Bye-Bye Blue Devils

I submitted my notification today to Duke’s School of Nursing that I will not be following through on my deferment to their accelerated BSN program. It was rather bittersweet. Ever since I decided to become a nurse, Duke has stood out as the place I wanted to start my career. Especially after I interviewed with their pediatric nursing instructor during the application process. I was absolutely thrilled when I was admitted and the thought of not attending Duke was the hardest part of moving home.

The good news is, I got a similar vibe from my new program that I did from Duke. My interview with their faculty representative went swimmingly, their admissions staff have been nothing but helpful, and the pre-licensure component of their program is 16 months long (the same duration as Duke’s BSN). So I feel very comfortable about my decision and very excited about living closer to home and yet in a brand new city that I can explore.

But boy will I miss those basketball games!

New Year, New Me

2008 is finally here! Since ‘07 was a hell of a year, I have never been so eager for New Year’s Eve to come. And I probably enjoyed myself last night more than I have in many years – great party, great friends, great company! The stroke of midnight brought quite a bit of sadness (and was somewhat anti-climactic) without my father there to raise the roof.

The next several months bring much to look forward to: Hawaii in January, Tahoe with my high school buddies in March, yoga retreat in Mexico in April, a dear friend’s wedding at the gorgeous Duke Chapel in June, Vegas for my bro’s 21st birthday AND moving in July, my 5-year Davidson Homecoming in October, and the presidential elections in November (read: only one more year in Bush country)!

But for today, I’m content with watching the NHL Winter Classic on TV (ice hockey on an outdoor rink – what could be better?) and a Rose Bowl party at a friend’s house.

Happy New Year, friends! May 2008 bring you joy and peace!