Working?

So I've decided, probably not very intelligently, to work doing research this summer. I am beginning to regret my decision. This is the one "golden" summer we get in med school. Next summer we start doing clinical rotations shortly after we take our first board exam. So this was my last chance to enjoy being a slacker for the summer. But I decided to be responsible and work, in order to make money for the baby. But a part of me really wishes I could just stay home and get the house in order from moving 2 months ago. Luckily the doctor I'm doing research under is very laid back and gives us days off if we need them. And I'm saving on air conditioning by being gone all day!

I really do like the place I'm working at, which is a long term care facility for children who are ventilator dependent (most of them are brain damaged and thus can't breath on their own). It may seem depressing, but seeing the small milestones these kids reach really touches my heart. To see a kid respond with a smile when you talk to him, or stop crying when you give him his favorite teddy bear, or start fussing when you walk in front of the TV they are watching. These are things we expect infants to do, but the fact that a six year old who is severly mentally disabled can do them is remarkable. I'm blessed every day I see these kids. It may not be the most ideal "last summer ever", but at least I enjoy what I'm doing and hopefully will make a difference somehow.