earlier today. As a rider, I have to be totally aware, totally engaged. The road, traffic, weather, time, location, route, and destination. Yet I can still take the time to notice things and decide to stop to check things out. I am thankful for today's technology that is allowing me to share this journey; however, I am learning that I need to stop more often. Perhaps there is a lesson there for others too...
Sunday, September 9, 2012
I moved...
By no means am I a jet-set, world traveler... Yet in today's economy one must be prudent. So I have three "hotel rewards' memberships. I found a really good deal for my stay in Yuma at one of these chains, and have been staying there for the last month.
Yesterday, I found a better deal at another chain and I moved.
I am struck by how much and how often people move. And not just distance. In time, place, intent...
I am in Yuma, Arizona. Now if you have spent anytime in this State, you know there is a lot of history here. Yet most people have never visited the train depot/station.
Between the birds and the obvious transient residents, I doubt if anyone has actually visited or intentionally come here in quite a few years.
There was an added bonus, as this is an active rail line...
I am saddened at how much history is being lost. This particular spot is just forgotten, except by me and the engineer that waved at me and just laid, and I really mean laid on the horn! He had to come to a stop ahead, yet I could still hear the horn. I am sure the Union Pacific folks were wondering what was up!
Yesterday, I found a better deal at another chain and I moved.
I am struck by how much and how often people move. And not just distance. In time, place, intent...
I am in Yuma, Arizona. Now if you have spent anytime in this State, you know there is a lot of history here. Yet most people have never visited the train depot/station.
Between the birds and the obvious transient residents, I doubt if anyone has actually visited or intentionally come here in quite a few years.
There was an added bonus, as this is an active rail line...
I am saddened at how much history is being lost. This particular spot is just forgotten, except by me and the engineer that waved at me and just laid, and I really mean laid on the horn! He had to come to a stop ahead, yet I could still hear the horn. I am sure the Union Pacific folks were wondering what was up!
Thursday, September 6, 2012
It's a small world...
Last night I took care of a patient that came to the Emergency Department. The patient's friend and neighbor came with her to the hospital to provide support. After a few minutes, I had accomplished all of the immediate tests and treatments that were needed. As I was preparing to leave the room, the patient's friend said to me, "You look very familiar. How long have you worked here?"
It was at this time that I paused and turned to her, to really look at her and tried to recognize her. Now as an Emergency Nurse, I take care of hundreds of patients a year. Add all of the friends, family, and other visitors... I see a lot of faces! Trying to remember one out of several hundred is difficult. Yet there was a recognition, I had seen this person before.
I explained to her that I was a Travel Nurse and had only been in Yuma for about 3 weeks, yet I too agreed she looked familiar.
As I was documenting the care I had provided, my sub-conscious brain was literally turning. I wasn't actively, consciously thinking about it though, sort of like a little sub-processing as I went about caring for my other patients.
A few minutes later when I walked back into this patient's room and saw this person sitting there, bam! I remembered her, or more specifically the circumstances around meeting her the first time.
It was almost a year ago, while working at another hospital in Phoenix. I received a patient from Yuma via helicopter, that had fallen and had suffered a head injury. The patient was exhibiting confusion, disorientation, somewhat combative at times - classic for a closed head injury. This patient was the husband of my current patient's friend. I remembered when she arrived 4 hours later, as she had to drive to Phoenix, she had come into her husband's room and sat in a chair just as she was doing last night.
After reassessing my current patient, I turned to her friend and said to her, "I was the nurse that took care of your husband when he had his fall and was flown by helicopter to Phoenix." Her eyes lit up and the look on her face made my day! She confirmed that I was the nurse that cared for her husband and was amazed that I could remember the details after so long. She gave me an update on her husbands recovery and current condition (he is doing well by the way), and we talked for a few more minutes. As I walked out of the room she told another visitor that my current patient was "in very good hands."
And yes, I smiled when I heard that...
It was at this time that I paused and turned to her, to really look at her and tried to recognize her. Now as an Emergency Nurse, I take care of hundreds of patients a year. Add all of the friends, family, and other visitors... I see a lot of faces! Trying to remember one out of several hundred is difficult. Yet there was a recognition, I had seen this person before.
I explained to her that I was a Travel Nurse and had only been in Yuma for about 3 weeks, yet I too agreed she looked familiar.
