My Desire to Be

Fashion Fridays: Madonna

2012-02-10T19:25:00.019-05:00

This is Madonna at this year's Venice Film Festival. I'm not a fan of butterfly patterns because I grew up in the nineties, but this gown manages to be both age appropriate and flattering (it hides her muscular yet bony arms). Awesome dress aside, LOOK AT THOSE SUNGLASSES. These red glitter beauties are Miu Miu. You should probably enlarge the picture to fully view their awesomeness. Naturally, the price makes me cry for third world countries but it is what it is.

The 1940s-style hair doesn't hurt, either.

Trauma Thursdays: Concussions via Football

2012-02-09T14:40:00.018-05:00

Purdue University now claims, after seasons of research, that several asymptomatic blunt force traumas (hits) may be the cause of concussion, rather than a large one-time hit.

The article.

The study (one of them).

Dr. Oetker Ristorante Pizza: A Review

2012-02-08T00:15:00.000-05:00

The Box. Why the fork? Who does that?

Pre-baking

Baked at 425 degrees for 12 minutes

As part of the BzzAgent Ristorante Pizza campaign, I received:

A letter from BzzAgent Jono about the product

An Official BzzGuide

Two Coupons for a free Dr. Oetker Ristorante Pizza (the retailer is reimbursed)

Five Magnets/notepads (to give away)

Eight $1.50 Coupons (to give away)

The suggested retail price for this pizza is $4.99 and it is not to exceed $5.99. The coupons that I have been giving away to neighbors and family friends means they can buy the pizza for approximately $3.50. Each pizza serves three people, so at this price point, the pizza is way cheaper than that which you would buy at a pizza place. I am not experienced in frozen pizza so any comparisons I make will be to pizza that you would buy in New York pizzerias.

Things I liked:

The diced tomatoes actually looked like diced tomatoes (i.e. FRESH!)

There was not an overabundance of any one ingredient.

Simple. Simple. Simple.

No grease pools (you heard me, NY pizza!)

The slices were stiff enough to hold without the worry of the topping falling off.

Things I disliked:

I miss the traditional roll crust to hold onto.

The fork on the cover graphic is unnecessary.

The two supermarkets near me only carried the mozzarella, or the mozzarella and spinach.

The directions called to put the pizza directly on the oven grate, which made removal somewhat difficult and any clean-up more of a hassle.

Again, I haven't had frozen pizza in a decade but from the looks of the other pizzas in the frozen section, this one seemed healthier and more appetizing.

Talkie Tuesdays: Myrna Loy

2012-02-07T12:16:00.000-05:00

I mean, do you really need another excuse to watch all of her movies, right now? She tended to play exotic roles, even though she was a mix of European nationalities. Off screen, she was politically active and was the first celebrity to join the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

Makeup Mondays: Rimmel London Moisture Renew Cream Lipgloss

2012-02-06T10:13:00.066-05:00

A tad bit brighter than in the photo

I purchased this gloss in "Purple Rescue" because I have a penchant for bold lip colors. I can pull this off for two reasons- I rarely wear eye makeup (so I won't look like a slaggy clown) because of my glasses and my lips are full enough to wear darker or brighter colors. Let me tell you, the color is not as scary as it sounds; the color is closer to a pink-y fuschia. It looks amazing on my pale skin with blue undertones. I also like that it has SPF 15, making it a fairly safe gloss to wear to the beach. The gloss is not sticky and the doe-foot applicator is sufficient.

This being said, there is a downside. Nothing gold can stay and that definitely applies here. About one hour goes by and it has worn off, with a small color deposit left behind. Keep in mind, this was an hour in which I drank or ate nothing and did very little talking. I attribute this to the thinner formula; this is the same formula that makes it less sticky. Also, there was an unattractive gooey strawberry milk-shaded line on the inner part of my lower lip. Residue is not exactly the best look in the world.

Cost: $5 - $5.50 for 0.20 fl oz

Fashion Fridays: Marion Davies as Mary Tudor

2012-02-03T13:49:00.010-05:00

I wish people could still dress like this, and not be considered crazy. It is funny how one can tell the woman is from the twenties, even though the costume period is the earlier 1500s.

Trauma Thursdays: the phone that could sniff

2012-02-02T23:47:00.000-05:00

NASA has created an attachment for smartphones that can smell and label chemicals. The potential variations of use are incredible but I imagine it could be most useful to hazmat teams, as well as EMS workers who respond to such situations. Could this be the beginning of the end for the Emergency Response Guidebook?

Read on.

Pet Peeves

2012-02-01T20:17:00.006-05:00

I hate when I turn on the sink faucet and whomever was using it beforehand, used lava-hot water.

F!cking OW!

Talkie Tuesdays: Niagara

2012-01-31T22:47:00.000-05:00

1953.

Makeup Mondays: AmLactin Moisturizing Lotion Review

2012-01-30T20:29:00.000-05:00

I ordered a sample of this lotion and received three small packets. For my face, half a packet is enough for one use. The lotion is formulated with lactic acid, which throws the pH balance to about 5.0. This may explain the mild irritation when I apply it to my face. Lactic acid is supposed to soften rough and dry skin, but I think the dryer the skin, the more the product will feel like burning.

This product takes a long time to sink in and my face looks like a grease-ball until I apply primer and BareMinerals foundation. I have given the lotion a few weeks to do what the company claims. It appears to me now that while the thin, milky lotion moisturizes my face, it also makes any bumps on my face more frequent and pronounced.

A 14 ounce bottle is $19.19 on Drugstore.com and needless to say, I will not be purchasing this.

Fashion Fridays: Crimes Against Humanity! Crimes Against Humanity!

2012-01-27T19:55:00.000-05:00

Sorry I had to make the picture so large; I just want you to be able to see clearly how terrible it is. If you can't see what is wrong with this outfit, get off my site. Get off my site right now.

P.S. The magazine containing this ad is aimed towards teenage girls. Just remember kids, when you wear head to toe leopard print and matching horse-hoof shoes, you are letting the terrorists win.

Trauma Thursdays: 'Toon

2012-01-26T19:19:00.000-05:00

Book Scans: Albertus Seba's Cabinet of Natural Curiosities

2012-01-25T12:11:00.000-05:00

Despite the majority of illustrations I chose to include in this post, a good majority of the recorded species are snakes and butterflies. In my eyes, marine creatures are some of the most fascinating and beautiful on Earth. This huge book retails between $600 (used) and $990 (new) on Amazon so unless you're a one-percenter with a penchant for oversized books ("In this corner, weighing in at 17.4 pounds..."), check out your local library or its interlibrary loan system.

Talkie Tuesdays: Casualty 1900s

2012-01-24T00:21:00.000-05:00

The show was a mini-series about the emergency and surgical departments of the London Hospital, shown by the BBC. There was a total of 10 episodes, one about 1906, three about 1907, and six about 1909. The show was dramatized from medical records, newspapers, and personal memoirs. The beginning and ending credits of most episodes include factual tidbits of medical history during that era. Anyway, check it out before SOPA kicks in; most or all of the episodes are on YouTube.

Note the lack of PPE--not a good thing when antibiotics were still years away from common use.

Why yes, that is cocaine spray being applied to a patient.

X-Ray machines were just coming into use.

Anesthetic was hand-pumped by a non-specialized doctor. Chloroform and Ether were used.

Honestly, waiting rooms don't seem to have changed much. Really though, how could they?

One in seven children died before the age of ten.

