I mentioned The Two Rules. They are absolute.
There are also Ten Commandments. To fully understand, one must read the book, "The House of God."
Published in 1978, it was a satirical look into the practice of medicine. There have been a few changes since then, yet even today, it is still a poignant review.
When I was a Paramedic, a fellow Paramedic and I created the 'Ten Commandments,' based loosely on this book. He received his release a year later, I have been the "keeper" since, so to speak, so now I share...
I. If there is a chair, sit the fuck down!
II. Always check your own pulse first.
III. If they are alive, give them half an amp; if they are dead, give them a full one.
IV. Never figure your own drug dosages.
V. There are only three drip rates: TKO, W/O, and titrate to effect.
VI. If the baby drops, pick it up.
VII. All bleeding stops, eventually.
IIX. Air goes in and out, blood goes round and round, oxygen is always good.
IX. The man with the gun, always calls the shots.
X. When all else fails, patch!
There is some sound advice hidden in this. Like anything, there is meaning and thought behind every word.
Rest in Peace Bear! I shared it, as it should be!
Friday, May 31, 2013
Thursday, May 30, 2013
An Old Man
I admit, I am an "old man," as a mid 20's coworker jokingly referred to me as... I am actually old enough to be their father... now that's humbling. I can only imagine what my older peers think, when they are working with me!
It is a continuum. Elders passing along knowledge, challenging, allowing exploration, and just watching. Sometimes someone comes up with an idea... that is when I revert to the Two Rules:
First, don't kill anyone.
Second, if you don't know ask!
Surprisingly, this is not limiting at all. The effect is that it makes one critically evaluate things. And this is good. I have had doctors ask me questions about proposed treatment pathways! Ultimately, it leads to a truly collaborative approach to the task at hand. Especially when I am old enough to be their father...
It is not my actual age however, it is my experience. And I fully admit it works both ways. An "old dog" can be taught new tricks! That's what keep me young. I learn something new everyday!
I am a front line individual. Academics teaches the basics... bedside and doing, teaches reality! The hardest transition a nurse has, is the movement from theory to practice. I share freely; I give my interpretation, and suggestions. Yes, sometimes I am wrong, yet the Two Rules always protect the charge...
Isn't that what it is all about?
It is a continuum. Elders passing along knowledge, challenging, allowing exploration, and just watching. Sometimes someone comes up with an idea... that is when I revert to the Two Rules:
First, don't kill anyone.
Second, if you don't know ask!
Surprisingly, this is not limiting at all. The effect is that it makes one critically evaluate things. And this is good. I have had doctors ask me questions about proposed treatment pathways! Ultimately, it leads to a truly collaborative approach to the task at hand. Especially when I am old enough to be their father...
It is not my actual age however, it is my experience. And I fully admit it works both ways. An "old dog" can be taught new tricks! That's what keep me young. I learn something new everyday!
I am a front line individual. Academics teaches the basics... bedside and doing, teaches reality! The hardest transition a nurse has, is the movement from theory to practice. I share freely; I give my interpretation, and suggestions. Yes, sometimes I am wrong, yet the Two Rules always protect the charge...
Isn't that what it is all about?
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
"Knight Protector"
Last night was my 4th shift in a row. Schedules will often create an outlying shift, that buts up against compact shifts. So, SAT was my outlier from last week; SUN, MON, TUE was my compact this week. I now have 4 days off.
So, last night I cared for a patient that presented with a specific complaint, diagnostic testing was done, treatments completed, and was "put-up-for" discharge. Before I actually knew they were "up for" discharge, I reviewed the results of all of the diagnostic testing that had been done...
And noticed an anomaly...
I spoke with the doctor and asked if "we" were going to address this finding.
It resulted in a cancelled discharge, further diagnostic testing and treatment, and an eventual admission to the hospital. And an amazing thing occurred! The doctor told the patient that it was the nurse that "caught" it.
When I went in to begin further interventions, the patient said to me, "You are my Knight Protector!"
I may be tired... yet I will wield my sword to defend others to the very end.
Peace
So, last night I cared for a patient that presented with a specific complaint, diagnostic testing was done, treatments completed, and was "put-up-for" discharge. Before I actually knew they were "up for" discharge, I reviewed the results of all of the diagnostic testing that had been done...
And noticed an anomaly...
I spoke with the doctor and asked if "we" were going to address this finding.
It resulted in a cancelled discharge, further diagnostic testing and treatment, and an eventual admission to the hospital. And an amazing thing occurred! The doctor told the patient that it was the nurse that "caught" it.
