My dad was a scholarly type. He enjoyed reading "It Pays to Enrich Your Word Power" in the Readers Digest. He also revealed to the family one night, "I like words."
Well, I guess I am a lot like him. I like words, and I even like random numbers sometimes.
Let me share some important numbers tonight with you.
4 - Times my stomach growled during the massage I got during the final exam
5 - Cough drops I consumed tonight during class due to dry classrooms and a stupid tickle in my throat
6 - Core classes I have completed
8 - Number of hours I spend at the J-O-B
11 - Newbies in my class
14 - Minutes it takes to get to my J-O-B
16 - More times I have to go to Linthicum and back to finish school
17 - Saturdays I went to student clinic
27 - More calendar days until I finish school
35 - Miles to the gallon the Commuter Car gets
40 - Minutes it takes to get to school
70 - the average speed I traveled to get to and from school on I-70
97 - Percent I got on the Core Hands-on Final tonight
4.0 - My GPA
$3.57 - The average price of a gallon of regular gas
12:00 am - The time I set as my goal for going to bed after class
7:00 am - The time I wake up for the J-O-B
With all that being said, Good night.
Showing posts with label final exam. Show all posts
Showing posts with label final exam. Show all posts
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Day 176 - Strange Things Are Afoot (36 Days Left)
One of my favorite brain-dead movies (the ones that you watch when you really don't want to think too hard) is Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure. One of the best quote from the movie: "Strange things are afoot at the Circle K."
Working on feet in Reflexology remind me of that quote. Go figure.
We had our final exams tonight, both portions, written (98%) and hands-on (100%). When they allot you 50 minutes for an exam and you're done in approximately 14, you know you did pretty well.
My partner nearly fell asleep during the hands-on portion. Our neighbor on the next table over definitely fell asleep...and snored. Pretty loudly, I might add.
Prior to the class and exam tonight, representatives from Massage Envy were on the premises recruiting for their new locations opening in the DC/Baltimore area, including one in Frederick - the one that will practically be across the street from my current J-O-B that is 14 minutes and three STOP signs from my house.
I have to say, I think I may have to go for this one once I'm licensed. The location can't be beat. Well, I mean, unless it's in the strip shopping center across the street from my neighborhood.
And I got a free plastic cup and pen.
Everybody say, "ooooo ahhhhh..."
Working on feet in Reflexology remind me of that quote. Go figure.
We had our final exams tonight, both portions, written (98%) and hands-on (100%). When they allot you 50 minutes for an exam and you're done in approximately 14, you know you did pretty well.
My partner nearly fell asleep during the hands-on portion. Our neighbor on the next table over definitely fell asleep...and snored. Pretty loudly, I might add.
Prior to the class and exam tonight, representatives from Massage Envy were on the premises recruiting for their new locations opening in the DC/Baltimore area, including one in Frederick - the one that will practically be across the street from my current J-O-B that is 14 minutes and three STOP signs from my house.
I have to say, I think I may have to go for this one once I'm licensed. The location can't be beat. Well, I mean, unless it's in the strip shopping center across the street from my neighborhood.
And I got a free plastic cup and pen.
Everybody say, "ooooo ahhhhh..."
Monday, February 14, 2011
Day 163 - Are We There Yet? (58 Days To Go)
Over the weekend, during Student Clinic, I had the privilege of massaging a jogger, two nurses, and a cancer survivor with a great attitude and positive outlook. One of the nurses was a practicing massage therapist for awhile and then got into the nursing field.
I had something very interesting happen to me, too. While I was massaging the cancer survivor, as I do with other clients, I was praying over him while massaging him - for continued healing, strengthening his spiritual walk, and that sort of thing. After I closed and thanked him for allowing me to work with him, he thanked me for the "energy work" I did on him.
That took me back. Did he sense or feel my prayers? Did he know to whom I was praying?
One of the things that I have been somewhat concerned about during this whole program is the delving into Eastern philosophies, including medicines and religion. I can't say that I subscribe to the whole "energy" thing that some people may. However, if someone can sense that I'm praying for him or her, well, then I guess that's good because I believe that God can hear the prayers of His people - and will answer them.
Anyway, in tonight's class, to celebrate Valentines Day (NOT!), we discussed some things that we may run into either during clinic or when we have clients on our tables. Things like Somatic Emotional Release - which basically states that a client may become emotional (crying or excessive laughter) while receiving a massage as a result of a physical release from the massage. I almost experienced that myself last year about this time of year when I received the massage that inspired me to get into this whole program.
During that massage, I came very close to crying. I had experienced a rough year to year and a half, between deaths in the family and losing my long-time J-O-B, and I mark that massage as one of the the turning points in my emotional healing. Not to mention the new focus and direction for my career.
After that discussion, we took our final exam for this Core class. I went first as practitioner and earned a 94/100. Then I got to relax and let my partner do his thing and take his exam.
I had something very interesting happen to me, too. While I was massaging the cancer survivor, as I do with other clients, I was praying over him while massaging him - for continued healing, strengthening his spiritual walk, and that sort of thing. After I closed and thanked him for allowing me to work with him, he thanked me for the "energy work" I did on him.
That took me back. Did he sense or feel my prayers? Did he know to whom I was praying?
