Glenda Atkins (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
gateslacker) wrote2010-10-25 10:15 am
gateslacker) wrote2010-10-25 10:15 am
A Smattering.
From time to time, I become neurotically indecisive. I waffle ad nauseam about the pros and cons of this or that. I question others about their opinion which, somehow, is a balm for my anxiety even if it doesn't always help with the decision making process. At the moment, I am in a dither about the certification exam. Or, exams, I should say. You see, there are two options even though it would be better for me if there wasn't a choice at all. I am already suffering from a recent adult onset of test anxiety (this test to be specific) and now I have to choose. On the one hand you have the AANP certification exam that is described by my professor as "more straightforward and like the questions you have encountered during school." The pass rate is 80-85% per her report. On the other hand, you have the ANCC certification exam which is described as "more detailed and complex. Questions are like those you see in difficult review books". However, the pass rate for this test is 91%. Hummmm.....It doesn't make sense, really. Why does the seemingly harder test have a better pass rate? I had been leaning toward the ANCC because it is computer based and you have one form to be signed by the director for your program whereas the AANP wants forms signed and names/addresses for every site/preceptor you have used while in the program. There is also the fact that you can retest in 90 days with the ANCC with no blackout dates. But still, I waffle.
Everyone asks if I have found a job, yet. Are you kidding me? Can you imagine the total humiliation of having a job lined up and then failing the certification exam. I can...and only too well. It is currently a personal nightmare.
I am also experiencing a bit of sticker shock. I am probably going to be beyond broke by the time this semester is over. Yet, these exams are each around $350. Plus, according to recent "lecture" material, post exam applications aren't cheap, either. The state APN license application is $210 and the DEA application is $390. OUCH!! Perhaps there is a way to negotiate these costs with potential employers. IDK. I've never had to negotiate a contract with a potential employer before. As one who has difficulty haggling at a yard sale, I am sure I will TOTALLY SUCK at this. At any rate, at least I have the option of getting more hours at work, whether I want to or not...LOL.
But, hey, my son has now entered the work force. It has been an eventful week for him. Wednesday was his 16th birthday. His feelings about this day were a mixed bag. Firstly, he had four friends text him "Happy Birthday" (or the text speak equivalent) before I even muttered any birthday wishes, a fact he felt needed mentioning. Then, he wanted to stay home and I wouldn't let him. (There was no school on Friday, already. Come on!). Then, he texts me, wanting me to come get him early, which I ignore. He comes home and tells me he wants pizza for dinner and I'm like, "Are you kidding me? You just had pizza three days ago" Then, he reminds me again that it really is his birthday and I grudgingly acquiesce. Then, of course, there is no tea made. I mean, he usually makes the tea in the house but I guess he expected me to do it since it was his birthday but I never thought about it consumed as I was doing school stuff. I am sure this puts me in the running for mean parent award but, seriously, I thought the plan was to celebrate on Friday because there was no school.
Then, he gets offered a job as a dishwasher at the pizza place where my brother works. Though he only works 4-5 hours a day, it will be 5 days a week. He isn't exactly thrilled at first because he realizes that he will now be working for the rest of his life. Playtime is over. After thinking about it a bit, he gets excited about making his own money. When Friday rolls around, we head to Paris to obtain his learner's permit. I couldn't believe how nervous I was for him while he was taking the test. He was successful and, as expected, misplaces the darn thing within the first 12 hours. Luckily it was found in a friend's vehicle.
On the TV front,
SGU continues to churn out great eps. Even though this week's wasn't as jaw dropping as previous, I loved the story involving Eli and his mother. Camille won mega brownie points from me by ensuring that Eli's mother would see him on Destiny in order to convince her of the truth. It was a supremely satisfying scene. I also managed to not be completely bored by a storyline involving Chloe. I think her character has improved a bit but I am sure that it is the mystery of what is happening to her coupled with Rush's unscrupulous behavior that makes for the intrigue.