As I was documenting the care I had provided, my sub-conscious brain was literally turning. I wasn't actively, consciously thinking about it though, sort of like a little sub-processing as I went about caring for my other patients.
A few minutes later when I walked back into this patient's room and saw this person sitting there, bam! I remembered her, or more specifically the circumstances around meeting her the first time.
It was almost a year ago, while working at another hospital in Phoenix. I received a patient from Yuma via helicopter, that had fallen and had suffered a head injury. The patient was exhibiting confusion, disorientation, somewhat combative at times - classic for a closed head injury. This patient was the husband of my current patient's friend. I remembered when she arrived 4 hours later, as she had to drive to Phoenix, she had come into her husband's room and sat in a chair just as she was doing last night.
After reassessing my current patient, I turned to her friend and said to her, "I was the nurse that took care of your husband when he had his fall and was flown by helicopter to Phoenix." Her eyes lit up and the look on her face made my day! She confirmed that I was the nurse that cared for her husband and was amazed that I could remember the details after so long. She gave me an update on her husbands recovery and current condition (he is doing well by the way), and we talked for a few more minutes. As I walked out of the room she told another visitor that my current patient was "in very good hands."
And yes, I smiled when I heard that...
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Good Morning!
Well, afternoon really...
Seems my body has had enough sleep and I am up. About to get ready for work. I've got two shifts in a row, then a four day stretch off. So more adventures are planned! That is a tease, so one will come back and look at the pictures and descriptions of my upcoming rides...
My primary nursing license is from Arizona. Arizona is a Compact State, meaning there are about 20 other States that will recognize and allow me to work as a nurse in that State. Likewise, any Federal Facility will recognize my AZ Nursing License and allow me to work. About a month ago, I started the process to obtain my first Nursing License in a non-compact State. Last week I was granted my first non-compact State Nursing License.
It's a process. There's the application, then fingerprinting/background check, verification of nursing degree, fees, letter of endorsement from your home State, etc.
Now I have the ability to travel to yet another State and work, and being licensed in that State makes getting a license in the surrounding States just a little bit easier. It's strategic!
Somewhere in my mind, I have this plan. I have a goal to ride through every one of the 48 contiguous States. Perhaps not all at once, not even working in each, but just to visit each and every one. I also have an idea of my route planned, if I end in the Northeast, to ride through Canada and make it up to Alaska! Of, course that is tactical... gonna have to watch the seasons/weather to get the timing just right...
Seems my body has had enough sleep and I am up. About to get ready for work. I've got two shifts in a row, then a four day stretch off. So more adventures are planned! That is a tease, so one will come back and look at the pictures and descriptions of my upcoming rides...
My primary nursing license is from Arizona. Arizona is a Compact State, meaning there are about 20 other States that will recognize and allow me to work as a nurse in that State. Likewise, any Federal Facility will recognize my AZ Nursing License and allow me to work. About a month ago, I started the process to obtain my first Nursing License in a non-compact State. Last week I was granted my first non-compact State Nursing License.
It's a process. There's the application, then fingerprinting/background check, verification of nursing degree, fees, letter of endorsement from your home State, etc.
Now I have the ability to travel to yet another State and work, and being licensed in that State makes getting a license in the surrounding States just a little bit easier. It's strategic!
Somewhere in my mind, I have this plan. I have a goal to ride through every one of the 48 contiguous States. Perhaps not all at once, not even working in each, but just to visit each and every one. I also have an idea of my route planned, if I end in the Northeast, to ride through Canada and make it up to Alaska! Of, course that is tactical... gonna have to watch the seasons/weather to get the timing just right...
Sunday, September 2, 2012
I've got neighbors!
I woke up a little early on Friday to run some errands before my shift. When I left my room I noticed a number of people in the pool. There have been only 3 to 5 other guests each night up to now. As I rounded the corner to go downstairs, I yielded to three people carrying luggage and a cooler up the stairs. The lobby had several people in it, and as I got out to the parking lot it was almost full!
It seems that "Dove Season" opened on Saturday. And the hotel is now almost at capacity! And it will remain so throughout the season.
Since I have been working these past few days, I haven't had the chance to meet any of my new neighbors yet. However, I am sure I will have the opportunity in the coming week.
