The Dental Hygienist in Me

The Bittersweet Moments In Life

2009-05-27T22:49:00.007-05:00

I can officially say, I have gone through Dental Hygiene School, survived, and reached the light at the end of the tunnel. I am Jennie Lynne Gilbert, RDH, BS.

I don't know that I will miss dental hygiene school. The classes, the endless studying, putting up with all the protocol in clinic, finding patients, etc. What I will miss my dental hygiene family. I met some of the most amazing women and was blessed by each and every one of them. We were the only ones who truly knew what each of us was going through. We knew how to support each other and lift each other up in the hardest of times. We've been through major life events together; divorces, deaths, heart-breaks, illnesses, marriages and pregnancies. We've cried to each other about clinic, complained about classes and shared with each other our fears. I met some of my best friends in this program and I will miss the built-in group of friends; all the dinners, nights out, swimming parties, slumber parties. For the most part, my class has scattered across the US and I will miss them tremendously.

My closest and dearest friends

Dental Hygiene Class 2009

It's just as surreal completing dental hygiene school as it was starting it. I knew that this moment would be bittersweet and it is, in every sense of the word. I've reached the end of something I've worked so hard for and it's sad and exhilarating all at the same time.

When my sister was a senior in high school she sang a song along with a picture slide show of seniors attending our church. I can still see her and her friends up on stage singing this song.

Here You Stand

It’s a journey you must travel
And where He leads you, He’ll help you to be strong
The Lord has taught you, and now He’s brought you
To a place where He wants you to move on

Here you stand
At the beginning and not the end
Here you stand
And with our blessing we will send you
And though it’s hard we will extend to you a smile

We will cherish all these memories
And we'll always hold a place for you inside
The Lord has planned it, we understand it
Still, we find it hard to say the word, "goodbye"

Your time here is over, another day is done
But we know that you’ve just begun

So, I passed my written board, my clinical board, I graduated and got a job! Wow! I will be working for Westover Hills Family Dentistry starting mid to the end of June. They are opening up a new practice and I will be the hygienist in that location. I am both excited and nervous to actually start working in a dental practice.

I've done all the things I've blogged about doing: I made it, I reached the light at the end of the tunnel, I've come out a changed person, it WAS worth it, tomorrow was a better day, I did survive, I am proud of myself and

I DID IT!

So, guess what?

2009-01-09T00:00:00.006-06:00

I am about to start my LAST semester of dental hygiene school! Ahhhhh! This is the semester that determines it all... I take the Dental Hygiene National Board on March 24, my clinical exam the beginning of May and walk the stage May 23rd! Wild and crazy, huh?

This semester instead of being in the clinic, we are on rotation for 6 weeks. Meaning we are away at different sites around San Antonio. I looked today at my schedule and I am at Lackland Air Force Base. I was SO excited to see that! I was at Lackland last semester and loved it. It's a lot like private practice and it will be an awesome experience to have before I graduate. I will actually see 2 patients in the morning and 2 in the afternoon. Plus, my faculty won't be there breathing down my throat. The hygienist there is awesome and I am so happy that I will get the opportunity to get to work with her again!

This semester they are pushing us right into patient care. We start seeing patients next week. All day Wednesday and all day Thursday. But I'm glad. I need as much time in clinic as possible.

Our classes include:
Clinic III
Clinic III Seminar
Intro to Research
Practice Management (1/2 a semester)
Health Care Ethics (1/2 a semester)
Community (We will spend most of this class actually out in the community!)

What a crazy ride dental hygiene school has been. I will look back on this time and it will seem like just a blink of an eye. But what a monumental time in my life it has been!

Here are some photos of me gowned up and working away in clinic!

I should be studying for finals, but...

2008-12-05T11:55:00.005-06:00

...here I am instead, procrastinating...what I do best!

It's amazing how much can happen in a month...

My dad is COMPLETELY cancer-free! Isn't that amazing?! He's done with his treatments and is getting his port out today. I saw him at Thanksgiving and his hair is starting to grow back. He looks really good. He amazed me with his strength as he fought through this battle.

My computer completely crashed a couple weeks ago. My hard drive went completely corrupt and I lost everything that was on my C drive. The hard drive was partitioned into a C and D drive and they were able to save some info on the D drive. Though, I'm not expecting it to be much. I have now become a good spokesperson, encouraging people to back up their computers.

I am still dating my precious Chad and for the life of me don't know how he puts up with me sometimes. But I guess him having 3 older sisters helps. I've been able to spend time with his family over the past couple months off and on and absolutely love them!! Last night one of his sister's was in town, so his parents, Chad, sister and I went out to eat. I left the restaurant feeling emotional, like something just wasn't right. I tried to put the blame on Chad and find something that he did to make me upset, but nothing really seemed to fit. As I was laying in bed thinking about the evening and what had made me so emotional, I realized I was jealous of Chad's family. Seeing his family interact and spending time with them made me miss what I don't have in my family. I felt the differences between his 'whole' family and my broken family. A part of my heart grieved the loss of my whole family unit. The loss of security, wholeness, completeness and bond that as a family unit they have. I'm not saying that I don't have that with my mom and sister. And I'm not even saying that I don't have that with my dad. It's just that those relationships are separate from one another which causes a feeling of brokenness within my family and in an unexplainable way, a loss of security. I know there will be other times in my life where I will grieve the reality of this loss again, but I find comfort in the fact that, although my family was broken, their continued love for me and my love for them, makes me whole.

I have a week from hell coming up...finals...where I don't sleep and study 'til my eyes start to cross. I absolutely cannot believe that this semester is over and that next semester will be my last.

Well, I'm finally off to read some Oral Pathology...or maybe take a nap...

UT Football and Beutiful Roses

2008-10-25T16:28:00.005-05:00

I'm sitting in my living room and watching the UT v. Oklahoma State game. Chad is there in Austin cheering them on. Last weekend I was able to go with him the to UT v. Missouri game. It was so much fun and of course Texas won!! I don't have pictures from the game yet, but here are some pictures from the night we went out. We actually met up with one of my best friends, Kris in downtown Austin.

Also, my sweet Chad got me beautiful roses, just because. Here are some photos of them.

4 weeks til Thanksgiving!! And then after that I have one week of classes and then a week of finals! I can't believe how fast this semester is flying by!! After this semester, I will only have one more to go. I can't believe it! It's closing in on me...

Well, there's 4 min. left in the 3rd quarter and Texas is winning 28-21! Betcha, Texas wins...

The Little Sickling

2008-10-11T20:45:00.004-05:00

For the past week and a half I have had a cold/severe allergies...nobody really knows exactly how to label it. Congestion in my entire head (I'm sure if you had x-ray vision you would see all my tissues floating in mucous), a runny nose and my worst symptom, an extremely sore throat. A week ago Friday I went to the nurse practitioner at my school. She said there were ulcers on my throat, gave me a steroid shot, prescribed me Magic Mouth Wash for the pain and sent me on my merry way. By Saturday afternoon, my throat was not really hurting and for the rest of the week, I just had a lot of congestion and have been taking Claritin every 12 hours.

Last night my sore throat started creeping up again and by 2:30 this morning I was miserable. So, for your viewing pleasure I took pictures!

This morning I went to see a doctor. He looked in my throat and said the same thing...he saw ulcers. I haven't been running a fever, been achy or feeling 'sick' so at this point, there is not much he can do. He gave me free samples of Allovert and two different types of nasal sprays. I went to CVS and stocked up on even more medications (at my doctor's suggestion) to try and alleviate my symptoms.

So, for this lovely little infection I am taking:
Vitamin C
2 different nasal sprays (One 2x/day and the second 1x/day)
Mucinex
Allovert
NyQuil (so I can sleep at night)
Magic Mouth Wash to alleviate the pain (gargle 3x/day)
The Netti Pot (The coolest thing ever! It really clears the sinuses!)

