So, I was finally able to move out of my one bedroom apartment in San Antonio out to a 3 bedroom home on 3 acres out in Seguin. When I viewed the house for the first time, I saw a mouse run from one of the bedrooms into the kitchen. I don't know how long the house has been vacant, but I figured that a house in the country is probably going to have some pest control issues, and that I could handle it.
The first night I was out here, I was awoken at 3 am by what sounded like scratching on the floor in the kitchen. I didn't feel like getting up to investigate, and when I finally got up, I didn't really notice anything out of the ordinary. I set some mousetraps since I knew I had at least one mouse.
When I got home, I noticed that the peanut butter I had put on the traps had all been licked off without springing the traps. I also noticed a trail of pretzel crumbs coming out of a previously unopened bag of buffalo chicken flavored pretzel bits which I was looking forward to eating. I had a few bags of chips, 2 store brand knock off chips, and the pretzels I really wanted to try, and the I guess the mouse had the same tastes. I wasn't happy.
That night I had a friend of mine over watching Burn Notice dvds, and he saw a mouse running along the floorboards in my living room. We cornered it eventually, and I smooshed it with a roll of paper towels.
Anyways, I started looking for other signs, and I moved the microwave and toaster off my counter to look around. There, behind the toaster oven was a gigantic cockroach, he was looking at me, his face was big enough to have an expression that said "Yo, where did you sweep all those crumbs that were here earlier?" I informed him that he was not a welcome guest in my home, crushed him, and staked him out in my yard as a warning for other pests who want to encroach on my space.
This morning, I went to Home Depot to buy mousetraps and a few other items I need to get ready for Jenn and the kids getting here. I bought some of those ultrasonic pest thingamajigs, a few more mousetraps, and one where mice walk into the box, but can't get out, as well as some roach traps.
I set my traps and went out on a run, went to check out of my old apartment by cleaning and turning in keys, and out with a few friends, and came back. More peanut butter had been licked off the other style of traps I had bought, maybe field mice don't weigh enough to trip them. I looked at the little box trap, and didn't see anything, so I picked it up, and lo and behold, there was a mouse in it, hiding under the trap door.
I brought it close to the ultrasonic thingy to see if it would react to whatever sound that thing claims to put out. I think it's a crock, the mouse didn't do a thing when I plugged it in right next to it.
Well, there's one adventure for this week.
In other news, at the academy we got to put out a car fire, and a liquid fuel fire. When they lit the fuel pit, it started up really quick, and a giant plume of black smoke started blowing out towards the highway. It was amazing how fast the heat radiated out to where I was standing, and equally amazing how fast it dissipated when the fog streams went up. It made for a really cool day of class.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Friday, November 19, 2010
Rescue Week
This week at the academy, our technical rescue teams have come to teach us some basic rescue and extrication techniques. It's been a great week with the exception of the 6 hour lecture kicking it off. Our training evolutions have been really fun, and our rescue team instructors have been really cool and helpful.
So far, we've done some repelling down the side of our tower in harnesses we tied out of webbing (praying my knots hold up), torn up cars with spreaders and cutters, dove headfirst off balconies onto ladders and pivoted to feet down while 10 feet off the ground and slid down the beams to simulate an emergency bailout, simulated an elevator shaft rescue using handcuff knots, practiced the Denver drill, which is more or less a really crappy confined space rescue (only crappy because the tall guy usually ends up getting a face full of the victim's butt, and crappier if you get called to be the biggest unconscious victim of the day and you get slammed around against the walls, hung up by the helmet on the windowsill, and ultimately dropped), and so on and so forth. We also practiced disentangling ourselves, lowering occupied baskets down ladders, and carrying down firefighters down ladders. Next week we'll be doing more searches and a lot of crawling.
Eventually our class historian is going to post the pictures he's been taking. Luckily, he's been in my group all week, so I hope to be able to post a few pictures of me diving off the balcony onto our ladder, or hanging off of it sideways trying to turn around to slide down. After just a little bit of practice, we got my 'company' of 4 cadets down the ladder in 15 seconds, even with getting hung up a little on the protruding beams of the ladder (normally you don't have to worry about that, because the tip of the ladder would be slightly below the windowsill).
This week went by fairly quickly, which is good, because I'm really looking forward to spending some time with family next weekend. I haven't seen my 4 oldest kids since August and I bet I miss them more than they miss me. I can't wait to talk to them in person.