UV light being used on Tuberculosis lesions

Makeup Mondays: Dove Nourishing Oil Care Leave-In Smoothing Cream review

2012-01-23T15:38:00.000-05:00

I received a sample packet of this in the mail and I have used it on three separate occasions. The cream, applied onto wet hair, will not be added to my Holy Grail. The cream (basically leave-in conditioner) smells great but it left a halo of frizz around my hair. Also, it made my curls stick together ("defined" in beauty magazine language) in a way that looked stringy, not refined. I understand this can be caused by using too much but I used less on subsequent applications and found the same thing happened. I believe if you can not find a sufficiently smoothing conditioner and you have to use a leave-in, there are lighter and more evenly applying (read: spray) variations.

On a side note, if I was (beauty product?) president, I would require all leave-in conditioners to have UVA/UVB protection. There's no reason not to.

Fashion Fridays: I bought

2012-01-20T20:58:00.000-05:00

The local Salvation Army has half-off Wednesdays. I picked up a couple of things, which would have cost much more had I purchased them elsewhere.

Sperry Topsider "Mallard"

They are like a rain...ballet flat? It doesn't much much sense until you think of how cute they would look with a floaty summer dress during sun-showers.

I also bought a Banana Republic black wool pleated full skirt. It had some spots on the back, which washed away with Woolite. Pictures...someday.

Trauma Thursdays: News

2012-01-19T01:52:00.000-05:00

Silk Microneedles for Transdermal Drug Delivery of Wide Range of Compounds [Medgadget]

1950s women may have triggered obesity epidemic [Denver Post]

One of the more interesting bits I pulled from the article is that almost one third of U.S. babies are "too fat" by nine months.

Office printers emit hazardous particles: CBC special report [CBC News]

This article is from 2007 and I'd be curious to see any follow-ups on the claim that sitting next to a printer for long periods of time is equivalent to second-hand smoke.

Step Away From the TV: Your Life Depends On It [Portfolio]

What a waste of money...

Male Wolf Spiders Swipe Other Males' Dance Moves After Watching Them on TV [Popsci]

Naturally.

"A lot of people like snow. I find it to be an unnecessary freezing of water."

2012-01-18T17:04:00.000-05:00

Once said by Carl Reiner.

Long Island's first snow of the winter (snowed Halloween weekend, what?!)

Snow to me means staying inside, drinking spiced tea out of a pretty gold-trimmed china cup, reading non-fiction books on epidemics and artists (not in the same book obviously), and eventually trudging out of doors to scrape ice off my minivan (don't judge!). If and when I move upstate, my level of intelligence will skyrocket! This, of course, means I will need a larger bookcase.

Copy of Vivaldi - Four Seasons - Winter

Talkie Tuesdays: Ziegfeld Follies

2012-01-17T22:01:00.011-05:00

1945.

"With Guzzler's [gin], you won't need a chaser. Nothing could catch you!"

Makeup Mondays: Softsoap Coconut Scrub

2012-01-16T19:34:00.000-05:00

Through Influenster's VoxBox complimentary (if time isn't money) program, I received a two-pack of this Softsoap Coconut Scrub. The scrub is actually a bar soap, with bits of...something in it. I hadn't used bar soap in quite some time before sending this to trial, mainly for the reason that bar soap dries out my skin. This bar did not dry me out, but did not moisturize the skin either. I am only speculating, but I think this "neutral" effect on the skin is because although the bar contains soap, it also has glycerin and various oils. This would be great for people with normal (not dry, not oily) skin. People with drier skin would do better with a translucent bar soap (higher glycerine content). As far as the name/fragrance goes, it is not the most fitting. Die-hard coconut fans won't be pleased; a better suited name would be "Pina Colada." For whatever reason, beauty companies can not seem to grasp the concept that coconuts do not really smell "sweet" or sugary.

The Site

This Day Last Year.

2012-01-08T21:22:00.024-05:00

I was in Jaipur, Rajasthan in India.

This Day Last Year.

2012-01-07T20:42:00.021-05:00

I was in Mahapura and Jaipur, Rajasthan in India. There are some videos of the school recital thrown in--so cute!

This Day Last Year.

2012-01-06T13:00:00.002-05:00

I was in Mahapura, in Rajasthan India.

And yes, those are goats in sweaters.

Things Santa Bought Me

2011-12-28T21:47:00.000-05:00

With all the money he spends, he must be in the 1%.

Iron Fist sketchy fox tee

Soft Style "Coral Reef" red shantung peeptoe espadrille wedges

Broken but still usable peacock hair clip

Estate pendant

Francesca's Collections engraved measuring spoons

Volatile "Fondue" wedge sandal

Hands-Free Soap Dispenser

Banana Republic suede/leather lace up boots (being shipped)

Retractable lip brush (being shipped)

Mesh Veil Fascinator
5 NYX Round Lipsticks
King size down alternative comforter

Talkie Tuesdays: Brideshead Revisited

2011-12-27T20:35:00.000-05:00

I didn't know that Brideshead Revisited was such a great costume movie.

Makeup Mondays: NYC New York Color Liquid Lipshine

2011-12-26T22:37:00.000-05:00

NYC Liquid Lipshine layered over a coral lipstick

Influenster's VoxBox program complimentarily assigned me a NYC New York Color Liquid Lipshine to review. The gloss is in a 0.24 fl oz tube and the wand tip, though longer than average, is nifty when it comes to applying the gloss in front of a mirror. The color is "Nude York City"; it is close to that of a caramel candy. The amount of shimmer in this gloss is perfect. They are tiny but plentiful enough to add a noticeable gleam. I find this gloss is less sticky than some other ones in my makeup wardrobe and it smells of vanilla cake batter. If I am going to wear a shimmer gloss, I want it to be bold; I think I will check out the bright pinks of the Liquid Lipshine range. The lasting power on this has been great and when it wears down, it leaves a pleasing shimmer residue on my lips. Nothing is perfect though, and this gloss is no different. I put it in my purse one day and when I returned home, I found it had leaked onto some of my things. I'm thinking this is a product flaw because since the tube is oval rather than round, I know I would have closed it all the way to match up in the correct manner; I'm too detail oriented to muss up something like that.

This is what Influenster has to say about the Lipshine:

"Straight from the city that never sleeps, NYC New York Color offers products with uptown style at down-to-earth prices, from $.99 - $4.99. The energy, style and color of New York City shines through the wide range of shades, textures and innovative products. NYC always delivers the most on-trend products & shades hot off the runway!

A beauty-editor favorite is Liquid Lipshine ($2.49). It has pure pigments that created a 3-D gloss effect. Vitamin E provides shine and a moisturizing feel. The formula is non-sticky, super shiny & soft. Available in 10 on-trend shades from neutral nudes, to berries & fuchsias. Start shopping for NYC at these stores nearest you: Walmart, Target, Rite Aid, CVS, Family Dollar, Duane Reade, Kmart, HEB, and others. Visit newyorkcolor.com to check out all shades and fun products from New York Color!"

Check out the site. See for yourself. Its not exactly a large investment, at $2.49 ($1.69 at drugstore.com).

Fashion Fridays: Matchbook Magazine

2011-12-23T11:59:00.000-05:00

Hopefully, I don't have to convince you further.

Trauma Thursdays: Mad Hatter

2011-12-22T13:28:00.000-05:00

Back in the day, mercury was part of the hat-making process. Hatters suffered from the toxicity which caused derangement and violent twitching. I'm sure you know what I speak of if you have seen the Mad Hatter in the wonderfully trippy children's movie, Alice in Wonderland.

Sh!t My Dad Says

2011-12-21T18:33:00.000-05:00

Mom: watching soap opera

Dad: "Ugh I'll be back out [to the living room] to watch NCIS. I'm going to the bedroom to watch some real t.v."

Dad: marches off and turns on Family Guy

Talkie Tuesdays: Extreme Movie

2011-12-20T00:38:00.000-05:00

Extreme Movie. Watch it.
And remember kids, blue is a warning sign.