When I went in to begin further interventions, the patient said to me, "You are my Knight Protector!"
I may be tired... yet I will wield my sword to defend others to the very end.
Peace
Saturday, May 25, 2013
An hour
Last night I went to my sister's to have dinner with family.
I had the opportunity to be involved in a truly, adult conversation with both my father and my sister's father-in-law. It was refreshing. We discussed current events, history, finances, politics, etc.
Later, my dad and I had the opportunity to talk privately about other things. I finally admitted to myself, through him, that I am tired. When I think back, I realize that I have been doing what I do for over 29 years. That's a lot of adrenalin, care, and compassion...
I often joke about how I should write a book! Unfortunately, as I told my dad last night, I would need to filter a lot. There are just somethings one can not say/tell/describe...
So as I left to go home, I found myself taking a different route. I stayed on the streets, avoided the freeways. What could have been a 30 minute ride, lasted about an hour.
Therapy.
In a strange way, it was a metaphor. Slow it down, take some time. A lesson not only learned, it was experienced!
I had the opportunity to be involved in a truly, adult conversation with both my father and my sister's father-in-law. It was refreshing. We discussed current events, history, finances, politics, etc.
Later, my dad and I had the opportunity to talk privately about other things. I finally admitted to myself, through him, that I am tired. When I think back, I realize that I have been doing what I do for over 29 years. That's a lot of adrenalin, care, and compassion...
I often joke about how I should write a book! Unfortunately, as I told my dad last night, I would need to filter a lot. There are just somethings one can not say/tell/describe...
So as I left to go home, I found myself taking a different route. I stayed on the streets, avoided the freeways. What could have been a 30 minute ride, lasted about an hour.
Therapy.
In a strange way, it was a metaphor. Slow it down, take some time. A lesson not only learned, it was experienced!
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Lunch... into dinner!
Today, I met a friend for lunch. The plan was to meet a little earlier, to avoid the noon-time rush.
So at 11:30-ish, I rode up. "ish" is a technical term, that allows 7 minutes on either side... it's a time clock thing... most nurses will understand.
After an hour or so, we finally ordered some food....
Almost 7 hours later, I find myself back home. That's a long lunch! And the ride was essentially short!
However, my time was well spent!
Our server, seemed to almost immediately "peg" us, as bikers. Was it the jeans, the wallet chains, the blown back hair... or perhaps it was the raccoon eyes and biker glove tan on our hands... She was courteous and attentive throughout our stay.
At one of her visits, my friend asked/said, "You have no idea who we are or what we do, do you?" The reply was, "I thought you guys might be truck drivers or bikers." When we told her we were ED Nurses, she literally turned pale... we both stood up, sorta an instinct, to catch her if she passed out/fell. All I could think about is "gotcha!"
She recovered, and my friend and I had excellent service for our remaining time there.
Just goes to show you, "Don't judge a book by its cover!"
So at 11:30-ish, I rode up. "ish" is a technical term, that allows 7 minutes on either side... it's a time clock thing... most nurses will understand.
After an hour or so, we finally ordered some food....
Almost 7 hours later, I find myself back home. That's a long lunch! And the ride was essentially short!
However, my time was well spent!
Our server, seemed to almost immediately "peg" us, as bikers. Was it the jeans, the wallet chains, the blown back hair... or perhaps it was the raccoon eyes and biker glove tan on our hands... She was courteous and attentive throughout our stay.
At one of her visits, my friend asked/said, "You have no idea who we are or what we do, do you?" The reply was, "I thought you guys might be truck drivers or bikers." When we told her we were ED Nurses, she literally turned pale... we both stood up, sorta an instinct, to catch her if she passed out/fell. All I could think about is "gotcha!"
She recovered, and my friend and I had excellent service for our remaining time there.
Just goes to show you, "Don't judge a book by its cover!"
Friday, May 17, 2013
Which side of the fence...
A few weeks ago, I took out some garbage. Now in my refuse, there were aluminum cans. And on the other side of a fence seperating the property, someone asked me for those cans. I gave them to him.
This afternoon, as I took out some garbage, I noticed another individual in the same area. I offered them the cans. They accepted them.
I offered something else as well.
A bed, shower/bath, TV, phone, heat or A/C... a room, for a night. In the same hotel I was staying at.
My offer was declined. I was told, "You have already done enough."
How humbling.
A person in need, a person able to provide.
Was it pride?