One of the things that I have been somewhat concerned about during this whole program is the delving into Eastern philosophies, including medicines and religion. I can't say that I subscribe to the whole "energy" thing that some people may. However, if someone can sense that I'm praying for him or her, well, then I guess that's good because I believe that God can hear the prayers of His people - and will answer them.
Anyway, in tonight's class, to celebrate Valentines Day (NOT!), we discussed some things that we may run into either during clinic or when we have clients on our tables. Things like Somatic Emotional Release - which basically states that a client may become emotional (crying or excessive laughter) while receiving a massage as a result of a physical release from the massage. I almost experienced that myself last year about this time of year when I received the massage that inspired me to get into this whole program.
During that massage, I came very close to crying. I had experienced a rough year to year and a half, between deaths in the family and losing my long-time J-O-B, and I mark that massage as one of the the turning points in my emotional healing. Not to mention the new focus and direction for my career.
After that discussion, we took our final exam for this Core class. I went first as practitioner and earned a 94/100. Then I got to relax and let my partner do his thing and take his exam.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Day 157 - Longus DayiNightus (69 Days Left)
In learning Anatomy, we're learning a whole new language. Greek and Latin...maybe something else or other thrown in there, too. Hence the title of this post. My version that means "Long Day and Night."
I started this morning, went to the J-O-B, worked eight hours, and then immediately drove to school so that I could take the Antomy final and then immediately take the Spa Treatment final afterward.
I ended up getting a 41 out of 50 on the written portion and 20 out of 20 on the hands-on portion of the Anatomy final.
After that, I raced up to Subway, got a double-meat 6-inch sub, raced back to school, scarfed it down, along with the cookies, and then ran (well, walked) to class. I took the written Spa Treatment exam and got 91 out of 100 and then we did the hands-on, which I got 95 out of 100.
So far, looking good for a continued 4.0 GPA. Yay!
I would also like to wish a wonderful birthday to the man who has supported me emotionally, physically, and just being awesome for the last nine months of being in school. Thank you, WGH. AKA Ricky. Love you bunches!
I started this morning, went to the J-O-B, worked eight hours, and then immediately drove to school so that I could take the Antomy final and then immediately take the Spa Treatment final afterward.
I ended up getting a 41 out of 50 on the written portion and 20 out of 20 on the hands-on portion of the Anatomy final.
After that, I raced up to Subway, got a double-meat 6-inch sub, raced back to school, scarfed it down, along with the cookies, and then ran (well, walked) to class. I took the written Spa Treatment exam and got 91 out of 100 and then we did the hands-on, which I got 95 out of 100.
So far, looking good for a continued 4.0 GPA. Yay!
I would also like to wish a wonderful birthday to the man who has supported me emotionally, physically, and just being awesome for the last nine months of being in school. Thank you, WGH. AKA Ricky. Love you bunches!
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Day 156 - Great Sigh of Relief (70 Days Left)
Beginning last night, I began studying for a quiz for tonight's Anatomy class that I thought was going to be on the antebrachium and its muscles (that's the forearm in lay people's vocabulary). Mostly, it was on the shoulder and upper arm bones and muscles, which was a great relief to me, as I was having a hard time understanding the forearm and hand stuff. There is a LOT of muscles in there.
As it turned out, I ended up getting a 8.5 out of 10 on the quiz, which will be rounded up to a 9/10 for their data records.
After the quiz, we reviewed for the final exam on Friday (which I'm actually taking tomorrow evening before the Spa Treatment final exam). I will be glad after tomorrow evening to be free of this session. Well, actually, the end of it will be Saturday after clinic.
I know I have mentioned my new cell phone that does just about everything except wash the dishes. Since it can be used as a MP3 player, I have downloaded some sermons that my dear friend gave at his church and I've been listening to them on the way to and from school this week. It's been really nice because it's like I feel like I've been needing some spiritual recharging. His messages have been helping me think about something other than school or the J-O-B and instead think of things of higher importance than the trivial matters I keep getting myself sucked into on a day to day basis.
It also makes me realize how much I miss having a life outside of school and seeing my friends.
70 days, my friends. 70 days.
As it turned out, I ended up getting a 8.5 out of 10 on the quiz, which will be rounded up to a 9/10 for their data records.
After the quiz, we reviewed for the final exam on Friday (which I'm actually taking tomorrow evening before the Spa Treatment final exam). I will be glad after tomorrow evening to be free of this session. Well, actually, the end of it will be Saturday after clinic.
I know I have mentioned my new cell phone that does just about everything except wash the dishes. Since it can be used as a MP3 player, I have downloaded some sermons that my dear friend gave at his church and I've been listening to them on the way to and from school this week. It's been really nice because it's like I feel like I've been needing some spiritual recharging. His messages have been helping me think about something other than school or the J-O-B and instead think of things of higher importance than the trivial matters I keep getting myself sucked into on a day to day basis.
It also makes me realize how much I miss having a life outside of school and seeing my friends.
70 days, my friends. 70 days.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Day 154 - Rant of the Wall (72 Calendar Days Left)
When I first was registering for the massage program, the admissions person I talked to said that everybody, at some time in the program, hits a wall.
I believe I've not only hit the wall, I've crashed into it and am trying to break through it.