Makeup Mondays: imPRESS Press-on Manicure

2011-12-19T18:03:00.000-05:00

I received these press-on nails as part of the complimentary VoxBox program to review and recommend (or not). I have to say right now, I heavily disliked these nails. Keep in mind, this review is from the view of someone who has never worn fake nails before. First of all, I did not follow the part of the directions that said "Lay out 10 nails in finger order." To me, the point of a press-on manicure would be to save time and having to pick out and lay out 10 nails out of 24 that look relatively similar does not really save time. Also, it was not made clear that the patterns should match on the opposing fingers. I wound up prying off ill-fitting or mismatching nails off with my teeth--not one of my best moments. I bit after application, I went over to a friends' to chill. There, I discovered doing everyday things became difficult; I had to ask for help to zip up my jacket and holding multiple things was out of the question.

I am a person who has issues sleeping with "extras." For example, I can't sleep wearing bracelets, rings, socks, hair ties, lip balm, etc. I was worried that these nails would be a hindrance but I was pleasantly surprised that I fell asleep at my normal speed. However, when I woke up my nail beds were throbbing. Ow. Ow. Ow. In a rush to free my fingers of these shackles, I gnawed off all but the least painful--the pinky nail. I left this on because for the name of science (or marketing?) I wanted to see how long the nail would last. The staying power was impressive; it lasted 5 days until I had to remove it because it would have looked stupid to have one fake nail at Christmas dinner.

1. If you have wide, long nails and just sit around all day doing nothing, I recommend this product to you.

2. If you are a medical professional (like myself) or are anyone besides the kind of person listed above, stay away.

www.impressmanicure.com

P.S. The color I received is "Over The Moon."

Fashion Fridays: A Magazine for the Rest of Us!

2011-12-16T00:12:00.000-05:00

Later this year, the world of print publications will be introducing the World's first magazine catered to the petite population. Keep in mind, petite is not about weight--it is about height. Petite is a standard clothing size, as well as a word to describe ANY WOMAN 5'3" OR UNDER. The average height of women in the United States is 5'4" and so about half of us are petite. It is incredible how this large amount of people can be so grossly underrepresented. Designers don't design for us. Magazines don't write for us. Having to pay extra money to cut off excess fabric so that trousers do not drag is the norm for us. When designers do decide to offer petite sizes, we're lucky if they do anything besides chop off a few inches, say, raise the armholes or shorten the rise.

The magazine is set to premier sometime in 2012. They have a preview on their website and I am not sure as of right now if the magazine will be digital or print. The articles contain less marketing and more honesty than some others I've read. My only hope for this magazine is that their budget is set higher, because right now, some of the clothing in the shoots were...questionable.

P.S. The magazine is for women 5'5" and under because the world average height is different than the US average height.

Join to get your preview issue. It is free so there isn't anything to lose, besides tolerance for underrepresentation. And please, pass this on! It would be nice if this magazine could join the ranks of Vogue, Lucky, etc.

Bella Petite

Trauma Thursdays: Under the Knife

2011-12-15T00:24:00.000-05:00

Excerpts from my medical record, concerning my second surgery and the surrounding circumstances:

Pediatrician: R.M.
Operation Date: 02/17/00
Surgeon: W.C.
Assistant: J.M.
Pre-op Diagnosis: Left Abductor Contracture
Post-op Diagnosis: Same
OPERATION: Left Abductor Lengthening
ANESTHESIA: General
EBL (estimated blood loss): Negligible
COMPLICATIONS: None
INDICATIONS: 11 year old female who had sustained a left thigh injury. Patient developed an abduction contracture and had limited flexion as well as adduction of her left hip. The patient has been treated with physical therapy and other conservative modalities, however, she failed to improve with them. The patient was now brought to the OR for release of her abductor contracture.
FINDINGS:
PROCEDURE: The patient was brought to the OR and was mask ventilated. The left thigh and hips were prepped and then draped. Incision was made posterior to the ASIS and extending in a proximal and posterior direction. The incision was carried through the skin and subcutaneous tissues. The tensor fascia lata was palpated and the fat above it was cleared. The tensor fascia lata was then isolated, and using electrocautery, was released. Care was taken to insure that only the tensor fascia lata was isolated and that the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve was not also similarly released. The wound was then copiously irrigated and subcutaneous tissues closed using 2-0 vicryl and the skin was closed using monocular sutures. Attention was then turned distally. Insertion of the iliotibial band above the knee was palpated and a small transverse incision was made above the palpated band. The incision was carried down through skin and subcutaneous tissues. Any bleeding encountered was ligated using electrocautery. Bands were similarly isolated using a hemostat and then brought up and exposed so that they could be released with electrocautery as well. Palpation of the wound was then performed to insure that there were no remaining bands. The hip was then taken through a range of motion. There was significant improvement of her hip flexion, as well as her adduction. Sterile dressing was then applied in the OR. The patient was then given injections of Lidocaine and Marcaine, at both sites. The patient tolerated the procedure well. The patient was awake in the recovery room and able to transfer herself to the stretcher and she was stable on transfer to the recovery room.

Oh, by the way, this surgery took place at University Hospital at the Health Sciences Center at SUNY Stony Brook.

Now...what led up to this ordeal? Here goes it.

DATE: July 26, 1999
DIAGNOSIS: Bone contusion vs. AVN (avascular necrosis) of the femoral head
NOTES: Brianna is a 11yo female who sustained an injury to her hip when she was skating. She took a fall and subsequently had significant pain in the leg. (That is somewhat incorrect. I fell off the rings at a playground and "landed funny." Subsequently (as in a week or two later) I had pain so intolerable I had to limp home crying uncontrollably.) This has been ongoing for a fairly significant period of time. Subsequently she was seen by Dr. Carter an orthopaedist on the South Shore, had an MRI of the hip obtained. The MRI was read as osteonecrosis, versus possible bone contusion. She was sent along for further care.
PAST MEDICAL HISTORY: Unremarkable with the exception of the use of growth hormone and hyperthyroidism (Incorrect. HYPOthyroidism). She was the product of a normal pregnancy, gestational diabetes is noted in mom. Child was delivered at 6 pounds 9 ounces, walked independently at 19 months of age (Yeah I was lazy...so kill me.) She has been hospitalized for tonsillectomy, lymphoma which was ruled out. (Wait WHAT?! Hold on. Did the author of this record mean to say that I was hospitalized for lymphoma, which was ruled out or did he mean to say that I was hospitalized for tonsillitis, in which during that time the doctor/ lab tech ruled out lymphoma? I was seven y/o. Note to self: ask Mother later.) She has no known drug allergies. Benign past medical history except as noted.
Family History: Benign.
SOCIAL HISTORY: She lives at home with her parents, is in the 6th grade and will be in a resource room for a diagnosis of some ADD(Haha!). She is active in dance.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION: Reveals a marked limitation in motion of her hip on the left as a result of severe pain. She sits in a wildly abducted position, is unable to adduct to neutral to internally or externally rotate. The patient has intact sensation to the toes, brisk capillary refill, good motor power to the ankle, knee. The right lower extremity is unaffected and both upper extremities are unaffected. The child's spine is straight, no sacral dimples. The child has an appropriate affect. The MRI is reviewed as well as the plain films. This looks like either a bone contusion versus an early AVN. I think treatment at this point in time should be focused on the possibility that it is a bone contusion. Start with ROM(range of motion) activities, edema(swelling) control, strengthening for the muscles. In addition a bone scan would be appropriate because I am concerned whether there may be some sacral iliac joint involvement. We will obtain this, she has an aversion to needles (This author's avoidance of the usage of "and" is worrying).
PLAN: FU (follow up) in 4-6 weeks time after we have given PT a chance and also give her a call regarding the bone scan.

