A Couple Months in CO

As I saw the monthly charge for me to have this blog domain, I realized it was time for another post! I’m not sure I have anything that intriguing or wise to discuss, but I thought I’d dive into what I’ve been up to and what I hope for in the coming months.

First, I think we will be posting some updates on Brian here soon. He has been doing really well, and I am grateful to feel comfortable staying in CO for longer periods of time between visits.

Work

BLEH. OkOk. Ya. I know work is somewhat necessary. I get it! It’s funny that one of the reasons I wanted to leave my job originally was the amount of burnout I was feeling as a nurse, and I also feel that now. I realized though that a large amount of work fatigue comes from my own newness.

Despite being a registered nurse for 2 years now, I really have only practiced for one full year on my own. There is so so so much to learn and know in the world of healthcare/nursing. Everyday of work takes so much energy, as I absorb new information, protect my patients, protect my own license, try to get my new coworkers to like me, etc. It is exhausting!

I know that overtime, my skills and knowledge will grow, and I will feel more confident in my practice. Until then though, there is a certain level of anxiety that comes with each shift. Naturally, I also decided to pick up a second nursing job because I just love some added chaos.

Unfortunately, my caffeine problem is not thriving at the moment.

All in all though, I am thankful to have my day shifts at Denver Health. My coworkers and educators are very kind. I am excited to return as a PRN nurse to Rose Emergency and see my old coworkers again as well. Also, making money is nice. It is exciting that I am able to get concert tickets or buy an overpriced coffee without giving myself so much grief.

Music

Given how busy I have been, it is kind of insane how much music I still have been making. I have definitely over committed to some gigs and events. On one hand, its forced me to work on music which is cool! On the other hand, I think I am going to back away from gigs for a minute to just enjoy the music making process again.

I am taking guitar lessons and trying to relearn how to play more correctly. It is both so aggravating and so exciting.

I am also in a band again which is exciting too! Birdnest is an Indie band and its fun because I get to play trumpet, do backup vocals, maybe some synth, etc.

On my birthday, I did a little gig at Denver Art Society!

I kind of vibe with the whole auxiliary instrumentalist role. It comes with a lot of opportunities to experiment, not a whole lot of pressure, etc. We have been recording!

The band I was previously in is still playing out a lot as well. It is definitely a little sad to watch and not be actively part of the music I helped write. At the same time, I have lots of love for my friends in the group and am happy they were able to keep the group going and are doing so well.