Hello strangers! For the two of you who wondered if I’m still alive, I promise that I am. I’ve been staying pretty busy with work and some personal things that have been going on. I’m not going to promise that things have completely calmed down but they’re starting to.

I’m in the process of making some changes in my career.

Recently I put in my notice at my current full time job. I’ve really liked working there and I’m planning to stay part time. The place I’m taking a job at is actually my current part time job. This will mean better pay, better benefits (including state retirement) and a better schedule. I had to take it when they offered the position. I’m really looking forward to it and I think this will be a positive change all around for me and my family. I’ll sure miss my co-workers at my current job, though, and I’m glad that I’ll still get to see them sometimes.

Over the last few weeks I’ve learned more and more how important it is to have a “wind down” ritual when I come home from a shift. At least for a little longer, I mostly work 48 hour shifts (at my new job I’ll work 24 hours at a time) and I’ve found that it takes a while for me to unwind after a shift. I’ve discovered the secret, at least what works for me: I watch some cartoons and take a nap. While some might say I’m just trying to grasp on to what’s left of my childhood, I see nothing wrong with doing something comforting after a long shift. Apparently I’m not alone in that. @LizzieTheMedic tweeted via Twitter that her post-shift ritual involves some food and a nap. @WalterWelle tweeted that he likes to drive his own vehicle after a shift (something I also enjoy). I’ve heard of a medic who even likes to knit after a shift. One thing I can say without a doubt is that we all need a release. I’m trying to find other outlets for my days off as well. If you just come home and do nothing to relieve stress, you’re doing yourself a disservice. We all need something to calm us down and keep us sane.

Finally, I want to wish each and every one of you a merry Christmas. I know that this time of year is tough for many people, as we all face the possibility of having to spend yet another holiday away from our friends and family, not to mention the things we may encounter on the job. I’m blessed in that for the first time in several years I’m off this Christmas; if you’re not so fortunate, just remember that you’re not alone. Who knows, you might actually help to make someone else’s Christmas a little better in some way. While your family may not fully understand and like the fact that you have to spend yet another Christmas with your work family, a patient may be very grateful that you’re there Just remember that we you go about the rest of the year. Even if you’re not a Christian or otherwise celebrate Christmas take a moment to think about how you can show great love to someone else.

Here’s what Christmas means to me;

 ⁹ An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. ¹⁰ But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. ¹¹ Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. ¹² This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” ¹³ Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2:9-14 (NIV)