DATE: October 13, 1999
DIAGNOSIS 1: Femoral Head Contusion (notice change in diagnosis)
PROCEDURE: FU visit
NOTE: Brianna presents today for a FU appointment. A discussion was held with her PT. She presents today with her dad. On examination today she does have a gait disturbance with a limb length discrepancy, left being longer than the right. Severe pelvic obliquity. Measurements of her limb lengths reveals the left is approx. greater than 1 centimeter shorter then the right, appears to be coming from the femur. (So which is shorter--the left or the right?)
PLAN: We will order a CT scanogramof her limbs to evaluate this appropriately. She denies any discomfort or pain and will like to participate in sports. I told her there is no reason why she cannot participate in sports at this time. Her neurologic exam is still normal, she has good motor power, reflexes, sensation are all normal. She does appear to have a slight curve of her spine, but does not appear to have a rotational component, I think this is from the pelvic obliquity. FU in 1 months' time to reevaluate the CT scanogram and wrist for bone age.

DATE: November 22, 1999
DIAGNOSIS 1: Hip Contusion (another change)
PROCEDURE: FU visit
NOTE: Brianna is seen in FU Evaluation. She is doing pretty well. The overall picture is satisfactory. Her CT scan and bone age are consistent. The big issue for her is that we have a concern as to continuing limitation in ROM of the hip. We will get her started with further exercise program, but if this really does not produce the results we would like, our next step is going to go with an epidural and ROM activities of the hip under anesthesia and then CPM(continuous passive motion machine) post operatively.
PLAN: FU in 6 weeks' time seeing what progress is. If necessary we will add more aggressive interventions.

DATE: January 24, 2000
DIAGNOSIS: Abduction contracture of the hip (yet another change)
PROCEDURE: FU visit
NOTE: Brianna has equal leg lengths. She has an abduction contracture which is giving her a limb length inequality. She reports she has no pain at this stage. I have discussed with Dr. Yland the possibly of an epidural. What I would like to try, under anesthesia, have full ROM of the hip without abduction contracture then I think an ambitory epidural would be the next appropriate step. If she does not have adequate range and indeed has fixed abduction contracture then I would plan a procedure. I have discussed this in gross detail with the father. We will set up the appropriate intervention.

DATE: February 14, 2000
PROCEDURE: H&P (history and physical)
NOTE: Brianna is seen for a H&P. She recently had a otis media (otitis media is a middle ear infection...very painful), finished her antibiotics approx. 1 week ago. We will have her checked to make sure she has no difficulties. We will bring her to the OR for examination under anesthesia of her left hip. The risks and benefits of the intended surgical procedure have been described to the patient nd family who wish to proceed, all questions have been answered.

DATE: February 28, 2000
DIAGNOSIS: Abduction contracture ilio tibial band SP rel
PROCEDURE: FU visit
NOTE: Brianna is seen in FUr for an ilio tibial band status post release. The wound is clean, closed, dry. No evidence of infection, steri strips and absorbable sutures are in place. She has minimal complaints of pain, discomfort. She is given a prescription for NSAID and to begin PT for gait training and ITB(iliotibial band) stretching.
PLAN: FU in 1 month.

DATE: March 27, 2000
DIAGNOSIS: Ilio tibial band contracture
PROCEDURE: FU visit
NOTE: Brianna is seen in FU for her ilio tibial band contracture, she has undergone a surgical release, has been undergoing PT and is doing beautifully. She runs now, which is a new thing that she has not been able to accomplish in quite some period of time. She walks with a near normal gait, there is still a minor limp present, but she is working on this. The wounds are healed per primum. The overall picture is satisfactory.
PLAN: FU in approx. 3-4 months.

I chose to log this because for MORE THAN A DECADE I was left in the dark about a painful experience in my life and now that I have received the information, I never want to lose it. Up to about a week ago, I have been thinking I've had a "tibial lengthening" as per word of my parents. It is also comforting to know the reason why I have to hold onto handrails and look at the steps when I am going down stairs, or why I have a slight struggle walking in a straight line and keeping my balance. It especially helps to know there is a cause to why my left leg tenses when the weather changes. Thank you, medical release form.

It's That Time of Year...

2011-12-14T14:48:00.000-05:00

Here is my list of acceptable holiday songs. I am giving you a video and an embedded player because load time was just too long.

It seems like a country song at first, but it becomes better. Just listen.

Happy Christmahannukwanzadan.

Talkie Tuesdays: Untreated Broken Arm

2011-12-13T02:25:00.000-05:00

Pleasant.

Makeup Mondays: Montagne Jeunesse

2011-12-12T18:34:00.001-05:00

As part of Influenster's VoxBox program, I was assigned a Montagne Jeunesse masque to try out and review. The type I received is called Dead Sea Mud Pac. The sample size was perfect for a one time use. I followed the directions and used it right after a shower. I recommend squishing the packet around in your hands to both warm and mix up the contents. One hand was used as my "palette" and my other fingers were used to paint on the masque. The texture was great-- not too thin, thick, or grainy. After 15 minutes, it rinsed off cleanly. Being that my skin is dry, I applied my normal Vitamin E oil directly after, as usual. My face felt great, even hours after I have rinsed off the masque. My tips are 1. Don't wear clothing during the whole process and 2. Don't do it before any important events because it can inflame skin. I'm not sure if this happens to everyone, but my dry skin was like, "What?! You want to dry me out more? Well, f*ck you! I'll teach you to mess with me." Yea, it has an attitude problem.

Bonus: All their products are animal-friendly. Even PETA approves, and they don't approve of anything.

Website here:

http://www.montagnejeunesse.com/

Fashion Fridays: The Furry Economy presented to you by...philosophy?

2011-12-09T02:56:00.000-05:00

I enjoy reading blogs written by women who have the joy of living day to day life dressed in glamourous 1930s, 40s, and 50s garb. One day, a blogger wrote about her fox stoles, how lonely they looked at the thrift store, and how people give her rude stares and comments whenever she goes about her day while wearing said fox around her neck. I feel for her, I do. THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH VINTAGE FUR. It does not add demand for the product to the economy, it is the oldest way of keeping warm, and it is mighty attractive when worn correctly. However, that being said, those comments made by passersby need to happen. Fur being viewed negatively on a public level really is the best thing for this situation. Why? When the public accepts fur on a overwhelming level, there will be a demand for it. There is not enough vintage fur in the world to supply this demand and so, eventually companies would set out to increase the stock of furs to meet the needs of customers. This is when animals start being killed. This philosophy or whatever it is, happened with the overall acceptance of thrift store clothing. The idea of wearing thrift store clothing was really a great way of contributing to the "reduce, reuse, recycle" campaign. Wearing thrift store clothing became widely accepted and dare I say, trendy. Eventually, people probably (this whole thing is speculation) were not able to find as "fashionable" finds as their peers were and with more and more people getting into secondhand, a demand in the economy opened for neo-secondhand. Do you see what I am trying to say here? To put it simply, fur on an individual level is smart but on a public level, is dangerous. Unfortunately, the only way to deal with this to to have the basic public philosophy that fur is bad. In my opinion, I think we best donate the fur to the homeless people, who actually need it.

Trauma Thursdays: The More You Know

2011-12-08T15:04:00.000-05:00

Traumatic events are seared into the memory through adrenaline.

Wishlist: Feliz Navidad! (cont.)

2011-12-07T01:11:00.000-05:00

Simple "Aloha! Denim" will-self-destruct-in-20-years Sneakers

$48

I love the idea of a lightweight, white/cream sneaker for summer but I also have a strange fear of my shoes looking like socks. Don't judge me!

ZiGiny "Preppy" Pump

Depending on what size/color: $40-$50

These came out of my growing curiosity in Robins' Egg Blue. The heel is 2.75" but it also comes to a point--'80s style. This makes me nervous, as I am used to the stability of a thicker heel or wedge. To be shallow, they are just so pretty!

