Thursday, November 18, 2010
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
IZZY
I'm officially a cat person. Never thought I would say that. Never thought I would be OK sharing my pillow with an animal. Boy, have I changed in the last 3 weeks.
I had toyed with the idea of adopting a cat a while back (I think I even have a post about it). I blame Julie Coyne for this, though. She starts looking for a puppy (and buys one!), I start looking at kitties...you see where this is going.
So, Tasha and I went down to the shelter. We walked into the "cat room" where 50 cats immediately started purring, pacing, and scratching with excitement. Every single cat...except one. One gray beauty looked at me calmly with her big green eyes, then fell back asleep. I totally fell in love. I went back 2 days later to submit my application, and picked her up on Friday.
Those who know Reid can probably guess what his reaction was. I'm sure I'll be posting lots of pictures of her, because she is just so freakin' photogenic it's not even funny. But, I suppose I'm biased :)
I had toyed with the idea of adopting a cat a while back (I think I even have a post about it). I blame Julie Coyne for this, though. She starts looking for a puppy (and buys one!), I start looking at kitties...you see where this is going.
So, Tasha and I went down to the shelter. We walked into the "cat room" where 50 cats immediately started purring, pacing, and scratching with excitement. Every single cat...except one. One gray beauty looked at me calmly with her big green eyes, then fell back asleep. I totally fell in love. I went back 2 days later to submit my application, and picked her up on Friday.
Those who know Reid can probably guess what his reaction was. I'm sure I'll be posting lots of pictures of her, because she is just so freakin' photogenic it's not even funny. But, I suppose I'm biased :)
Monday, October 11, 2010
Life update
Hi Blogland,
My life has been a little crazy lately! Reid and I are on week 4 of living in the same one bedroom apartment :) No, we haven't killed each other yet. It's actually working out quite nicely. With that has come a big adjustment for me: we get up at the crack of dawn (i.e. 5 am) so that he can get to rounds on time. I've actually found that I can be quite productive in the morning, so I don't mind it so much anymore. As of late:
1. We've been cheering on the Hawkeyes this season! The Penn State game marked my first appearance in the student section, which was quite entertaining.
2. Mel and Nathan got married! The wedding was at the cutest little chapel in Des Moines, and the reception was at Hyperion. It was a small group, but SOOO much fun. Her sister, Rachel, is getting married in a few weeks, so that will be another exciting weekend.
3. Reid and I participated in Joseph's Diamond Dash, a scavenger hunt in Des Moines where the winner gets a $10,000 ring. We were just playing for fun, and we didn't get all into it like some couples (bikes, maps, etc.) We actually did really well though! We got 78 points, and the 12th place prize went to a team that had 83 points or so. Anyhow, we picked up some good pointers for next years Dash :)
4. I'm extracting teeth in Oral Surgery and I LOVE IT. Can't explain it, but it just feels so good to yank those suckers outta there. Probably the same gene that makes my Aunt Sue like to peel off peeling skin. We're a unique family.
That's all for now! I'm going to finish up my Methods section for my research paper...which will hopefully get submitted sometime this decade :)
My life has been a little crazy lately! Reid and I are on week 4 of living in the same one bedroom apartment :) No, we haven't killed each other yet. It's actually working out quite nicely. With that has come a big adjustment for me: we get up at the crack of dawn (i.e. 5 am) so that he can get to rounds on time. I've actually found that I can be quite productive in the morning, so I don't mind it so much anymore. As of late:
1. We've been cheering on the Hawkeyes this season! The Penn State game marked my first appearance in the student section, which was quite entertaining.
2. Mel and Nathan got married! The wedding was at the cutest little chapel in Des Moines, and the reception was at Hyperion. It was a small group, but SOOO much fun. Her sister, Rachel, is getting married in a few weeks, so that will be another exciting weekend.
3. Reid and I participated in Joseph's Diamond Dash, a scavenger hunt in Des Moines where the winner gets a $10,000 ring. We were just playing for fun, and we didn't get all into it like some couples (bikes, maps, etc.) We actually did really well though! We got 78 points, and the 12th place prize went to a team that had 83 points or so. Anyhow, we picked up some good pointers for next years Dash :)
4. I'm extracting teeth in Oral Surgery and I LOVE IT. Can't explain it, but it just feels so good to yank those suckers outta there. Probably the same gene that makes my Aunt Sue like to peel off peeling skin. We're a unique family.
That's all for now! I'm going to finish up my Methods section for my research paper...which will hopefully get submitted sometime this decade :)
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Personality Test
CLICK HERE FOR YOUR PERSONALITY TEST
Here's what it says about me:
ISTJ - "Inspector Guardian" (from www.keirsey.com)
"The one word that best describes Inspectors is superdependable. Whether at home or at work, Inspectors are extraordinarily persevering and dutiful, particularly when it comes to keeping an eye on the people and products they are responsible for. In their quiet way, Inspectors see to it that rules are followed, laws are respected, and standards are upheld.
Inspectors (as much as ten percent of the general population) are the true guardians of institutions. They are patient with their work and with the procedures within an institution, although not always with the unauthorized behavior of some people in that institution. Responsible to the core, Inspectors like it when people know their duties, follow the guidelines, and operate within the rules. For their part, Inspectors will see to it that goods are examined and schedules are kept, that resources will be up to standards and delivered when and where they are supposed to be. And they would prefer that everyone be this dependable. Inspectors can be hard-nosed about the need for following the rules in the workplace, and do not hesitate to report irregularities to the proper authorities. Because of this they are often misjudged as being hard-hearted, or as having ice in their veins, for people fail to see their good intentions and their vulnerability to criticism. Also, because Inspectors usually make their inspections without much flourish or fanfare, the dedication they bring to their work can go unnoticed and unappreciated.
While not as talkative as Supervisor Guardians [ESTJs], Inspectors are still highly sociable, and are likely to be involved in community service organizations, such as Sunday School, Little League, or Boy and Girl Scouting, that transmit traditional values to the young. Like all Guardians, Inspectors hold dear their family social ceremonies-weddings, birthdays, and anniversaries - although they tend to be shy if the occasion becomes too large or too public. Generally speaking, Inspectors are not comfortable with anything that gets too fancy. Their words tend to be plain and down-to-earth, not showy or high-flown; their clothes are often simple and conservative rather than of the latest fashion; and their home and work environments are usually neat, orderly, and traditional, rather than trendy or ostentatious. As for personal property, they usually choose standard items over models loaded with features, and they often try to find classics and antiques - Inspectors prefer the old-fashioned to the newfangled every time."
You be the judge :)
Here's what it says about me:
ISTJ - "Inspector Guardian" (from www.keirsey.com)
"The one word that best describes Inspectors is superdependable. Whether at home or at work, Inspectors are extraordinarily persevering and dutiful, particularly when it comes to keeping an eye on the people and products they are responsible for. In their quiet way, Inspectors see to it that rules are followed, laws are respected, and standards are upheld.
