What a Difference a Year Makes...

Last year at this time, I was poised to make a huge change. After devoting my life (and career) to the specialty of Neonatal Intensive Care Nursing, it was time for a change. It is really hard to walk away from a job you adore but sometimes life gets in the way. And so I did it...I walked away. I walked away from making a difference in the lives of those tiny babies and their families. I walked away from the best co-workers ever. I walked away from a great schedule with long stretches of days off. And I walked away from 12 hour days, weekends and holidays. I told myself that change is good and I was given a great opportunity to learn so many new things by becoming a member of the internal float pool of a large physician's group. Umm...culture shock! Every day was something new and I had to work really hard to learn the details and work flow of a new employer and multiple specialty clinics (13 in all!). I was presented as an expert in all areas but in reality I was drowning while I tried to learn it all. I gradually developed a confidence I didn't know I had and I took control of my practice. I loved working with all age groups and learning new skills.

What I didn't expect was the sadness that came from not having a "home" base. I loved being home with my kids every night for family dinners and I loved my weekend dates with Bob but I missed seeing the same coworkers every single day and being a part of a team. So...I took another leap of faith, restructured my résumé and looked for an opportunity that would make everyone happy. Sometimes, when we least expect it, something comes along that we just can't say no to. Within 72 hours of looking for the right fit, I was hired for my dream job. All the skills I learned in the NICU combined with the multi-specialty skills I learned floating led me to accept the Bone and Mineral Infusion Nurse position at a local Children's Hospital. As I sit here, a year later, I realize that this is all part of a bigger plan. I have been blessed to  have found another job that I adore. I still keep in touch with my NICU friends and love catching up with them over an occasional lunch. I left my first job of the year on good terms and was actually contacted by one of the clinics and told I could come back at any time. I have made new friends all over the city and I have learned so much! I have a schedule that fits my life and I feel challenged (yet capable) of doing the complicated infusions I have to do. And I love going to work. Every. Single. Day. What a difference a year makes...