Jenna Jo: Christmas Break

I know I'm not the only one in this boat, but I couldn't be happier to have this Christmas break! This last semester of school was probably the most challenging semester out of all my years in college. Many mini breakdowns were had, and I'm not the type of person to have breakdowns. Luckily I had plenty of words of encouragement, help, and lots of love from Mirza, friends, and family who always tried to help me feel better when I felt like I just couldn't do everything or as well as I needed to. Final grades haven't been posted yet, but from what I can see I should be getting A-'s in Microbiology, Physiology (adding onto my A in Anatomy, yay!!!!), an A in Psychology, and I have no idea about my other Psychology class since the instructor was pretty awful and unorganized.

I'm going to begin applying for nursing schools in a few months, and I'm pretty nervous about not getting into any (hence feeling the pressure during the classes this semester). I know I have a chance, but at the same time the Bay Area is extremely overcrowded and competitive. With everything these schools take into account, I'm doing well in some areas, but wish I was a stronger applicant in other areas. I still have to study for and take the TEAS this month, take a few more classes for one of the programs I'm interested in, and prepare everything for applications, but I can't believe the time is finally here. I first became interested in going to nursing school my last year at BYU, so it's been awhile coming. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I kick it back into gear soon!!!

So about the break - Mirza and I decided to drive to Panaca instead of fly so we could do a little sightseeing on the way. We drove south to Santa Barbara, which according to Wikipedia is known as the American Riveria. It had nice weather, very cool architecture, and was just a beautiful city by the water.

We rented a tandem bike, so Mirza could do most of the work peddling due to my annoying knee problems. Tandem bikes are the way to go! :D

The wharf

Happy in the sun

Riding close to the waves, which very fun and muddy

State Street

Following Santa Barbara we made it to Panaca for Christmas! It was really nice to be home and see everyone, not to mention relax. I'm so grateful for my family and how loving, fun and easy-going they are. I don't mean to brag, but they are pretty great :o Unfortunately I forgot to pack my new camera (courtesy of Aunt Rie and Uncle Kenny) in Panaca, so I don't have too many photos to share except what I had already stolen from my aunt.

Some Christmas highlights included:

The whole family was there
Grandma was doing pretty well and was beautiful as always
Yummy Christmas dinner
Got a MacBook Pro from Mirza (couldn't believe it), a new digital camera, Lord of the Rings trilogy DVDs, comfy socks, Old Navy gift cards, framed family photo, candy
Hiking in Kershaw Ryan State Park
Sleeping in until 11 most days
Eating pie every day