Go to Work With Mom Day

Last week, the little boy I work with couldn't go to school because his wheelchair needed to be repaired. His mother asked if I could work with him at home for a few hours. She even said I could take Vanessa with me. (She obviously doesn't know Vanessa and doesn't read my blog.) I was apprehensive about taking her to work with me but it saves me from paying somebody to watch her.

He has a little sister who was home that day. She is a few months older than Vanessa. They played well together and seemed to really enjoy each other. They played outside for a little bit then came in for some hot chocolate.
Vanessa loved going to work with me and you can see why. It wasn't about me at all. She was happy to have a new friend to play with. It was a positive experience for all us and if it works out maybe we can do it again sometime.

While I had my camera, I snapped a picture of my patient. I fell in love with him the first time I met him and when we did an earthquake drill at school, I knew that I would give my life to save his because I consider him one of my own. He is such a fun kid to work with. I love the way he sings to me and laughs at me. He is truly an inspiration. I've learned to really appreciate the little things in life. I consider his family my friends and would love to hang out with his mom. I'm so grateful to work with him and have him part of my life. I love my job, not just the nursing aspect but the mothering aspect of taking care of him. I feel like I get paid to be a mom.That's why I love my job and I'm happy Vanessa was able to have a Go to Work with Mom Day.

Another First

Yesterday, was my first day back to work. I haven't received a paycheck for over 11 years. I recently decided it was time. The kids are getting older. I finally felt like I could do it. I have kept my nursing license active all these years. I volunteered every chance I could from girls camp nurse, to missionary flu shots, and elementary school vision screenings. Now, I get to earn a wage. I was thinking of all the fun things I could do with a little extra money. Then I took Esteban and Ethan into the orthodontist. Yep, they both need a full set of braces. Aaron asked me how it felt to work for braces. Depressing. I guess it will be worth it when they all have nice straight teeth but, my plan was more fun.

I had to write a resume, find references, and turn in applications. I dug out my stethoscope and bought new scrubs. I felt like a little kid on the first day of school.

I have to opportunity to work with a special needs child. I am actually an employee of the school district and I do some home health with him before and after school or on days that he stays home. I will work only one day a week. Aaron is going to work his schedule so he will work from home on the day I'm gone.

Yesterday, my patient didn't go to school. I learned about his equipment and care while getting to know him better. He is great! For part of the time we played Legos Star Wars on the Wii together. My kids think I have to the coolest job in the world as I told them I was getting paid to play video games. They want to go with me to work next week.

It was hard to leave but, it was great to return home. I tried to explain to Vanessa that I am a nurse and a mom. Aaron made her clean up after herself while I was gone. She informed him, "I don't like mom being a nurse!" It will be an adjustment for all of us.