In case you didn’t know, I’ve decided to stay in New York. Probably not a big surprise to those of you who know me well. (New York has been my dream destination for I don’t know, the last 9 years-ish).
The fact is that I love this city. I felt right at home here from the beginning. (At least more so than my previous travel assignments). Don’t get me wrong, I was pleasantly surprised by Texas, and Los Angeles has beautiful weather, but let’s face it, no city can compare. I desire the subway and bus over driving, and I’ve always wanted to live within walking distance to I don’t know…everything. I’ve spent the last 4+ months walking 12 blocks to work each morning and the same 12 blocks home each evening. There is a type of peace and calmness that exists within me here. Perhaps it is being surrounded by so many people. For some this would make a person feel more lonely, but for me I feel as though it does the exact opposite. I interact with few of the people I see, but instead of isolating myself within the confines of my car I cram myself onto the train or hurry past other rushed city dwellers on the street. There is always the possibility for interaction, although sadly I believe that few view this as a plus or use this to their advantage. None the less, living here has been fantastic and at this point in my life, the exact experience I have been craving.
It’s difficult for me to accurately describe what my life has been like the last…wow!…third of a year, but here is my random assortment of happenings that will hopefully paint a halfway decent picture.
Let’s start with the BIG one. I signed a lease and will be moving into a studio apartment on the Upper East Side tomorrow! (Building entry between a McDonald’s and Indian Restaurant).
Second runner up…I discovered, through the help of a very important fellow travel nurse, what is hands down the world’s BEST brownie. I’ve included it at all three meals and find that it stands up /pairs well with toast, cottage cheese, sandwiches, and chicken. (In case you had your doubts).
I’ve been working in gastroenterology “office practice” wearing business casual to work each day, learning the “secrets” to Outlook, and having most of my patient interaction occur via telephone. The job has included advising patients to 1) take a laxative, 2) include fiber in the diet, 3) try a different laxative, or 4) purchase and ingest either Metamucil, Citrucel, or Fibercon. Joking aside I teach patients about the procedures they will be having, triage their symptoms (do they need to try one of the four or all four of the above interventions, come to urgent care clinic, or just relax and let “things” happen). I also call to inform them that their biopsies are negative and they don’t have cancer, of which had already been alluded to, but not officially confirmed.
I’ve learned that living in the city involves actually designating a time for laundry rather than just throwing in a load after work and then leaving the clothes in the dryer for 2 days.
I silently judge those who own large dogs and live in tiny apartments. I have polite conversations with them in the elevator, all the while thinking that if their oversize pet drools, sheds, or nudges me I will have no choice but to let loose with my meanest dirty look.
I decided to give the Lactaid pill another shot and happily rediscovered all things dairy.
Again I seriously contemplated pursing my writing career over nursing.
Again I continue to find myself in the nursing profession.
I’ve been cut in line several times and not really cared because I know the person at the register will “have my back” and yell at the customer for me.
Yesterday a patient said, “Good-bye Lucy Lu.” My response was to simply say “I don’t look like her” and walk away. (Apparently on the east coast a person of Asian descent can and will be referred to as “Chinese” regardless of their actual ethnicity. At least I’m not being characterized as “the Oriental girl” as was once the case in Texas).
I’ve expanded my knowledge of the Jewish faith.
I’ve attended more weekday Masses and found that it helped me feel less anxious while I was in the process of finding another job, a place to live, and contemplating whether staying was ultimately the right choice.
I drove a car in New Jersey, contemplated selling my car, then bought insurance for the car I will no longer be driving.
I got a tad restless in the city which resulted in visiting a close friend in Chicago, where by the way I felt like I was back in the suburbs.
I’ve worn every outfit I brought in my ONE suitcase. I’m now sick of my clothes and glad to be taking a short trip back to Seattle to gather my winter wear as well as other small items that are to soon find themselves in a new home.
I’ve learned that it is 100% okay to want what I want, but to sometimes be a bit more patient and allow the pieces to come together on their own accord…in New York of course.