Also, we're in the process of applying for a rental home out in Seguin, a Spanish Fork sized town about half an hour outside San Antonio. It's only a 3 bedroom house, but the 3rd bedroom is a huge loft on the 2nd floor that we can probably separate into 3 or 4 separate rooms with dividers. The house sits in a quiet neighborhood on about 5 acres of land, and it's very reasonably priced for the size. We could sure use any prayers thrown our way so that we can get approved and move in.
So far, we've done some repelling down the side of our tower in harnesses we tied out of webbing (praying my knots hold up), torn up cars with spreaders and cutters, dove headfirst off balconies onto ladders and pivoted to feet down while 10 feet off the ground and slid down the beams to simulate an emergency bailout, simulated an elevator shaft rescue using handcuff knots, practiced the Denver drill, which is more or less a really crappy confined space rescue (only crappy because the tall guy usually ends up getting a face full of the victim's butt, and crappier if you get called to be the biggest unconscious victim of the day and you get slammed around against the walls, hung up by the helmet on the windowsill, and ultimately dropped), and so on and so forth. We also practiced disentangling ourselves, lowering occupied baskets down ladders, and carrying down firefighters down ladders. Next week we'll be doing more searches and a lot of crawling.
Eventually our class historian is going to post the pictures he's been taking. Luckily, he's been in my group all week, so I hope to be able to post a few pictures of me diving off the balcony onto our ladder, or hanging off of it sideways trying to turn around to slide down. After just a little bit of practice, we got my 'company' of 4 cadets down the ladder in 15 seconds, even with getting hung up a little on the protruding beams of the ladder (normally you don't have to worry about that, because the tip of the ladder would be slightly below the windowsill).
This week went by fairly quickly, which is good, because I'm really looking forward to spending some time with family next weekend. I haven't seen my 4 oldest kids since August and I bet I miss them more than they miss me. I can't wait to talk to them in person.
Also, we're in the process of applying for a rental home out in Seguin, a Spanish Fork sized town about half an hour outside San Antonio. It's only a 3 bedroom house, but the 3rd bedroom is a huge loft on the 2nd floor that we can probably separate into 3 or 4 separate rooms with dividers. The house sits in a quiet neighborhood on about 5 acres of land, and it's very reasonably priced for the size. We could sure use any prayers thrown our way so that we can get approved and move in.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Hiking, Donuts, and BBQ
We got Veteran's Day off from the academy. It was a little weird getting a Thursday off in the middle of a week, but the day off was well appreciated. I'd like to say thanks to all the veterans out there, not because we got the day off, but because of your contributions and sacrifices for our country.
A few of us cadets drove up to Georgetown to go hiking at Lake Georgetown. On the way, we passed through Round Rock, so we stopped at Round Rock Donuts as seen on Man V Food. A friend and I shared a Texas Sized glazed donut. It wasn't bad, but I was expecting better. There wasn't a whole lot of orange flavor in the donut or the glaze. I also had an eclaire, which was pretty tasty.
The lake wasn't too far, but it was just a place to walk really, nothing incredibly scenic. We hiked part of the way around the lake and were out for about 3 and a half hours walking, and maybe 10 minutes skipping rocks.
On the way back from hiking, we detoured over into Driftwood and went to The Salt Lick. It was good, just as good as it was the first time I went. I wish I hadn't eaten the donuts, could have squeezed in more brisket and ribs.
A few of us cadets drove up to Georgetown to go hiking at Lake Georgetown. On the way, we passed through Round Rock, so we stopped at Round Rock Donuts as seen on Man V Food. A friend and I shared a Texas Sized glazed donut. It wasn't bad, but I was expecting better. There wasn't a whole lot of orange flavor in the donut or the glaze. I also had an eclaire, which was pretty tasty.
The lake wasn't too far, but it was just a place to walk really, nothing incredibly scenic. We hiked part of the way around the lake and were out for about 3 and a half hours walking, and maybe 10 minutes skipping rocks.
On the way back from hiking, we detoured over into Driftwood and went to The Salt Lick. It was good, just as good as it was the first time I went. I wish I hadn't eaten the donuts, could have squeezed in more brisket and ribs.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
My wife, the angel
Yes, Jenn had a rough day at church today. Yes, she's been pretty frustrated trying to be both a mom and a dad to 5 kids. I still know she's an angel, and now I have proof. This is a still that I got from her webcam while we were chatting, you can see the pillar of light surrounding her.
