Thursday, March 20, 2014

I am my parent's daughter

Over the past year I have found that I find great enjoyment in tasks that a lot of people would find tremendously tedious (say that five times fast). Today, I was reminded of some past experiences that I've had that I'd like to share with you.

*Flashback to last summer*

It was while I was at Mayo Clinic. I was asked in January if I would stand up in a friend's wedding. Now it was mid-June and I was in semi-rural Minnesota, stranded without a car, and desperately wanting to go home. What were my options? 1. Have my parents come get me- not a great option for them. 2. Fly- pretty darn expensive. 3. Borrow a car- not likely since I had only known these people for about 3 weeks.
4. Figure out a better way.
So figure out a better way I did (that is terrible grammar, but adds dramatic effect). I scoured the internet for train routes, bus routes, taxi routes, underground tunnel routes, and personal helicopter routes. I am known for my frugalness, so price was a big factor as well as my time. I ended up finding a bus route that only had one transfer and got me to Chicago in about 8 hours. Sounds simple enough, but it was very difficult and tedious to find the best option. Later in the summer, I also figured out the best way to get to Cedar Rapids for another wedding. That time, the most efficient and cost-effective option was renting a car. It was pretty fun.

*Flash-forward to December 2013*

It was while I was on Christmas break. I was going on a road trip with four of my best friend to Washington D.C. It was basically up to me to plan the entire trip. I had to think about hotels, the car we were to use, the attractions and their prices, meals, maps, and money. I loved it. I had so much fun planning, and although not everything turned out as I had planned, it was a great learning experience.

*Flash-forward again to today*

Today I drove to Northwestern for my orientation. Let's just say that it was a little bit stressful. Could I handle it? Yeah! Could I do it again? Yeah! Could I get used to it? Maybe! However, it wasn't the most fun. So, I began researching. I had done some research before, but I felt like the options weren't that great. However, this time, I was successful! I believe I've found a route that is equally comparable to time I would spend in the car, a little cheaper, and reduces a lot of stress. Yay me!

My point to all this is that I enjoy working out those details. I find joy in finding the best bargain. This is a trait that I have received from my parents. Both of them are wonderful at finding the best deal, the best route, and the best ideas.
That's all. I'm pretty proud of myself. I'll let you know how I'm feeling after my first two back to back shifts next week!

Amor,
Carolina

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