In other news, I am really missing Chad. I miss talking and laughing with him, his hugs and sweet kisses and just being with him. I feel like he's been gone forever. He called tonight and his friend asked to talk to me. He told me that they were having fun but that Chad was really missing me. So sweet... I'm picking him up at the airport tomorrow. I can't wait to see him! :)

Boredom

2008-10-10T18:02:00.002-05:00

So, Chad is in Dallas this weekend. He is going to the UT vs. OU game tomorrow and I am finding myself pretty jealous even though I didn't really want to go. He's up in Dallas having a grand 'ole time and I'm stuck in SA with nothing better to do than read about Oral Pathology. So, you ask, "Jennie, don't you have friends to go out with?" Well, as a matter of fact, yes I do, but it just so happens that they are all either out of town, sick or had prior plans. Ugh! There's nothing worse than sitting at home on a Friday night. I know, you're feeling sorry for me...

Tomorrow, I've got another volunteer thing going on. I am going to a HEB health fair and may get the opportunity to place sealants! I'm looking forward to that!

I'm starting to get burned out with school. It's like I am completely submerged in school related things and I just want to be able to come up for air. It happens every semester about this time. Plus, I think I am starting to develop a case of senioritis. But I am seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. I know there will be an end to this program and I know it will always be something that I will be SO proud and grateful to have made it through. It will have been worth all the tears, all-nighters, fear, anxiety, frustration and stress.

Well, I guess I'll get on with my evening. Need to go and fold a load of laundry...sigh...

A Free Moment

2008-09-24T11:29:00.004-05:00

Well, life has returned to a state of craziness. It seems to come in waves. Tests, projects, assignments, volunteer activities...and sleep somewhere in there.

This morning I went to an elementary school and taught 3 different 5th grade classes about Gingivitis and Periodontitis. It was really a lot of fun getting to work and interact with the kids. Hopefully we scared then enough that they'll be super motivated to take care of their teeth!

I've got a major Oral Pathology test on Friday. We are all freaking out about it because the professor who lectured on the inflammation portion was terrible and we're all super confused and unsure about what info we need to know. Argh!

This weekend I am volunteering for TMOM (Texas Mission of Mercy). It's in Leander, which is northwest of Austin. I'll be working with my faculty and actually getting to clean some pretty nasty teeth. I'm really looking forward to it!

Yesterday, I had a patient come in who had serious periodontitis. His lower anterior teeth were extremely mobile and completely covered in tarter (or calculus as we call it). So much so, that I from the lingual surface I couldn't see the interproximal space between the teeth. Unfortunately, he is too hard for me this semester, but I will get to treat him next semester as a collaborative care patient. (Meaning that I will work with another student on his treatment.)

Next week, I have a test on Monday and Tuesday. Plus I will be tested in clinic on how accurate I am on my periodontal exam. I also have assignments due on Monday and Tuesday.

In other news, I am dating an amazing man who makes me so happy! We have great conversation, laugh all the time and enjoy each others company. He is so respectful of me and treats me so well! And it doesn't hurt that he's a handsome man!

And for those of you who don't know, my dad is back home and doing much better. His headaches are controlled with Advil and his temperature is down and has stayed down. He is going in for his 4th treatment tomorrow.

So, things are going well, just busy!

How fragile life can be...

2008-09-09T14:49:00.003-05:00

I am sitting here at Mother Francis Hospital in Tyler watching my dad with his cute bald head (the only thing visible under the blankets) sleep. He has been in the hospital since Sunday with an unknown infection. It's been strange 'parenting' him and taking care of him. He is so weak and never completely comfortable. I've felt so helpless during this whole process that it has been good for me to be here just so that I can actually DO something for him.

The doctor came in today while I was here. She is almost positive that the infection is caused by strep or staff, although the cultures still haven't come back. She doesn't want him to go home yet with his hand still being inflamed. She also said he'll need to be on antibiotics for about 2 weeks. (Once he gets out of the hospital, he'll be on oral antibiotics.) She didn't seem concerned at how long it was taking for the infection to go away, and with that the coming and going of the fever, so that was reassuring.

I am hoping that this is the biggest battle he'll have to face while he is going through chemo. He still has 3 more rounds to go and each round is harder on his system. I know he will come out of this just fine and cancer free, but watching him go through this has been really difficult.

I plan on leaving this afternoon to head back to San Antonio trusting that he will beat this infection and get out of here soon.

The First of the Last!!

2008-08-24T20:28:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow is the first day of my senior year, my last year in dental hygiene school and my last fall semester!
This summer has flown by! I remember thinking about how much time I had off and how great it was going to be. It felt like forever until I had to go back to school. And now, here I am, starting school tomorrow. A part of me is ready to start this semester just to get it over with. Another part of me is not ready for all the hard work that is ahead of me. Tonight feels like the calm before the storm. Chaos is about to ensue!
I feel pretty optimistic about this semester though. We get out M-W at 3, Thursday is my full clinic day, so I get out at 5 and Friday I am done by 9! (They are making us come up to the school on Friday for one 50 min. class...) Our classes really aren't that bad. My hardest one will be Oral Pathology. My other classes include, Advanced Perio, a Community class, Clinic II and Clinic II Seminar. I am just so thankful that I made it through the first year and feel like I am home free! I'm almost to the finish line!
So, good-bye summer of complete freedom and fun. Hello responsibility, hard work and perseverance!

Summer 2008

2008-08-24T20:25:00.001-05:00

Four Blogs in One!

2008-08-12T11:29:00.013-05:00

It's raining here today, so I thought I would catch up on my blogging!

August 11, 2008

I have officially lived here in San Antonio for one year. Isn't that crazy?! What a crazy roller coaster ride of a year! It's been the hardest but also the best year of my life!

My Birthday

For my birthday, I spent the day at the pool with friends. That evening we went out to eat and then to Kennedy's for drinks!

Boating on Canyon Lake

Laura (second from the left) and her husband live on Canyon Lake and have a boat. They have invited us out a couple times. Here's a picture from this past Saturday! The WaveRunner in the background is Jenna and Kevin's. We met them out on the lake and all took turns driving/riding.

Photo Shoot

Believe it or not, I was asked to be in a photo shoot for a new restaurant in town. They were taking pictures for their menu and to advertise in a magazine. It was fun and I was flattered to take part in it. The drinks and food were free, so that was an added bonus! The photographer will e-mail me the pictures soon, so I'll post them when I get them in.

GREAT News! Finally...

2008-07-12T21:43:00.003-05:00

My dad underwent his first round of chemo on Thursday and did great! He did not get sick and is feeling good. I just hope and pray that he is one of those that doesn't have the horrible side effects from chemo. I also found out that the doctors told him he has an 80 to 90% chance of making it into remission! That is amazing and is a big relief to all of us! My dad is extremely strong and has a great attitude about this whole process. This is just an unpleasant phase...

I am currently vacationing in MI! It is so beautiful here...the weather is sooo cool. I can actually lay out by the river and enjoy being outside...I love it! This time last summer, I was helping my mom remodel her home. I spent a lot of time down by the river journaling and wondering what was to come in my life. I was so excited to be moving and going off to dental hygiene school. I had no idea what was in store for me or how much I would grow up.