This afternoon, as I took out some garbage, I noticed another individual in the same area. I offered them the cans. They accepted them.
I offered something else as well.
A bed, shower/bath, TV, phone, heat or A/C... a room, for a night. In the same hotel I was staying at.
My offer was declined. I was told, "You have already done enough."
How humbling.
A person in need, a person able to provide.
Was it pride?
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
DFWM!
Now, there are a few potential meanings to this acronym. Like most of them these days, there can be several definitions and potential interpretations... just Google a few random letters without spaces!!!
I know of a few individuals that now know what my interpretation is...
Peace
I know of a few individuals that now know what my interpretation is...
Peace
Warriors!
Last night, I was involved in three battles that I, personally, was leading the charge. And just as I came to the aid and call for assistance by my peers in their own battles, I was humbled that they did the same for me in my time of need; when we were all in the midst of fighting the same war. Then there was the fourth one, which started out as a conversation after the end of the shift, that turned into a more lengthy discussion...
Now, I know, and understand that everyone has battles. There are things in life, situations, circumstances, unanticipated consequences, unexpected events, etc. Life, in general, is not easy; and I have very personal experience in this fact. Not to mention my professional experience as a Nurse.
My first, and what I thought was my most important battle last night, lasted a full 10 hours! A patient that was in a very critical condition due to their diabetes. IV fluids, insulin drip, multiple electrolyte replacements, antibiotics for a secondary problem, frequent checks... I truly admire and respect my fellow nurses that work in the ICU; however, this patient was too unstable to even think about bringing up to the Unit, until after a full 10 hours of interventions in the ED!
My second and third battles, not as dramatic. Yet, equally important to the lives of these patients. The frequent neurological checks and medications for one, for their sub-dural hematoma (brain bleeding)... to the psychiatric interventions for a decompensating schizophrenic, who stopped taking their home medications...
Now bear in mind, these three battles were being waged all at the same time. And so far, I have not mentioned the other patients that I cared for during this same time. Let alone, me responding to the requests of my peers for assistance, and theirs to mine...
My last and final battle, occurred after the end of the shift. Off the clock, getting ready to go home, when another peer asked me a question about what it is like to be a Travel Nurse, and riding a bike. They wanted to know if I owned a cage (car/truck) and towed my bike, or did I ship things around; basically, how did I do it?
I explained the basics and gave examples of my routine. Which led to more questions, answers, and eventually an exchange. The conversation turned into a full blown discussion. You see, my peer recently went through a divorce, and literally, their life was split into two. They had, through the process, given up half of everything they knew and owned; and was now struggling.
We discussed specific issues, I gave personal examples of my experiences. As we talked, I could almost see the bond of friendship develop. So my last, final, and arguably my most important battle last night, only lasted about an hour. It involved me connecting with a new friend, one of my peers. Who needed to talk, vent, make a connection and received a little bit of support, encouragement, and unconditional friendship... just when they were starting to personally realize they were approaching a low point.
Did I save a life last night? I could argue that I saved three of my own patient's lives, perhaps two other patient's of my peer's as well... However, I argue that I saved a few hundred lives last night! And it all occurred between 07:30 and 08:30am this morning! When I took the time to connect with a fellow Warrior. I truly believe they will now go on to save many more lives themselves! I am going to check on them later this evening.
A catch phrase of mine, "In the right place, at the right time."
Last night I heard/saw a quote, and I learned the following lesson:
"Not all those who wander are lost."
-J.R.R. Tolkien
Now, I know, and understand that everyone has battles. There are things in life, situations, circumstances, unanticipated consequences, unexpected events, etc. Life, in general, is not easy; and I have very personal experience in this fact. Not to mention my professional experience as a Nurse.
My first, and what I thought was my most important battle last night, lasted a full 10 hours! A patient that was in a very critical condition due to their diabetes. IV fluids, insulin drip, multiple electrolyte replacements, antibiotics for a secondary problem, frequent checks... I truly admire and respect my fellow nurses that work in the ICU; however, this patient was too unstable to even think about bringing up to the Unit, until after a full 10 hours of interventions in the ED!
My second and third battles, not as dramatic. Yet, equally important to the lives of these patients. The frequent neurological checks and medications for one, for their sub-dural hematoma (brain bleeding)... to the psychiatric interventions for a decompensating schizophrenic, who stopped taking their home medications...
Now bear in mind, these three battles were being waged all at the same time. And so far, I have not mentioned the other patients that I cared for during this same time. Let alone, me responding to the requests of my peers for assistance, and theirs to mine...
