Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Contraceptives, Brownback, Church, and State

Abortion is quite the topic. I do not agree with abortion in most cases. There are however, specific cases, all to be handled individually, that may require it. This article however has stricken a nerve with me. I am upset with how Brownback is handling the issue of abortion. Contraceptives are used for more than "preventing pregnancy." There are women out there, myself included, that need the birth control hormones for medical purposes. According to this bill, it doesn't matter. And, if the pharmacist or physician disagrees with birth control for religious reasons, they are allowed to turn away patients seeking birth control. I understand that religious views influence much of the decisions made in people's lives. But, at some point, especially this one, the decision needs to be made for the good of the people and also, looking at the future of our state as a whole. Look at how many people are on state assistance and have many children? You, me, and everyone else that pays taxes are supporting these people that keep having children they can't afford to raise. Don't get me wrong, I think state assistance is important and in many cases, quite beneficial to those that need it for the right reasons. This bill, however, will possibly increase costs of our state, putting us even more in debt. I know I have probably stepped on a few toes by posting this, but when it comes to politics, some people just shouldn't been in office. 

here is one of the many articles covering his decision to sign this bill/act/ whatever it is. 
http://www.kansascity.com/2012/05/15/3611028/kansas-gov-brownback-signs-act.html 

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Update on the Adventures of Nattigan

Quite a bit has happened in the past three years.

I have finished my degree at KSU and am one year into the nursing program here at Washburn. My class has 80 students and we have become pretty good friends. It is nice having friends to support you when you are all going through the same stresses in life, specifically school. I am currently taking Pain Management as my summer course and will be starting Nursing Research in a couple weeks. I know it seems like I just asking for it by taking summer classes, but I am hoping to lighten the load for my fall semester.

I am currently working at both St. Francis Hospital and Meadowlark as CNA/Nurse Tech. It is nice to be able to choose my hours at work, but I feel bad for not working very much. I worry that they will get tired of waiting on me to pick up shifts and eventually fire me. But, I think they won't, since they know that I am going to school.

I haven't decided what I want to do with my life after school. I am seriously considering doing the Kansas Commerce Loan Repayment Program. It pays up to 15,000 of my loans and by the time I am done with school I will have about 35,000-40,000 in loans from KSU and WU. It's a lot, I know. And, a bit depressing to think about. But, I know that God will support me and help me find the resources that will help with paying for school. I definitely feel like this is the direction he is pushing me to go. Speaking of decisions after school is over, I have narrowed it down to 3 possibilities. Stay in NE Kansas, Pratt, or SWK. This is broad, but at least it isn't "I have no idea." It will just depend on which area offers me the best benefits and situation for me.

My parents are leaving today to go on their trip to Germany. This is the first time my mom has been home in 18 years and I have a feeling it is going to be very hard for her to come back. I'm glad that she will get to see my grandma, who knows when the next time will be. I hope her and dad have a great time.
One thing I am nervous about is my responsibility while they are gone. Dad was going over all the legal stuff with DPOA and insurance, and guardianship with Andrea, WOW! that is a lot to know and be organized with! I'm sure glad he made me a binder full of all the info and people to contact.

Well, I think that's about all I have to say for now. Not very deep, but it helps to put my thoughts down in a document of some sort.

The picture below is an outtake of our Family Picture session at the end of 2010. I love our family...