Being here in MI has made me realize that San Antonio is my home; it's where I have established myself and begun to build my life. I will be ready to go back and resume my life there; something I could never say about Tyler!! Of course not having a job (or currently being in school) and just playing all the time does make a difference in my attitude! :-)

Trials and Tribulation

2008-07-09T21:06:00.004-05:00

You know when you hear something devastating, you feel like you need to share it with everyone, just to get it out? Well, that's at least how I feel. So, here I am sharing with my 'world'.
My dad was diagnosed a few weeks ago with lymphoma, but we were told (from a doctor in Tyler) it was very treatable and slow growing. He had a consultation last week with a doctor in Houston who did a series of diagnostic tests. We found out that he has stage 4 lymphoma that has spread to his bone marrow and that at his doctor's recommendation, he is starting chemo tomorrow. I can't believe my dad is that sick with cancer. In the meantime I am vacationing in MI, feeling completely helpless. A part of me feels as though I have already lost my father. The dad who at age 66 (in my eyes at least) could still do anything. Move me in the middle of August to San Antonio, remodel a kitchen, cut down trees, water ski, kayak and work til the cows came home. I am so sad to think what is to come and what he will have to endure in the coming months. And I am scared to see my dad weak. I know the thing to do is be strong for him and be positive about all this, but all I want to do is crawl in his lap, cry on his shoulder and have him tell me that everything will be alright. I am used to him being strong for me.
He has decided to be treated in Houston. At this point, I don't know the prognosis, how many treatments are recommended or what the process will consist of. I just have the basic facts.

When it Rains, It Pours

2008-06-17T20:43:00.002-05:00

Wednesday: See blog below

Thursday: I am taking a class this summer session called Current Issues. We are to create 2 powerpoint presentations that are to fit a specific format. They are to be created solely with fact that we have obtained from reading research articles. It is a major pain and everybody is so sick and tired of working on this never-ending project. Our group had gotten together for spent about 3 hours working on this powerpoint. I was the one who had opened it up from out online classroom, Blackboard, and modified it. I kept hitting save, but I never did hit 'save as'. So, when I went to find the document and open it up...it was nowhere to be found. I had lost about 3 hours of our groups work. Talk about devastating...

Friday: I found out that my 66 year old strong, healthy father has lymphoma. I still don't think it's sunk in that he has cancer because it's just so hard to fathom. As far as we know, he has non-Hodgkin's lymphoma that is affecting his B-cells. The good news is that it is slow growing and his doctor has said that this cancer is very treatable and curable. It's still going to be hard watching my father go through chemotherapy and/or radiation, but I have faith that he will come out of this just fine! At least he seems to think so!

Saturday night: I went downtown with friends only to have my roommate pick me up because I was not feeling well.

Saturday night/Sunday: My throat hurt so bad that I was literally having to spit into a cup. I could not swallow without excruciating pain. I couldn't eat or drink anything...it was MISERABLE. Finally at 9 pm on Sunday, my precious friend Jenna took me to an emergency clinic where the doctor diagnosed me with viral pharyngitis. I hadn't eaten or had anything to drink in over 24 hours and could barely walk without passing out or getting nauseous. They didn't think I was dehydrated but they did give me a shot of pheneragan to help with the nausea and a shot of some narcotic to help with the pain so that I could at least swallow and get my meds down. She gave me steroids for the inflammation and hydrocodone for the pain. I have pretty much been knocked out these past 2 days, but I'm not complaining! I am planning on going into school tomorrow, but we'll see.

So, I have felt completely dumped on in this past week, but sometimes that's just how life is. It's always going to be something! Or in my case, lots of somethings!

'The best way out, is always through.' -Robert Frost

Every New Beginning Comes from Some Other Beginnings End

2008-06-12T08:24:00.003-05:00

I love that phrase. (I think it was in some song back in the 90's.) I've just come to an 'end' of something in my life and that phrase reminds me that endings are just the start of a new beginning.

I'm experiencing the loss of something that has been very dear to my heart and I'm saddened that I had to let it go. The loss of something is never easy and the only thing that makes it better is time. Ugh! But, I am so trusting God, believing that he is in total control of my life and know that for everything, there is a purpose. It's awesome to be able to completely lean on and trust in him.

In other news, I am back in school. Actually have been for about 3 weeks. It's going OK, but I'll be SO glad when it's over and my real summer vacation starts. I am leaving for MI on July 5th...WHOO HOO...I am so excited to see my family and get to play and relax by the river for a couple weeks. Plus, the weather is SO much cooler there. I may extend my stay in MI, just so I don't have to live here in the San Antonio heat...blah...

Amy, how's your schooling going? Havin' fun yet?! Just think...Michigan in 3 weeks! We can do it! :-)

Father, Pursuer, Teacher

2008-05-29T22:14:00.005-05:00

Before I moved to San Antonio, I had such a strong feeling that God had a place for me here. And originally I thought it would be with Oak Hills Church. But after visiting, I felt it was not the place for me. I was very turned off to the church. So, I slowly but surely drifted from the feeling that God had a purpose for my life here in San Antonio. But all that is changing.
I have never felt so pursued by God. I am so in tune with what he is teaching me right now and can feel him guiding me along his path. I have this overwhelming security that he's completely in control of my life. I'm not sure what his plans are or where they will lead me, but I am so excited to find out! What an awesome father we have!

I love these scriptures:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me in earnest, you will find me, when you seek me…I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you…I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name. Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’ ”

Jeremiah 29:11-13, Psalm 32:8, Psalm 91:14, Isaiah 41:10, Isaiah 30:21

A Tribute to my Mother

2008-05-26T23:17:00.005-05:00

The best gift a daughter could ever receive from her mother.
You have been the rock in my life and the one I know will always love me and be there for me no matter what. I want you to know how grateful I am for the security you have given me by your unconditional love. You have provided me with such a strong foundation to grow from. You brought me to our heavenly father, taught me how to seek him, follow him and put my trust in him. I thank God for your gift and passion of teaching his love to others and the power of his Word. I am so blessed by all that you have taught me.

Keep pressin' on!
Your wisdom and strength are so powerful in my life and I can't tell you how much I appreciate your advice, prayers and words of encouragement. As my mother you have such a gift of comforting me and helping me find peace in the midst of my current emotional frenzy. 'Vio con dios!'

" 'Houston, we have a problem!' 'Yeah, so... You got yourself up there, you can get yourself down!' "
I love the fact that we can laugh together...Laugh so hard that we make your neighbors laugh at our laughter. Laugh at our miscommunication. "Your face would be pretty if you washed it!" Laugh through our exhaustion and exasperation. Blue painters tape never looked so good on you! I am so grateful for all the fun times we have shared together, thoroughly enjoyed each others company and for our conversations that we have been blessed by.

I love you Mom and I always want you to know I am so thankful for you and the love that we share!

Cute hair, sailing, and Rockhills

2008-05-18T13:45:00.009-05:00

So, for those of you who don't know, I got my hair cut! See...

My friend Laney (the cute blonde below) cut and colored it...I LOVE it!! (Despite those who say they like it longer and curlier.)

Last weekend, my friend Amanda and I went sailing with Joey and his friend Chris...it was a blast! Here are a few photos:

In other news, I attended church this morning here in San Antonio. I have been going with Joey to Gateway church when I am there in Austin and absolutely love it. I found out that a church modeled under that same ministry as Gateway was being formed here in San Antonio. The church, Rockhills, is currently meeting in an AMC theater once a month until September when they will start meeting weekly. I am so excited to be part of this church as it plants it's roots here in San Antonio and starts to grow. I have wanted for so long to be a part of a church and not just any church, but one that I wanted to get involved in, believed in and felt at home in. One aspect that Rockhills strongly believes in is getting out into the community and loving people by serving, giving time, money, etc. They have established that the first Sunday of every month will be 'Serve First Sunday' meaning that the church will not meet at the church, but in the community. It's an exciting beginning!

I am in the middle of my 2 week break from school and it has been awesome, relaxing and wonderful to have so much free time. I am not looking forward to going back to school on the 28th...blah.

Today is Thursday May 8, 2008

2008-05-08T16:02:00.007-05:00

This is not just any 'ol regular Thursday. This is the Thursday that marks the end of my first year of dental hygiene school and the beginning of my senior (LAST) year of college! I honestly can't believe it!!! Tonight we are going out for margaritas to CELEBRATE our accomplishment...

I look back at where I was last May 8th and it is amazing how much I have changed. I have never experienced this much growth in one year; I am a completely different person. I've had my moments of frustration, depression, happiness, fear, lots of fun times and laughter. It has been the most challenging year of my life that has brought me to a better place and has made me into more of the person I want to be.