Iron Fist "Sketchy Fox Scoop Neck Slit Hem" Top and "Bonnie Lass" Skirt

$32 and $50, respectively

These are on my "maybe" list because they seem pricey for imported goods but alas, tartan skirts that don't make one look like a schoolgirl are hard to come by. And the shirt, oh the creativity!

Shape FX Satin Cap-Sleeve Control Dress in "Scarlet"

$31.99

I've been eyeing this dress for a long time and I think it is finally time to try it out.

If I can't commit to the prices and if I have a job by the holidays, I will instead ask for scrubs. My wish-lists are an illustration to my widely variable sense of aesthetic so asking for work clothes is a nice, safe option. Scrubs don't come in eras, only colors. Thank goodness for that.

Talkie Tuesdays: Downton Abbey

2011-12-06T01:41:00.000-05:00

I'm a bit late on the uptake but I've started watching this series and its quite the period piece. The costumes are fantastic. I only wish that did not have to watch it via the internet, because the detailing of the beautiful costumes are very difficult to see.

Makeup Mondays: beauty items I don't need and promise to never buy again

2011-12-05T02:29:00.000-05:00

Lotion. My own lipids will moisturize my body, thank you very much. The only time I ever use lotion is to USE UP my lotions. I'm sick of lookin' at them.

Blush. I have 5 or 6 containers of tarte blush, which very rarely get used. They are for the women who wear foundation on the whole face and need to gain some natural cheek color back. I only ever use foundation powder on my forehead to set my concealer. I wish these could just disappear without me having to throw them out.

Fashion Fridays: I'm really feeling...

2011-12-02T01:12:00.000-05:00

the mix of military and ballet influences, "The English Patient"-style fashions, and this faux fur coat at Urban Outfitters (terrible place). Unfortunately, it would likely be horribly unflattering on me; I would look like a bear. Ah, the disadvantageous state of being a curvy (read: NOT FAT) petite.

Trauma Thursdays: Joke

2011-12-01T12:48:00.000-05:00

What is an anatomists' favorite thing to sleep on?
A vascular bed.

Zing.

Wishlist: Feliz Navidad!

2011-11-30T23:54:00.000-05:00

Oversize 230 Thread Count Down Alternative Comforter

All sizes: $57.99

After reading many reviews about the true size as compared to the reported size, I have decided to go for a king size to take my significant other's blanket-hoggedness into consideration. The thread count is low but with a duvet cover, that won't really matter.

Spitfire "Daxx"Sunglasses

O/S: $39

I generally do not fare well with yellow, but I also believe this accessory is minimal enough to not completely clash with my brutally English skin.

Gosh! I'm almost as white as the Taj!

Talkie Tuesdays: Cornier than Ethanol, Cheesier than Provolone

2011-11-29T10:53:00.000-05:00

Makeup Mondays: Mr. Dermatologist says I don't need...

2011-11-28T16:26:00.000-05:00

Today, I went to the dermatologist and lugged all my facial care products onto the counter. He went through all of it and said 1. Scrubs are bad for your skin. 2. Toners are not necessary, unless you have super oily skin. They don't really do anything. I went home and threw it all out. Finally. Never again with those products.

Fashion Fridays: Henri Bendel circa 1913-1915

2011-11-25T13:20:00.000-05:00

Trauma Thursdays: Depression

2011-11-24T15:56:00.000-05:00

Sometimes the state of Earth worries me.

As of 2002, the World Health organization predicted that 1 in 5 of the world's people are clinically depressed. We are living longer and are more physically healthy but at the cost of our mental health failing. The brain still ages, even if we don't. Let that serve as a warning to you.

Arthur Hughes

2011-11-23T01:01:00.000-05:00

Ophelia

The Property Room

Scott Hughes

That last one is probably the most menacing portrait I have ever seen.

Talkie Tuesdays: Humans are silly.

2011-11-22T13:28:00.001-05:00

Makeup Mondays: Daily Routine product reviews

2011-11-21T00:35:00.000-05:00

1. Shampoo

I recently finished my year-long-length Costco bottle of Avalon Organics shampoo and since I have made it a goal to start finishing off products, this half full bottle of shampoo has been the replacement. This shampoo was purchased in attempt to get some gloss into my curls without having to use a serum. As you may know, it can be difficult for curls to have that I-model-for-shampoo-commercials-sheen. While this shampoo has given me shine, it makes the top my hair frizzy (where I concentrate the shampoo usage). I don't believe this so much an issue of this particular shampoo, as it is an issue of any sulfate shampoo that doesn't contain effective "smoothing" ingredients. When this bottle has run out, I will replace it with a no-sulfate shampoo which will not be as harsh on my hair. Keep in mind, sulfates are not the terrible things that some people make them out to be; they're handy for people who use a lot of products in their hair and need some deeper clarification. For people who are stuck somewhere in between, baby shampoo is a great alternative, as it usually contains less sulfates than regular shampoos.

2. Conditioner

I have taken a bit of a break from my Neutrogena Triple Moisture Deep Recovery Hair Mask. Hold on, I need to catch my breath...phew. Better. At some point this old bottle resurfaced in my shower and I figured I would use what is left of it. I WAS TAKEN ABACK by how much of a difference I saw in my curls after they had dried. I would never have thought that this would define and moisturize my curls better than the previously mentioned mask. My hair felt and looked amazing. For the past few years, I have only been applying conditioner on the ends and my hair has been better for it.

3. Face Wash

I combine a bit of Biore pore unclogging scrub with a bit of Clinique Liquid Facial Soap in Mild. The scrubbing bits are rounded and gentle on the skin (so far as the eye can see). The soap is running out and so my next review facial soap review will be of Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser. I would buy the Clinique soap again, but at $16 a pop I figured I would try a safe alternative that is already in my medicine chest.

4. Moisturizer

Yes, I put oil on my face. No, I'm not certifiably insane. Vitamin E oil is non-comedogenic (doesn't clog pores). I recommend putting a drop (a little goes a long way) onto the tips of your fingers and pressing them together a few times. This will spread out the oil so that when you apply, the oil won't be loaded onto one area. This will happen particularly with this moisturizer because vitamin e oil is very thick and very sticky and because of this, spreading it on the face via rubbing will be difficult. The product looks and feels better if patted on. I haven't taken any special precaution to avoid my acne-prone areas, and it appears that my acne and acne scars have improved. Do not be afraid if your face looks like an oil slick; it takes a couple of minutes to sink in. As with all moisturizers, it works best if you put it on within a few minutes of stepping out of the shower. Remember kiddies, it takes approximately a month for complete skin cell turnover so don't expect anything to show amazing results after just a week or two. Patience is a virtue.

Gratuitous Video of the [insert length of time here]

Handwashing Edition!

Fashion Fridays: Vintage Swimwear

2011-11-18T13:57:00.015-05:00

1910s

1932

1950

1958

unknown

I personally enjoy viewing photograph of real people, but advertisements and magazine spreads can be nice, too.

Trauma Thursdays: The More You Know

2011-11-17T19:43:00.000-05:00

ATP is released from dying cells. This basically sends out a call of sorts to white blood cells. The white blood cells in turn will report to the site of injury.

Bayard Cutting Arboretum

2011-11-16T22:35:00.000-05:00

I could not obtain any good inside shots because flash photography is forbidden and the time of day meant the furniture was backlit. And I'm not so great at taking pictures.

The arboretum had a dairy farm in its heyday. I think I would enjoy it if there existed a milk delivery service, glass bottles and all. There is some revival of such systems in trendier cities but that doesn't help me much, does it?

A room filled with stuffed birds. Yep.

Old money and croquet--can't have one without the other.