Ah, Merlin and "The Castle of Fyrien". I didn't expect to like this episode as much as I did. I have been with this series long enough to realize my pattern of love and interest and I am sure it is no great mystery. I was pleasantly surprised to find myself engaged by all of the characters. I like Gwen's brother and I hope we see more of him. Morgause and Cenred are just plain HOT. There sure is alot of sizzle there for a "family" show. I love watching them on screen. I enjoyed the interaction and character development between all of the characters with the exception of Morgana. While her confrontations with Merlin are a highlight (More please!!), I am really disappointed in her character's spotty development. I'm sorry. A year (off camera) under the influence of Morgause is NOT enough to explain her current behavior. Her issues prior to this were always with Uther. And her current issues really only involve Uther, and Merlin of course. She seemed to truly care for Gwen and Arthur before her "disappearance". Now, she is playing games using Gwen as bait and wants Arthur dead? What? Why? When did she become so power hungry? Sure, there was no doubt going in that her character would likely transition. Ultimately, it is a transition the viewer needs to actually see. However, I will give some credit that all of this is addressed through Merlin's questions. She didn't really answer, only threw Merlin's betrayal in his face, but at least it wasn't just ignored. I can only assume that she has been completely consumed by bitterness and anger. All in all, I felt sorry for Arthur yet again. His talk about trust and loyalty just made me sad what with everyone lying to him and Morgana betraying him. No matter what version of the legend I am reading/watching, I always end up feeling really sad for Arthur.
Sanctuary has been pretty good these past couple of weeks though Paul McGillion's prosthetic makeup made me both laugh and scoff. Kate is the weak link for this show, I think. They replaced one weak link with another but at least Ashley had a family connection there. My feelings about Kate vary depending on the episode. Truthfully, her acting isn't the greatest IMHO. I am curious as to who (or what) wanted the information out of Will's head. I hope the stories are more arcing this season as opposed to episodic fillers.
Sherlock had me from hello. I didn't delete it from the DVR and I think I already want to see it again. I am already LOVING the relationship between Holmes and Watson. Of course I realize that is the point and that I am supposed to but since I have never even read any SH (I know! Can you even believe that?) I tend to take it on a case by case basis and these two had chemistry in SPADES. Of course, sometimes the deductions seemed almost unbelievable but I can let that go due to the sheer enjoyment of watching cheekbones work. (Just what I need. Yet another TV boyfriend. In the past I have been pretty monogamous with regard to my TV boyfriend(s) but I may just have to make an exception this time around and have more than one at a time.)
Everyone asks if I have found a job, yet. Are you kidding me? Can you imagine the total humiliation of having a job lined up and then failing the certification exam. I can...and only too well. It is currently a personal nightmare.
I am also experiencing a bit of sticker shock. I am probably going to be beyond broke by the time this semester is over. Yet, these exams are each around $350. Plus, according to recent "lecture" material, post exam applications aren't cheap, either. The state APN license application is $210 and the DEA application is $390. OUCH!! Perhaps there is a way to negotiate these costs with potential employers. IDK. I've never had to negotiate a contract with a potential employer before. As one who has difficulty haggling at a yard sale, I am sure I will TOTALLY SUCK at this. At any rate, at least I have the option of getting more hours at work, whether I want to or not...LOL.
But, hey, my son has now entered the work force. It has been an eventful week for him. Wednesday was his 16th birthday. His feelings about this day were a mixed bag. Firstly, he had four friends text him "Happy Birthday" (or the text speak equivalent) before I even muttered any birthday wishes, a fact he felt needed mentioning. Then, he wanted to stay home and I wouldn't let him. (There was no school on Friday, already. Come on!). Then, he texts me, wanting me to come get him early, which I ignore. He comes home and tells me he wants pizza for dinner and I'm like, "Are you kidding me? You just had pizza three days ago" Then, he reminds me again that it really is his birthday and I grudgingly acquiesce. Then, of course, there is no tea made. I mean, he usually makes the tea in the house but I guess he expected me to do it since it was his birthday but I never thought about it consumed as I was doing school stuff. I am sure this puts me in the running for mean parent award but, seriously, I thought the plan was to celebrate on Friday because there was no school.
Then, he gets offered a job as a dishwasher at the pizza place where my brother works. Though he only works 4-5 hours a day, it will be 5 days a week. He isn't exactly thrilled at first because he realizes that he will now be working for the rest of his life. Playtime is over. After thinking about it a bit, he gets excited about making his own money. When Friday rolls around, we head to Paris to obtain his learner's permit. I couldn't believe how nervous I was for him while he was taking the test. He was successful and, as expected, misplaces the darn thing within the first 12 hours. Luckily it was found in a friend's vehicle.