I have made amazing lifelong friends and have never had so much fun in my life. I am so, extremely grateful for the girls I have bounded with from school. They have been wonderful friends to me...It's really nice to have a group of people who support me and me them...we look out for each other.

And I'm a lucky girl to have a 'friend boy' (as my mother calls it) in my life who can leave me 5 minute voice mails about nothing in particular, dance in his kitchen, put me in my place when needed and can make me laugh even when I'm mad. But, mostly I am grateful to have a man in my life who loves and honors our God and serves as a positive influence on my life. He is quite an amazing person! :)

So, I have 2 wonderful weeks ahead of me where all I have to do is PLAY! Tomorrow, me and 3 of my girlfriends are going to get pedicures...girl time to pamper ourselves for all our hard work this week! This weekend I am going to Austin to go out with friends Saturday night (going to eat at a snazzy 5 star restaurant...hoping not to embarrass myself...I have a tendency of dropping my fork, napkin, glass and snorting when I laugh...) and then Sunday, I am going sailing! :-)

Jennie and Her Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

2008-04-22T22:17:00.004-05:00

I had a horrible day today. It started out that this morning, my patient who I had scheduled both this morning and this afternoon called and cancelled on me for the whole day. What was especially bad about that was the fact that he was my last patient that I needed to have checked off to complete my perio assessments. So, I got on the phone and called my patients to see who could come in. I got ahold of Miss Elvie and she was able to arrive about 45 min. after our clinic start time. X-rays had been ordered on her, so I took digital x-rays, which I needed for complete my requirements. I did have to retake her bitewings because I forgot to take out her partial...oops! The attending dentist complemented me on my X-rays stating that I did a great job and approved her bitewings. (Another requirement checked off my list!)

Around the time I was running around trying to get patients for today, Capri came into my room and said she had a patient for me in the afternoon. He had already been screened meaning his health history and cancer screening had already been done, which was fantastic for me because it allowed me the time to complete his periodontal assessment! Which means, I have finally completed my 6 required periodontal assessments! Thank God! But I have to mention (for the shock factor) that this patient doesn't brush his teeth...ever. I had to use my probe to scrape off the plaque before I could read the pocket depth. It was disgusting and I have to admit, I got a bit queasy several times.

Lots of other things went wrong today...lack of available instructors to answer my questions, problems with paperwork and getting patients checked out in our computer system, one of my instructors getting on to me for not using my time wisely (she had no idea what my morning was like...I definitely wanted to give her a piece of my mind) and not closing out of MiPaks which is our digital x-ray program... I am usually really on top of my game in clinic and I hate being "scolded" especially when I am having a rough day. But this instructor is hard core and I think if one of our fingers fell off she would tell us to keep scaling and just double up our gloves.

One of the scriptures that has really stuck with me lately is 'take delight in the Lord'. Even though I had an extremely stressful day, everything worked out and actually for the good. I was able to easily find patients to fill my slots today, I got 2 of my requirements done and picked up a patient to treat next semester. As I was going through my day, I realized that I have a God who looks out for me and takes care of me...I took delight in that. There are so many ways in which he intervenes in our lives and sometimes we forget in the midst of our own chaos to look to him and say thank you.

And thanks Joey for listening to (most--I know it got long towards the end) of my story about my horrible, terrible, no good, very bad day. "I think I'll move to Australia!"

How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives. -Annie Dillard

2008-04-09T19:46:00.003-05:00

This Friday, I am taking part in the Dental Hygiene Program's Closer Look Tour by giving prospective students a tour of our school. I remember 2 years ago, I was one of those girls touring the school and thinking that THIS is the school for me. I was so excited to think that maybe one day I would be living in San Antonio going to this awesome school and being in the dental hygiene program. Thinking back on that day, it's hard to believe that I am close to being done with my junior year of this program and that I have had a semester of treating patients. So, now I will be the one guiding these excited/nervous/anxious prospective students around answering all their questions about this program. It is going to be so surreal.
Yesterday I was tested on removing calculus, which was quite an interesting experience since I had never done it before. I burnished the calculus which means I got the top layer, but didn't get it all completely off, but they still passed me... I always thought that removing calculus was a couple scrapes and then you're done...not so. That stuff is really hard to remove and takes quite a bit of force and a lot of strokes. Today I used an ultrasonic on one of my patients to get deep into her 6mm pockets to clean them out. It was so exciting as I was cleaning the lingual of her anteriors (the back of her front teeth) because I could SEE the calculus that I was removing. It was so much fun and so rewarding!!! I think my patient thought I was a little nuts cause I kept talking about how cool it was! Gosh, I love this job!!
So, my count down has begun...3 more weeks of class and then finals week. That means in ONE MONTH I will no longer be a junior, but a senior!!! And it also means no more Histology and Embryology...whoo hoo! Life will be good...at least for 2 weeks until I have to go back again...

There is an intimate laughter to be found among friends. -Maya Angelou

2008-04-04T20:13:00.005-05:00

Here are some cute photos of me and my dental hygiene friends. I love these girls!!!

Amanda and Me

Sarah, Amanda, Jenna, little 'ol me and Laney

Me and Smarty-Pants Laney (I don't think she's ever made below an A on a test!) She also does hair...she's the one who gave me this cute haircut! And maybe highlights...

We're just too cute!

Dinner at StoneWerks

Good times!

Time, please speed up, but also, slow down!

2008-04-01T22:09:00.006-05:00

I am super stressed in clinic right now. I was (and I guess still kinda am) very afraid that I would not complete all my requirements in clinic this semester, but it looks as though I will by the skin of my teeth. We'll see... What I'm really upset about is the fact that I'm not sure I will get to complete my patients' care. I have grown to love my patients, gotten to know the intimate details of their lives, put my trust in them as they have put their trust in me and I just feel awful about that fact that I may not get to complete their care. I feel like I am letting them down.

I have been so incredibly blessed with the patients I have cared for this semester. They are all so precious, sweet and encouraging to me. They are a huge part of why I love this profession. I love getting to know people and hearing about their different walks in life. I love making them smile or laugh during their appointment and making them feel cared for during those few hours. It gives me such fulfillment! I had a new patient today, who said to me, "I am going to keep your card for when you make it big so I can say, 'I was one of her first patients!' " It was very flattering and even though 'making it big' in dental hygiene doesn't really exist, it made me feel so good to know that she thought I was good at what I was doing. It gives me such confidence!

I can't believe I am one month from being finished with my SECOND semester of dental hygiene school. I will be termed a senior starting this summer...exciting!!!! It is truly incredible to me how fast this semester has gone by. On the one hand I am SO ready to be done with school and all the studying and stress. But on the other hand, I am going to miss this program so much. I am going to miss going to school every day with an incredible group of people, laughing with them, complaining with them and struggling with them. I am going to miss the bond we all share on a daily basis and the encouragement we offer each other. I love this program and I love this field. I am so grateful that I got into one of the top dental hygiene schools and found a profession that I love at such a young age. I sometimes wonder how I got so lucky...

The Oh-So-Familiar Burn Out Phase

2008-03-24T22:32:00.003-05:00

Do you ever have one of those days where everything just feels 'off' and life just seems a little harder to deal with? Today was one of those days...
Compared to last semester, this semester has been great, but I have reached my burnout point. The tests are so constant...there is never a break. I am constantly concerned about studying for the next test, when the next project is due, will I complete all my perio assessments in clinic, am I learning what I need to know...ahhhh! The amount of pressure that is put upon us is getting to me and I'm just tired. As grateful as I am to be in this program and working towards a profession that I love, I am ready to not have to think about dental hygiene for awhile.
Six more weeks and then a week on finals...I'm close to the end!!

I should be studying right now for Pharm, but here I am instead...

