bodies.

One of the most shocking things I have seen while working is the change our bodies go through as we age. The wrinkles on ones face and hands are visible, but the transformation of everything isn't. Physically and psychologically. I don't mean to say 'shocking' in a negative context ... it's more of a, surprise, at how much our bodies can change over a life time.

It got me thinking. Does anything really combat the telltale signs of aging? Everyone ages, birthdays always reappear. But do the creams, lotions, pills, etc. really help at the end of day?

So far, from what I can tell, smoking seems to be the worst things for aging. Many of the residents who smoke are accompanied by cancer, sour lungs, O2 tanks, etc. Although they may not always be directly connected, the relationships is very, very close. Along with alcohol abuse.

However, I have seen the influence of family on the attitude and well being of the residents. Sometimes the difference between those with support and those without is evident from just entering their room. The oldest folks at the home are surrounded by family, and though not entirely healthy, they are genuinely happy. On the other hand, those struggling with depression are often lonely and devoid of family support.

I know that these are generalities, but it does make some sense. Children and teens are heavily influenced by their family networks - and since seniors sometimes revert back to a child-like state, who is to say that the connection doesn't rebuild itself?

D.

danielle the "almost-nurse"

Sheesh, so it has been a while since I've last posted. I must admit, I had been feeling a bit uninspired. Exams aren't fun and psychology wasn't too interesting. However, with my new job beginning this past Tuesday, I feel as if I have so much to share! So here is a bit for now.

As you may or may not know, I am a Home Care Aide for seniors living at a home here in town. I get to wear scrubs, comfy runners, and yank my hair into a bun every morning. I can ride my retro bike to work every morning, and even get a free meal. All is well.

It is true that they say - nursing isn't for wimps. It most certainly isn't. Although I am not a nurse at the moment, what I am doing is as close as I can get. My shifts are crammed with caring for residents and their various ailments, getting them ready for the day, and organizing/giving out their medication.

If I have ever doubted my capacity to care, I now know that my heart is very much capable. It takes an extraordinary amount love to truly care for people, more than I had anticipated. Some residents are forgotten, neglected, or just left to be. Some residents have been betrayed by their own bodies but still retain a mind as quick as can be. Although I have just begun, my heart strings have been pulled for these people.

My mind is swimming with what I've learned, so this is all I will write for now. But I can say for sure that I will post soon with more stories! Cheers,

D.

reading.

I have officially finished the Harry Potter series, as of Friday. It was a sad moment when I realized that my 'alternate reality' would be ending.

Since then, I've been working my way though JK Rowling's "The Tales of Beedle the Bard", a children's storybook Albus gave Hermione in the seventh book. Although it is a short book, it's neat to read more about Rowling's magical world from a different perspective.

Other than that, life is as per usual! Cheers,

D.

schoolio.

In the midst of psychology, which isn't too time consuming, Harry Potter tends to fuel my procrastination. I was unprepared for how addicting these books would become!! One more to go... I'm savoring the sixth book, and trying not to rush. I am not looking forward to finishing the seventh book.

Anyways. It has taken me a week to get back into the swing of school of again, but I guess that's a normal. A week of sleep and TV in between finals and psychology has really thrown my system through a loop. I am back on track now, thanks to coffee and Harry Potter. Don't laugh. Something has to keep me awake, and something has to keep me motivated!!

So I'm getting a little restless at home (surprise, surprise). I'd like to do or try something different, but haven't really pinpointed it. I'm not going to cut my hair again, and blonde just doesn't work. There's a gym in Devon, but thats a lot of cash I don't have. And I don't think getting another tattoo is something I should do willy-nilly. Even then, those are all things that aren't all that exciting, especially long-term. Plus I've done all of that already!! I would love to travel, but being a student makes that hard, especially with a full-time job over summer. I'm stumped. I really need to find something to do, not only for my well being but my parents as well. They are the ones who have to deal with me all summer, after all! Ideas??

D.

The Elephant House

'The Elephant House' cafe, in Edinburgh, UK, is the nook where JK Rowling wrote the first part of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. I was reading up on her life and was amazed with how her personal life impacted the creation of her characters.

Here are a few things I found out: Rowling lost her mother to multiple sclerosis while she was in the midst of writing the first book. This greatly influenced Harry's character: his parents where murdered by a famous Dark wizard while he was a baby and had to deal with the challenges of loss and fame while simply a teenager. Rowling also struggled with depression and suicide, creating the background of the Dementor characters: hooded, evil creatures that suck away the happiness and joy from anyone they surrounded. Her life experiences and circumstances have evidently formed the back bone of her work. It's also mentioned that her struggles with her faith have heavily influenced the 7th book - I'll look back on this once I've read it.

If I had another life, I would put all my heart into being an author. It would be fabulous to just sit and write, whether it be a children's book or an editorial. I don't want to shut the door on writing, but I know it's something that needs to be put on the back burner at the moment. So for now, I'm just thoroughly enjoying the works of others and getting lost inside the wonderful world of books.

Cheers!

D.