"Welcome to the Emergency Department. What brings you in tonight?" "I'm having chest pain." (I now initiate eye contact and pay more attention) "Okay. [typing noises] When did it start?" "Five days ago." (less concerned now) "Does it hurt more when you breathe or cough?" "Yea. It hurts the worst when I cough." Bingo. You can … Continue reading Why You Shouldn’t Triage Your Date
The Hunchback in Heels
"Okay, everyone, squeeze together! Smile!" [a pause, photographer squints at camera screen] "Hmm...okay. Almost perfect, but a couple changes: Lauren, honey, fix your strap. And Kayla, can you duck down a bit? You’re just a little too tall [laughs], and you’re blocking Dan." TIMEOUT. Do you know what just happened? I was asked to "duck" … Continue reading The Hunchback in Heels
Oh, Brother
Growing up, I thought I was a boy. Okay, not really, but here's the situation: I have four brothers, two older and two younger (I also have a younger sister, but she's a blog entry all to herself). At a young age my mom dressed me in polka dot hair bows and surrounded me with Kens and Barbies, … Continue reading Oh, Brother
1917 meets 2014
Today I spent time with an old soul. Like, really old. This all began with an epiphany I had last March. One afternoon I realized that I had spent years telling family and friends of my plans to move abroad and serve the poor, but I wasn't doing anything at the time to prepare for such … Continue reading 1917 meets 2014
the writer who hates writing
"I hate writing." I can't tell you how many times I've made this claim throughout my life. Here's the truth: that's a lie. I actually love to write. I've kept a journal since I was 11 years old. In fact, I can't not have a journal. I have bought notebooks specifically for trips, vacations, and … Continue reading the writer who hates writing
six feet & growing 