Inspectors (as much as ten percent of the general population) are the true guardians of institutions. They are patient with their work and with the procedures within an institution, although not always with the unauthorized behavior of some people in that institution. Responsible to the core, Inspectors like it when people know their duties, follow the guidelines, and operate within the rules. For their part, Inspectors will see to it that goods are examined and schedules are kept, that resources will be up to standards and delivered when and where they are supposed to be. And they would prefer that everyone be this dependable. Inspectors can be hard-nosed about the need for following the rules in the workplace, and do not hesitate to report irregularities to the proper authorities. Because of this they are often misjudged as being hard-hearted, or as having ice in their veins, for people fail to see their good intentions and their vulnerability to criticism. Also, because Inspectors usually make their inspections without much flourish or fanfare, the dedication they bring to their work can go unnoticed and unappreciated.
While not as talkative as Supervisor Guardians [ESTJs], Inspectors are still highly sociable, and are likely to be involved in community service organizations, such as Sunday School, Little League, or Boy and Girl Scouting, that transmit traditional values to the young. Like all Guardians, Inspectors hold dear their family social ceremonies-weddings, birthdays, and anniversaries - although they tend to be shy if the occasion becomes too large or too public. Generally speaking, Inspectors are not comfortable with anything that gets too fancy. Their words tend to be plain and down-to-earth, not showy or high-flown; their clothes are often simple and conservative rather than of the latest fashion; and their home and work environments are usually neat, orderly, and traditional, rather than trendy or ostentatious. As for personal property, they usually choose standard items over models loaded with features, and they often try to find classics and antiques - Inspectors prefer the old-fashioned to the newfangled every time."
You be the judge :)
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Monday, August 23, 2010
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Get your mojo on
This place is amazing!
Mojo Spa
I have been to Mojo Spa twice...and I am in love. They have a great line of products that are hand made in the store, with everything from deliciously smelling soap that looks like a slice of cake to color adjusting red lipstick. Best of all, you can order their goods online!
Mojo Spa
I have been to Mojo Spa twice...and I am in love. They have a great line of products that are hand made in the store, with everything from deliciously smelling soap that looks like a slice of cake to color adjusting red lipstick. Best of all, you can order their goods online!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Why buy new?
I have recently tapped into my resourceful side in the quest to decorate my apartment. These are the new (well, new to me, anyway) items I purchased from the local consignment shop Houseworks. I should also mention that they were each under $3!
What's wrong with our healthcare system
I'm about to get a little bit personal here. I called today to make an appointment at Student Health for my physical. For those who don't know, this physical usually involves a "pap" test. All women do it, or at least they should.
Back to my story, so in November of 2009 the American Congress of OBGYNs (ACOG) amended it's guidelines. Here's what they say: "ACOG now recommends that women from ages 21 to 30 be screened every two years instead of annually, using either the standard Pap or liquid-based cytology." (http://www.acog.org/from_home/publications/press_releases/nr11-20-09.cfm).
This issue was definitely making the news back when the press release came out. Naturally, when I called Student Health today I inquired: "I was just wondering, since they changed the guidelines for the Pap test, if I still need to have one this year?" Well, wouldn't you know... I bet I was the FIRST person to ask about this. "Um, hm...well, you're going to have to talk to a nurse about that, I'll transfer you."
I asked again. Nurse: "Hm..well, I'm going to need to ask some of the people I work for. Hang on a sec."
After some survey taking, I assume, Nurse was back with an answer: "Well, they say there's some talk about changing the recommendations, but nothing has actually been changed yet. So, we are still doing yearly Pap tests as usual. I would make the appointment."
Really? I seriously can NOT believe that they had no idea about the current recommendations from the ACOG. I probably don't need to point it out, but this disturbs me A LOT. I went ahead and made the appointment (I need a refill script), but I plan on printing off the info from the ACOG website, bringing it to the Dr and suggesting they have a little office "chat" about it.
On a lighter note, when I finally got down to business with scheduling, the receptionist said this: "Um, your last appointment was November 11, 2009...so, you're not actually due for another five months." Yes, I did call this morning.
Back to my story, so in November of 2009 the American Congress of OBGYNs (ACOG) amended it's guidelines. Here's what they say: "ACOG now recommends that women from ages 21 to 30 be screened every two years instead of annually, using either the standard Pap or liquid-based cytology." (http://www.acog.org/from_home/publications/press_releases/nr11-20-09.cfm).
This issue was definitely making the news back when the press release came out. Naturally, when I called Student Health today I inquired: "I was just wondering, since they changed the guidelines for the Pap test, if I still need to have one this year?" Well, wouldn't you know... I bet I was the FIRST person to ask about this. "Um, hm...well, you're going to have to talk to a nurse about that, I'll transfer you."
I asked again. Nurse: "Hm..well, I'm going to need to ask some of the people I work for. Hang on a sec."
After some survey taking, I assume, Nurse was back with an answer: "Well, they say there's some talk about changing the recommendations, but nothing has actually been changed yet. So, we are still doing yearly Pap tests as usual. I would make the appointment."
Really? I seriously can NOT believe that they had no idea about the current recommendations from the ACOG. I probably don't need to point it out, but this disturbs me A LOT. I went ahead and made the appointment (I need a refill script), but I plan on printing off the info from the ACOG website, bringing it to the Dr and suggesting they have a little office "chat" about it.
On a lighter note, when I finally got down to business with scheduling, the receptionist said this: "Um, your last appointment was November 11, 2009...so, you're not actually due for another five months." Yes, I did call this morning.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Chicago trip
Just returned from Chicago this evening. I had an amazing time with Heather: exploring the city, eating, drinking, and shopping! I posted photos on Picasa (see link on the left).
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
All Settled!
I'm fully moved in to my new place! I've spent a little time decorating and organizing - see pics below :)
Lately I've been continuing to work on my summer project. This weekend, I am headed to the windy city to visit Heather!
Lately I've been continuing to work on my summer project. This weekend, I am headed to the windy city to visit Heather!
Friday, July 30, 2010
Laughs
Today's Dilbert fits Reid and I to a "T"! I have to give Reid credit for finding this gem :) Click on the picture to see the full strip.
Done!
The big move is over! Yay!! Everything went so smoothly (I couldn't even sleep the night before because I was so nervous!). Wednesday night, my mom and I stayed at the Sheraton downtown. We went to Saloon for happy hour, then Atlas, and then Share for some wine. Afterward, we grabbed some yummy gelato at Cappana.
On Thursday morning the movers showed up on time (7:30am), I got the keys to my new place at 8:30am, and we were all moved in by lunchtime. I spent a couple hours organizing, and then ran to Wal-Mart to grab a few odds and ends.
I've gone around the apartment and made a list of everything I need to make the place seem like my "home". It's going to take some time and $$, but I think I can do it!
On Thursday morning the movers showed up on time (7:30am), I got the keys to my new place at 8:30am, and we were all moved in by lunchtime. I spent a couple hours organizing, and then ran to Wal-Mart to grab a few odds and ends.
I've gone around the apartment and made a list of everything I need to make the place seem like my "home". It's going to take some time and $$, but I think I can do it!
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Monday, July 26, 2010
On the move!
This is the week!! I'm off to work this morning, and I will work tomorrow as well. Tonight I'm going to Courtney's to see their new puppy and hear all about their amazing honeymoon :) Wednesday will be spent cleaning and packing, and the big move is Thursday. Here we go!
