4 States and a District in 4 weeks...

Ok, so I have had quite the month. Philly is great for a lot of things...being close to a lot of cool cities is one of them. The day after my parents left, Amanda and I headed out to Ocean City, NJ to meet up with Kara and spend a nice relaxing day at the beach. Certainly not the ocean in Cabarete, DR but we made it work. Below is a picture of the boardwalk. It was so funny seeing it 10 yrs later. Perspective of "so cool" is much different now, but I still loved re-living it none-the-less.

The next weekend, my old neighbor growing up and good friend Kevin came for a visit. We made our way to New York City for $20 via huge, air conditioned charter buses. It was so nice to just watch as we drove in and see things and not pay the tolls and fight traffic...which was unreal. I was dying to see a real broadway show actually on Broadway Ave. After much sadness about our first show being canceled, our second choice going up in price, our third ended up being...

I heard it was good, but I wasn't prepared for the amazement of this show! I was wondering how they were going to pull off scenes from the movie, but they were so clever in the delivery. Also, the costumes were fantastic...especially the giraffes, which I think are an amazingly beautiful animal anyway. When we got off the metro and saw the bright lights of Broadway I was all alive with excitement...for about two seconds. There was a show "Broadway on Broadway" going on in Times Square, so there were mass amounts of people trying to get around, mass amounts of swearing, mass amounts of trash, and pretty much mass chaos. I decided "I don't like this city" and once we got into the theatre, we were able to see what the hold up was...

Thankfully, once our show was over, so was the one outside and we were able to take a picture in Times Square.

And you can't go to NYC without going up the Empire State Building...

So we did. We were super pressed for time so we were only up there for about 6 minutes so we could get back and catch the bus back to Philly. Once we get to Penn Station to catch it we find out they double booked the bus and we ended up leaving on another bus 45 minutes later...all that basically to say, that was the most expensive 6 minutes I think I've ever spent. It was cool and worth it though.

Kevin had never been to Philly so here we are in front of Independence Hall. We did all the other touristy things too. Including the Franklin Institute, where I flew a plane. Not really, but I did get in.


The next weekend I flew down to Florida to visit my BEAUTIFUL niece Emma. We went on walks, played on the swings, went to the beach and chased each other around the house. All in all, we had a wonderful time and it was great to spend time not only with her but Zach and Jordan as well. =)


Today I went to Washington DC. What an incredible place. Kristin, another travel nurse, and I decided to spend the day there. We took the train in and had a very full day. Lots of laughing, good conversation, and appreciation were shared. This place deserves a post all its own. We saw all the major things we wanted to see. The monuments are overwhelming and a sight to behold. More on that later when I have had some sleep... Here's the White House

Next came Arlington Cemetary in Virginia. Wow. We didn't get to spend a ton of time there and we only got a quick glimpse, but it was enough to make me choke up and once again just be so thankful that there have been so many men and women willing to fight for what I have the honor of enjoying.

Being in DC is like being hit constantly with a political bat. I get pretty fired up about politics and had to bite my tongue on more than one occasion. This only brings to my mind that I need to be in prayer for this nation. How comforting it is that God already knows the outcome of the election and ultimately is in control. He is above man and rules all. He is sovereign and wise!

We the people...

I think every American should have appreciation and respect for the radical decisions and actions our founding fathers took in order for us to enjoy the freedom that we have today. History makes my heart all aflutter and I can easily get lost thinking about what it was like back then, how life would be different and whatnot. I've always loved history and this is an amazing city full of it. To walk the same streets, to be in the same room, and to eat at the same place as George Washington, John Adams, Ben Franklin and the like is just cool. I felt the same way in Rome. It's just incredible to experience it. Our stops included The Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Christ's Church, Ben Franklin's grave, Besty Ross's house, Military Hall, Carpenter's Hall, Washington Square with the unknown soldier (along with 11,000 other bodies who died in the revolution, from yellow fever, or other random life altering events)The Constitution Center, and the Franklin Institute. Below is Independence Hall where the Declaration of Independence was signed, the Constitution was created and where congress met.

We took a "Ride the Ducks" tour. People at work said it was fun and even though your not a kid, you recieve a "quacker" and make duck noises with it. The kids were the least of my worries...mom and dad and every other couple found them incredibly entertaining and were worse than a 3 yr old. Thankfully once the tour gets going you start listening to the history and paying attention to what's around you...including passing the home of Larry of the three stooges, singing "south street" and boys II men. Also saw the condo Will Smith bought for his Dad. And since it is a true DUKW, we drove on land and went into the river. Below is Delancey Street. This street was long considered the most beautiful street in America and people traveled from all over just to see it.