To say that I'm frustrated with the whole experience right now would be pretty accurate, if not an understatement. I believe most of it stems from the winter weather our region has been experiencing the last couple of weeks.
Don't get me wrong, I like a good snow storm - as long as I don't have to be out in it. However, because TPTB* at the J-O-B don't seem to care about their staff and apparently believe that being there seems to be a matter of life and death it takes an act of Congress to close due to inclement weather and then TPTB at the school reschedule cancelled snow classes on Friday nights, I cringe whenever I hear reports of a winter storm coming to town.
I have visions of my May Graduation Orlando Vacation Celebration (say that five times fast) going down the tubes because I have used all of my PTO (Paid Time Off) at the J-O-B due to the stinkin' weather.
Last week, we missed two classes due to snow and we made up one on Friday night and are scheduled to make up the other this coming Friday, with a final exam. However, last Friday, one of the student liaisons brought a "revised" schedule for this week into class and basically, the thought was that because a good number of students may not be able to make class on Friday, we would take the final exam on Wednesday, unless we can all agree to be there on Friday.
This caused a cascade of discussion on our facebook group over the weekend, and it seemed the classmates were divided on which way to go with it. By the time we got to class tonight, we still really hadn't agreed on the best thing for everybody.
THEN - in comes TPTB. They tell us that the exam is on Friday AND we have to be there the whole evening. Well, at least it was a definitive answer, frustrating as it was.
Why did they introduce the revised schedule in the first place? Was that the local school doing that, or TPTB? Does one hand know what the other is doing? It sure caused a lot of confusion and frustration among our classmates unnecessarily. Why do these things always boil down to a lack of communication?
Frankly, I have the time built up that I can sign myself out of class after the exam and I'm still good to go, but that still means driving 41 miles to the school to be there for an hour - at the most, probably.
So, what happens?
More anxiety. While sitting in class.
I can't pay attention to what's going on in the lecture because all I can think of is this junk. By the time we hit our next break, I told the teacher that I was signing out for the night and explained that I just wanted to be there for barebones on Friday, if possible. She was awesome and has worked it out with me so I can take the final at another time, Thursday before my other final, and I don't have to come at all on Friday.
That's a HUGE relief to me.
AND! I can celebrate WGH's birthday with him on his actual birthday on Friday! (He says he'll be 23, but I think I need to check his birth certificate.)
After getting all that straightened out, I still signed out for the night and came home, as there is a winter storm (ice and snow and all kinds of fun stuff) on its way and I didn't want to be a part of it tonight.
And we wonder why I keep saying I want to move to Florida.
I try not to let this stuff stress me out, but it doesn't seem to be working right now. I think if it were one or the other, J-O-B or school, it wouldn't be so bad, but between the two right now, I'm pretty much hitting the wall.
*The Powers That Be (generally meaning "Corporate")
I believe I've not only hit the wall, I've crashed into it and am trying to break through it.
To say that I'm frustrated with the whole experience right now would be pretty accurate, if not an understatement. I believe most of it stems from the winter weather our region has been experiencing the last couple of weeks.
Don't get me wrong, I like a good snow storm - as long as I don't have to be out in it. However, because TPTB* at the J-O-B don't seem to care about their staff and apparently believe that being there seems to be a matter of life and death it takes an act of Congress to close due to inclement weather and then TPTB at the school reschedule cancelled snow classes on Friday nights, I cringe whenever I hear reports of a winter storm coming to town.
I have visions of my May Graduation Orlando Vacation Celebration (say that five times fast) going down the tubes because I have used all of my PTO (Paid Time Off) at the J-O-B due to the stinkin' weather.
Last week, we missed two classes due to snow and we made up one on Friday night and are scheduled to make up the other this coming Friday, with a final exam. However, last Friday, one of the student liaisons brought a "revised" schedule for this week into class and basically, the thought was that because a good number of students may not be able to make class on Friday, we would take the final exam on Wednesday, unless we can all agree to be there on Friday.
This caused a cascade of discussion on our facebook group over the weekend, and it seemed the classmates were divided on which way to go with it. By the time we got to class tonight, we still really hadn't agreed on the best thing for everybody.
THEN - in comes TPTB. They tell us that the exam is on Friday AND we have to be there the whole evening. Well, at least it was a definitive answer, frustrating as it was.
Why did they introduce the revised schedule in the first place? Was that the local school doing that, or TPTB? Does one hand know what the other is doing? It sure caused a lot of confusion and frustration among our classmates unnecessarily. Why do these things always boil down to a lack of communication?
Frankly, I have the time built up that I can sign myself out of class after the exam and I'm still good to go, but that still means driving 41 miles to the school to be there for an hour - at the most, probably.
So, what happens?
More anxiety. While sitting in class.
I can't pay attention to what's going on in the lecture because all I can think of is this junk. By the time we hit our next break, I told the teacher that I was signing out for the night and explained that I just wanted to be there for barebones on Friday, if possible. She was awesome and has worked it out with me so I can take the final at another time, Thursday before my other final, and I don't have to come at all on Friday.
That's a HUGE relief to me.
AND! I can celebrate WGH's birthday with him on his actual birthday on Friday! (He says he'll be 23, but I think I need to check his birth certificate.)
After getting all that straightened out, I still signed out for the night and came home, as there is a winter storm (ice and snow and all kinds of fun stuff) on its way and I didn't want to be a part of it tonight.
