Vintage Amy #2 with an Update

"Ross lost his job a f***ing week before Christmas (f**** bastards). Merry Christmas to us, right? So we don't have health insurance now, and guess what, I needed an updated tuburculosis test! (have to get them every year if you're a nurse). So rather than paying 70$ out of pocket to have a tiny bit of purified protien derivative injected just underneath my skin (which I freaking know how to do by the way), I went to freaking north portland to the county health clinic. SO I was surounded by people rudely staring at me and the stench of urine and rotten cigarrettes. Sounds mean, I know, but I hate public health/ services/ transportation. If the people weren't so rude, gross, and inappropriate, it wouldn't be so bad. I feel bad for their kids. "

-Amy Lumsden, January 12,2006

I joined 24-hour fitness so Maddy could have some pseudo day care time. Background: We looked into daycares in the area and its just too expensive! It would make sense if we were both working full time, but we're not. . Even part time day care a couple 5 hour-days a week would be $400/month which makes no sense for us! And the day care was not intended for us; but for her. Our smart and active little girl is bored in our living room. I don't blame her. I tried to find us play groups, but nothing has resulted from my efforts. We DID, however, find an awesome small group/Bible study that meets Thursday nights. I am so excited about our group, but thats only one night a week.

But I discovered I could join the athletic club for $12.50 a month. And they have child care in a big padded room for $1.50/hr. Sure beats $400+! Maddy can walk, stumble, and crawl to her heart's content and get all nice and worn out. And I am forced to work out, as a result. Maddy takes 2 1/2 - 3 hour naps on days we go there. I think we have found what you might call a win-win situation. If I don't sabotage myself, maybe I'll even get into shape! Otherwise, you may find me sneaking out the back door of 24-hour fitness to go shopping after dropping off Maddy. Just kidding. Or am I?

But seriously; I went twice this week and am going back tomorrow. Monday and Thursday I spent the time peacefully on the elliptical machine studying for my OCN exam (OCN= Onclogy Certified Nurse- a new title to go after the R.N.). I love that time, and I love the feeling of knowing I actually exercised! I have a poor track record for athletic clubs, so I truly need to work on this one so that it proves to be beneficial for my family.

*I saved approx. $130 on DIY hair dye and waxing kit. Wish me luck!