Among seeing all the historic sites, we decided it would be fun to take a tour through Eastern State Penitentiary. This was America's first prison created by the Quakers who believed that inward reflection and complete isolation would correct your mind, you would turn from your evil ways and return to society as a good citizen. Great thought...creepy place. It opened in the 1800's and was used until 1971. However, it was one of the most interesting places I have visited here. The audio tour used voices of actual inmates and guards which adds to the experience. This is a picture of a cell with the same furniture that was left there from 1971. After walking through that place, it's about the last place I would ever want to live.

A view of a two story cell block. The second story had to be added due to the number of growing inmates.

This is a picture of Al Capone's cell...apparently since he "gave generously" he was allowed the comfort of a sitting chair, desk and radio that he used to listen to the waltz. In my opinion...he was still a prisoner, participated in illegal activities and overall didn't contribute anything good to society, therefore he should have been held responsible and treated as such...too bad money talks.

This was our reaction...ok not really, but I think it's a funny picture.

Of course, how can you come to Philly and not run the Rocky Steps? Dad and I went up the 72 steps and took a few pictures. Below is a picture of Rocky and I...I had to act overcome. I've never actually seen any Rocky movie...and I'm ok with that. "Yo Adrian!", you can have him! =)

Mom and Dad left today and made it back to Dayton in one piece. Tomorrow I head to Ocean City, NJ. I haven't been back since going there on a mission's trip when I was in 7th grade. My friend Amanda should be joining me and we may meet with with Kara...should be fun!

Light and Dark

What a wonderful week it has been and will be! Sunday I got to meet new people at church as well as catch up with Kerry. Amanda will be back next week. I think it's funny how the Lord has let us all meet and strike up a friendship. I'm a nurse, Kerry works with Americore and Amanda is a social worker...apparently we are all like minded when it comes to helping others.

Today I had lunch with my good friend Kara...you remember her from the DR. She is in PA for the time being and will be here while I am. Since she is only about 40 minutes away, we are planning on not being strangers and being buddies here as well! Oh, how I have missed that lady! It was so incredibly nice to catch up with her, hear about how things are in the DR and the excitement that is her life. She has such a wonderful attitude and it's just a blessing being around her. I am amazed that we just pick up where we left off almost three months ago. Once again, so thankful for the bond of Christ! Here we are after our lunch in Chesnut Hill.

For those of you back at Dayton CMC...I have hung out with Casey and we plan on hanging out again soon. She is doing great and is still her sweet and funny self. I filled her in on as much as I could and we both agree that we miss you all terribly.

I work the next three nights, but my parents arrive this weekend! I am so excited to see them in person instead of on Skype, although we have passed many hours on it. We plan to tackle downtown and the history of our country. I'm excited since I am so into history anyway. I can't wait for Dad to see everything!

On a more dissapointing note...it's not all bliss all the time. There is a saying that Philadelphia's anthem are the sirens you hear constantly. I didn't notice them until I was told this and now I notice every one. Within one week of just working 4 days, we had a severe abuse case taken to the trauma room of which the child later died, a gunshot wound and another kid with a knife stabbed into his head. A domestic abuse case playing out in the hallway and numerous child vs. auto cases. I don't say all this to make you think...wow...things must be rough there. I can't imagine. I say this all as a reminder to myself that people need Jesus here just as much as any other place. A reminder that it is my job to love and care for people who feel so alone and helpless in this city. God is the same God that is in Dayton, the DR, and here. Who am I that I get to be God daughter and live out the gospel in the flesh.

I am currently reading Francis Chan's book called Crazy Love. You need to read it. Period. This is comimg from a girl who never takes the time to really read books. It will wake you up and spur you on.

That's all for now...will post next week sometime after downtown and ocean city!

Yes, I'm in Philadelphia...

I have heard the cries of the people (all two of them) and decided to blog every now and then to keep everyone posted that I am still alive and well. Although, it was very hard to leave this...