And we wonder why I keep saying I want to move to Florida.
I try not to let this stuff stress me out, but it doesn't seem to be working right now. I think if it were one or the other, J-O-B or school, it wouldn't be so bad, but between the two right now, I'm pretty much hitting the wall.
*The Powers That Be (generally meaning "Corporate")
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Day 142 - Rockin a 95 off 295
In case I hadn't mentioned it before, BSOM is located off I-295 in Linthicum, just an exit or two away from BWI Aeroport. WGH has gotten to know the area better than I since he drops me off at class sometimes and goes and does - uh - something. I'm not really sure what that is, but I know he has visited the aeroport and Guitar Center.
Anyway, this evening, we took our Core final exams, which was hands-on. When all was said and done, I ended up getting a 95%! Yay!
The 4.0 GPA continues.
Anyway, this evening, we took our Core final exams, which was hands-on. When all was said and done, I ended up getting a 95%! Yay!
The 4.0 GPA continues.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Day 138 - Can I Get an Amen!?!?!
Today was one of "those" days. It wasn't bad at the J-O-B, but we had one of the first snows of the season today. It began this morning, and it seemed that one by one, co-workers left and went home to miss either the snow or the traffic. It could go either way...people are nuts, ya know.
Anyway, knowing that my work commute is a whopping 14 minutes, I figured that I could handle staying until the end of the day. And I was busy the whole stinkin' time. I didn't even have time to primp my hair or do my nails!
Unfortunately, in those 14 commuting minutes, 12 of them are on a back, winding, hilly road.
Because I didn't feel like landing in a ravine or on the side of a tree, I really took it easy and it took me a whole 30 minutes to get home! That's over double my normal commute!
I couldn't handle that every day.
(Have I mentioned in my previous life, 30 minute commutes were considered a "good day"?)
There was a debate on whether or not we would actually have class or not tonight, and then after it was decreed that class would be held, a debate with myself if I would go or not.
But, after arriving home and freshening up a bit, I got back in the car, brought WGH with me, and we rode to Baltimore together. The roads weren't that bad, actually. And the traffic didn't stop/slow/get ugly until about the Patuxtant River bridge, close to I690-500.
Some call it 695, but I call it "six-ninety-five hundred" because of the way people* drive.
*I've become one of "those people."
Upon arriving at the school, I got my stuff, got into the classroom and we promptly took the anatomy final exam. After we finished, we were free to go because of the weather.
I actually stuck around after I finished. Well, mostly because WGH had gone off to the wild blue yonder that's also sometimes known as Arundel Mills Mall, but I also was able to find out my grade whilst waiting for him.
98% baby!
Yeah!
That's the way you do it!
Take that, Erector Spinae muscles! Oh yeah, transversospinalis muscles? What do you want, suboccipital? You want a piece of me, you sphenoid bone?
Don't worry, I got this.
Oh yeah...sorry. I tend to get excited about these sorts of things.
Tonight marked the end of classes for this year, so can I get an amen to that?!?!
I still have clinic on Saturday, but I think that's pretty easily handled.
So, in conclusion. I would like to say that WGH and I arrived home around 8:45 - and that was after making a pit-stop at Dunkin Donuts because SOMEBODY wanted a hot chocolate. Not naming any names or anything, Ricardo Leon Smith.
Anyway, knowing that my work commute is a whopping 14 minutes, I figured that I could handle staying until the end of the day. And I was busy the whole stinkin' time. I didn't even have time to primp my hair or do my nails!
Unfortunately, in those 14 commuting minutes, 12 of them are on a back, winding, hilly road.
Because I didn't feel like landing in a ravine or on the side of a tree, I really took it easy and it took me a whole 30 minutes to get home! That's over double my normal commute!
I couldn't handle that every day.
(Have I mentioned in my previous life, 30 minute commutes were considered a "good day"?)
There was a debate on whether or not we would actually have class or not tonight, and then after it was decreed that class would be held, a debate with myself if I would go or not.
But, after arriving home and freshening up a bit, I got back in the car, brought WGH with me, and we rode to Baltimore together. The roads weren't that bad, actually. And the traffic didn't stop/slow/get ugly until about the Patuxtant River bridge, close to I690-500.
Some call it 695, but I call it "six-ninety-five hundred" because of the way people* drive.
*I've become one of "those people."
Upon arriving at the school, I got my stuff, got into the classroom and we promptly took the anatomy final exam. After we finished, we were free to go because of the weather.
I actually stuck around after I finished. Well, mostly because WGH had gone off to the wild blue yonder that's also sometimes known as Arundel Mills Mall, but I also was able to find out my grade whilst waiting for him.
98% baby!
Yeah!
That's the way you do it!
Take that, Erector Spinae muscles! Oh yeah, transversospinalis muscles? What do you want, suboccipital? You want a piece of me, you sphenoid bone?
Don't worry, I got this.
Oh yeah...sorry. I tend to get excited about these sorts of things.
Tonight marked the end of classes for this year, so can I get an amen to that?!?!
I still have clinic on Saturday, but I think that's pretty easily handled.
