It was a soft Sunday afternoon when my 3 year old was napping and the Wisconsin summer sun seemed extra warm. Not harsh, just warm. There was a breeze that was so perfect. It was the breeze you only ever read about in a book, never really experiencing (or remembering) the perfection of what the … Continue reading A little gardening saved me.
My anxiety is functional. I am hyper-organized, I am prepared for anything, and I am typically 10 steps ahead of reality. My mind also never stops. I over analyze every conversation. I have certain fears that are irrational but very real to me. My anxiety has lead to me having success academically and professionally but … Continue reading Watching my anxiety develop in my son: Guilt and frustration.
There are people you meet in life that you simply have an instant connection with. Certain vibes click and your impression of that person is solidified. Typically people talk about this connection as a positive one but the negative is just as prevalent. Sometimes you meet someone that you simply detest. They have not done … Continue reading Instant dislike: Just admit it’s a thing.
Written by Shasta Westaby Edited by RNplusmommy May 16th, 2017 was a day that turned the lives of so many upside down. Seriously, a damn tornado flipped my community. 83-miles of damaged homes, barns, crops, woods, businesses. It was and is overwhelming. I won't minimize my anxiety over storm season but I get to remember … Continue reading A tornado was my wind of change: Seriously, it took a freaking tornado.
We're supposed to be honest. We're also supposed to be nice. Here lies a real dilemma. Many times honesty is not nice. So we find ourselves stuck in a bizarre limbo between what we say and what we actually want to say. For example... Parenting advice: Parenting advice is frequently unsolicited. Unwanted and unneeded advice … Continue reading When you are only honest in your head: Mental replies versus reality.
Mother's Day has come and gone. The remnants of the day can still be found in the wilting flowers, Hallmark cards, and brunch leftovers. Another less talked about Mother's Day residue is the remaining negative feelings that some people experience. Mother's Day can be difficult for a lot of different reasons. The struggles of infertility, … Continue reading I hope you’re ok: An open letter to those who struggle on Mother’s Day
Let me begin by explaining a few important contributing factors to The Hairy Nipple Incident. 1. I am a nurse. Because of this my son is well versed in anatomy. 2. My son enjoys arguing. Especially when it is an argument he knows he can win. 3. My son is 6-years old and 6-year olds … Continue reading The Hairy Nipple Incident: Trying to parent with a straight face.
Words easily fail to adequately describe emotions. Displaying sympathy, empathy, and a general desire to show support can be difficult. Phone calls are awkward, texts are juvenile, emails are open to the interpretation of the reader (let's be honest, when we are at our worst so are our interpretation skills). Cards can be sweet and … Continue reading When in doubt, send snacks: Advocating for the return of the proverbial fruit basket.
Mental healthcare is a topic that is widely talked about but limitedly understood. I by no means claim to have all the answers but as a mental health nurse I do have some insight. We do not become mental health nurses by accident. No one just falls until mental health nursing. Pursuing a career in … Continue reading What a mental health nurse wants you to know about mental health care.
You tell anyone that will listen about your new adventure, including the poor deli lady that just wants to know how much ham you want.
Tired Not Dead 