Makeup Mondays: Nars versus MAC

2011-11-14T13:09:00.000-05:00

Can anyone offer me a reason to choose Nars lipstick over MAC lipstick? According to cosmeticsdatabase.com (a site that rates hazard levels of cosmetics), Nars is more harmful than Mac. Mac has 0.1 oz; Nars has 0.12 oz. Mac is $14; Nars is $24. In case you're dumb, that's 10 bucks difference! You can buy another (drugstore) lipstick with that money! Not to mention, Mac offers VivaGlam which is also $14, but every cent of it goes it AIDS efforts.

Fashion Fridays: Old Photographs

2011-11-11T15:14:00.021-05:00

1915

Polka dots may go out of fashion, but they never go out of style.

1919 Norwegian folk costume

1920s

Mary Eaton, Ziegfeld star

Trauma Thursdays: When your work bleeds (zing!) into your home decor

2011-11-10T13:15:00.000-05:00

That "blood" you see is not a print. No, it's embroidered. Silk rayon on canvas. I want that pillow more than I want to live life. Seriously. Too bad it cost a somewhat hefty $324 but then again, if I hand embroidered a amazing work of art like that, I would cost an arm and an artery. Get it? Ha. No? Eh, whatever. Picture taken from Lost City Products.

I wonder...

2011-11-09T10:22:00.000-05:00

...if vegetarians and vegans would eat as much rice as they do if they knew that endangered forests were slashed and burned to create room to grow the rice. Picture taken from Asia Cleantech.

Makeup Mondays: Eco Tools Review

2011-11-07T23:00:00.000-05:00

Eco Tools 5-piece Brush Set

The set, which includes powder brush, eyeliner brush, concealer brush, eyeshadow brush, and that other brush that I don't know how to use, is about $11 at Target. The brushes are some of the softest I have ever felt (I'm a very tactile person). I don't have much experience with makeup brushes but as far as I can tell, the right amount of color is distributed, evenly. The only way this set could improve is if it included a retractable lip brush but as The Great Stephen Wright said, "You can't have everything. Where would you put it?"

Fashion Fridays: Gray and Ivory

2011-11-04T00:36:00.000-04:00

I enjoy this color combination because it is relatively seasonless and since both colors are neutral, working in a bold color is pretty foolproof. I wouldn't go so far as to add a fluorescent yellow, but still.

Trauma Thursdays: The More You Know

2011-11-03T20:58:00.002-04:00

If someone has a blood infection, there is a 12 to 25 percent chance they will die.

Dedicated Post: HairForecast.com

2011-11-02T21:34:00.000-04:00

Why do we spend so much time looking at weather predictions? I personally have three reasons.

1. How should I dress?

2. Will my house be standing by the time I return?

3. Hair: up, down, straight, or natural?

This is important stuff, people! HairForecast.com is a website that I've began using as a replacement for my beloved Weather.com. HF offers a 1-10 rating scale for how much the humidity/wind/terrible weather will affect your hair during the morning, afternoon, and evening hours. The site also lists the temperatures of said hours so as to answer the question, how much will I need to layer today? The biggest reason I've made the switch, however, is because every time you look up the weather, a days' worth of clean water is donated to an African. The UN has informed the world that unsafe water kills more people than war. Yikes. HF only has forecasts for the day of and the day after, so this would not be an ideal site to depend on for the next week. Then again, what weather website/television channel is?

All vanity aside though, that second reason is a pretty important one.

Check out Hair Forecast.

Makeup Mondays: Lip Stuff (round one, A.D.D. Edition)

2011-10-31T22:09:00.000-04:00

By A.D.D., I mean how the products look and feel right away when applied.

Chapstick (strawberry)- The spf is only four. I'm neutral about the scent. It isn't bothersome nor yummy. It is matte and gives no color. It's not sticky and feels very light on the lips. I wear this when my eye makeup is the focal point. Lips look moisturized without looking goopy.

VitaGlossO2 moisture stick (simply strawberry)- The smell is like pink lemonade. It has a bit of
shine but no color. It is kinda sticky/heavy feeling for a balm. There is no spf.

Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm- There is no spf in this product. The smell is of peppermint. It feels tingly when applied but that goes away after awhile. It has more shine than chapstick but less shine than the vitagloss. There is no color to this, but the ingredients are mostly natural, which is supposedly a plus.
Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer (rhubarb)- The color is perfect for me if I don't apply too much. It is pretty light feeling and there isn't as much of a tingly feeling as the balm. It's not very sticky at all. There is no spf and not much shine. Maybelline Lip Polish (Pink Cadillac, Enchanted Pink)- I originally bought the enchanted one and it took me a year to realize that I love it. I recently went back for another one but that color isn't made anymore. Also, the packaging is different. I like both colors but the enchanted is a bit more favored. The cadillac one is a pink-peach color and it is glittered with fine specs. Neither feel goopy and they both last a pretty long time. Neither are scented and forget about spf.

N.Y.C. Brush-On Lip-Glaze (Bliss)- This isn't offered anymore, apparently. The smell is amazing; it is one of the best glosses I've ever smelled. It doesnt offer too much color and feels somewhat goopy. Also, because of the way the container is designed, the gloss is hard to get out. The taste is pretty good, too. There is a bit of shine, but it slides off kinda easily so it seems to require a lot of upkeep.

Covergirl Lipslicks (Princess)- The color doesn't show much on me. I don't know if this is because it is sheer or because my lips are actually darker than the shade itself. The smell is decent and it feels very light on the lips and not sticky. There is a little bit of shine.

Overall Conclusion: My gloss of choice was the pinker or darker shades of Maybelline Lip Polish because while the Burt's Bees lip shimmer was okay, it chapped my lips and it came off easily.

Fashion Fridays: Huffing Sweaters

2011-10-28T02:25:00.000-04:00

My anti-drug? No, not quite. I have had a few experiences with literally breathing in my sweaters and scarves. After much coughing and airway difficulty to the point of dizziness, I have learned that knit materials near the nose and mouth can be inhaled. This happens when the knit is made with short fibers, which can come easily detached and make their way into your airway.

Note to self: more time in pashmina scarves and less time in cashmere sweaters.

Trauma Thursdays: Halloween 2012 (who cares if it's November?)

2011-10-27T10:11:00.000-04:00

OMG I just came up with an awesome costume!!!!! Ah! While I was researching Hermes costumes I came upon the idea of being an EMS Faerie! I would have to make it myself but I'm not opposed to that. I would create wings that were shaped and colored like the star of life (from the back). I would wear a simple floaty white mini-dress and blue nitrile gloves. In one hand, I will carry a wand with a fake snake wrapped around it (Asclepius) and in the other hand I will carry a mini jump bag. There will be a nasal cannula tube or 2 wrapped around my waist a few times, as a belt. Very Grecian right? For the people who don't "get it", I will wear a stethoscope draped around my neck. Also, I will be able to warm things up with navy blue or black opaque tights (which I already have) with black boots, in attempt to represent the bottom half of EMS uniforms everywhere. Possibly, I'll wear a belt with trauma shears and a pen light and et cetera on it...but that may be too whacker so I'm not sure about that yet. Picture taken from wikipedia.

I'm no cheese connoisseur

2011-10-26T16:56:00.000-04:00

but the French cheese Camembert and the New York cheese (made with Norwegian techniques) Bergenost kind of rock. Yeah...that's obviously an official review. Pic taken from here.

Makeup Mondays: Coastal Scents 88 Palette

2011-10-24T19:27:00.000-04:00

I purchased this palette recently and I must say it is definitely highly pigmented. I would always use drugstore brands of eyeshadow, which came off with the first blow of the wind. Even without a primer, the CS colors stay on. I have squirted a bit of saline solution for contacts onto the back of my hand, tapped the eyeliner brush in it, and used it to transform the eyeshadow into a liner. It lasted all day (until I washed my face). No joke. This palette is good for people who aren't into commitment to an everyday routine. There are so 88 colors and even though the pots are tiny, they will probably last a long time because of the high amount of pigment. I don't need to layer the shadow at all. Because it is a popular product, there are many tutorials on Youtube (incase I run out of ideas of my own). It's about $22. I will not need eyeshadow for like, 3 years. Recommended? Yes.