So, in conclusion. I would like to say that WGH and I arrived home around 8:45 - and that was after making a pit-stop at Dunkin Donuts because SOMEBODY wanted a hot chocolate. Not naming any names or anything, Ricardo Leon Smith.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Day 136 - Shiatsu Takes My Breath
We had our final exam tonight for Shiatsu - a written portion and then a hands-on portion. I was quite confident in the written portion and highly confident for the hands-on portion.
We took the written portion first, and when I first got the exam, I brain-dumped the meridian circuits and any other pertinent information onto the back-page for reference. From there, I completed the hand and foot meridian points portion of the exam and then finally, to the rest of the exam. I was so confident in the whole thing, that I believed that I got a 100%. Later discussion revealed that I got a 99%.
I can live with that.
After I finished the written portion, I made a field trip to the gas station and filled up the tank. On a side note, since October 13th, when we purchased the commuter car, we have put approximately 7,000 miles on it. That's 7,000 miles in less than two months.
Wow.
Well, that's why we got that car. To put miles on it and not care.
Anyway, after returning to the school, I studied a little bit for the Pathology quiz tomorrow night and then began preparing for the hands-on portion of the Shiatsu exam. My partner went first performing the exam. She did well, I believe. Then we took a break and switched partners doing the work and it was my turn.
As soon as I started, I felt like I was breathing heavier than normal and my heart was beating faster than normal. I'm not usually one to get nervous over this sort of thing, but I had a pretty hard time trying to catch my breath while performing my protocol on my partner. Besides the fact that it's a very physical modality, if you don't center yourself just right to begin with, it takes way more effort to get there. I was "there," but my breath wasn't following me.
Well, I guess I should just keep working on getting back into shape and practicing yoga to help with flexibility and strength.
All-in-all, I think I did pretty well for both portions of the exam.
Another thing that we have learned in this class is that gas happens. Because of the physicality of this modality, sometimes gaseous expulsions have occurred, courtesy of fellow classmates. Tonight was no exception. And the best part: while the perpetrator of the expulsion was laughing because of the first expulsion, further expulsions ensued, which made the rest of the class lose their wu wei (beingness).
I guess this is better to happen in class, where we can get all the giggles out, rather than when it's our client on our table or on our Shiatsu mat.
In the meantime, WGH has been his wonderful, goofy self and been putting together our Christmas cards to get ready to mail out. Yeah, Christmas is in 10 days and we're just getting around to the cards. Considering that I was trying (unsuccessfully) to convince WGH that we didn't need to send out cards this year, I think we're doing pretty well.
We took the written portion first, and when I first got the exam, I brain-dumped the meridian circuits and any other pertinent information onto the back-page for reference. From there, I completed the hand and foot meridian points portion of the exam and then finally, to the rest of the exam. I was so confident in the whole thing, that I believed that I got a 100%. Later discussion revealed that I got a 99%.
I can live with that.
After I finished the written portion, I made a field trip to the gas station and filled up the tank. On a side note, since October 13th, when we purchased the commuter car, we have put approximately 7,000 miles on it. That's 7,000 miles in less than two months.
Wow.
Well, that's why we got that car. To put miles on it and not care.
Anyway, after returning to the school, I studied a little bit for the Pathology quiz tomorrow night and then began preparing for the hands-on portion of the Shiatsu exam. My partner went first performing the exam. She did well, I believe. Then we took a break and switched partners doing the work and it was my turn.
As soon as I started, I felt like I was breathing heavier than normal and my heart was beating faster than normal. I'm not usually one to get nervous over this sort of thing, but I had a pretty hard time trying to catch my breath while performing my protocol on my partner. Besides the fact that it's a very physical modality, if you don't center yourself just right to begin with, it takes way more effort to get there. I was "there," but my breath wasn't following me.
Well, I guess I should just keep working on getting back into shape and practicing yoga to help with flexibility and strength.
All-in-all, I think I did pretty well for both portions of the exam.
Another thing that we have learned in this class is that gas happens. Because of the physicality of this modality, sometimes gaseous expulsions have occurred, courtesy of fellow classmates. Tonight was no exception. And the best part: while the perpetrator of the expulsion was laughing because of the first expulsion, further expulsions ensued, which made the rest of the class lose their wu wei (beingness).
I guess this is better to happen in class, where we can get all the giggles out, rather than when it's our client on our table or on our Shiatsu mat.
In the meantime, WGH has been his wonderful, goofy self and been putting together our Christmas cards to get ready to mail out. Yeah, Christmas is in 10 days and we're just getting around to the cards. Considering that I was trying (unsuccessfully) to convince WGH that we didn't need to send out cards this year, I think we're doing pretty well.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Day 132 - Anatogeez
I had not really looked at the class schedule for a few days and couldn't actually remember what class we had tonight. Therefore, I also did not study for the quiz we had. And guess what? Our regular teacher wasn't able to make it, so we had a substitute. Actually, he's one of our regular TA's, so that was cool. It seems that because the class as a whole is so comfortable with him that he didn't get the respect I feel he deserved with being our instructor for the evening. But such is life sometimes. He did the best he could in the situation.
At any rate, we learned the muscles in the head - minus the facial muscles. They are in the book, but we didn't really go over them. If they're on the national certification exam, I'll have to study them on my own.
We also reviewed for our final exam next week.