Friday, July 23, 2010
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Sick-o
Well, I must have partied a little too hard in KC, because I have been under the weather ever since the big trip. All that's left now is a nasty cough.
With my across town move just over a week away and my boredom hitting an all-time high, I am nearly completely packed and the apartment is almost spotless (and, then you have Reid, who started packing 2 hours before he moved from Ia City to Des Moines, but that's another story...)
Today, I found myself in somewhat of a carpet cleaning debacle. I had the cleaning scheduled for the Monday before the move, but when I confessed this to my landlord's secretary, I came to find out I was crazy for doing so. "But HOW can they clean the carpets with FURNITURE in your apartment?" she inquired. How could I have been so stupid? Gosh, I'm sure that the carpet cleaners have never shown up to clean an apartment/house that contained actual real-life furnishings...whatever will they do??? Ughh.
I swear, the landlords of Iowa City just LOVE to make tenants' lives miserable.
I almost forgot! This whole story lead me to this lovely gem of a website: http://www.costhelper.com/
And this one is for mom
With my across town move just over a week away and my boredom hitting an all-time high, I am nearly completely packed and the apartment is almost spotless (and, then you have Reid, who started packing 2 hours before he moved from Ia City to Des Moines, but that's another story...)
Today, I found myself in somewhat of a carpet cleaning debacle. I had the cleaning scheduled for the Monday before the move, but when I confessed this to my landlord's secretary, I came to find out I was crazy for doing so. "But HOW can they clean the carpets with FURNITURE in your apartment?" she inquired. How could I have been so stupid? Gosh, I'm sure that the carpet cleaners have never shown up to clean an apartment/house that contained actual real-life furnishings...whatever will they do??? Ughh.
I swear, the landlords of Iowa City just LOVE to make tenants' lives miserable.
I almost forgot! This whole story lead me to this lovely gem of a website: http://www.costhelper.com/
And this one is for mom
Friday, July 16, 2010
Tom Petty!
On Tuesday, I got to see one of my favorite musicians in KC :) The concert was downtown at the Sprint Center. Monday night, Mom and I went out with Ashley (who is living in KC doing her residency at Truman Medical Center) and Al at the Plaza.
I got a LITTLE out of control! Haha! The bartender at Kona Grill, who first introduced mom and I to our favorite drink (The Vegas Bomb) was working. The drink has apparently evolved, because it has never tasted quite like it did at Kona Grill when we order it anywhere else. The guy at Kona was very excited that we remembered him and his original "Vegas Bomb"...which, for the record is composed of: crap! I can't remember...I think it was crown, amaretto and peach schnapps.
Tuesday, I walked around the Power & Light district downtown. Very fun. There is this amazing looking pool bar that Ashley told me about...what a wonderful idea! check it out here
Later, mom and I went shopping and got pedicures. Then...the concert!!! It was great. There was an interesting crowd too...the people to my left were smoking pot, the people in front of us were basically humping to the music, and the guy on our right was a very rough looking groupie/biker dude. Never a dull moment :)
Monday, June 28, 2010
Allergies?
This morning was my long anticipated allergy appointment as a follow up to the hives that I had in May. Apparently, I'm allergic to everything!! I guess this means I won't be getting a cat :( Here's the master list:
Cockroach
English plantain (Weed)
Lamb's Quarter (Weed)
Russian Thistle (Weed)
Ragweed (Weed)
Grass
Trees: Elm, Maple, Willow, Cottonwood-Poplar, Ash, Oak, Sycamore, Birch, Hickory, Walnut, Mulberry (Yup, that's every single one that they test for, folks!)
Dust mites (D. Farinae)
Dog and cat dander :(
Alternaria (Mold)
Cockroach
English plantain (Weed)
Lamb's Quarter (Weed)
Russian Thistle (Weed)
Ragweed (Weed)
Grass
Trees: Elm, Maple, Willow, Cottonwood-Poplar, Ash, Oak, Sycamore, Birch, Hickory, Walnut, Mulberry (Yup, that's every single one that they test for, folks!)
Dust mites (D. Farinae)
Dog and cat dander :(
Alternaria (Mold)
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Ribs and Reid's 25th
On Thursday we celebrated Reid's 25th birthday by having a cookout at the Phi Rho house. It was my first attempt at making ribs on the grill, and I am happy to report it was a great success :) Here's what I did:
Started out with a 6 lb slab of spare ribs. I trimmed excess fat, rubbed the ribs with a pre-made pork rub from Hy-Vee, and set them on my broiler pan. I covered them tightly with tin foil and baked at 275 for 3 hours. After removing from the oven, Reid brushed on some BBQ sauce and threw them on the grill for about 5 minutes (a couple minutes per side, just so they get a little charred). They were a huge hit!
The first time I ever made ribs was for Valentine's Day last year, and I have been searching for the recipe that I used ever since. Well, tonight when I started cleaning out my book shelf...look what I found!!
Home Style BBQ Ribs
3 lbs boneless pork ribs (I remember using bone-in, I swear...)
2 large tart apples (peeled & chopped)
1 large onion (halved and sliced - shhhh, don't tell Reid!)
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp allspice (I substituted a sweet smelling rib and chicken rub that I have, and I definitely did not measure it out! I think I rubbed it all over the meat, actually)
salt & pepper
1 cup BBQ sauce (I wrote here that I used a "sweet & spicy" variety)
Combine everything except BBQ sauce, cook in the crock-pot on low for 7-9 hours. Drain off excess juices. Add BBQ sauce, cook for additional 30 minutes.
Started out with a 6 lb slab of spare ribs. I trimmed excess fat, rubbed the ribs with a pre-made pork rub from Hy-Vee, and set them on my broiler pan. I covered them tightly with tin foil and baked at 275 for 3 hours. After removing from the oven, Reid brushed on some BBQ sauce and threw them on the grill for about 5 minutes (a couple minutes per side, just so they get a little charred). They were a huge hit!
The first time I ever made ribs was for Valentine's Day last year, and I have been searching for the recipe that I used ever since. Well, tonight when I started cleaning out my book shelf...look what I found!!
Home Style BBQ Ribs
3 lbs boneless pork ribs (I remember using bone-in, I swear...)
2 large tart apples (peeled & chopped)
1 large onion (halved and sliced - shhhh, don't tell Reid!)
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp allspice (I substituted a sweet smelling rib and chicken rub that I have, and I definitely did not measure it out! I think I rubbed it all over the meat, actually)
salt & pepper
1 cup BBQ sauce (I wrote here that I used a "sweet & spicy" variety)
Combine everything except BBQ sauce, cook in the crock-pot on low for 7-9 hours. Drain off excess juices. Add BBQ sauce, cook for additional 30 minutes.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Update!
Wow, I can't believe it's been so long since I've posted! Here's what's going on in my life:
1) Reid took his boards! I'm sure he did very well, we are anxiously awaiting the results
2) Reid then immediately flew to Vegas after taking the boards (much needed vacation!) with some friends. I'm pretty sure he had a good time, judging from the random middle-of-the-night text and picture messages :)
3) My roommate, Ashley, graduated and moved to Kansas City. I'll be moving here in about a month (ick).