2008-03-16T19:32:00.004-05:00

Last night, I went to New Braunfels and ate at the Gristmill which is this awesome restaurant that is outside and overlooks the Guadalupe River. We are all there to celebrate Maggie's new job, my friend Lauren's birthday and Elizabeth's birthday. It was so much fun to get everybody together!

Here are some photos:

Lizzer and Me

Me, Lauren, Elizabeth and Tiffany

Me and Mags

For Maggie, Lauren and Elizabeth, I bought them frames and printed the poem below to put in them. They turned out really cute! This poem is so inspirational to me as a woman and I absolutely love it. My mom gave it to me when I moved out of the house and into my first apartment.

If you can trust yourself though others doubt you
And conquer fears that limit what you dare
So you can freely give to those about you
The skills and talents that are yours to share;

If you can live, not for your pleasure only,
But gladly lend your gentleness and grace
To warm the hearts of those whose lives are lonely
And help to make their world a better place;

If you can balance dreams and practicality
And deal in facts, but never lose ideals,
If you can face the harshness of reality
and find truths that prejudice conceals;

If you can be courageous when defeated
And humble in the face of victory,
Or give your best until a task’s completed,
However difficult that task may be;

If you can temper facts with understanding
And seek to gently guide, not to control,
And neither be too lax nor too demanding,
But keep in mind the worth of every soul;

If you can strive, not caring who gets credit,
And work at building bridges and not walls,
Or hearing idle slander, just forget it
And never fail to help someone who falls;

If you can give your help without begrudging
The patience, time and effort you impact
Or look at others’ weakness without judging
And see, not with your eyes, but with your heart;

If you can take resources that surround you
And use them in the way you feel you should,
You’ll be a woman…and all those around you
Will be richer for your womanhood!

-Gale Baker Stanton

Ashlee, Me and Lauren

2008-03-15T16:13:00.004-05:00

I pulled out my scrapbooking stuff today and found this picture in the midst of some papers. This was the picture that they showed of us at her funeral. Gosh, we three girls had fun together!

Through the Good Times and the Bad

2008-03-09T21:21:00.030-05:00

Difficult moments, seek God. Painful moments, trust God.

Lauren's funeral was last Thursday. It was one of the most surreal things that I have ever experienced. Even as I was sitting there in the church, I still couldn't believe I was at her funeral. As they were showing pictures of Lauren throughout her life, I kept thinking to myself that this is not where I was supposed to be--at her funeral honoring the life she lived.

The service was very well done and the pastors all had very poignant things to say. I cried through most of the ceremony and grieved the loss of my precious friend. I still can't believe she is gone.

Quiet moments, worship God.

The afternoon of Lauren's funeral the weather was very cold, rainy and dark. It was very appropriate for the gloom we all felt inside. When I woke up Friday morning there was a blanket of white snow on the ground. It was so beautiful and peaceful. It felt like a gift from God; a little something to offer comfort in the midst of such sadness.

These pictures were taken on my dad's property in East Texas.

Happy moments, praise God.

On a happier note, as I was driving back to San Antonio from Tyler, I stopped in Lorena and visited my Aunt Jan, Uncle Richard and my sister and her kiddos. Here are some photos of the fun afternoon!

Me and my precious nieces and nephew!

Me and mischievous Noah

Me and rambunctious Halle

Me and silly Chloe

Every moment, thank God.

For Everything, There is a Season

2008-03-03T16:07:00.003-06:00

My precious friend, Lauren Lewis was in a car accident this morning and passed away this evening.

I can't wrap my brain around the fact that she's gone. It just seems so surreal. Things like that don't happen to people I know. And especially not my friends. I've gone through so many emotions today. Everything from extreme sadness to anger to just being numb. I find myself not being able to stop thinking about it and trying my hardest to remember her and all our time together as friends. She was one of those friends who you knew would always be there for you no matter what. Even as we went our separate ways and would go long periods of time without talking it was always like old times with her and we would always reconnect and share all the juicy details of our lives. She was one of my lifelong friends.

I don't find myself mad at God for taking her, I just can't understand it. She was going to make this world a better place and for his glory. Why would he take that away? And why would he take a 21 year old daughter away from a father who adores her? I know that God does things that we don't understand and for reasons we could never fathom, and I guess knowing that he has a master plan in all this is comforting, but the reality still feels harsh and cruel.

I am deeply saddened that I have lost my friend but I think what I am most sad about is the loss her family has experienced. I can't imagine the pain and anguish they are going through and my heart literally aches for them. Lauren was an amazing girl and so loved by absolutely everyone who knew her. I am just one of many, many people mourning her death right now. She was an adored big sister, the apple of her parents eye, a strong and positive role model for A&M students, a treasured friend and a servant of the Lord.

For everything there is a season,
And a time for every matter under heaven;
A time to be born, and a time to die;
A time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal;
A time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
A time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to seek, and a time to lose;
A time to keep, and a time to throw away;
A time to tear, and a time to sew;
A time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate;
A time for war, and a time for peace.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

So Much to Say!

2008-02-14T22:12:00.007-06:00

Has it really been over a month since I blogged?!? And have I really been in school over a month? It's amazing how time flies!!!

Well, let's see...school is going good. Treating patients in clinic is stressful, but at the same time I am enjoying it and know that this is my calling in life. I love treating my patients and getting to know them. I also love being able to instrument in their mouths and can't wait until I can start scraping calculus (tarter) off their teeth. Classes are very hard, but I am hanging in there. I just made a 92 on a pharm test...whoo hoo! I was VERY excited about that!

Last weekend I attended Annual Session in Austin which is a conference for Dental Hygiene Students across Texas. I didn't really take a lot from it, but I got a lot of great free stuff and we had a blast! It was like a mini vacation! Here are some photos:

Believe it or not, our outfits were not planned. Don't we look cute?!

Me, Amanda and Sarah

On Saturday night, we went out to 6th Street and had a blast!!

This it the gang outside of Ester's Follies!

The Iron Cactus

And this ladies and gentleman is the new man in my life. He's a cutie, huh?

So, life is good and I am having the time of my life! Even though school is sometimes a drag, I have never had this much fun! La dee dee, la dee da!

First Day

2008-01-10T21:16:00.000-06:00

Today, I got a preview of what all my hardest classes are going to be like. The first class I had was Periodontics. I love my teacher and really think that even though it will be a tough course, she will teach in such a way that is will be very 'learn-able'. I then had Histology and Embryology which is the second half of my Structures of the Head and Neck course that I took in the Fall. This too is going to be a hard course, but, my professor is fantastic and I believe that with all the resources we have for this class that I won't have much trouble understanding and learning the material. My third class for the day (and it was a 3 hour lecture at that) was Pharmacotherapeutics. It will definitely be my hardest class and the one I will have to force myself to stay up on. That class also includes material and labs on medical emergencies and how to respond is a patient were to have one. We will be doing role plays...which I'm not too thrilled about, but it may turn out to be fun and I know I'll be grateful for them if one of my patients were ever to have a medical emergency.
I am so hopeful that this semester is going to be SO much better than last. I have more time off, better professors and fewer classes to worry with. Overall, my classes are going to be harder this semester, but the circumstances surrounding them are better. I look back on last semester and wonder how in the world I made it through!
I am getting excited about treating patients this semester and also getting to go on rotations to different locations around San Antonio.
Well, I have a 3 day weekend, which will be nice. It gives me plenty of time to start studying while I am still motivated...

Beginnings are Scary, Endings are Sad, but it's What's in the Middle that Counts

2008-01-09T20:48:00.001-06:00

As I am preparing for school tomorrow (putting pens, highlighters and pencils back in my pencil bag, pulling out dental hygiene books and notes that I packed away, packing my bag and looking at my schedule to see when and where I am supposed to be) I am realizing how grateful I am that tomorrow is not the beginning. It's the middle. I don't have to go through the beginning like I did last semester. I already know my way around school, I know my professors, I know my classmates and I know that I have what it takes to make it through this program. I've made it through an extremely hard and scary beginning and am now trying to recognize what a great time in my life this is and enjoy it--the middle. I know it will fly by...