At any rate, we learned the muscles in the head - minus the facial muscles. They are in the book, but we didn't really go over them. If they're on the national certification exam, I'll have to study them on my own.
We also reviewed for our final exam next week.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Day 121 - Deja Vu Anatomy
Last week, we took our Anatomy I final exam which included the subject of muscle tissue, what it is, what kinds there are, and how muscles actually work. We had learned about sarcomeres, calcium's role, and what actins and myocins are.
In our first class of Anatomy II this evening, guess what? We reviewed muscle tissue, what it is, what kinds there are, and how muscles actually work, including sarcomeres, calcium's role, and what actins and myocins are.
Weird. Deja vu.
Last week, I ended up getting a 95% on the final exam, but wasn't really sure what all of the muscle stuff meant. Frankly, by the time we went over that last week, my brain had totally checked out. After tonight's review, I think I get it.
Yay!
As for the J-O-B, today was a strange day. Since the company had lost a contract back at the end of September, things have been rather slow. Well, today, TPTB executed multiple lay-offs. I was not one of the parties affected. I really want to add "unfortunately" to the end of that because in many ways, working 40 hours a week while doing this massage school program is hugely time consuming, physically and emotionally draining, and I never have time (or make the time) to clean the house.
But - I guess I have to help pay bills and make my contribution to society, so off to work I go.
Well, I mean, tomorrow, I will go to work. Tonight, I'm heading to bed.
In our first class of Anatomy II this evening, guess what? We reviewed muscle tissue, what it is, what kinds there are, and how muscles actually work, including sarcomeres, calcium's role, and what actins and myocins are.
Weird. Deja vu.
Last week, I ended up getting a 95% on the final exam, but wasn't really sure what all of the muscle stuff meant. Frankly, by the time we went over that last week, my brain had totally checked out. After tonight's review, I think I get it.
Yay!
As for the J-O-B, today was a strange day. Since the company had lost a contract back at the end of September, things have been rather slow. Well, today, TPTB executed multiple lay-offs. I was not one of the parties affected. I really want to add "unfortunately" to the end of that because in many ways, working 40 hours a week while doing this massage school program is hugely time consuming, physically and emotionally draining, and I never have time (or make the time) to clean the house.
But - I guess I have to help pay bills and make my contribution to society, so off to work I go.
Well, I mean, tomorrow, I will go to work. Tonight, I'm heading to bed.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Day 118 - Anatahuh?
After last night's shenanigans, I decided to take this afternoon off from the J-O-B and do some studying for tonight's final exam in Anatomy. I'd like to say that I was super-productive at the J-O-B, but I can't lie. I got some stuff done, but was too anxious about the exam to really be gung-ho about working.
Once I got home, I had some lunch, a spoonful of Nutella, and then proceeded to basically type out my own study guide in Power Point. It sounds silly, but it gave me the opportunity to go back and forth with all of my resources to get the information I need and try to put it in a logical fashion. I guess you could say that "it works for me."
After nearly three hours of doing that, I was pretty tired. After a spoonful of Nutella and setting the alarm on my cellphone, I laid down on the couch and looked at my Power Point study guide in presentation mode and kinda sorta fell asleep for a little bit.
When my alarm woke me up about a half hour later, I made some cawfie, got some dinner, enjoyed a spoonful of Nutella, got ready, and went to school, getting there almost 40 minutes early.
Several classmates were studying, so I joined in, chiming in when needed.
Our instructor was late due to traffic, giving us more time to study. When she arrived, we did a little review. During this time the education director came in and explained to us that for the next few weeks, there will be security at the school for our safety - due to a former student (our former classmate) who may not be reacting well to a situation. It didn't take a genius to figure out exactly why we were on lock-down last night.
We finally took the exam. I think I did pretty well. At least a 90%, but we didn't get our grades. There were only a few questions that I kinda guessed at, but all-in-all, I confidently went right to the answer.
After I finished, I signed out and got home at a decent hour. Now...where's the Nutella?
Once I got home, I had some lunch, a spoonful of Nutella, and then proceeded to basically type out my own study guide in Power Point. It sounds silly, but it gave me the opportunity to go back and forth with all of my resources to get the information I need and try to put it in a logical fashion. I guess you could say that "it works for me."
After nearly three hours of doing that, I was pretty tired. After a spoonful of Nutella and setting the alarm on my cellphone, I laid down on the couch and looked at my Power Point study guide in presentation mode and kinda sorta fell asleep for a little bit.
When my alarm woke me up about a half hour later, I made some cawfie, got some dinner, enjoyed a spoonful of Nutella, got ready, and went to school, getting there almost 40 minutes early.
Several classmates were studying, so I joined in, chiming in when needed.
Our instructor was late due to traffic, giving us more time to study. When she arrived, we did a little review. During this time the education director came in and explained to us that for the next few weeks, there will be security at the school for our safety - due to a former student (our former classmate) who may not be reacting well to a situation. It didn't take a genius to figure out exactly why we were on lock-down last night.
We finally took the exam. I think I did pretty well. At least a 90%, but we didn't get our grades. There were only a few questions that I kinda guessed at, but all-in-all, I confidently went right to the answer.
After I finished, I signed out and got home at a decent hour. Now...where's the Nutella?