Ok, so here's the story. As most of you know, I decided to take a travel nurse position at St.Christophers Hospital for Children in their ER. I will be here until November, at which I return to Ohio to join the team and head down to the DR for another week. CAN'T WAIT! Mom and I headed out to drive through the night and arrive on the first. I figured, since I work nights, I would be fine to drive in my can't-move-an-inch-it's-packed-so-full RAV 4. However, since we weren't planning on leaving until the next morning and I didn't get a nap, I got tired at 5am, not too mention that I could no longer feel my rear. We decided to stop at a hotel and be out by 10am at check-out. The first room they gave us hadn't been cleaned and smelled like something had died in there. I really thought I walked into a crime scene. The mattress was flipped over and there were sheets and towels thrown about. A while later we were in a different room. We left and got to the apartment at the time we originally thought 3p, which was good considering they moved my funiture in at 1p. Getting all my stuff up to the fifth floor was a trip. We had no dolly and it's a tiny european style elevator with no air. A couple hours later we ventured out to find a wal-mart to get the necessities. On the way back we ended up on a not so great side of town, mom's panicking and refusing to leave me in this town by myself. Thankfully the next day we found the good parts on town and mom's heart was set much more at ease. She and dad had no problem with me going to the island of the DR by myself but put me in the #1 murder spot and city of "most dangerous" driving, they are a little bit more on edge. I assure you that I am very cautious! Here's some pics of my apartment
My bedroom, there's two closets and two huge windows

looking from my front door through the living room, dining room into the kitchen

looking to the bay window

standing at the bay window toward the fireplace

My apartment is so cute and much bigger than one person needs. If I were going to live here the rest of my life it would have the potentional to be the most adorable place ever. Not having to pay a dime of the rent or utilities makes me love it all the more. It has a beautiful lobby, a gym, sauna and pool. It was built in the 1920's and restored in the 1998. There's a ton of character! Google it! Alden Park Apartments

I have started going to a church called Liberti and met a couple of girls who just recently moved here as well. We all did lunch yesterday and it's nice to have people to call if I want to go get coffee or just someone to hang out with. The people at work have been so incredibly helpful and nice. Believe it or not, I have yet to get sworn at...don't worry, I know my day is coming.

Mom and I took the train into downtown...super nice! I love the train! We did some sight seeing, but we are saving most of it for when she and Dad come to visit in a couple weeks. I'll post more pictures then.

I'll also post more about travel nursing, why I am doing it, the people and observations when I have time to seriously think it through...which could be soon! haha

Lessons learned...

It's almost midnight, there's an awesome storm and I am wide awake. Probably thanks to a coffee too late in the evening, but shared with good conversation. As I have been back I have started to slowly get back to life, but part of me is desperately holding onto the things I have learned...about the Lord, about life and about me in general.

1) I realized about myself that, until I am otherwise told, I usually always assume that I get on the nerves of those I meet. It wasn't until the last weekend in the DR that I verbalized to Weston that I was pretty sure I annoyed him all the time, that he assured me that I didn't and I could finally be comfortable around him. I don't know why I do this. Maybe it's a form of protection. I can't assume that someone doesn't mind me until their words or actions tell me so.

2) I'm invisible. And I mean that in the most shallow and the most deep sense. But it doesn't matter. I don't get my self worth from others. I may feel like I am never the first choice or that there is always something better that is coming along, but to Christ...I am everything I need to be. I am His. He created me. If that means that throughout my life I need to be looked over, passed by, or the second choice, well I am ok with that. This only happened once while I was down there, and it was for a very dumb and superficial reason. However, it served to remind me what life was like back here. I am not number one. I'm always on the "B" team, but I am so grateful for that. It's humbling. I was chosen by Christ. Not because he wanted someone else and it didn't work out so he settled for me. Not at all! He chose me! He initiated and pursued me!

3) I like living a selfless life. All life consists of there is serving others. When you are stripped of everything and all you have left to rely on is God and those he put around you, you begin to understand what God meant when he said "42They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. 44All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. 46Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved."
I felt like every person I met was an opportunity to love like Christ loves me. This didn't mean that we gave handouts to everyone or let them sit around like a bum while we worked our tails off. I can honestly say that all my needs were met...not by my own doing, but by others. Hopefully I was able to meet their needs as well. There is so much joy to be found when you are miserable. The world holds us back. We have too much. Not once did I miss a cell phone or tv! When you have little, you are thankful for so much more. I think that was the most thankful my heart has ever been. I am not the center of the universe, this life is not about me. It was nice to live in an "others" focused setting. I feel like I was my true self there, just lost in living life the way God intended it. We all were there sharing our gifts, doing different things, but in everything we were serving Christ and He was our main focus. I love living simply.

Sorry that this is probably not the most uplifting post. I am sure you can tell that I am still deep in process. All I know is, I don't want life to just go back to how it was. Not that it was bad or that I had a bad outlook. I just think God has further molded my outlook to desire to go deeper and live for Him even more.

Before and After

So I'm home. It's strange, but I feels like I never left. My heart knows differently and I truly miss being there. The carpet feels odd under my feet, I had to turn a fan on to have some noise when I slept, and I swore I heard a cow this morning, but it was actually the neighbor firing up a chainsaw. I ran errands, took a nap, and went to a graduation party today. Typical American day. It's so very good to see family and friends! At the same time, I don't want to forget or just go back to life here.

