Healthcare Traveler - October 2008 - (Page 35) Treated like gold Practicing in the endo unit at the 429-bed Level I trauma center was one of the best decisions I ever made. Specializing in stepdown and PACU, I cared for patients in the pre- and post-procedure area at first, and then I worked my way back into the rooms for conscious sedation. During my assignment, I discovered that the people and the facility were top notch. Management treated their nurses—permanent and temporary—like gold. As most places should, right? Plus, the medical center is located in a beautiful, peaceful setting amongst pine trees. The only traffic around it is hospital-related—unless you count the occasional curious bear in the parking lot! The perfect place Once I realized I wanted to spend more time in the area, I checked out the local real estate market. After a couple of months, I found the perfect place for me. Not only is my condo located in a beautiful spot on Lake Mascoma—about 10 miles from the hospital—it is affordable, too, even on a nurse’s salary. My front door overlooks the lake, and my back door has views of trees and mountains. Residents have beach access, and hiking trails are connected to our condo complex. So I instantly bought a canoe and my neighbors said I could borrow their kayaks anytime I wanted. With all of the opportunities for hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, I am in heaven! I was so enthralled with the area and the workplace, I ended up staying for 8 months and even bought a condo. Hiking bonanzas As if that isn’t enough, Mt. Cardigan, at 3,155-feet elevation, is just 20 minutes away. You can start your ascent at about 700 feet and hike to the top, where you’ll get a 360-degree view of the entire region. Mt. Washington is easily visible to the northeast. You can see Mt. Sunapee and Lake Sunapee to the south. And Lebanon and Hanover, including the Dartmouth University campus, are visible to the west. I recommend this trip highly, especially in October, when the spectacular fall colors make the whole area look like it is on fire. Along with Mt. Cardigan, there are several other good hiking mountains within a short drive. Located 45 minutes to the southwest of Enfield, Mt. Ascutney offers a similar experience with another scenic view waiting for you at the top. Mt. Sunapee, roughly a half-hour away, provides a remarkable view of Lake Sunapee in all its glory. And Mt. Washington and the White Mountains are just under 3 hours away from Lebanon. If you go to the top of Mt. Washington, just be prepared. Even in July, October 2008 Healthcare Traveler 35 Circle Career Card No. 606 http://www.bannerhealth.com http://www.bannerhealth.com
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