I love you Jenn. This specific trial will be over soon enough, but I'm sure I'll find new ways to make you just as angry and upset as you were today :) You'll always be my angel, even without the cool artificial lighting effects.
I love you Jenn. This specific trial will be over soon enough, but I'm sure I'll find new ways to make you just as angry and upset as you were today :) You'll always be my angel, even without the cool artificial lighting effects.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Air show
Today there was an air show at Lackland AFB, not too far from the fire academy. There had been jets practicing for the past few days while we were out playing with hand and power tools practicing forcible entry. I think they were using our tower as a landmark for because they'd loop around it and head back to the base a lot. The stars of the show were the F-16 Thunderbirds, which are the Air Force's show team. They did some really cool stuff that my pictures and video didn't do justice to.
Anyways, we were given permission to go to the academy and sit in the bleachers and watch the show. We were also given permission to bring our families, but on short notice I couldn't get Jenn to drive out here :)
The kids would have loved it, the planes got close enough that you could actually see the pilots as they flew over us upside down. It's a free show, maybe they'll be able to join me at the airfield next year.
Anyways, we were given permission to go to the academy and sit in the bleachers and watch the show. We were also given permission to bring our families, but on short notice I couldn't get Jenn to drive out here :)
The kids would have loved it, the planes got close enough that you could actually see the pilots as they flew over us upside down. It's a free show, maybe they'll be able to join me at the airfield next year.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
I wonder what might have happened to my car
Last night around 11 a pretty crazy hailstorm happened.
It was loud, the video doesn't do justice to the sound of the hailstones hitting my front door and my glass sliding door. I was just hoping I didn't end up with cracked glass.
I grabbed the camera and took the above video until the battery ran out. Then I charged it up for a few minutes to have enough juice to take a few pictures of the stones on my front landing.
It was loud, the video doesn't do justice to the sound of the hailstones hitting my front door and my glass sliding door. I was just hoping I didn't end up with cracked glass.
I grabbed the camera and took the above video until the battery ran out. Then I charged it up for a few minutes to have enough juice to take a few pictures of the stones on my front landing.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Gigantic Burrito
There is a burrito chain down here called Freebirds. Their biggest burrito is called the Super Monster. I guess it's about a foot long, and probably about 5 inches thick. Here's a picture as I was starting it.
It was really good. Steak, guacamole, pico de gallo, cheese, rice, black beans, red onions, cilantro, and hot sauce. I powered through half of it just because it tasted so good. It started tasting less good after my body started telling me to stop eating. By the end, it was really salty, and my stomach was pissed and hoarse from screaming at me. I did finish it in one sitting, which sort of amazed some of my classmates. (I say sort of, because some of them already watched me plow through 3 slices of pizza at Big Lou's).
I'd definitely eat there again, just not the same quantity.
It was really good. Steak, guacamole, pico de gallo, cheese, rice, black beans, red onions, cilantro, and hot sauce. I powered through half of it just because it tasted so good. It started tasting less good after my body started telling me to stop eating. By the end, it was really salty, and my stomach was pissed and hoarse from screaming at me. I did finish it in one sitting, which sort of amazed some of my classmates. (I say sort of, because some of them already watched me plow through 3 slices of pizza at Big Lou's).
I'd definitely eat there again, just not the same quantity.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Big Lou's
Today was our National Registry EMT-B test. A few of us in the class thought it would be fun to go to Big Lou's (as seen on Man V. Food) for a hopefully celebratory lunch. I took my test at about 9:30 this morning, and finished in about an hour. I didn't feel great about it, but knowing that the majority of students pass it on the first try, I liked my chances. A lot of the questions were pretty vague, and I was narrowing the multiple choice question format down to the last 2 options without a clear winner more often than I would have liked.
I got home and got on the NREMT website, refreshed my page a few times, and left for Big Lou's without knowing if I had passed. This is what we ordered.
We had invited a few more than just 5 to try to take down the biggest pizza they made, but we made a valiant effort on it, coming up just short. The pizza was very good, at least the first slice was. It became less and less appealing the more I ate. I ate 3 slices, tops by about a half slice. If the other guys had pulled their weight, I might have been able to eat a little more to polish it off, but we ended up about 3 slices short. It was all pretty fun.
As we were leaving, one of the guys checked his phone and saw that he had passed the exam. I borrowed an iphone and found that I had as well, and it's a good thing, because bad news could have caused some explosive vomiting, which would have probably been frowned upon. It's one more hurdle cleared on my way to a great job.