I had to fight back tears as I was leaviing Monte Llano. As I pulled out of the school and taking in my last time in the streets, my heart sank. I love these kids. The last day was precious. The normally rough and tumble pair of Marta and Regina sat on my lap for a good half hour, when they got up, Felix climbed in, then came Neifi...next was Diori. It was a sweet time of just holding them and praying over their lives. God is big enough to save them and change their lives. Saying goodbye to staff was quick as I am the worst person ever with goodbyes. I can't stop thinking about them though.

I forgot to tell about the second to last day. I had taken Angel with his mom to the denist at the public hospital. This was one of the worst experiences of my life. When we walked in the Denist was so rude to the mom and Angel. She asked me to take a seat and attempted to numb Angel up. Not slow like in the states, but within one second the entire amount was in...along with him screaming out. She waited a minute or two, he knows what's coming and starts to stress out. She keeps making threats, he's hanging on to his mom who is holding him down for dear life. Then she starts in with the instrument. I try to get up to hold hand and comfort him, but she tells me that "it's ok if I want to stay seated over there." I watched in horror as Angel is screaming and pleading at the top of his lungs, his body is shaking...not the I'm scared shake, but the uncontrolable shaking you get when you are experiencing so much pain. I could feel myself getting angry, wanting to ask her to give it a few more minutes, and tears rising with my grip tightening on my shirt. Thankfully, the rest of the tooth came out quickly...with a blood bath. I am a nurse. I love blood. It does not freak me out...but there was a lot of blood coming from that mouth! Mom did great though and didn't pass out. The dentist wrote a script for antibiotics and sent us on our way. By the time we get the medicine, Angel says to his mom, "I can't feel the side of my mouth now." Are you kidding me? 45 minutes later and he is just now feeling the effects? I know he was probably just losing it and was scared so he didn't know he probably couldn't feel much before, but I also know that he felt plenty. He was dying for a bag of chips on the way home, so for 12 pesos, I bought him some. At that point I probably would have bought the kid a years supply. Angel being the sweet kid that he is gave me a hug on the last day and thanked me for taking him to the dentist.

Diori's foot got infected but looked better after I did some serious cleaning and removal of flapping skin.





Luis Miguel head looks so much better, thanks to an antifungal pill that he still chews rather than swallows.



And I ate steak tonight...=)


I'm thinking the blog will be coming to a close. I may write a couple more as I process through everything I saw and experienced. Chris Tomlin's song "God of this city" is stuck in my head. I think God put it there on purpose.

Highs and Lows

Fifteen things I will miss...
1) Having a little hand in mine at all times
2) Conversations in Spanish and actually getting the jokes
3) Taking time one on one to care for a child and calling them by name
4) Walking miles a day between public, school, pharmacy, hospitals and exercise
5) God honoring times in prayer and study with each other
6) Talking and walking all over the DR with Kara
7) Laughing, dancing, singing at any given point in time with the staff
8) Being needed...even for little simple things
9) Rice, beans and chicken
10 Taking kids with their parents to the doctor and good conversations along the way
11)Friendly people along the walks
12)Cows, horses, chickens, dogs, and cats in every street
13)The people I share life with
14)Seeing the cycle of poverty slowly but surely change due to believers being faithful
15)Children running to me down the street with arms wide open yelling "Laura!"
Bonus thing: Spending time at Cabarete, eating great food and making friends with the locals

Ten things I will not miss...
1) Never, ever looking like I care about myself...hair a hot mess and heat edema
2) Feeling dirty all the time
3) Sweating the second you wake up to the second you fall asleep
4) Taking a shower and 2 minutes later having black feet
5) Not having a microwave
6) Not being able to drive, although I'd be scared to drive here anyway
7) Flying cockroaches that attack
8) Ginormous spiders that stare at you and then run faster than anything you've ever seen
9) Waking up with new bites every morning from who knows what
10)Not being able to put toilet paper in the toilet...and never flushing until truly needed

My time here has been one of the best things I have ever experienced. No regrets. Even the things that I won't miss, I would gladly put up with for another month if I were able.

It's so hard to leave, but I take comfort in the fact that there is a strong staff that God has put in place, He is working, and I am planning to return for a bit in November in between nursing assignments if I do this whole travel nursing thing.

I forgot my camera at school, so I will post pictures tomorrow if I can from the Miami airport...I have a 4 hour layover. I have before and after pics!