4) This is my LAST WEEK OF SCHOOL!!! Too bad the dental school decided to bombard us with projects/tests/etc. It's almost summer, though!!
5) Reid moves to Des Moines this weekend. He will be living at the "Intowner" during his 3rd year rotations at Iowa Health (Methodist).
6) I found out my schedule for next year :) I'm very excited about my group and my schedule. I start with Oral Diagnosis in the fall, followed by Oral Surgery, then Pediatrics/Operative in January. In February, I will start SuperBlock (Periodontics, Prosthodontics, and Endodontics).
1) Reid took his boards! I'm sure he did very well, we are anxiously awaiting the results
2) Reid then immediately flew to Vegas after taking the boards (much needed vacation!) with some friends. I'm pretty sure he had a good time, judging from the random middle-of-the-night text and picture messages :)
3) My roommate, Ashley, graduated and moved to Kansas City. I'll be moving here in about a month (ick).
4) This is my LAST WEEK OF SCHOOL!!! Too bad the dental school decided to bombard us with projects/tests/etc. It's almost summer, though!!
5) Reid moves to Des Moines this weekend. He will be living at the "Intowner" during his 3rd year rotations at Iowa Health (Methodist).
6) I found out my schedule for next year :) I'm very excited about my group and my schedule. I start with Oral Diagnosis in the fall, followed by Oral Surgery, then Pediatrics/Operative in January. In February, I will start SuperBlock (Periodontics, Prosthodontics, and Endodontics).
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
I'm not afraid to cook salmon anymore!
Fish has always been a little scary. I'm not afraid to eat it (actually, I love it!), I'm afraid to cook it. But, I went out on a limb, and it was a success! Best of all, I had dinner on the table in 15 minutes!! Here's what was for dinner tonight:
Baked Salmon Fillets with Lemon
Spray a metal baking pan with Pam. Place salmon fillets in pan (I used 3). Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Squeeze one half of a lemon over fillets and sprinkle heavily with sea salt and pepper. Bake uncovered 8 minutes at 400.
Steamed Green Beans with Almonds
Cook ready to steam (in-the-bag) green beans in the microwave for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small skillet. Add 2 tablespoons of sliced almonds, stir to coat, and toast lightly. When beans are done, dump out into bowl. Pour almonds over beans and toss. Salt and pepper to taste.
I also served Pillsbury garlic twists with this meal. Yum!!
Baked Salmon Fillets with Lemon
Spray a metal baking pan with Pam. Place salmon fillets in pan (I used 3). Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Squeeze one half of a lemon over fillets and sprinkle heavily with sea salt and pepper. Bake uncovered 8 minutes at 400.
Steamed Green Beans with Almonds
Cook ready to steam (in-the-bag) green beans in the microwave for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small skillet. Add 2 tablespoons of sliced almonds, stir to coat, and toast lightly. When beans are done, dump out into bowl. Pour almonds over beans and toss. Salt and pepper to taste.
I also served Pillsbury garlic twists with this meal. Yum!!
Monday, May 31, 2010
Memorial Day
What a great weekend! I want to start off by saying "Thank You" to all of those men and women who have served or who are currently serving in the military. We owe so much to you.
Reid and I went back to Des Moines this weekend to spend some quality time with our families. We had the privilege of catching up with Reid's cousin Randy and his wife who are missionaries from Brazil. They are amazing people, and it was great to see them!
Reid has been pretty stressed out and busy studying for his board exam (he takes the big test on June 11th). Tonight we grilled out brats, but tomorrow we're having salmon. Here's a website I came across with some great recipes: http://www.trout-salmon-fishing.com/salmon-recipes.htm
Reid and I went back to Des Moines this weekend to spend some quality time with our families. We had the privilege of catching up with Reid's cousin Randy and his wife who are missionaries from Brazil. They are amazing people, and it was great to see them!
Reid has been pretty stressed out and busy studying for his board exam (he takes the big test on June 11th). Tonight we grilled out brats, but tomorrow we're having salmon. Here's a website I came across with some great recipes: http://www.trout-salmon-fishing.com/salmon-recipes.htm
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Monday, May 24, 2010
Lisa's Lasagna
This recipe is for Reid's favorite lasagna...a special treat one of our friends from Central College used to make! Our friend sort of fell off the face of the Earth (long story), but this recipe surfaced when I was looking for a book today:
1 container ricotta cheese
2 eggs
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp parsley
Mix above ingredients together
12 lasagna noodles
1 lb italian sausage
6 cups mozzarella cheese
5 cups spaghetti sauce (Prego)
Cook sausage. Make cheese mixture. Cook lasagna noodles until al dente. Spread 1 cup of sauce in the bottom of a 9x11 inch glass pan. Put noodles over sauce. Spread 1/2 ricotta cheese mix over noodles. Put 1/2 meat over cheese mix. Sprinkle 1-1.5 cups mozzarella cheese over sausage. Put 1 cup sauce evenly over cheese. Repeat once. Put down 1 layer noodles and then 1 cup sauce. Repeat. Top with rest of mozzarella & some Parmesan. Bake @ 350 for 1 hour.
As I'm reading this, I'm not sure it makes sense: sauce, noodles, mix, meat, mozz, sauce, noodles, mix, meat, mozz, noodles, sauce, noodles, sauce, mozz. Hmm!? Haha! Well, I just copied it straight from the paper :)
1 container ricotta cheese
2 eggs
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp parsley
Mix above ingredients together
12 lasagna noodles
1 lb italian sausage
6 cups mozzarella cheese
5 cups spaghetti sauce (Prego)
Cook sausage. Make cheese mixture. Cook lasagna noodles until al dente. Spread 1 cup of sauce in the bottom of a 9x11 inch glass pan. Put noodles over sauce. Spread 1/2 ricotta cheese mix over noodles. Put 1/2 meat over cheese mix. Sprinkle 1-1.5 cups mozzarella cheese over sausage. Put 1 cup sauce evenly over cheese. Repeat once. Put down 1 layer noodles and then 1 cup sauce. Repeat. Top with rest of mozzarella & some Parmesan. Bake @ 350 for 1 hour.
As I'm reading this, I'm not sure it makes sense: sauce, noodles, mix, meat, mozz, sauce, noodles, mix, meat, mozz, noodles, sauce, noodles, sauce, mozz. Hmm!? Haha! Well, I just copied it straight from the paper :)
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Bachelorette Time!
I had a great time this weekend with my favorite pharmacists in Des Moines. We stayed at Drury Inn & Suites, went to Blue Moon for dinner and music, then to West Cab and the new Wellman's. Two weeks until the wedding!
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Update
Feeling much better: hives are gone, but still getting by with one contact in my eye. Reid has also been sick since last Friday. I feel bad because I don't really want to be around him since I'm on prednisone... We're just both kind of a mess right now! I blame it on stress... I think stress does weird things to our bodies. Hopefully this won't last much longer!
Monday, May 17, 2010
Stump the M.D.