Fashion Fridays: Everyone knows it's Butters!

2011-10-21T01:01:00.000-04:00

Pants

Cardigan (no longer in production)

Snow Boots (everyone knows South Park is in Colorado)

Hat

Cuff (in recognition of Butters's alter ego, Captain Chaos)

Trauma Thursdays: Anti-depressants

2011-10-20T23:55:00.001-04:00

Fmylife.com always makes me feel somewhat better about my own problems because it reminds me that I'm not alone with the misery that comes with living. Today I read a posting that said, "Today, I called my boss to let her know that I was suffering from severe depression and that my doctor suggested I take a month's leave. Her response: 'Glad you are getting help, however we can't hold your job. No need to come to the office, we'll mail your stuff to you.' FML.". Now, I know this situation sucks but, it sucks more than originally thought. This is what is wrong with America. We are overworked and when a person goes through depression, they can either dope up on anti-depressants and keep working, or they can get better and be unemployed. America complains that Americans are so terrible for being on anti-depressants, but what other option is there? We can either get over our workaholism or deal with the medical consequences (there are much more than depression, let me tell you). Is this country moving towards relying on pills to function?

Does Hatorade go well with pretzels?

2011-10-19T16:39:00.000-04:00

The television in the cafe showed Oprah sitting with a lady from Dancing with the Stars. Apparently, the lady had worked at a chain pretzel shop 20-ish years ago and so she stood at a table, alongside Oprah and a few other women onstage at a preparation table. The lady showed them and the audience how to roll dough and form a pretzel. When she finished, the crowd went wild with applause. Imagine that. This kind of thing makes me angry and unappreciative of human society. When is the last time you saw an employee at Auntie Anne's Pretzels cheered at for making a pretzel (a task they do perfectly, however many times a shift)? Have you ever even heard a "Oh, this pretzel is delicious! Thank you so much. Good job!" I'm just sick of famous people getting props for something that normal people do all the time. It's not abnormal to see pages of a magazine showing a celebrity walking their dog or taking out the trash. "Oh, oh my god, they're soooo self-sufficient!" Meanwhile, garbage men are often met with avoiding glances and scrunched up noses (and not always because of the smell). The next time I see this shit, I'm going to send David Hasselhoff after them. Yea, you don't wanna mess with that.

Makeup Mondays: Sonia Kashuk Velvety Shine Lip Crayon review

2011-10-17T20:29:00.000-04:00

Today I bought Sonia Kashuk for Target's velvety shine lip crayon in "Hot Pink 10." It was 8.68 total. I can't seem to find a good picture online but the pencil is shorter than my hand. It's not as bright as I thought it would be but it has a really nice texture and it's not sticky. It doesn't highlight the lines in my lips. Remember, I am using this without a lip primer or liner. My hair does not stick to this gloss with every blow of the wind, which is nice.

Fashion Fridays: One Thing to Rule Them All (rainboot chapter)

2011-10-14T23:54:00.000-04:00

Socks

Coat (No longer in production)

Dress

Necklace (No longer in production)

Boots

Trauma Thursdays: Injury by Mayonnaise

2011-10-13T00:42:00.000-04:00

Granted, it can do some great things for your hair (helloooo protein!) and Patty Mayonnaise is a pretty cool chick but seriously, mayonnaise is just. No. Just no. In Japan a few days ago there was an eight vehicle pileup, leaving three people injured. And it's all because of that disgusting unnatural shit you slather on your sandwiches with complete disregard to your already increasing visceral fat which totally has been linked to lower IQ but anywayyyyy... How did this happen you ask? A truck on a highway was carrying jarred mayonnaise and so when it crashed, the goods were crushed and spilled out onto the road. I'm sure you can imagine the hazardous road conditions this caused. And you thought banana peels were slippery...

Silver Lining: The mayonnaise probably would have caused more harm if it had been used for its intended purpose.

Quote

2011-10-12T23:08:00.000-04:00

"I love sleep. My life has the tendency to fall apart when I am awake, you know?"
-Ernest Hemingway

Fashion Fridays: Hunter S. Thompson

2011-10-07T23:54:00.000-04:00

Visor (not sure)

Trauma Thursdays: Life Review

2011-10-06T17:29:00.000-04:00

A somewhat common feeling associated with near-death experiences is "life review." This is also known as "life flashing before my eyes!" Recently, life review has become linked to raised levels of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) in the body, as a reason of cause and effect. I stumbled upon this information one day and looked more into it to see if there were other reports happening on more reputable news websites. This information was released and reported on in the U.K. According to The Independent, this link has never been reported before and so I believe that more studies will have to be done to prove anything but for now...Science...FTW!

For more information on how science rocks, visit Independent.co.uk

I'm just a hopeless aromantic...

2011-10-05T02:28:00.000-04:00

That was not a typo. My significant other has recently fell in love with the whole idea of marriage and I'm, well, not such a big fan. I keep trying to explain to the boyfriend that love is a dirty trick played on us to achieve continuation of the human race. I guess someone never enrolled in an anthropology course.

Quote of the week/month/year:

"Marriage is a wonderful institution, but who would want to live in an institution?"

-H.L. Mencken

P.S. Why are so many of the anti-love/anti-marriage quotes overwhelmingly said by men?

Fashion Fridays: Dear Vegans

2011-09-30T16:32:00.000-04:00

I support you in your effort to decrease the amount of meat consumed, but please stop making shoes with fake leather. In support of this fake leather, you are promoting the use of plastics in fabric which will take much longer to disintegrate than real leather. You, above all people, should know how wasteful this modern society is. As we know, the material used to manufacture plastics is not so good for the environment. Furthermore, said shoes are uncomfortable, don't stretch well, don't wear well, and (depending on the type of fake leather) don't breathe well. Most importantly, COWS ARE NOT KILLED FOR THEIR LEATHER. Most leathers are actually a by-product of the meat industry. It would be a real waste if animal hides were just discarded. If you really wanted to make a difference, you could hit up the local thrift store (or Ebay) and buy some of those leather goods and donate them to countries like India (who have a real waste pile-up problem). Buying secondhand leather goods does no add demand for such product. The biggest way to save ourselves (and this goes out to everybody) is to USE THE THINGS WE ALREADY HAVE. USE YOUR ITEMS TO DEATH. OMG I have to go out and buy 40 re-usable shopping bags and 5 reusable water bottles! You really don't because chances are, you already have a tote or mug or whatever you can use for such purpose. What really kills me was the "I am not a plastic bag" totes that were so hugely popular. People didn't even bother to notice that those totes came wrapped in plastic bags. No matter how eco-friendly a product may be, there will always be pollution from production. Consuming new products adds to the demand for more. Oh, and you can quit taking those "eco-friendly vacations." One flight can pretty much reverse any pro-environment steps you've ever taken. And the chance that local community members were underpaid and overworked to build that all-wood resort? Pretty high. What about all the trees that were cut down and the animals that were forcibly relocated to built said resort and the airport needed to get there? The most earth friendly vacation is having fun with your own family and friends. Host backyard parties. Go sledding at a nearby hill. Swim at the beach. Take a bicycle ride to a park and take some nature and happy couple/family/friends pictures.

Sincerely,
Brianna Headley

P.S. If you ever decide to invade a laboratory to rescue the animals, make sure you don't start a fire as plastic leather will melt onto your skin and make for a very painful time in the ER.