On the TV front,
SGU continues to churn out great eps. Even though this week's wasn't as jaw dropping as previous, I loved the story involving Eli and his mother. Camille won mega brownie points from me by ensuring that Eli's mother would see him on Destiny in order to convince her of the truth. It was a supremely satisfying scene. I also managed to not be completely bored by a storyline involving Chloe. I think her character has improved a bit but I am sure that it is the mystery of what is happening to her coupled with Rush's unscrupulous behavior that makes for the intrigue.
Ah, Merlin and "The Castle of Fyrien". I didn't expect to like this episode as much as I did. I have been with this series long enough to realize my pattern of love and interest and I am sure it is no great mystery. I was pleasantly surprised to find myself engaged by all of the characters. I like Gwen's brother and I hope we see more of him. Morgause and Cenred are just plain HOT. There sure is alot of sizzle there for a "family" show. I love watching them on screen. I enjoyed the interaction and character development between all of the characters with the exception of Morgana. While her confrontations with Merlin are a highlight (More please!!), I am really disappointed in her character's spotty development. I'm sorry. A year (off camera) under the influence of Morgause is NOT enough to explain her current behavior. Her issues prior to this were always with Uther. And her current issues really only involve Uther, and Merlin of course. She seemed to truly care for Gwen and Arthur before her "disappearance". Now, she is playing games using Gwen as bait and wants Arthur dead? What? Why? When did she become so power hungry? Sure, there was no doubt going in that her character would likely transition. Ultimately, it is a transition the viewer needs to actually see. However, I will give some credit that all of this is addressed through Merlin's questions. She didn't really answer, only threw Merlin's betrayal in his face, but at least it wasn't just ignored. I can only assume that she has been completely consumed by bitterness and anger. All in all, I felt sorry for Arthur yet again. His talk about trust and loyalty just made me sad what with everyone lying to him and Morgana betraying him. No matter what version of the legend I am reading/watching, I always end up feeling really sad for Arthur.
Sanctuary has been pretty good these past couple of weeks though Paul McGillion's prosthetic makeup made me both laugh and scoff. Kate is the weak link for this show, I think. They replaced one weak link with another but at least Ashley had a family connection there. My feelings about Kate vary depending on the episode. Truthfully, her acting isn't the greatest IMHO. I am curious as to who (or what) wanted the information out of Will's head. I hope the stories are more arcing this season as opposed to episodic fillers.
Sherlock had me from hello. I didn't delete it from the DVR and I think I already want to see it again. I am already LOVING the relationship between Holmes and Watson. Of course I realize that is the point and that I am supposed to but since I have never even read any SH (I know! Can you even believe that?) I tend to take it on a case by case basis and these two had chemistry in SPADES. Of course, sometimes the deductions seemed almost unbelievable but I can let that go due to the sheer enjoyment of watching cheekbones work. (Just what I need. Yet another TV boyfriend. In the past I have been pretty monogamous with regard to my TV boyfriend(s) but I may just have to make an exception this time around and have more than one at a time.)
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As far as the exam goes, if they both get you to the same place, I'd go the easiest route. You have enough on your plate.
Brandon? It's good to torment your teenager. If you don't know why, he does!
SGU - I LOVED the last episode! I was so intrigued by how the lives of those they left behind are even more decimated than those on the Destiny. It was a sweet episode. And Chloe might be half-way interesting this time.
Sanctuary - I totally agree about Kate. She bores me every time there's a scene. Can she do nothing but play obnoxious and speak in a loud volume?
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Yeah, it's just trying to determine the easiest route.
I totally agree about Kate. She bores me every time there's a scene. Can she do nothing but play obnoxious and speak in a loud volume?
No and she is really annoying.
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I wish that Morgana hadn't become quite so ebil! so fast. Someone else pointed out that it was so sad how she was treating Arthur, particularly since he seemed genuninely interested/excited about her coming along with them on their trek. She has reason to be upset with Merlin, and plenty of reasons to be upset with Uther, but I hate the way she's treating Gwen and Morgana.