I woke up in the middle of the night last night with WORSE hives than before! I give up. I went to Student Health, and they seemed pretty confused. I guess the "eye problem" and the "hive problem" must be completely independent of one another even though they both started at the same time. I also had a fever, which threw them for a loop. The doc treated my hives, but sent me to my optometrist to see about my eye. He said it just looks inflamed, probably a virus. Mmkay. Well, I'm at home now trying to read Endo without my contacts in - basically my book is the only thing in the entire room that I can clearly see (when I hold it 5 inches from my face). I'm thinking Lasik wouldn't be a bad idea...
Funny: the nurse at student health freaked out when I said I didn't have glasses that I could wear, and I couldn' t just NOT wear my contacts (hellooo? I didn't get prescription lenses in my loupes, hun!) The MD said I should use eye drops also that she recommended, and that I should try to get glasses made ASAP. When I went to the optometrist he said 1) I shouldn't put any eye drops in, and 2) If I could get by with wearing just one contact in my "good" eye, then that would be good but not to worry if I have to wear them. I also asked him if I should rush order some glasses, and he thought that was a pretty ridiculous idea.
Back to Endo....
Funny: the nurse at student health freaked out when I said I didn't have glasses that I could wear, and I couldn' t just NOT wear my contacts (hellooo? I didn't get prescription lenses in my loupes, hun!) The MD said I should use eye drops also that she recommended, and that I should try to get glasses made ASAP. When I went to the optometrist he said 1) I shouldn't put any eye drops in, and 2) If I could get by with wearing just one contact in my "good" eye, then that would be good but not to worry if I have to wear them. I also asked him if I should rush order some glasses, and he thought that was a pretty ridiculous idea.
Back to Endo....
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Pretty in Pink
It's the last night of my 4 day weekend. I managed to survive the last few finals of spring semester, and now we are on to summer session! We started Endo last week, and it was surprisingly fun.
I stopped by Marshalltown to see Judy, Sue and Grandma before heading to Des Moines. Mom and I enjoyed some much needed quality time together. This morning, though, I woke up with a crusty swollen shut eye. Great. Thinking it was probably allergies, I jumped out of bed to take some Claritin. It was on my way back to bed when I saw that I was covered in hives. I'm going to blame it on the scallops I ate last night.
I then took some Benadryl, and headed downstairs to nap in front of the TV. As of now, the hives are pretty much gone, but my left eye is still itchy and gross. I really hope it's not pink-eye. I took out my contacts, which is why I'm sitting approximately 2 feet from my TV watching Platinum Weddings.
I stopped by Marshalltown to see Judy, Sue and Grandma before heading to Des Moines. Mom and I enjoyed some much needed quality time together. This morning, though, I woke up with a crusty swollen shut eye. Great. Thinking it was probably allergies, I jumped out of bed to take some Claritin. It was on my way back to bed when I saw that I was covered in hives. I'm going to blame it on the scallops I ate last night.
I then took some Benadryl, and headed downstairs to nap in front of the TV. As of now, the hives are pretty much gone, but my left eye is still itchy and gross. I really hope it's not pink-eye. I took out my contacts, which is why I'm sitting approximately 2 feet from my TV watching Platinum Weddings.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Almost there!
Two finals down, one to go. Then a 4 day weekend!!! I miss the days when "finals" meant summer break was just around the corner. Ok, I'll try to be more positive.
I went to a Yoga class Sunday afternoon to relieve some of my pre-test anxiety. Every single muscle fiber in my entire body is sore. It requires so much energy to move!!! How am I going to assist tomorrow?? Haha. Definitely should have thought about this beforehand! The class was fun and refreshing...but reminded me of how out of "yoga" shape I am :)
I had some trouble with this pose! Ha! I tried, though!
I went to a Yoga class Sunday afternoon to relieve some of my pre-test anxiety. Every single muscle fiber in my entire body is sore. It requires so much energy to move!!! How am I going to assist tomorrow?? Haha. Definitely should have thought about this beforehand! The class was fun and refreshing...but reminded me of how out of "yoga" shape I am :)
I had some trouble with this pose! Ha! I tried, though!
Thursday, May 6, 2010
A Place to Sit
I've been thinking a lot about how to arrange and decorate my new apartment. I posted the other day about a design that involved lots of shelving and a long multi-purpose table. After looking through a bunch of sets online, I found some tables that I liked. However, I wasn't too crazy about the chairs. Plus, I want 6 chairs...and that gets expensive! Problem solved: DIY folding chairs. Just happened to stumble upon this gem on (what else) ApartmentTherapy.com.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Rush
Good point, Mr. Limbaugh (see YouTube video -- someone posted this video on Facebook).
Also: Congrats, Reid, on being elected President of the Iowa Medical Society Student Section!
Margaritas tonight when I should be studying Pharmacology? Don't mind if I do. Check out this recipe for Margarita Cupcakes from RecipeGirl.com:
Also: Congrats, Reid, on being elected President of the Iowa Medical Society Student Section!
Margaritas tonight when I should be studying Pharmacology? Don't mind if I do. Check out this recipe for Margarita Cupcakes from RecipeGirl.com:
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Decorating ideas for my new place
I thoroughly enjoy this workspace I stumbled upon @ apartmenttherapy.com. Originally, I was thinking of trying to divide my new space into an office in one corner, a "living space" in the center, and a "dining room" at the other end. This makes so much more sense: take over one wall with shelving which can hold all of my books + laptop and invest in a long-ish table (dinner parties!) which can serve double duty as my desk.
I probably wouldn't go with cardboard boxes, but I do like these shelves from Home Depot. Now I just need to find the perfect table!
I probably wouldn't go with cardboard boxes, but I do like these shelves from Home Depot. Now I just need to find the perfect table!
Turkey Burgers and Good News
I found out yesterday that I will receive $5,000 in research funding for this summer! I couldn't be happier :) My project this year will involve testing the Midwest Caries I.D. caries detection device.
Here is the delicious turkey burger "recipe" that I used Monday night:
1 lb ground turkey
2 cloves of garlic put through the garlic press
1 egg
Seasoned bread crumbs (I think the idea is to balance the liquid and solid ingredients so you get the right texture)
Salt & pepper
Steak seasoning (a teaspoon or so)
Worcestershire Sauce (more than a few drops, maybe like 5 good shakes)
A few squirts of BBQ sauce
I cooked the patties on my cast iron grill skillet until they seemed firm in the center. Don't over cook them because they will dry up. I served them on hamburger buns with pepper-jack cheese and BBQ sauce. Yum!!
Here is the delicious turkey burger "recipe" that I used Monday night:
1 lb ground turkey
2 cloves of garlic put through the garlic press
1 egg
Seasoned bread crumbs (I think the idea is to balance the liquid and solid ingredients so you get the right texture)
Salt & pepper
Steak seasoning (a teaspoon or so)
Worcestershire Sauce (more than a few drops, maybe like 5 good shakes)
A few squirts of BBQ sauce
I cooked the patties on my cast iron grill skillet until they seemed firm in the center. Don't over cook them because they will dry up. I served them on hamburger buns with pepper-jack cheese and BBQ sauce. Yum!!
