I recently started volunteering at Rady Children's Hospital http://www.rchsd.org/ here in San Diego. It has been a long process (much like applying for a job) but one worthwhile for sure. I will be volunteering one morning a week in the Hem/Onc (Hematology and Oncology) Wing in the Activity Room. First of all I have to say what a gorgeous, warm, and beautiful facility this hospital is. It looks like a hotel/resort when you pull up...beautiful palm trees, floor to ceiling windows, and just an overall warm decor and environment. It has a very different feel than any other hospital I have ever been to that is for sure. It also has a Ronald McDonald House http://rmhc.org/ on site as well. Such a great charity as well. My shift at the hospital starts off by me going to each patients' room and checking in on them. I offer to bring down any toys or activities they might want, invite them to the playroom or teen lounge, or return toys and materials they are done using. This takes about 30-45 minutes because there are a lot of rooms and depending on the day...majority have patients. My youngest patient so far has been 2 years old and my oldest has been 18. After I visit the first time, I make note of who wanted what and go back, grab the supplies and make the deliveries! We even have portable Wiis for the patients as well as endless art supplies, DVDs etc. How fortunate this hospital is to receive such wonderful donations. Then for the rest of my shift I am mainly in the activity room/playroom interacting with the kids as they come down. So far I am really enjoying it and happy I decided to volunteer in this capacity...it continues my work with children while also giving back to the community and helping those in need.
I have slowly but surely been applying to jobs here and there. I have an interview Tuesday for a Camp Counselor position for the summer. I am sure it doesn't pay much but again...if I can be outside enjoying the weather and working with kids...I am good to go! We will find out more about the camp on Tuesday but it seems pretty traditional as far as Day Camps go. I have also been doing a lot more at my current job and taking on a leadership role. We have had some revolving doors when it comes to the Site Supervisor and so even though I don't hold the title..I am pretty much running the site...so doing the work but not getting paid....hmmm...what is wrong with this picture?!? But it is good experience and building my confidence with being a boss and understanding the logistics so maybe next year I would be interested in the position...we shall see.
And finally....a little reflection on life in San Diego 8 1/2 months later. I still really love it out here although the same things still weigh on me about living here. Missing time with my family and especially my Gran....it is hard to miss out on cookouts, birthdays, and Sunday dinners. Missing good friends of course. But other than that...hmmm...not missing much else :) I love the fact I am outside more here than I ever was in Georgia...I love that I can walk to the beach or bay and instantly feel relaxed. I love that Rox has so much to do here and is turning in to such a cool pup who loves the water and just going crazy outside. I love that everyone's attitude here is chill, laid back, and easy going...you easily forget about the rat race here that is for sure. People are friendly...not in a Southern kinda way...but friendly and I am learning to understand it a little better. I couldn't tell you the last time I really got stressed out or worried about something and that is a good feeling. And lastly...out here I am living life day by day...and for once in my life not planning or preparing much...and that has been good for me. SoCal does wonders for the soul...not so much the bank account but then again you can't put a price on peace of mind. Life. Is. Good.
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