One More Day of Freedom

2008-01-08T20:22:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow is my last day of not having to worry about school until May 9th. I am ready to get started so I can get this semester over with.
I was looking at my schedule and it's really not that bad. I have Friday's completely off and have a 2 hour lunch on Thursday's and a 3 hour lunch on Monday's. But, I am taking hard classes this semester and I will need the time to study. List of classes include: Periodontics, Histology & Embryology, Pharmacotherapeutics, Clinic I Seminar and Clinic I. It sounds impressive, but it's going to be hell.
I know that if I can make it through last semester, I can definitely make it through this one!! (I hope...)

2008, Here I Come!

2008-01-04T20:14:00.000-06:00

Whoo hoo! I made it through my first semester of Dental Hygiene School! I have never been so excited to accomplish something! I have spent the last 3 weeks playing and it has been awesome! Not having a job and having the time to spend with family and friends has been wonderful! Too bad life can't be this good all the time...! It has been great to rest and relax and mentally prepare myself for another trying semester.
Part of me is ready to go back to school and the other part of me (now knowing how hard it's going to be) is not ready to go back. I am ready to see all my classmates again and eager to get back in the clinic before I forget how to use my instruments! But I am also nervous about treating real patients!
Less than a week and I'll be a full time, crazy, sleep deprived, overwhelmed and haggard student again! Sigh...

One Down, Four to Go!

2007-12-07T12:41:00.000-06:00

I am totally sleep deprived right now, but I drank one of those new iced coffee's from McDonald's this morning, so I am wired and sleep deprived. I was up until 1:30 last night (or I guess this morning) and then got up at 4 to finish studying for my first final that I had at 9. I made a B on it, so I am pleased. I am pretty sure I will make a B in the class, which is perfectly OK with me!
I have to start studying for my finals next week this evening, but I've got to get some sleep before I do that...! This is pure hell and if I can make it through the next 6 days, I know I can do anything!
With as hard as things are right now with finals, I am feeling so much happier that I am here in this program. I feel so much better than I have for a long time. I feel like I am finally coming back to me. It's like coming back to life again. I smile more, laugh more, interact with people more...I am so grateful to be feeling so much better. "Anyone who thinks sunshine is happiness, has never danced in the rain."
I REALLY cannot believe that this semester is coming to a close. All along, I knew it would, but it just felt like it would never get here. It felt eternal. It's the strangest feeling to know that I am almost done with my first semester of dental hygiene school. I can't believe what I have endured this semester and that I made it through. It's all so surreal.
We have the air conditioning on because it's 85 and humid outside. (Sob) And I wonder why it doesn't feel like Christmas...
Well, I am off to sleep...

Bacterial Infections and Such...

2007-12-01T20:46:00.000-06:00

Mucous, pockets of inflammation and lots of drugs...OH MY!

Mucous is such a horrible word, isn't it?! It sounds so disgusting and I guess it really is. I got sick a week ago Friday and I am still hacking, sneezing and blowing my nose. I am on a prescription nasal spray, Sudafed and Claritin. I am feeling better, but I am tired of coughing so much. Not fun...

Pockets of inflammation, now that sounds interesting...until I tell you that they are in my eyes. (But I guess that does sound interesting, doesn't it?!) My eyes were extremely red and irritated and when I finally saw a doctor about it, he told me that my eyes were infected with a bacterial infection linked to wearing contacts. He told me not to wear my contacts for awhile while the infection heals. (I have to put prescription eye drops in my eyes 3 times a day.) Because my eyesight has gotten so much worse, I needed a new pair of glasses. Maggie and I went today to pick out a pair and I found the cutest frames I love them! And they look so good on my face! So, I guess that's the good that came out of my eye infection. I go back on the 10th to see if the infection has cleared and if I will be able to wear contacts in the near future.

In other news...

I only have 2 more weeks left of school! WHOO HOO!!! I really can't believe it's almost over! And I really can't wait for a break from studying and worrying about needing to study all the time. The Friday after we're done with the semester, we are all going to the Riverwalk to celebrate! They light it up for Christmas and I have heard that it is beautiful! It will be fun to celebrate the end of our first semester.

I am nervous about next semester and having to treat patients. But Maggie and Chris have committed to being my patients next semester so that eases me a little bit.

Here are some pictures from Preclinic:

This is Jen in her room. It gives you an idea of what our bay looks like. We each have our own room and they all look like this.

This is Dexter. This is the guys we have been taking radiographs on this whole past semester. He's hott isn't he?!

Mrs. Franke and Mrs. Wilkins, 2 of our clinic instructors.

Sarah, Capri and Mel posing with our other Dexter. This is the guy we've practiced on since day 1. He will be missed...

It's December and still in the 80's here...blah. It's been fun listening to Christmas music on the radio and seeing Christmas lights, but it just doesn't feel like Christmas to me. Maybe because it's still so warm here or maybe because we don't have a tree in our house...or maybe because I am so preoccupied with school.

Off to take my nasal decongestant, antihistamine and a shot or 2 of nasal spray...

Counting down...

2007-11-14T17:12:00.001-06:00

I have a total of 4 weeks left of this semester. But one of those weeks is Thanksgiving the other another is finals week. So, I could really say that I have about 2 weeks left. (This week, of course, doesn't count.)
I can't believe this semester is almost over. It's like I looked down on August 20 and haven't looked up again. (Except to notice that San Antonio doesn't have a fall because it has no trees.)
I have been told that this semester will most likely be my hardest one and I sure hope that's true. Though this is what I wanted and what I worked so hard for, it's extremely hard and takes an incredible amount of endurance. There have been so many times that I have wanted to throw in the towel. One of the hardest things is just how constant it is. There is never a time where I don't need to be studying for the next test, quiz, evaluation...
3 more intense weeks and then I finally get a BREAK!

What should I be for Halloween?

2007-10-31T07:53:00.001-05:00

And think quick 'cause I have to have a costume by Saturday night!

Never in a million years...

2007-10-30T20:17:00.000-05:00

...did I EVER, EVER, EVER think I would miss (I can't believe I am going to say this) Tyler. Yes, I said Tyler. I miss the small town aspect of life, the beauty of the town, the TREES, not being in the minority, my gym, my dad and step-mom being close, knowing how to get around town, not worrying about running late because all the on-ramps to the highway within a 20 mile radius are closed. It is so true that you don't know what you have until it's gone. I'm not saying that I want to move back there now or ever, but I do miss the familiarity of it. It's been 5 months since I have lived there...I can't believe it!
It's fun having endless options for shopping (not that I am able to shop) eating, there are countless restaurants, and there is always something going on and countless number of things to do here. And it's all right here in this town. So, I like that aspect of a big city, but I still miss being in a small town. I think I am a small town girl at heart and always will be.
I STILL cannot believe I am here in San Antonio. It still seems surreal when I step back and think about where I am and what I am doing. As crazy as it sounds, I forget how different my life is now. How have I survived it?!
So laugh all you want and close your shocked mouth, I, Jennie Gilbert, miss Tyler.

Fiesta Texas! So much fun!!

2007-10-29T16:45:00.001-05:00

Dental Hygiene Girls and then some

Aren't we cute?!

Me and Mags on the carousel

Sweet Fall, you DO still exist!

2007-10-20T12:05:00.000-05:00

Amy prompted this blog and if I could figure out how to link her post here, I would.
I believe the cool weather can be contributed to my song. The morning after I sang that sweet little ditty, we had cool, dry weather. I walked outside and freaked. It was awesome!
So here is San Antonio's forecast:

WHOO HOO! The highs are going to be in the 70's!!! Fall hasn't totally abandoned me after all!