Monday, May 3, 2010
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Breakfast casserole
This is my favorite breakfast casserole recipe:
2 lbs. pork sausage (1 hot, 1 mild)
3 c. milk
1 tsp. salt
1 1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese
9 eggs, beaten
1 1/2 tsp. dry mustard
1 sm. bag Ore Ida hash browns
Cook sausage over medium heat until done, stirring to crumble. Drain well on paper towels, set aside. In same skillet, brown hash browns, over medium heat. Combine sausage, hash browns and remaining ingredients, mixing well. Pour into a well greased 13 x 9 x 2 inch baking pan. Refrigerate covered, overnight. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour.
3 c. milk
1 tsp. salt
1 1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese
9 eggs, beaten
1 1/2 tsp. dry mustard
1 sm. bag Ore Ida hash browns
Ten days!
Ten more days until our four day break! And only five more until NO MORE pharmacology :) We have a final in Sedation on Wednesday, then the last Pharmacology test on Friday. The following week, we just have the Removable Partial Dentures final on Tuesday and Radiology final on Wednesday. We start two new classes this week: Esthetic Dentistry and Endodontics. Also, I should find out this week if I get summer research funding!
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Kitty!
I've been considering adopting a cat when I move into my new pet-friendly apartment this summer. The big move is still 3 months away, but I can't stop browsing Petfinder.com! It's getting so bad that I'm actually thinking about going to the shelter, adopting, and just asking them to hang onto my new furry friend until I change digs. Mmmmm....they're sooo cute!
This is Rhett....adorable: http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/16294301
Leo....I'm in love: http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/15141901
Bella...what a sweetie: http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/16116010
This is Rhett....adorable: http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/16294301
Leo....I'm in love: http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/15141901
Bella...what a sweetie: http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/16116010
Friday, April 30, 2010
Disconnected
I lost my phone today! Wow, I never thought I would misplace something that is generally in my hand about 70% of the time. I sleep with it inches from my head. I check it obsessively to see what time it is or if I have any messages/e-mails/missed calls/facebook updates.
This is absolutely ridiculous. Remember when people didn't have cell phones or e-mail or access to their e-mail 24/7. It wasn't that long ago. How the heck did we function like that?
I was almost positive that one of my friends had picked my phone up from the table where I left it, but I panicked. How would I contact her? How would I get a hold of Reid to let him know that I didn't have my phone in case he tried to call or text? What if my mom calls and I don't answer? Will she freak out? That was a rough hour and a half - mostly because I don't know how to live without being connected. Sad.
On a brighter note: Reid and I are volunteering at a kids health fair at the Science Center in Coralville. The pediatric dentistry department was generous enough to donate toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss as well as let me borrow some teaching tools. Should be an interesting Friday night!
This is absolutely ridiculous. Remember when people didn't have cell phones or e-mail or access to their e-mail 24/7. It wasn't that long ago. How the heck did we function like that?
I was almost positive that one of my friends had picked my phone up from the table where I left it, but I panicked. How would I contact her? How would I get a hold of Reid to let him know that I didn't have my phone in case he tried to call or text? What if my mom calls and I don't answer? Will she freak out? That was a rough hour and a half - mostly because I don't know how to live without being connected. Sad.
On a brighter note: Reid and I are volunteering at a kids health fair at the Science Center in Coralville. The pediatric dentistry department was generous enough to donate toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss as well as let me borrow some teaching tools. Should be an interesting Friday night!
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Food For Thought
When I started this blog, I thought it would be neat to post some of my favorite recipes every once and awhile. On our schedule and budget, it's often very difficult to keep things interesting (and healthy) in the kitchen. Here are a few of my super easy stand-by meal ideas. Warning: I use lots of "pre-mades"!
Salmon and Veggies
The frozen "Mediterranean" encrusted salmon from Hy-Vee is wonderful. I served it tonight with a potato & snap pea mix and garlic toast. (side note: Reid is still hungry and wants ice cream...)
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
I buy the Betty Crocker "Suddenly Caesar Salad." All you do is boil the noodles and add the seasoning mixed with vegetable oil. I add cut up chicken and tomatoes.
French Dip & Chips
Oscar Mayer makes "French Dip" flavored roast beef (amazing!). I buy a loaf of French bread, slice it in half, then layer roast beef and provolone cheese. I wrap the loaf in tin foil and toss it in the oven when the french fries are about 10 minutes from being done. For the fries: cut up 3 medium potatoes into wedges, toss with vegetable oil and Concord Foods bacon & chive seasoning mix, spread evenly on foil lined baking sheet, back at 400 for about 30 minutes. As far as the "dip" goes, they sell a concentrated au-jus sauce at the grocery store.
Cheesy Chicken and Salsa
This recipe is from Kraft.com. When I made it and brought it to school as left-overs, everyone (ok just Julie and Chandni) wanted the recipe!
Salmon and Veggies
The frozen "Mediterranean" encrusted salmon from Hy-Vee is wonderful. I served it tonight with a potato & snap pea mix and garlic toast. (side note: Reid is still hungry and wants ice cream...)
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
I buy the Betty Crocker "Suddenly Caesar Salad." All you do is boil the noodles and add the seasoning mixed with vegetable oil. I add cut up chicken and tomatoes.
French Dip & Chips
Oscar Mayer makes "French Dip" flavored roast beef (amazing!). I buy a loaf of French bread, slice it in half, then layer roast beef and provolone cheese. I wrap the loaf in tin foil and toss it in the oven when the french fries are about 10 minutes from being done. For the fries: cut up 3 medium potatoes into wedges, toss with vegetable oil and Concord Foods bacon & chive seasoning mix, spread evenly on foil lined baking sheet, back at 400 for about 30 minutes. As far as the "dip" goes, they sell a concentrated au-jus sauce at the grocery store.
Cheesy Chicken and Salsa
This recipe is from Kraft.com. When I made it and brought it to school as left-overs, everyone (ok just Julie and Chandni) wanted the recipe!
2 cups multi-grain penne pasta, uncooked
1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
1-1/4 cups TACO BELL® HOME ORIGINALS® Thick 'N Chunky Salsa
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
1 large green pepper, cut into short thin strips
1 cup KRAFT Mexican Style 2% Milk Finely Shredded Four Cheese
Cook pasta as directed on package. Heat large nonstick skillet sprayed with cooking spray on medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook and stir 2 min. Stir in salsa, corn and peppers. Bring to boil. Simmer on medium-low heat 10 min. or until chicken is done, stirring occasionally. Drain pasta. Add to chicken mixture; mix lightly. Top with cheese. Remove from heat; cover. Let stand 1 min. or until cheese is melted.
Cook pasta as directed on package. Heat large nonstick skillet sprayed with cooking spray on medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook and stir 2 min. Stir in salsa, corn and peppers. Bring to boil. Simmer on medium-low heat 10 min. or until chicken is done, stirring occasionally. Drain pasta. Add to chicken mixture; mix lightly. Top with cheese. Remove from heat; cover. Let stand 1 min. or until cheese is melted.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Horoscopes
Last week I was having all kinds of weird emotions (I can now blame PMS), so I decided that I should look up my horoscope to gain some insight. Reid scolded me for believing in such nonsense. I wouldn't necessarily say that I do believe in them, but I find it rather interesting when they hit the nail on the head perfectly. On that note, I'm more interested in what they say about my personality than my future. The future, in my opinion, is better left unknown.