My last and final battle, occurred after the end of the shift. Off the clock, getting ready to go home, when another peer asked me a question about what it is like to be a Travel Nurse, and riding a bike. They wanted to know if I owned a cage (car/truck) and towed my bike, or did I ship things around; basically, how did I do it?
I explained the basics and gave examples of my routine. Which led to more questions, answers, and eventually an exchange. The conversation turned into a full blown discussion. You see, my peer recently went through a divorce, and literally, their life was split into two. They had, through the process, given up half of everything they knew and owned; and was now struggling.
We discussed specific issues, I gave personal examples of my experiences. As we talked, I could almost see the bond of friendship develop. So my last, final, and arguably my most important battle last night, only lasted about an hour. It involved me connecting with a new friend, one of my peers. Who needed to talk, vent, make a connection and received a little bit of support, encouragement, and unconditional friendship... just when they were starting to personally realize they were approaching a low point.
Did I save a life last night? I could argue that I saved three of my own patient's lives, perhaps two other patient's of my peer's as well... However, I argue that I saved a few hundred lives last night! And it all occurred between 07:30 and 08:30am this morning! When I took the time to connect with a fellow Warrior. I truly believe they will now go on to save many more lives themselves! I am going to check on them later this evening.
A catch phrase of mine, "In the right place, at the right time."
Last night I heard/saw a quote, and I learned the following lesson:
"Not all those who wander are lost."
-J.R.R. Tolkien
Saturday, May 11, 2013
Snap!
Last evening, I noticed the remains of a bug on my helmet. I can't actually remember the exact demise, yet I can recall several "snaps." I am sure one of those is when it occurred.
It made me think of all the other snaps, zings, puffs, hits, and bangers!
A lone insect... just out to eat or procreate... happened to be in the wrong place, at the wrong time...
It made me think.
This morning, I got to meet Joe.
His first bike, out for a ride, a hurry up an go, to meet up with the Ride. Joe is a veteran. I thanked him for his service. In our brief interaction, I learned he is a combat medic. He learned I was nurse. I was also thanked.
A few days ago, I planted my sword. That is, I pushed it into the earth and asked for a reprieve. A respite.
I layed my brow against my arm. Penitent.
It made me think of all the other snaps, zings, puffs, hits, and bangers!
A lone insect... just out to eat or procreate... happened to be in the wrong place, at the wrong time...
It made me think.
This morning, I got to meet Joe.
His first bike, out for a ride, a hurry up an go, to meet up with the Ride. Joe is a veteran. I thanked him for his service. In our brief interaction, I learned he is a combat medic. He learned I was nurse. I was also thanked.
A few days ago, I planted my sword. That is, I pushed it into the earth and asked for a reprieve. A respite.
I layed my brow against my arm. Penitent.
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Riding safety
I was asked the other day, "Why do you ride a motorcycle? Isn't it dangerous?"
I thought about my answer for a moment, and decided to avoid a prolonged discourse. I replied, "Because I don't like to wear seat belts."
After a few seconds of a blank stare, they asked, "But you do wear a helmet? Right?"
Because of the pause/stare, I replied, "As often as you wear a seat belt."
The conversation ended.
This got me thinking about riding safety. Sitting on top of a machine, hurtling down a road, is slightly more dangerous than sitting in a machine doing the same. Yet not for the reasons most think about.
A bike has more power, proportionally, than an automobile. Lighter weight and more maneuverability. Meaning, I can go from 65mph to 90mph faster than most vehicles. I can also stop faster than most automobiles. Again it's a weight to power issue. Simple physics.
The danger in riding a bike, is that most auto drivers, don't pay attention or are often distracted. I don't text, talk on the phone, listen to the radio, etc. when I ride. I am constantly scanning ahead, looking in my rear-view mirrors, anticipating, thinking through the "what-if's," formulating escape/evade plans...
So I will divulge a secret. It's not really a secret to those that ride, yet most people who don't ride are oblivious to it...
A rider assumes that every vehicle, every driver, is out to kill them!
Proficient riders are acutely aware of this fact, and adjust accordingly. It is not always about speed and swerving either. I have literally pulled off the road and stopped, in order to put some distance between myself and an idiot. Yet, I have also throttled up to 90mph and executed a few swerves to remove myself from a dangerous situation.
And as to the helmet discussion... a harsh reality...
After a rider get's up to 35mph, a helmet causes as many injuries as they prevent... just like seat belts...