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Day 117 - On Lock-Down
In this evening's anatomy class, we reviewed some osteology (bone) and arthrology (joints) prior to our quiz, then took our quiz. I'm sure I did well.
While my classmates and I were relaxing and chatting in the student break room, the education director came in and informed us that due to a situation, we were on lock-down. No students could go outside as the doors were locked and there were police outside.
That was a little freaky.
Little?
Especially since most of my classmates and I had a theory about what the lock-down was all about...or who and why, despite administration's denials that it had nothing to do with a student.
During the next break while there were many students in the breakroom (which is full of windows), they told us to go back to our classrooms.
All the activity made it very difficult to be able to process the information on which the instructor was trying to lecture.
Tomorrow is the final exam. At this point, I'm a little freaked out about the whole lock-down thing and the exam. Maybe I need a mental health day from work. Or at least half a day.
While my classmates and I were relaxing and chatting in the student break room, the education director came in and informed us that due to a situation, we were on lock-down. No students could go outside as the doors were locked and there were police outside.
That was a little freaky.
Little?
Especially since most of my classmates and I had a theory about what the lock-down was all about...or who and why, despite administration's denials that it had nothing to do with a student.
During the next break while there were many students in the breakroom (which is full of windows), they told us to go back to our classrooms.
All the activity made it very difficult to be able to process the information on which the instructor was trying to lecture.
Tomorrow is the final exam. At this point, I'm a little freaked out about the whole lock-down thing and the exam. Maybe I need a mental health day from work. Or at least half a day.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Day 116 - Russian Final
I must have a memory shortage on the weekends because I neglected (forgot) to post anything about student clinic from this past Saturday. I had three clients and one student exchange, which gives me a total of seven actual real clients that I've given massages. Out of those seven, six have been men. What are the odds of that?
One of the men this past Saturday was a young man, I'd guess in his 20's, and he never had a massage before. Since he seemed athletic, I figured I'd practice some of my Russian Sports techniques on him. He seemed to like it and I was glad for the practice.
Speaking of Russian, we had our final exam (written and hands-on) tonight. 98 and 100%, respectively, thankyouverymuch.
Now...on to study for the anatomy final exam on Wednesday.
One of the men this past Saturday was a young man, I'd guess in his 20's, and he never had a massage before. Since he seemed athletic, I figured I'd practice some of my Russian Sports techniques on him. He seemed to like it and I was glad for the practice.
Speaking of Russian, we had our final exam (written and hands-on) tonight. 98 and 100%, respectively, thankyouverymuch.
Now...on to study for the anatomy final exam on Wednesday.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Day 102 - Musical Tables
We had an interesting alternative to our regular bodywork tonight. Usually, we partner up with one person (sometimes scheduling a day or so ahead of time with the partner you may want to work with) and exchange bodywork. After I had set up with my partner for this evening, the instructor threw a curve ball at us: half of us would be on the table (face down) and the other half would choose one of the classmates to work on, work for 10 minutes, then switch, work for 10 minutes, then switch, and work for 10 minutes. The person on the table, who may not even know who's working on them, can give feedback on their experiences with each practitioner.
Despite the grumbling over the curve ball, it seemed that the class enjoyed the experience, from both sides of the table.
I guess it goes to show that it's ok to shake things up once and awhile.
Final exam for Core tomorrow night. Then clinic orientation at 9:00 am Saturday. I'm crashing at a classmate's house tomorrow night after the final, since driving 41 miles back home after the final and 41 miles back eight hours later does not sound appealing.
Despite the grumbling over the curve ball, it seemed that the class enjoyed the experience, from both sides of the table.
I guess it goes to show that it's ok to shake things up once and awhile.
Final exam for Core tomorrow night. Then clinic orientation at 9:00 am Saturday. I'm crashing at a classmate's house tomorrow night after the final, since driving 41 miles back home after the final and 41 miles back eight hours later does not sound appealing.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Day 99 - Finality of Pressure
Well, we took our Acupressure Final Exam tonight, with a written portion worth 100 points and a hands-on portion worth 100 points.
I have been studying during breaks at work, lunchtime, and even during work when there isn't any work to do (yeah, it happens sometimes). There was a whole bunch of information that we had to know and it wasn't "natural" stuff like we Westerners are used to.
I'm very glad to be done with it and I'm also very proud to say that I got a 98% on the written portion and a 100% on the hands-on portion. Usually, I'm not as impressed by a hands-on grade, but this time, the last week of studying has been for this particular portion. Needless to say, I'm quite relieved.
I have been studying during breaks at work, lunchtime, and even during work when there isn't any work to do (yeah, it happens sometimes). There was a whole bunch of information that we had to know and it wasn't "natural" stuff like we Westerners are used to.
I'm very glad to be done with it and I'm also very proud to say that I got a 98% on the written portion and a 100% on the hands-on portion. Usually, I'm not as impressed by a hands-on grade, but this time, the last week of studying has been for this particular portion. Needless to say, I'm quite relieved.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Day 98 - Which Class?
Tonight's class was Pathology and we had our quiz. Oddly enough, there was not a final exam in the class, but it was the last quiz, only worth 15 points. Which, I got 15 points, BTW.
At any rate, after the quiz (10 minutes), we didn't really have much else to learn, so the TA from our Acupressure class came in and reviewed for tomorrow night's final exam. So, I got slightly confused as to what class I was in this evening.