Which brings me to the true purpose of this entry: where will I end up practicing someday? Once or twice a week I am asked where I think Reid and I will end up someday. My answer: I have no clue. Our wonderful medical education system has devised the ultimate game which they call "The Match." This is where students rank programs and programs rank students, and on one magical day (aka "Match Day"), students find out where they will be living/working for at least the next 3-6 years. At this point, we can only dream of knowing where this place will be. And, we do a lot of dreaming. Here are our top choices! Keep in mind, we've never even visited most of these places.
1. Birmingham, AL
2. "The Carolinas"
3. Mmm...somewhere in Texas, maybe?
4. Pheonix, AZ
5. Home! = Des Moines, IA
6. Colorado possibly
7. Anyplace where Reid can golf year round
8. Anyplace where I never have to see snow again
Which brings me to the true purpose of this entry: where will I end up practicing someday? Once or twice a week I am asked where I think Reid and I will end up someday. My answer: I have no clue. Our wonderful medical education system has devised the ultimate game which they call "The Match." This is where students rank programs and programs rank students, and on one magical day (aka "Match Day"), students find out where they will be living/working for at least the next 3-6 years. At this point, we can only dream of knowing where this place will be. And, we do a lot of dreaming. Here are our top choices! Keep in mind, we've never even visited most of these places.
1. Birmingham, AL
2. "The Carolinas"
3. Mmm...somewhere in Texas, maybe?
4. Pheonix, AZ
5. Home! = Des Moines, IA
6. Colorado possibly
7. Anyplace where Reid can golf year round
8. Anyplace where I never have to see snow again
Friday, April 23, 2010
Relief
It feels so good to sit here without anything to do. We had a pharmacology exam this afternoon. Needless to say, I am completely exhausted. Reid has been tutoring me, and I am very thankful for his efforts! It has been rough. Only one more test to go.
Yesterday I saw a patient who was treatment planned for a composite restoration on #18 (lower left 2nd molar). Because I am in the D2 Operative clinic, all of the patients I see need only minor work done. To make a long story short, she left with an appointment for a foundation for a crown. Not my fault. Turns out there was a large horizontal crack running through the lingual cusps. I felt kind of bad about the situation, because I am sure she was disappointed.
This weekend is Drake Relays! I am staying in Iowa City tonight because I am too tired to drive home at this point. Reid and I just bought a bottle of wine, a couple of bacon wrapped fillets, and some twice baked potatoes. I'll head to Des Moines tomorrow, and then come back Sunday after Jenny's bridal shower. Should be a fun weekend! And fun weekends must start...with a nap :)
Yesterday I saw a patient who was treatment planned for a composite restoration on #18 (lower left 2nd molar). Because I am in the D2 Operative clinic, all of the patients I see need only minor work done. To make a long story short, she left with an appointment for a foundation for a crown. Not my fault. Turns out there was a large horizontal crack running through the lingual cusps. I felt kind of bad about the situation, because I am sure she was disappointed.
This weekend is Drake Relays! I am staying in Iowa City tonight because I am too tired to drive home at this point. Reid and I just bought a bottle of wine, a couple of bacon wrapped fillets, and some twice baked potatoes. I'll head to Des Moines tomorrow, and then come back Sunday after Jenny's bridal shower. Should be a fun weekend! And fun weekends must start...with a nap :)
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Globus
Just got back from the doc with a good bill of health. A few weeks ago I was suffering from miserable stomach/throat symptoms which were keeping me up at night. After much frustration with me trying to figure out how to describe what I was feeling, Reid finally came up with the symptom of "globus" or "lump in my throat." Yep, that described things pretty accurately. Blood work showed that I was H. Pylori positive (the bug that causes stomach ulcers). The only way to eradicate it is the dreaded metronidazole treatment. Two weeks of complete sobriety (with not a single minute passing by in which I did not have that disgusting metallic taste in my mouth) later, I am cured. Thanks modern medicine!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
You're so vein
Today we started IV's on each other for the first time! Wow. The exciting life of a dental student [sarcasm]. I gave Chandni a hematoma, and I inserted the catheter somewhere lateral to my target vein in Jared's forarm (after going straight through the vessel with the needle).
In other news, I pushed off studying for tomorrow's Orthodontics final until today after class. Not one of my best decisions. I'm taking a break to update the ol' blog after getting a call from Reid who is tired and going to bed.
I thought I would post a pic of the pups kissing to cheer me up :) Apparently the cops showed up at the house because Tini was "disturbing the peace." Why am I not surprised?
Monday, April 19, 2010
Discardia
Love this
http://www.metagrrrl.com/discardia/
I am moving this summer and making this my new way of life! More later :)
http://www.metagrrrl.com/discardia/
I am moving this summer and making this my new way of life! More later :)
Herbal Medicine
A few facts on Herbal Medicine that I learned from Dr. Baker today:
1. Vitamin A - little evidence for prevention of cancer
2. Vitamin D - 400-800 IU daily helps prevent chronic disease
3. Lutein - proven to help prevent macular degeneration
4. Calcium supplements - don't take more than 600 mg at one time because of absorption limitations
5. Glucosamine sulfate +/- Chondroitin - may raise glucose in diabetics, chondroitin takes months to show effectiveness
6. SamE - likely effective to treat depression and osteoarthritis
7. Coenzyme Q10 - may enhance therapeutic effects of other heart failure drugs but doesn't improve CHF itself, does NOT treat periodontal disease
8. Fish oils - at least 1000 mg of total EPA/DHA is needed for therapeutic effects - reduces triglycerides!!
9. Melatonin - may modestly improve jet lag, but may disturb sleep cycle
10. Probiotics - lactobacillus and bifidobacteria are the only ones that aren't destroyed by stomach acid (ie Activia Yogurt), likely effective for rotaviral diarrhea, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, and may reduce vaginal candidosis
11. Ginkgo - NOT effective for improving memory, may delay progression of dementia slightly
12. Echinacea - doesn't prevent the common cold and triggers ragweed allergy
13. Ginseng - may help reduce blood glucose in type 2 diabetics
14. Saw palmetto - improves BPH symptoms same as Proscar, but no additional benefit when added to drug therapy
15. St. John's Wort - works as well as tricyclic anti-depressants for mild-moderate depression
Most importantly: Just because an "herbal supplement" is "natural" doesn't necessarily mean that it's safe. If it is effective enough to have positive benefits, it likely has side effects as well. So, make sure to tell your physician/dentist all medications and supplements that you take!