I got home and got on the NREMT website, refreshed my page a few times, and left for Big Lou's without knowing if I had passed. This is what we ordered.
We had invited a few more than just 5 to try to take down the biggest pizza they made, but we made a valiant effort on it, coming up just short. The pizza was very good, at least the first slice was. It became less and less appealing the more I ate. I ate 3 slices, tops by about a half slice. If the other guys had pulled their weight, I might have been able to eat a little more to polish it off, but we ended up about 3 slices short. It was all pretty fun.
As we were leaving, one of the guys checked his phone and saw that he had passed the exam. I borrowed an iphone and found that I had as well, and it's a good thing, because bad news could have caused some explosive vomiting, which would have probably been frowned upon. It's one more hurdle cleared on my way to a great job.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Time Flies
I just spent the fastest week of my life with Jenn and Joelle. It was over way too soon.
I just got back from dropping them off at the airport, and shortly I'll be needing to get ready for work. It seems like just half an hour ago, I was in the cell phone waiting parking lot at the airport, listening to my new Guster CD, anxiously waiting for Jenn to call me, telling me she was ready. We got to do some fun things in the little free time I had, but it was really nice just to have someone to come home to, and someone to talk to.
I miss you already Jenn. If you weren't so awesome, maybe our week would have slowed down a bit.
I just got back from dropping them off at the airport, and shortly I'll be needing to get ready for work. It seems like just half an hour ago, I was in the cell phone waiting parking lot at the airport, listening to my new Guster CD, anxiously waiting for Jenn to call me, telling me she was ready. We got to do some fun things in the little free time I had, but it was really nice just to have someone to come home to, and someone to talk to.
I miss you already Jenn. If you weren't so awesome, maybe our week would have slowed down a bit.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Why I stick with Geico
The gecko makes housecalls! If I ever have a claim, I know he'll be here for me :)
I was on the phone taking care of some errands when I looked over and saw a lizard on my balcony screen door. I remembered Dad's lizard picture from his computer and it reminded me of that. So I grabbed the camera and tried to get a good picture. I think they turned out pretty detailed. Thanks to Dad for sending me his camera!
I went out for a run tonight after having taken 3 days off due to ambulance ride-alongs and hospital clinical work. I finished 1.5 miles in 9:45, which is pretty darned amazing considering where I was last year, or even 3 months ago. It's 25 seconds faster than my best time so far. I continued running up to 3 miles in 21:40. I'm getting closer to sniffing times that I might have been able to run in high school. I'm building endurance for faster runs pretty quickly, as I've changed from running lots of mileage to focusing on speed at shorter distances. Dropping 10 pounds since the academy has started has surely helped. Now when I run, I feel like I'm actually running rather than just jogging, pushing rather than just falling forward. I also saw 2 bucks on my run today. One of them scared me, it was right at the start of my run and I was focusing on keeping up a good pace rather than my surroundings. I guess I snuck up on him too, because he startled and leaped off the trail into the bushes as I passed.
I was on the phone taking care of some errands when I looked over and saw a lizard on my balcony screen door. I remembered Dad's lizard picture from his computer and it reminded me of that. So I grabbed the camera and tried to get a good picture. I think they turned out pretty detailed. Thanks to Dad for sending me his camera!
I went out for a run tonight after having taken 3 days off due to ambulance ride-alongs and hospital clinical work. I finished 1.5 miles in 9:45, which is pretty darned amazing considering where I was last year, or even 3 months ago. It's 25 seconds faster than my best time so far. I continued running up to 3 miles in 21:40. I'm getting closer to sniffing times that I might have been able to run in high school. I'm building endurance for faster runs pretty quickly, as I've changed from running lots of mileage to focusing on speed at shorter distances. Dropping 10 pounds since the academy has started has surely helped. Now when I run, I feel like I'm actually running rather than just jogging, pushing rather than just falling forward. I also saw 2 bucks on my run today. One of them scared me, it was right at the start of my run and I was focusing on keeping up a good pace rather than my surroundings. I guess I snuck up on him too, because he startled and leaped off the trail into the bushes as I passed.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Moving the bald guy down the screen
Nothing interesting has happened over the past 2 weeks, at least nothing that I should be writing about. My hair has grown back in a bit, and luckily, it all came back, at least everything I had before. So to get my bald pictures off the top of the screen, I'll fill you in on all the mundane things that are happening.