Poor Arthur. I'LL BE HAPPY TO MAKE BRADLEY FEEL BETTER ABOUT IT ALL IF HE WANTS, THOUGH. :D
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Hee! I'm all like, "Awwwww. There, there." *in a soothing voice*
And I don't mind Morgana going all dark side, really. It is just too fast and nonsensical for me to totally buy it. Plus, I'd like it if she showed a bit more hesitation, a bit more ambivalence about her actions.
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Yes, I think Chloe has improved. She is probably the only character I see any comparison with past Gate characters. Chloe reminds me of Teyla and I think she will ultimately fulfill a similar purpose. Somehow she will be a big part of what becomes of the Destiny crew and Rush apparently understands that. Teyla never ceased to annoy the hell out of me but I've always been okay with chloe. She's not my favorite but she's tolerable.
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And that is what is making her more intriguing, which is a good thing. Conversely, I was okay with Teyla but Chloe has annoyed me. Until now. So, again, a good thing.
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Brandon's job - 5 hours a day for 5 days is a lot at his age! (and during school) Are you afraid his grades will suffer? But happy birthday to him, I thought about it the day of.
SGU: Yes, I am finally not totally annoyed with Chloe, I imagine it's because an alien is taking over her personality. I am both intrigued and somewhat annoyed at Rush's continuing refusal to tell people that he found the bridge. I loved Eli's story line, and I agree on the brownie points for Camille!
Sanctuary: Agree with your comments. I love Paul McG, but they should have done something better with his character.
Sherlock: Dying to watch it, haven't had a chance yet!
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Well, there is only one five hour day. The rest are four hours. Yes, I had considered his grades and if they drop markedly, we'll have to make adjustments. However, he isn't exactly the most studious, anyway. On Tuesdays, he walks there from school until it is time for work so maybe he will actually get more studying done.
I imagine it's because an alien is taking over her personality.
LOL. It's pretty bad when you hope an alien takes over one of the characters.
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Brandon, he's so adorkable in that predictable teenage way. ;)
And agree about Kate re: Sanctuary. *yawn* Guh, if they actually attempt to have sparks fly between her and Will I'll be sorely disappointed. And I knew Paul's character was going to be a jerk for this storyline, but did he have to be a stupid jerk? :/
Haven't gotten to watch Sherlock yet.
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Yes, I DO NOT see Kate and Will. I suspect I'll be really annoyed if they go that route. Strangely, (or perhaps not strangely considering we're talking about me, here) I don't ship anyone on this show.
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Another piece of good news: Merlin has been picked up for another season. Ratings are strong this season :). Which is very good considering the show is going out at the same as the X-Factor!
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I think they'd be crazy not to. Did it do well over there? It seems that many on my flist were all aflutter about it so maybe my perceptions about its popularity were skewed.
Because I am obsessed, I read everything I can about Merlin and I did see where there will be another series. I don't know anything about X-factor...or what it is even about...but I am assuming holding your own against that show is a really good thing.
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I had to laugh at Brandon's comment that now he has to work for the rest of his life. ; )
As for Sanctuary, I really like Kate. She is an big improvement over Ashley. I am so glad she got written off. I couldn't stand her. Paul's makeup was too distracting. I found it hard to watch him. I really like the Will story arc they have going.
I almost cried when Eli's mom showed up on the Destiny. Finally Camille does something that shows she really does care for someone besides herself and her girlfriend. On the Destiny, She come across as being all business and doesn't let anyone in emotionally.
I have had a sense that the writers had something possibly tragic in the works for Chloe. Given the darker nature of the stories on Destiny I feel this might be it. It reminds me of what happened to Fred in the last season of Angel. Did you watch Angel? That storyline just broke my heart so bad.
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Yes, it seems I have imparted that message to him...LOL!
Yeah, I'm not sure I agree about Kate. Ashley, I could take or leave. Kate, I just want to leave. It was hard to watch Paul in that makeup. It was awful.
It is good to see Camille do something nice as she has almost seemed as self serving as Rush but in a much less intriguing way.
I never saw Angel. I'd considered it but for some reason thought you would have to watch Buffy, first.
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