Trauma Thursdays: Natural Disasters

2011-09-29T15:51:00.000-04:00

Gogo Gadget...

2011-09-28T14:37:00.000-04:00

Acclimatization!!!!

Fashion Fridays: Fashion Blog Turn-offs

2011-09-23T16:06:00.000-04:00

I have compiled a list of things that (usually) turn me off automatically from a fashion blog.

1. Boyfriend Blazers.

2. Models. Everywhere.

3. Pleated pants with the ankles rolled up.

4. Lifestyles of the Rich and the Famous.

I don't care what you wore to the Emmys and I especially don't care what you wore stumbling out of a club.

5. Ray-bans (the classic ones).

Yes, hide your face from your hipster ways.

6. Waist? What waist?

7. Doc Martins.

No, they do not "balance out" feminine outfits. They look stupid and so do you.

Trauma Thursdays: 35 Weeks Preg MVA radiography

2011-09-22T13:08:00.000-04:00

That's what it looks like when one person is inside another person, minus skin and all that. Weird, right? We've come so far.

Tom Kha Gai

2011-09-21T01:33:00.000-04:00

Coconut milk and chicken and spicy stuff and it's really good. I had it at Galanga in Bay Shore, NY. That's just a generic pic btw.

Fashion Fridays: Winter Boots

2011-09-16T21:29:00.000-04:00

Living in New York, I wear my boots year-round. Some of my boots have been through rain, snow, vomit-covered floors (helloooo emergency department!), rocky surfaces, mud-drenched terrain, and even on-call with my previous emergency squad. Although I rotate my main three pairs of boots, all their soles have shown the wear-and-tear of my everyday life. Towards the end of last winter, I've noticed water leaking into the boots. This is not acceptable because the streets around here are covered in snow, too many months of the year. The longest-lasting boots I've owned are by Bastien. It is a Canadian brand that produces their boots in China. The boots I own are warmth-technology savvy. All the boots in the brand are calcium and salt resistant, and are waterproof (yes, even the suede). I LOVE my Bastiens. Unfortunately they held up so long that the brand no longer makes that style and at the moment, there is only one style of theirs that I like but alas, the shaft height is too long for my short legs. A brand I recently stumbled upon is another Canadian company, Blondo. Most of their designs are made of leather, which is negative for me because I prefer suede. I find leather in winter boots too often comes across as cheap, even if said boots are not. Attributes I'm looking for: black suede or quality leather, wedge or sturdy heel, either warm-sole technology or a thick sole (platform?), waterproof or resistant, knee high, some kind of lining that doesn't add too much bulk, and two to three inches of lift.

Blondo "Cadence"

~$121

Link here.

Blondo "Colinda

~$100 with shipping and coupon

Link here.

Rockport "Emma"

~$79

Link here.

These are waterproof, but there is not much in the way of warm lining.

I'm going to give the decision some time. There are still a couple of months before the weather gets really terrible.

Trauma Thursdays: The American Red Cross

2011-09-15T02:30:00.000-04:00

I's doing it. The street names/locations of Oneonta will now be absorbed into my memory. Doing something for someone else is good for you. Prevents cancer. True story.

The More You Know

2011-09-14T17:05:00.000-04:00

If a tree falls in the woods and no one is around to hear it, it DOESN'T make a sound. Apparently, sound is a concept the mind creates "in response to vibrating molecules." So there.

Fashion Fridays: Trends for Slags

2011-09-09T13:51:00.000-04:00

Here is the latest piece of trash to appear in a popular fashion magazine:

$235

Super-High Block Heel. Check.

Thick Plastic Strap. Check.

White but not summery. Check.

Trashy? Check and check.

The best thing about this stripper shoe, ahem, sandal is it is sold out. SOLD OUT.

Trauma Thursdays: The More You Know

2011-09-08T20:47:00.000-04:00

A nasal cannula is useful when the patient feels suffocated (ironic, right?) by having a mask over their face and cannot be convinced otherwise. Also, it is used when the flow of oxygen does not need to be so high (an NRB delivers a high concentration of oxygen).

Parenting

2011-09-07T01:58:00.000-04:00

See more funny videos and funny pictures at CollegeHumor.

If I ever decide to procreate, I would like the father to be like these guys.

P.S. I do not support violence against babies (unless they deserve it). Just kidding.

Fashion Fridays: Heart Shaped Sunglasses

2011-09-02T13:47:00.000-04:00

There is a product that I am loving right now--heart shaped sunglasses. They are very lolita and very fun. Coincidentally they are inspired by the novel I am reading now, Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov. Because the sunglasses are a "fun" item, I don't recommend spending a lot of money on a pair. Fredflare.com and girlprops.com have them for under $20.

P.S. For once, an accessory will look a lot better on you than it does on this model.

Trauma Thursdays: Joke

2011-09-01T12:40:00.000-04:00

"Ready to deviate?"-Rich
"Like a septum."-Bree
"Clever."-Jacqueline
"Thank you."-Bree

Zing. lol. Nerds.

Arepas

2011-08-31T02:56:00.000-04:00

So so bad, but so so good. They are a South American cornmeal...thing. Pancake? Who knows? The first time I had one was at a Native American festival on Long Island. It had mozzarella cheese in the middle. Awesome.

Fashion Fridays: Possible obsession?

2011-08-26T22:34:00.000-04:00

So that's what they're called...hitched hems. Beautiful. Pic taken from thefashionpolice.net.

Trauma Thursdays: Terminology

2011-08-25T16:33:00.000-04:00

"Injuries Incompatible with Life" is used when someone has to declare death. Who comes up with these things?

The More You Know

2011-08-24T20:00:00.000-04:00

Costco is the morally superior version of Sam's Club. Hm.

Fashion Fridays: Fashion Law: If the shoe fits, it's ugly.

2011-08-19T23:39:00.000-04:00

The Naturalizer "Daybreak" Mary Jane pumps in "portrait leather" are very possibly the most comfortable shoes on my shoe rack. I've been looking for a nude (close enough) colored shoe for some time now. Plus, it has that 1930s look that I love so much. They aren't too grandma-ish though, right?

Breaking News: I've been informed/teased about my grandma-ish shoes. Oh bother.

Trauma Thursdays: FASNY Edition

2011-08-18T20:58:00.000-04:00

By the way, FASNY is Firemen's Association of the State of New York. Anyway, I learned it's okay to hyperventilate for a Cushing's Triad (hypertension, irregular breathing, increasing systolic/decreasing diastolic). Also, I learned that with an epidural bleed, there is something called a lucid interval. This is when a patient goes unconscious then is conscious again and then becomes unconscious. I learned that a dry cough and getting up to pee are early signs of heart failure and that shock is the body's process of dieing. It prepares for the shutting down of organs, starting with the least important. The skin is one of the organs that starts to die first; it shows as being cold and clammy. I wish I had had a pen to write notes down because there would have been more. Apparently, a NRB should be used on a anxious resp distress patient and a BVM should be used on a lethargic resp distress patient. Finally, I learned that ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome) is quite often misdiagnosed. If you want to learn about it, here is the presentation that was shown. Picture taken from Hawaii.edu.
www.KyleDavidBates.com/Notes/ARDS.pdf

Quote

2011-08-17T19:13:00.000-04:00

"Sometimes we build walls around ourselves, not to keep people out, but to see who cares enough to break them down."

Fashion Fridays: Finally!

2011-08-12T14:40:00.000-04:00

Medical and fashion have come together...in the form of IV tubing on an outfit in Calvin Klein's spring show. See 1:50. Video is a podcast from Style.com

Trauma Thursdays: Crazed.

2011-08-11T13:12:00.000-04:00

Longest OSES shift so far. 35 Hours. It actually felt great, besides wearing the same clothes for that length of time.