I thought about my answer for a moment, and decided to avoid a prolonged discourse. I replied, "Because I don't like to wear seat belts."
After a few seconds of a blank stare, they asked, "But you do wear a helmet? Right?"
Because of the pause/stare, I replied, "As often as you wear a seat belt."
The conversation ended.
This got me thinking about riding safety. Sitting on top of a machine, hurtling down a road, is slightly more dangerous than sitting in a machine doing the same. Yet not for the reasons most think about.
A bike has more power, proportionally, than an automobile. Lighter weight and more maneuverability. Meaning, I can go from 65mph to 90mph faster than most vehicles. I can also stop faster than most automobiles. Again it's a weight to power issue. Simple physics.
The danger in riding a bike, is that most auto drivers, don't pay attention or are often distracted. I don't text, talk on the phone, listen to the radio, etc. when I ride. I am constantly scanning ahead, looking in my rear-view mirrors, anticipating, thinking through the "what-if's," formulating escape/evade plans...
So I will divulge a secret. It's not really a secret to those that ride, yet most people who don't ride are oblivious to it...
A rider assumes that every vehicle, every driver, is out to kill them!
Proficient riders are acutely aware of this fact, and adjust accordingly. It is not always about speed and swerving either. I have literally pulled off the road and stopped, in order to put some distance between myself and an idiot. Yet, I have also throttled up to 90mph and executed a few swerves to remove myself from a dangerous situation.
And as to the helmet discussion... a harsh reality...
After a rider get's up to 35mph, a helmet causes as many injuries as they prevent... just like seat belts...
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
I apologize, been in a bit of a "funk" lately...
I want everyone to know, I am still very much into being a Nurse. My peers and I still do the things that most can not, and many will not! My profession affects lives! And when I hear of a "dissatisfied patient," I always take into consideration the visit, the patient's demeanor, and most importantly what the actual needs vs. wants were.
Unfortunately, we as human beings often have unrealistic expectations. And again, unfortunately, there will always be conflicts between what one wants, and what one needs. I have learned over many years, that those that are in need, are often less in a position to request/demand... so my personal focus tends to gravitate towards an individual's needs. I want to win the lottery, I need to earn a living...
I am mostly apolitical. I really don't care if someone is a Rep. or Dem., Lib. or Con. I tend to look at things mostly from a 30,000 ft view most of the time. Politics is a continuum! There is a lot of grey in between ideas and "stances."
Even as a Nurse, I am responsible for ~4 patient's lives at a single moment. If I don't take this higher view, I might miss something subtle going on somewhere. I will rocket in to address immediate issues/problems... yet, once dealt with, I will immediately climb enough to be aware of my other charges once the issue has been addressed.
In a way, I guess I am beginning to define my personal philosophy...
I am not trying to tell a sad story, or justify the things I do. I am not looking for recognition, nor am I looking for admiration. I do what I do, and if I didn't go into it, I would still be doing what I used to do, so no glory. I am more of the silent, sit back, not be noticed, just do what I do kind of person.
However, every now and then something just sticks... and I have to make a comment. I have posted some pretty controversial things on FB. As the new 'social media' it has provided an outlet for me to inspire quite a few comments and discussion! I always chuckle though when I make a comment, offer a status update, post a picture/link, etc. that eventually sparks a virtual firestorm! 55 comments has been my personal best so far!
So, as a Registered Nurse, I wish to thank everyone that has recognized this week, the day, in honor of the Profession I am in. My peers and I thank you. I wish to return the recognition, however; if it was not for the basic human need for nurturing, caring, and fellowship... I would not be who I am.
And for that, I thank all of humanity.
Peace!
Unfortunately, we as human beings often have unrealistic expectations. And again, unfortunately, there will always be conflicts between what one wants, and what one needs. I have learned over many years, that those that are in need, are often less in a position to request/demand... so my personal focus tends to gravitate towards an individual's needs. I want to win the lottery, I need to earn a living...
I am mostly apolitical. I really don't care if someone is a Rep. or Dem., Lib. or Con. I tend to look at things mostly from a 30,000 ft view most of the time. Politics is a continuum! There is a lot of grey in between ideas and "stances."
Even as a Nurse, I am responsible for ~4 patient's lives at a single moment. If I don't take this higher view, I might miss something subtle going on somewhere. I will rocket in to address immediate issues/problems... yet, once dealt with, I will immediately climb enough to be aware of my other charges once the issue has been addressed.