1. Vitamin A - little evidence for prevention of cancer
2. Vitamin D - 400-800 IU daily helps prevent chronic disease
3. Lutein - proven to help prevent macular degeneration
4. Calcium supplements - don't take more than 600 mg at one time because of absorption limitations
5. Glucosamine sulfate +/- Chondroitin - may raise glucose in diabetics, chondroitin takes months to show effectiveness
6. SamE - likely effective to treat depression and osteoarthritis
7. Coenzyme Q10 - may enhance therapeutic effects of other heart failure drugs but doesn't improve CHF itself, does NOT treat periodontal disease
8. Fish oils - at least 1000 mg of total EPA/DHA is needed for therapeutic effects - reduces triglycerides!!
9. Melatonin - may modestly improve jet lag, but may disturb sleep cycle
10. Probiotics - lactobacillus and bifidobacteria are the only ones that aren't destroyed by stomach acid (ie Activia Yogurt), likely effective for rotaviral diarrhea, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, and may reduce vaginal candidosis
11. Ginkgo - NOT effective for improving memory, may delay progression of dementia slightly
12. Echinacea - doesn't prevent the common cold and triggers ragweed allergy
13. Ginseng - may help reduce blood glucose in type 2 diabetics
14. Saw palmetto - improves BPH symptoms same as Proscar, but no additional benefit when added to drug therapy
15. St. John's Wort - works as well as tricyclic anti-depressants for mild-moderate depression
Most importantly: Just because an "herbal supplement" is "natural" doesn't necessarily mean that it's safe. If it is effective enough to have positive benefits, it likely has side effects as well. So, make sure to tell your physician/dentist all medications and supplements that you take!
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Prom-tastic
Last night was our "Frolics" aka Dental Prom. A few things that I learned:
1. No matter how comfortable your new shoes seem at first, your feet will be killing you by the end of the night. No exceptions.
2. If you get into a cab in Iowa City, don't be surprised when the "Macarena" suddenly starts blaring and a disco ball pops up out of nowhere.
3. The Sheraton in Iowa City is just incapable of making good food. Even when they try something new that makes you think it will be amazing, it will be bad...so, don't expect much.
4. Hungry Hobo #11 Sub with olive oil, vinegar, and oregano and a large pop cures all. Ok, I already knew this, but it's worth pointing out.
5. Reid + Open Bar = Bad Decisions. I have yet to hear all of the stories from his weekend in West Des Moines with the Iowa Medical Society, but I'm sure it wasn't good.
6. Sometimes girlfriends can be the best dates ever! I had so much fun with Courtney. We chatted until 3 a.m., and she had a bridal shower today in Waverly at 11! Oops!
7. I should not be allowed to buy the "Cheese Fix" mix of Doritos, Sun Chips, pretzels, and Cheetos...because I definitely ate an entire family size bag in 24 hours. Sick.
1. No matter how comfortable your new shoes seem at first, your feet will be killing you by the end of the night. No exceptions.
2. If you get into a cab in Iowa City, don't be surprised when the "Macarena" suddenly starts blaring and a disco ball pops up out of nowhere.
3. The Sheraton in Iowa City is just incapable of making good food. Even when they try something new that makes you think it will be amazing, it will be bad...so, don't expect much.
4. Hungry Hobo #11 Sub with olive oil, vinegar, and oregano and a large pop cures all. Ok, I already knew this, but it's worth pointing out.
5. Reid + Open Bar = Bad Decisions. I have yet to hear all of the stories from his weekend in West Des Moines with the Iowa Medical Society, but I'm sure it wasn't good.
6. Sometimes girlfriends can be the best dates ever! I had so much fun with Courtney. We chatted until 3 a.m., and she had a bridal shower today in Waverly at 11! Oops!
7. I should not be allowed to buy the "Cheese Fix" mix of Doritos, Sun Chips, pretzels, and Cheetos...because I definitely ate an entire family size bag in 24 hours. Sick.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Dirty laundry
The other day Reid and I picked up some items from the dry cleaners, only to find that they hadn't taken the best care of our stuff. My brand new blue dress, which came straight from Washington DC, was worn ONCE and then taken to the cleaners, had a sadly unraveled strap. Of course, my emotions took over, so I unleashed Reid to take care of the situation. He called the manager, who told us to bring the dress back (which we did), and he would take a look at it. Good news! It can be fixed.
I then got a text from Reid, who is at the IMS conference in Des Moines this weekend, notifying me that a button was hanging on to his suit jacket by a mere one string. I thought the dry cleaners was where you were supposed to take items that were too delicate for other means of laundering??? Doesn't that mean that they should be a little careful!? Curious, I did a little research on the process of dry cleaning, via Wikipedia (or course). I came to find out that the whole procedure is very similar to at home laundering, but the chemicals are more hazardous. And, they do an extra special job of getting the wrinkles out after all is said and done.
So, I can understand how things might get a little jostled during the whole ordeal. I would appreciate, though, that they take 30 seconds to look at my garments before pawning them off to me in such a destructed state. A phone call saying "Hey, we found this, do you want us to fix it?" would have been much appreciated. It also would have saved me two trips to the cleaners, a few tears, and a whole lot of frustration. Ugh. I plan on "suggesting" this amendment to business as usual to the manager when I return. I think I can do it. Maybe.
I then got a text from Reid, who is at the IMS conference in Des Moines this weekend, notifying me that a button was hanging on to his suit jacket by a mere one string. I thought the dry cleaners was where you were supposed to take items that were too delicate for other means of laundering??? Doesn't that mean that they should be a little careful!? Curious, I did a little research on the process of dry cleaning, via Wikipedia (or course). I came to find out that the whole procedure is very similar to at home laundering, but the chemicals are more hazardous. And, they do an extra special job of getting the wrinkles out after all is said and done.
So, I can understand how things might get a little jostled during the whole ordeal. I would appreciate, though, that they take 30 seconds to look at my garments before pawning them off to me in such a destructed state. A phone call saying "Hey, we found this, do you want us to fix it?" would have been much appreciated. It also would have saved me two trips to the cleaners, a few tears, and a whole lot of frustration. Ugh. I plan on "suggesting" this amendment to business as usual to the manager when I return. I think I can do it. Maybe.
Friday, April 16, 2010
To the clinics!! Finally!!
Reid just found out his M3 rotations schedule! He didn't get his E.M. rotation that he was hoping for, so this might change.
July: Pediatrics (DSM)
August-Sept: Internal Medicine (DSM)
end of Sept: Urology (UIHC)
October: Otolaryngology, Orthopaedics (UIHC)
November-December: Surgery (DSM)
January: Psychiatry (DSM)
February: Opthalmology (UIHC)
February-March: OBGYN (DSM)
April: Outpatient Med (DSM)
May: Family Med
June: CBPC (DSM)
July: Pediatrics (DSM)
August-Sept: Internal Medicine (DSM)
end of Sept: Urology (UIHC)
October: Otolaryngology, Orthopaedics (UIHC)
November-December: Surgery (DSM)
January: Psychiatry (DSM)
February: Opthalmology (UIHC)
February-March: OBGYN (DSM)
April: Outpatient Med (DSM)
May: Family Med
June: CBPC (DSM)
In the beginning...
I have been thinking about starting a blog for a few days now. The first thing to do was to come up with a name. I tried to be creative, but that wasn't going too well. So, I decided to go with the name of a Tom Petty song. I tried all of my favorites, but of course, they were all taken. Once I found one that was available, I took that as a sign. I think cantstopthesun is pretty fitting, though. Ok, so why did I start a blog. This is going to be an online diary of sorts. This is such a crazy and exciting time in my life, and I want to have some record of it. With that said, I can't promise you will find anything I write interesting. Also, I am not trying to impress anyone. Ok, now that you have read the disclaimer, if you are still curious, read on!
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