Also, since we didn't have much else to learn, I left about a half hour early. Rebel, I tell ya. I'm such a rebel.
At any rate, after the quiz (10 minutes), we didn't really have much else to learn, so the TA from our Acupressure class came in and reviewed for tomorrow night's final exam. So, I got slightly confused as to what class I was in this evening.
Also, since we didn't have much else to learn, I left about a half hour early. Rebel, I tell ya. I'm such a rebel.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Day 97 - I See Your Point
In our Acupressure class tonight, we reviewed all that is going to be on the test, went over the Golden Points, some meridians, and just generally reviewed.
In my humble opinion, this has been one of the toughest classes we've had. Oh sure, we've had anatomy, pathology, and trigger point, but I think that because we've had to learn something totally foreign to us, based on Traditional Eastern Medicine, it's more difficult. Not only do we need to all of the theory behind it, but the points themselves, and why we might use these points. It's a lot of information. I think I'll go study some more. Or sleep. Whichever.
In my humble opinion, this has been one of the toughest classes we've had. Oh sure, we've had anatomy, pathology, and trigger point, but I think that because we've had to learn something totally foreign to us, based on Traditional Eastern Medicine, it's more difficult. Not only do we need to all of the theory behind it, but the points themselves, and why we might use these points. It's a lot of information. I think I'll go study some more. Or sleep. Whichever.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Day 96 - Vision Test
Every few years, we have to renew our drivers license, which means that they have to test our vision to make sure we can see well enough to drive. Sometimes, we have a special code on the license to say that we must be wearing corrective lenses because our vision isn't good enough to drive without them.
In tonight's Professional Development class, we took the "level" test, which is basically the same as a final exam. I think when I snuck a peak at my grade on it, I believe I saw a 50 (out of 50). Yay me!
After taking the final, each student in the class presented his or her "vision" of what they want to do with their massage career, which had to include their goals and their purpose. The visions in the class were as diverse as the class itself. Some students don't know what they want to do, but just explained why they're in the class, some shared their life history to demonstrate why they are going the direction they are going, some have grand visions of huge wellness centers, some have visions of working in the medical community, and one or two may have left us scratching our heads or wiping the tears from our eyes. Regardless of their vision, they shared a part of themselves and gave a glimpse into what makes them tick.
I think I have a new-found respect for some of my classmates because of their visions. The question is - do you need your vision examined?
In tonight's Professional Development class, we took the "level" test, which is basically the same as a final exam. I think when I snuck a peak at my grade on it, I believe I saw a 50 (out of 50). Yay me!
After taking the final, each student in the class presented his or her "vision" of what they want to do with their massage career, which had to include their goals and their purpose. The visions in the class were as diverse as the class itself. Some students don't know what they want to do, but just explained why they're in the class, some shared their life history to demonstrate why they are going the direction they are going, some have grand visions of huge wellness centers, some have visions of working in the medical community, and one or two may have left us scratching our heads or wiping the tears from our eyes. Regardless of their vision, they shared a part of themselves and gave a glimpse into what makes them tick.
I think I have a new-found respect for some of my classmates because of their visions. The question is - do you need your vision examined?
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Day 87 - Eastern Mumbo Jumbo to Western Girl
Ok, so to say that this whole Acupressure thing seems a little hokey to me may be an understatement. That being said, it's still part of the curriculum of the school and I need to learn it, whether I believe or like it myself.
Mostly what I don't understand why I have to know some of this stuff is the whole Traditional Chinese Medicine stuff and the study of Tao and Yin & Yang. Maybe I'll "get it" more as I go on through this class, but for right now, it just seems so foreign to me. Well...ok it IS foreign to me.
We had a quiz this evening. Six of the 25 points were random words (warm, night, summer, external) and we were to say whether they were "Yin" or "Yang." It reminds me a lot of French class in high school when we had to learn nouns as masculine or feminine. Basic memorization.
I can grasp that the body has certain points on it that could control pain, tension, or whatever, but the rest of the stuff (Yin & Yang), I really don't have much interest in learning.
Oh. And that quiz with 25 point? I got a 15, with only getting two of those six Yin & Yang points correct. At least I know what other Mumbo Jumbo I'll need to learn for the final exam.
Speaking of Mumbo Jumbo, check this out. Hysterical!
How to Massage Your Oppossum
Mostly what I don't understand why I have to know some of this stuff is the whole Traditional Chinese Medicine stuff and the study of Tao and Yin & Yang. Maybe I'll "get it" more as I go on through this class, but for right now, it just seems so foreign to me. Well...ok it IS foreign to me.
We had a quiz this evening. Six of the 25 points were random words (warm, night, summer, external) and we were to say whether they were "Yin" or "Yang." It reminds me a lot of French class in high school when we had to learn nouns as masculine or feminine. Basic memorization.
I can grasp that the body has certain points on it that could control pain, tension, or whatever, but the rest of the stuff (Yin & Yang), I really don't have much interest in learning.
Oh. And that quiz with 25 point? I got a 15, with only getting two of those six Yin & Yang points correct. At least I know what other Mumbo Jumbo I'll need to learn for the final exam.
Speaking of Mumbo Jumbo, check this out. Hysterical!
How to Massage Your Oppossum
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