These guys are serious about there sport though! When I came home Saturday morning, about 4:30am, half the parking lot was already empty, and several other vehicles were started, headlights on, and people loading up.
Things have been busy these past few nights. Almost ever night we have had to create "overflow," or "hallway" beds to accommodate the patient volume. I have heard that in the wintertime, it is constantly that way. In fact, a few years ago, when there was a severe flu season, the hospital actually rented a large outdoor event tent, set it up in the parking lot, and treated all suspected flu cases outside! As the person was telling me about this, I chuckled. They told me it was horrible, and nothing to laugh about. I then showed them some of the pictures of my trips to Haiti, and said to them, "It is all a matter of perspective."
I have started to get into the "groove" here. Already people are recognizing that I seem to know what I am doing and have begun to ask me for help starting IV's, asking me questions/advice about their patients, etc. Last night I took over an assignment for an off-going nurse that had a preceptee, and was asked to continue as the preceptor until they left.
Even some of the doctor's have commented about how they appreciate me dealing with patient issues, rather than coming up to them every time to ask a question. For example, a patient with difficulty breathing, had a mixed issue. Congestive Heart Failure with a component of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Typically, all patients are NPO, or nothing by mouth, until a physician says it's OK to eat or drink. This patient's treatment was geared towards giving breathing treatments (SVNs), steroids, as well as a diuretic to help eliminate excess fluid.
The patient wanted a cup of coffee. I decided that it would be OK, and actually would help the patient's condition, so I gave them one. Coffee actually has two effects. First, it acts like a diuretic, makes one urinate. Second, it has a xanthine effect (like Theophylline), and dilates the bronchioles in the lungs, makes it easier to breath. Another Nurse questioned me about giving the patient the cup of coffee and I explained the above to them. Well...
This Nurse asked the treating Physician if it would be appropriate to allow my patient to have a cup of coffee. His answer...
"Yes, it is OK, in fact it will probably be beneficial to them."
Didn't see that Nurse for the rest of the shift, it almost seemed as if they were avoiding me... weird.
It seems that "Dove Season" opened on Saturday. And the hotel is now almost at capacity! And it will remain so throughout the season.
Since I have been working these past few days, I haven't had the chance to meet any of my new neighbors yet. However, I am sure I will have the opportunity in the coming week.
These guys are serious about there sport though! When I came home Saturday morning, about 4:30am, half the parking lot was already empty, and several other vehicles were started, headlights on, and people loading up.
Things have been busy these past few nights. Almost ever night we have had to create "overflow," or "hallway" beds to accommodate the patient volume. I have heard that in the wintertime, it is constantly that way. In fact, a few years ago, when there was a severe flu season, the hospital actually rented a large outdoor event tent, set it up in the parking lot, and treated all suspected flu cases outside! As the person was telling me about this, I chuckled. They told me it was horrible, and nothing to laugh about. I then showed them some of the pictures of my trips to Haiti, and said to them, "It is all a matter of perspective."
I have started to get into the "groove" here. Already people are recognizing that I seem to know what I am doing and have begun to ask me for help starting IV's, asking me questions/advice about their patients, etc. Last night I took over an assignment for an off-going nurse that had a preceptee, and was asked to continue as the preceptor until they left.
Even some of the doctor's have commented about how they appreciate me dealing with patient issues, rather than coming up to them every time to ask a question. For example, a patient with difficulty breathing, had a mixed issue. Congestive Heart Failure with a component of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Typically, all patients are NPO, or nothing by mouth, until a physician says it's OK to eat or drink. This patient's treatment was geared towards giving breathing treatments (SVNs), steroids, as well as a diuretic to help eliminate excess fluid.
The patient wanted a cup of coffee. I decided that it would be OK, and actually would help the patient's condition, so I gave them one. Coffee actually has two effects. First, it acts like a diuretic, makes one urinate. Second, it has a xanthine effect (like Theophylline), and dilates the bronchioles in the lungs, makes it easier to breath. Another Nurse questioned me about giving the patient the cup of coffee and I explained the above to them. Well...
This Nurse asked the treating Physician if it would be appropriate to allow my patient to have a cup of coffee. His answer...
"Yes, it is OK, in fact it will probably be beneficial to them."
Didn't see that Nurse for the rest of the shift, it almost seemed as if they were avoiding me... weird.
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