San Antonio

2007-10-10T21:41:00.000-05:00

The Good: It is nice to be living in a big city! It's great actually! The list of things to do is endless which is pretty cool to a girl coming from a small town. The diversity here has been a huge culture shock. Where I live, the whites are in the minority, which is a very strange feeling. The further north you go, the dominant race is Caucasian. Which brings me to another point. From where I live to northern San Antonio, around the 1604 area are like 2 completely different cities. It is so nice up there. The terrain is beautiful with beautiful houses and really nice shopping centers. Where I live, nothing is beautiful. There is a lot of construction, a lot of homeless people, few trees and little grass (what we do have is brown) and lots of city buses. It's really interesting how different parts of the same city can be!

The Bad: I really miss all the trees and vegetation that's in Tyler. I am longing for greenery and/or trees changing color and losing their leaves. And I am really sick of the hot weather. It's the middle of October and it's STILL in the 90's here. Fall has always been my favorite time of year (in case your forgot from my precious 5 blogs where I've mentioned that) so I am really sad that there is no fall here. I am really missing it. (As she sings to the tune of 'Where are you Christmas' by Faith Hill:

Where are you Fall,
Why haven't I felt you,
Why have you gone away
Where is the cool breeze
And all the falling leaves
Why have you abandoned me this way?

My world is changing,
I'm contemplating
Does that mean Fall changes too?

Where are you Fall
Do you remember
How I loved you so,
You've broken my heart
And I'm sad to see us part
But I won't ever let you go
No, no, oh whoa--a--oh, I won't ever let you go!

Feeling happiness, if even for a day!

2007-10-07T21:43:00.000-05:00

Happiness is a little easier to come by these days for me. I am feeling more content here and more confident with school and my ability to handle it. This weekend was really good. I spent a lot of time with friends which I am so grateful to have!
School is really hard and I still have my breakdowns, but I know that it is so short term and will be so worth it when I get through. I have gotten a lot better at dealing with the here and now and not freaking out about what's to come.
Another week starts tomorrow...moan... I'm already ready for next weekend...!

6 weeks down, 9 to go!

2007-10-06T14:45:00.000-05:00

There is so much to tell...
Last weekend, I was in Matagorda (it's on the Texas coast) for Elizabeth's (my step-sister) last shin-dig before she flew off to Hawaii to get married. My dad, step-mom and Maggie were there which was so great, cause I had really been missing family. It was SO much fun. We fished on the bay, walked on the beach, laughed til we cried, ate and drank way too much! It was a much needed vacation for me. But, it just so happened that this last week I had 3 major tests, a quiz and a preclinical evaluation. So, I really needed last weekend to study and because I didn't, last week was hell. But, I made it and it's now OVER! Whoo hoo! And, for the most part I think I did pretty well on the tests.
Yesterday was Maggie's birthday so last night I went over to her house and we decided to cook a meal with the fish we caught last weekend. So, we looked up a recipe online, went to the grocery store, cooked and drank wine! It was a lot of fun!
Today I slept until 11:00. I can't remember the last time I slept that late. It's now 3 and I feel like I could go back to bed and sleep until 11 tomorrow! My roommate and I have been cleaning today. After neglecting the house for so long, it feels good to have it clean again.
I've been surprised at how easy it has been living here. I was a little worried about living with 2 complete strangers, but we get along great and really stay out of each other's way. We do our own thing and it's great. But it's nice to have other people around. Living along get can lonely. So, I am still so grateful for my living situation and especially being able to live in a house with a yard, windows and a big kitchen!!
Tomorrow, Maggie, Lauren and I are driving to Fredericksburg to all celebrate Maggie's birthday. It's in the hill country, so I am really excited about that. It is so beautiful there!! :)
I really should study today for my Oral Anatomy mid-term, but gosh, after last week, studying is the LAST thing I want to do. But, I guess in order to not repeat last week, I really should study at least a little.
It has been really hot here still. It's still in the 90's and it's October! I am so ready for it to cool off and for true fall to get here! This is my favorite time of the year as the weather turns cooler and the holidays get closer...I love it!! :)
Well, off I go to fold some laundry...

More than just a tooth cleaner!

2007-09-26T18:32:00.000-05:00

I am studying for my first Into to Clinical Theory test and came across these statements made by the surgeon general:

“Oral infections can be the first sign of systemic infections.”

“…The role of the dental hygienist has evolved from that of a tooth cleaner/educator to that of a disease prevention and health promotion specialist.”
--US Surgeon General 2000

Now if only the majority of the general public could hear/read these statements...!

Reality--All of your experiences that determine how things appear to you

2007-09-23T10:54:00.000-05:00

It is so strange to go through a complete life change. I don't even really know how to explain it. You start to wonder who you really are; what you like, what you believe, what you want, how you want to portray yourself. When everything changes there is such a loss of security. Even though you know you have lots of people around you loving you and cheering you on, you still ultimately have to make it on your own.
I still, after a month of school, cannot believe I am here in San Antonio, going to dental hygiene school. I don't know what it is, but the reality will not sink in. It's strange to be a full time student. It's strange to be living in a house with two other people. It's strange to be living in this city.
My weeks are flying by. From Monday to Friday, my life is a blur. I couldn't even tell you what I did last week. And then my weekends are slower paced, not to say I don't wish they were longer! I recharge my batteries, catch up on sleep and studying and prepare myself for another chaotic week! I can't really complain about how fast time is going by because I am so glad that it is! Each week down is one week closer until I graduate!
I have been trying to take a step back and enjoy where I am in life. I get to be a full time student and not work. I get to go to this amazing school and train for a profession that I love. I have to remember that this is short term and will be over before I know it. And one day, I'm sure I'll look back on this time of my life and miss it!
I am so ready for fall. I guess technically it is fall, so I should I say, I'm ready for fall weather. I'm ready for temps lower than 90. I'm ready for the leaves to start changing color and a cool breeze in the air. This is my favorite time of the year. The holidays are around the cornor. A time to see family. I can't wait!!
Only 12 weeks 'til the end of the semester!!!!!!!

Busting out the A's and Losing Sanity...and Sleep

2007-09-13T16:26:00.001-05:00

Argh! This has been the toughest week. On Tuesday we had our 1st major test in Structures of the Head and Neck. I made a 91.7! On Wednesday we had a pre-clinic evaluation which I passed (it's pass/fail) except I got a U (unsatisfactory) in the anterior sextant of the maxillary lingual surfaces toward me. (I'm just trying to impress you with what I've learned...:) We also had an Oral Anatomy quiz Wednesday...I made a 95 on that. Today, we had a Radiography quiz which I have no idea what I made, but I know I wasn't specific enough on a few answers, so we'll see. Tomorrow is our 2nd major test and it's in Oral Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. I'm just crossing my fingers and hoping for a C. The material is so boring to study (ergo, this blog). Also, it doesn't help that I am so burned out from studying for all the other quizzes and tests we have had this week. I've come to depend on coffee in the mornings and naps in the afternoon.
Tomorrow, after the test a few of us are going to celebrate the end of our grueling week at Chipotle's and then tomorrow night all the dental hygiene students (juniors and seniors) are going out which I am really looking forward to. So, if I can just get through tonight! The good thing is that because I am SO busy and my life is totally consumed with school, time is flying by. Soon to be, one more week down...