In a way, I guess I am beginning to define my personal philosophy...
I am not trying to tell a sad story, or justify the things I do. I am not looking for recognition, nor am I looking for admiration. I do what I do, and if I didn't go into it, I would still be doing what I used to do, so no glory. I am more of the silent, sit back, not be noticed, just do what I do kind of person.
However, every now and then something just sticks... and I have to make a comment. I have posted some pretty controversial things on FB. As the new 'social media' it has provided an outlet for me to inspire quite a few comments and discussion! I always chuckle though when I make a comment, offer a status update, post a picture/link, etc. that eventually sparks a virtual firestorm! 55 comments has been my personal best so far!
So, as a Registered Nurse, I wish to thank everyone that has recognized this week, the day, in honor of the Profession I am in. My peers and I thank you. I wish to return the recognition, however; if it was not for the basic human need for nurturing, caring, and fellowship... I would not be who I am.
And for that, I thank all of humanity.
Peace!
Saturday, May 4, 2013
A throw back! To a previous blog...
Hardtack
Ingredients...
Knead.
Roll out, until 1/2 inch thick. Cut into squares (3 x 3), a pizza cutter works well... then poke holes! 4 x 4, 16 total. A skewer, a nail... anything "small" and relatively clean...
Ungreased, bake for 30 minutes, 375 degrees, turn over, and bake for another 30 minutes.
A piece of "hardtack" has lasted for 50+ years...
WARNING: Hardtack is "hard." A mega-cracker. Not to be consumed without a softening agent! Boil some soup, add it to stew, DO NOT EAT IT DRY! At least drink water afterwards.
Next, maybe a jerky recipe!
Ingredients...
- ~3 cups flour
- 1 cup water
- 2 teaspoons of salt
Knead.
Roll out, until 1/2 inch thick. Cut into squares (3 x 3), a pizza cutter works well... then poke holes! 4 x 4, 16 total. A skewer, a nail... anything "small" and relatively clean...
Ungreased, bake for 30 minutes, 375 degrees, turn over, and bake for another 30 minutes.
A piece of "hardtack" has lasted for 50+ years...
WARNING: Hardtack is "hard." A mega-cracker. Not to be consumed without a softening agent! Boil some soup, add it to stew, DO NOT EAT IT DRY! At least drink water afterwards.
Next, maybe a jerky recipe!
International...
This morning, my evening, I went to do some laundry. The hotel has on-site guest laundry available. I noticed a few bikes parked on the other side of the building.
As I came back from starting my chores, I paused and took a look at the bikes. One was from California, two were from Florida (based on the license plates). As I was looking, I was greeted by an individual from Hamburg, Germany. He is on holiday, taking 2.5 weeks to ride around the US. Arrived in California, rented a bike, and is a couple of days into his journey.
I learned he is purposely avoiding the Interstates as much as possible. His route today takes him to PHX, later on to FLG. I told him of a nice ride through Oracle/Florence. The language barrier occurred, yet he said "Apache Highway." I smiled and gave him a thumbs up! He was planning on taking the route I was trying to describe. I tried to explain another route to FLG, that avoids I-17 for awhile, he finally broke out the atlas. I pointed out and traced the roads, he seemed to agree, and was genuinely happy and appreciative... I got a smile and a handshake!
I guess I am now an Ambassador...
As I came back from starting my chores, I paused and took a look at the bikes. One was from California, two were from Florida (based on the license plates). As I was looking, I was greeted by an individual from Hamburg, Germany. He is on holiday, taking 2.5 weeks to ride around the US. Arrived in California, rented a bike, and is a couple of days into his journey.
I learned he is purposely avoiding the Interstates as much as possible. His route today takes him to PHX, later on to FLG. I told him of a nice ride through Oracle/Florence. The language barrier occurred, yet he said "Apache Highway." I smiled and gave him a thumbs up! He was planning on taking the route I was trying to describe. I tried to explain another route to FLG, that avoids I-17 for awhile, he finally broke out the atlas. I pointed out and traced the roads, he seemed to agree, and was genuinely happy and appreciative... I got a smile and a handshake!
I guess I am now an Ambassador...
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Allergies?
So, the other day I bought a newspaper. Finally got around to reading it tonight.
I have been sneezing ever since I opened it up!
I smelled the ink initially, not so much more... clogged up...
Will see tomorrow!
I have been sneezing ever since I opened it up!
I smelled the ink initially, not so much more... clogged up...
Will see tomorrow!
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