test day

is finally over!

The last two years I've been preparing for this exam, the PANCE.  The last three weeks I've been reviewing questions, and more questions.  There were occasional breaks to play wii, eat, sleep, play the piano, and anything else I could do to distract myself.  It gets tedious reviewing material over and over again.  I had some great study partners that motivated me to keep going, most days.  My anxiety about the test (and the fact that it affects the rest of my future) has skyrocketed.  I have utilized the pharmaceutical companies goods with much appreciation.  

I hate standardized exams.  And this was the worst yet.  I arrived at 7:30 am.  This was a rigorous 6+ hour 360 question exam.  And very strict protocol.  To get in and out of the testing room you have to show ID and scan your fingerprint.  I had two 15 min breaks to use the restroom, drink some water, and eat some trailmix.  I had a small locker to store all my items.  Nothing is allowed in the testing room except your locker key and ID.  Intense.  Then I had to focus on taking six 60 question exams, one hour each.  I used every last minute.  Probably 25% of the questions I knew right away, 25% I think I knew, 25% I could narrow it down to two answers, and 25% I was purely guessing. Half of the questions, I don't even remember which answer I decided on.  Doesn't sound like such great odds.  Walking away from the testing center I felt complete dread.  The real torture is waiting to receive my results.  Not everyone passes.  

I finished at 2:40 pm. I was dehydrated, famished, and completely exhausted.  What to do while waiting???  I've never been so bored as I was yesterday.  I'm done studying, so how do you fill your time.  I tried to enjoy a sweet pork salad from Cafe Rio, but the questions kept running thru my mind.  Yes, I took time looking up things I wasn't sure about.  Not surprising, most of those questions I missed.  I couldn't even take a nap...which is NEVER the case.  I played the Wii, read some of my friends biography, played on the computer, played the piano, talked to my roommates... yet, I still had TOO much time to THINK about the exam.  I stayed up way too late.  And here it is way too early in the morning for me to be awake.  All I can do is wait, and think, and wait some more.

life in the country

On Monday Max, Ian, and myself experienced first hand what a cowboy does!  

 

Ian going for a horsey ride!

 

Max and Ian getting to know the dog, Chickee!

 

Chilling with Fancy and Sam.

 

Enjoying a ride on the tractor with Ty's dad.

 

Slushies are the best on hot summer days!

 

Becoming friends with the calves.

Life is simple and great in the country!

Birthday 2009

After my family left town it was time to hit the books.  I studied almost every day this week.  On my birthday, I studied with Jim, a classmate, from 8-4.  It was very productive.  I'm was very proud of myself.

Trying to be studious!

Once I was tired of studying, I went to get ready for dinner at Daryl's.  Just before I headed out the door, I got the best birthday phone call from Dr. Smith with a job offer.  If that all works out... Looks like I'm staying in Arizona!  

Daryl made yellowtail fish which he had caught, rice, and caesar salad, with Ben & Jerry's chocolate brownie fudge ice-cream for dessert. Delicious!  We watched "Lars and the Real Girl" which is an interesting and different film festival flick.  Great night.

Friday I celebrated by only studying a couple hours, playing with Max and Ian, and bowling/arcades with friends that night. 

   

Max   /   Ian

 

Sarah, Scott, Jenna, and Derik

   

Rachel & Zac   /   Jaimi & Sarah 

   

Sarah & Jen (roommate)  /  Steve & Natalie

 

Check out my form.  I'm practically a pro bowler!  I should join a league.

Saturday I actually studied in the morning.  That evening I celebrated for graduation and my birthday with my QC roommates at Jenny's house.  We missed having Trisha with us!  

Daina, Kari (and baby Smith), Sarah, Jenny, and Abigail 

 

Daina made some cherry chocolate cupcakes!

I sure enjoyed myself!

Looking forward to another year of life, gaining wisdom, and enjoying new adventures!

Because I have nothing better to do - I blog!

I officially graduated from PA school Aug 8, 2009.  I spent a great weekend with my family here in AZ.  We enjoyed plenty of swimming, eating, games, and talking.  Mom planned a fun "Family Share" night where we participated in talents (those of us who have any) and watched growing up videos.  Thanks for the fabulous weekend!

   

   

   

   

   

It's always sad when the party ends.  Now it is on to studying for boards, applying for licensure, and obtaining a job.  

Life is even more delightful when...

...all the cousins arrive!

   

   

 

Mother and Daughters

 

Divine way to end the night!  Cheesecake!!  

The guys watched all the kids while the ladies enjoyed a night out.  Yay for celebrations!

 

Mary Ann's Surprise Baby Shower

We are SO excited she is having a girl, finally!

 

   

A Slice of Heaven

How could you not love spending time with these kiddos?

 

Shark attack by Ian

 

Pillow fight  with Oscar (don't tell Mary Ann we used her nice couch pillows)

 

Pretty in Pink - Sarah and Lily

 

 

Henry warming up to me...finally

End of the day!  Yay for Toy Story!!

 

Welcome to Gilbert

We warned you it was going to be HOT down here.  If you didn't listen before,                                                          BEWARE IT'S HOT: come prepared to face dehydration headaches,                                                                                  overall fatigue, heat stroke... minor concerns.

You start to sweat once you leave the house, sort of cool off while driving moderate distances; however, until the a/c fully kicks in, you start to have back sweat and face sweat.  But those are minor details. You finally make it home, start dreaming of the nice cool swim after we BBQ.  Mary Ann and JP slave away to meet our growling tummies needs. We ravishly dispose of the divine choices of fresh fruit and hot juicy burgers. Mmmm...  Now time for that refreshing evening swim. The dad's are excited and get out there with the kiddos. And phew, the waters a chilly 94 degrees. Almost, but not quite, refreshing. Closer to the right temperature for a hot tub, but it's just the pool. The kids didn't seem to mind...

 

 

Osky went diving with his dad in search for treasures.  

He also dared the canon ball jump off the big rock.

 

 

 

 

Another comical dialogue from Ian:

Voice in the background "Ring, riiinnng, ring."

Ian answers: "Granma, granma." He smiles. "Play trucks." "Granma."  More smiles as he points to the dead cell phone, "Granma. Play trucks."

As much as I love my nieces and nephews, I'm reminded why I am always on the "lookout" of what might happen next.  I was watching Ian while at the pool.  He enjoyed kicking in the water and then splashes the water that was on the tiling outside of the pool..  Once he was done it was "towel, towel, dry."  I wrap him up and start carrying him inside. Halfway through the door I feel rather wet. First thought, I hope this water diaper works. Second thought, I'm sure it does else why would we be using it. Third thought as we reach the bathroom, take off his diaper, an outpouring of more fluid and I'm now soaking wet. I think Ian just peed on me. Fourth thought, I guess that means I need to take a shower.  

Pool water or pee??  Still to be investigated and determined.  What are your thoughts?

 

I'm looking forward for the rest of the family to get here soon...  Adventures are just beginning.