Nothing in life worth having is easy

2007-08-26T14:41:00.000-05:00

I have been to two days of classes. Dental Radiography, Introduction to Clinical Theory, Structures of the Head and Neck and Oral Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. I still have Oral Anatomy, Preclinical, Dental Radiography lab and Structures of the Head and Neck lab to go to. It's going to be a challenge for awhile to keep up with all my classes. What I have when and where and what's expected of me before the next class period.
My first day of classes were very overwhelming and I really doubted myself and my ability to handle the course load. I have never had this many tough classes all at once. But, not working does help tremendously. Knowing that all my time can be devoted to school and study time really helps.
Friday, my second day of classes, I was talking to some of the girls and they said they felt the exact same way I did...very overwhelmed and doubting themselves. It sucks that a lot of us are feeling that way, but it helps to not be the only one. We really are all in this together! The senior DH students had a luncheon for us Friday afternoon which was really fun. I got the inside scoop on some of the professors and they said that the first couple weeks, they all felt very overwhelmed as well. So, I have hope that it will get better and I'll get the hang of things as more time goes on.
It's very strange to have all the same classes with all the same girls, every day, every week and for the next 2 years! It feels strange to be in this program; in professional school where so much is expected of me. I still can't believe I am here--It feels very surreal. There is a lot of pressure to do well. The information that I am learning isn't just information that I have to retain for a test, it's stuff I have to really understand and know well.
I'll be glad when I become more familiar with the professors and their teaching style and get into a routine. But, for now, it's scary and overwhelming!
Other news--I can't really say that I like San Antonio that much and at this point don't really have a desire to stay here after I graduate. But a lot can happen in two years!! I do like being in a big city and don't miss a single thing about Tyler. (Except a couple of sweet friends I have there!) I love the school and really like the diversity of students. I know when I graduate, I will have the best education possible for a dental hygienist and am so excited that I will graduate with my bachelors degree! I'm proud of myself for being here and going through this program. I know I will come out of this a very changed person!

Two days of orientation down, one to go...

2007-08-21T21:36:00.000-05:00

This morning was pretty boring. We had our Blackboard orientation. (Blackboard is like an online classroom with assignments, notes, quizzes, etc.) During that time I learned that there was an entire orientation packet that I did not receive in the mail. It included a break down of expenses for this semester which I really could have used when working on getting my private loans. It also included detailed information about the dental hygiene program which would have been really nice to have had before orientation, but oh well, there is nothing I can do about it now.
This afternoon we went over to the main campus (from the Allied Health Building, which is where most of my orientation has been and also where I have a few classes) and ate lunch. I really got to know some of the girls and I really clicked with them. We all seem the have a common thread, which I guess is the mentality behind our desire to enter the dental hygiene field. We have had peer tutors throughout this orientation who have been great in talking to us about all the ins and outs of the program. There are so many opportunities for involvement whether in committees within the program like the social committee, banquet committee or historian who takes pictures throughout our 2 years to running for treasurer or vice president for SADHA (Student American Dental Hygiene Association). So, I'd like to get involved, I'm just not sure where I want to put my efforts!
We also toured the main campus and library but I'm still confused as ever. The dental school which is where our clinic is, is such a confusing building. It's like a big maze! I saw the room in the clinic that will be mine where I will be treating patients! I looked on the wall next to it and there was my name, Jennie Lynne Gilbert! It was so exciting to see it there! It made me remember that I'm actually here doing what I've worked so hard to do! Even now, it's hard to believe that I made it here. I've worked so hard these past few years, but it was so worth it to make it here. I truly feel I belong here!

The Good, The Good and The Good

2007-08-20T17:35:00.001-05:00

I finished my first day of orientation and am so excited about this school and program.
This morning they gave us our laptops, which at the hefty price of $2000.00 is fully loaded with anything I would ever need in a computer and more. (I am writing this blog while sitting in bed which is fun! :)
This afternoon, I had my departmental orientation. The dental hygiene group consists of mostly women, but there are 2 men, which surprised me. There are 30 of us and it is a very diverse group. There are people who come from as far off as Panama and Cuba. A lot of women are married or have kids and are in their 30's, but there's also a few of us that are in our 20's and flying solo. The girls that I have spent time talking to and meeting are all great. We are all so excited to be here at UTHSCSA and ready to get started, but we're all nervous about what this semester has in store for us. We have been told that this semester will be the hardest.
I am so glad I waited and applied to this program here at UTHSCSA. It is definitely the most prestigious in Texas and I am so thrilled that they chose me (out of hundreds) to study at their school.
Things are definitely going better around here. I am feeling much more settled here and feeling more and more at home. I am SO glad I am in a house (rather than an apartment) and like having my roommates around. Living alone can get lonely! I met my other roommate today and she seems great! So, things are going great and I am so glad I am here. Now, in a couple weeks when I up to my eyeballs in school work and freaking out cause I'm so overwhelmed, I'm sure I'll once again be wondering..."What have I done?!"

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

2007-08-14T13:55:00.000-05:00

The Good:

Today I went to get my student ID and parking permit. I got the lot I wanted and it was also one of the cheapest to park in. It is right next to the Allied Health building which is where my lecture classes will be. My student ID is somewhat comical in that you can see the bright blue gum that I was chewing in the right side of my mouth. Note to self: Don't chew gum when taking pictures.
I have felt so loved and supported by my friends and family over the past few days. Thank you for listening to all my woes and for offering such encouraging words!
My step-sister Maggie and her boyfriend Chris moved here the same day I did. It has been so great being in the same city as them. We've been able to get together a couple of times already which has been awesome! I just love them so much and am so glad they are here! :)

The Bad:

My financial aid officer failed to tell me (despite meeting with her back in May and the 15 e-mails we've sent back and forth) that getting private loans is somewhat of a lengthy process. Yesterday, I filled out an application for a private loan and then had to call the lender with a few questions. The number one question being, would the school receive the money by the time my tuition was due. She laughed and said, "Honey, it could take up to 4 weeks for us to process your loan." Why did my financial aid officer not tell me this??? Argh! So, I'm still going along with the process of getting this loan but in the meantime I had to go up to the school to get an emergency loan to cover the remaining balance of my tuition that is due next Wednesday. It all worked out, but it has been extremely frustrating!

The Ugly:

Yesterday, I went to the mall close to my house to exchange something and when I came back out I noticed that my car window was rolled all the way down, which wasn't how I left it when I went inside. When I got in my car I noticed that someone tried to steal my CD player and because of some security device on it, they were unable to, but they still broke it trying to get it out. My sweet friend Lauren was on the phone with me when I found out and listened to me cry. She proceeded to tell me that the mall I went to was very ghetto-ish. I felt like such a naive small town girl. It didn't even cross my mind to lock my doors. What a crappy way to get a wake-up call.

Good from the Ugly:

Lauren invited me to dinner at her house with her and her precious fiance, which was great! The food they prepared was awesome and it was so fun just being there with them talking and laughing!

Me and Sweet Lauren :)

I'm finally unpacked (except for a few kitchen items) and my room and bathroom are decorated. So, this strange house is starting to feel more and more like a place I call home. My roommate is great; very easy going and friendly. I haven't met my second roommate yet--she is on vacation until the end of August.

What Have I done?!

2007-08-12T19:12:00.000-05:00

This is by far the hardest and most challenging thing I have ever done. I now have a life that is in every way unfamiliar to me. Everything is new! New city (which means always printing a map before leaving the house), new house, new roommates, new routine, new school...! It's left me longing for familiarity and security which is a very uncomfortable feeling.
I'm completely overwhelmed right now, but I still wouldn't want to be anywhere else in life but here. As I said good-bye to my dad and step-mom last night and cried as the reality of this move sank in, I realized that because of this experience I was growing up and growing into more of the person I want to be. And as hard as this is, I'm grateful for that.
I know that everything I am going through is just part moving on in life but it's still hard.

Makin' My Move

2007-08-08T10:48:00.000-05:00

As of August 11th, I will be an official resident of San Antonio, Texas! I will be sharing a house with a second year medical student and a second year nursing student whom I have never met before... Yikes! It will definitely be an experience!
My sweet dad is renting a U-Haul, driving it down to San Antonio for me and helping me unload it. Nothing like moving to San Antonio in the middle of August.
It's both exciting and scary to go full force into this new beginning. There are so many unknowns that it's hard to prepare myself for what to expect. Though I wouldn't give up this phase of my life for anything...a whole new life is ahead of me! Does it get any better than that?!

Official Acceptance

2007-04-15T20:28:00.000-05:00