We started clinical work on Friday. I went out with one of our paramedic companies. We ran on 6 calls, and got to meet some interesting people. I had a good time. Some of the other cadets had much more interesting calls than I had. I'm going to be in a hospital ER on Tuesday, and 2 more days of Ambulances on Wednesday and Thursday.
I ran 5 miles today. Inspired by not wanting to lose to Brie (5 in 42 minutes), I ran them in 41:47. I think she beats me though because of the difference in altitude, but I bet she didn't suck a mosquito down her windpipe during mile 3. I finished my 1.5 mile run in 10:20, then continued running 3.5 miles at about a 9:00 mile pace. I've got the benefit of much longer legs, so Brie, I bow to your level of health.
I'm doing much better on pullups now, before and after my run I did a set of 12. 2 months ago I could only do 5 or maybe 6 in a row.
When I was fitted for my uniforms, the guy asked me what size belt I needed, I told him 38. He gave me a 40, I guess because I would be using the middle holes rather than the end ones of the 38. I've now shrunk to the point that the last notch of the 40 isn't quite tight enough, and have borrowed a 38 from a cadet that went down from a 38 to a 36. I figure I'm down about 3 inches, and I still have some more of that spare tire that needs to come off.
Fruit has been really cheap here lately. I just picked up a bunch of nectarines for 60 cents a pound, and some peaches for 35. Bananas have been 25 cents a pound here for a month. I'll probably freeze whatever peaches and nectarines I don't eat when they ripen.
We started clinical work on Friday. I went out with one of our paramedic companies. We ran on 6 calls, and got to meet some interesting people. I had a good time. Some of the other cadets had much more interesting calls than I had. I'm going to be in a hospital ER on Tuesday, and 2 more days of Ambulances on Wednesday and Thursday.
I ran 5 miles today. Inspired by not wanting to lose to Brie (5 in 42 minutes), I ran them in 41:47. I think she beats me though because of the difference in altitude, but I bet she didn't suck a mosquito down her windpipe during mile 3. I finished my 1.5 mile run in 10:20, then continued running 3.5 miles at about a 9:00 mile pace. I've got the benefit of much longer legs, so Brie, I bow to your level of health.
I'm doing much better on pullups now, before and after my run I did a set of 12. 2 months ago I could only do 5 or maybe 6 in a row.
When I was fitted for my uniforms, the guy asked me what size belt I needed, I told him 38. He gave me a 40, I guess because I would be using the middle holes rather than the end ones of the 38. I've now shrunk to the point that the last notch of the 40 isn't quite tight enough, and have borrowed a 38 from a cadet that went down from a 38 to a 36. I figure I'm down about 3 inches, and I still have some more of that spare tire that needs to come off.
Fruit has been really cheap here lately. I just picked up a bunch of nectarines for 60 cents a pound, and some peaches for 35. Bananas have been 25 cents a pound here for a month. I'll probably freeze whatever peaches and nectarines I don't eat when they ripen.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Hairless
I posted a few pictures to my facebook page and realized that not everyone would be able to see it.
As a part of grooming standards at the academy here, I have to keep my hair clipped to less than 3/8" all around. I've got my own electric hair clippers which I use bi-weekly to cut it down to 1/8". 1/8" is nearly bald, and my head shape isn't as weird as it was when I was growing up, either that, or I am far less self conscious. Anyways, I've been toying with the idea of shaving my head completely bald for the past few weeks.
Today I did it. I had nothing better to do, kind of like the time on my mission that I was stuck inside for a while during a period where they didn't want us outside tracting and I shaved my legs (ladies, I have no idea how you put up with that, my pants stuck to my legs for days. It drove me nuts.)
I don't think it looks half bad. I'm not afraid of looking like this again if I end up becoming more follicly challenged. It feels super weird though to touch up there and feel sandpaper.
As a part of grooming standards at the academy here, I have to keep my hair clipped to less than 3/8" all around. I've got my own electric hair clippers which I use bi-weekly to cut it down to 1/8". 1/8" is nearly bald, and my head shape isn't as weird as it was when I was growing up, either that, or I am far less self conscious. Anyways, I've been toying with the idea of shaving my head completely bald for the past few weeks.
Today I did it. I had nothing better to do, kind of like the time on my mission that I was stuck inside for a while during a period where they didn't want us outside tracting and I shaved my legs (ladies, I have no idea how you put up with that, my pants stuck to my legs for days. It drove me nuts.)
I don't think it looks half bad. I'm not afraid of looking like this again if I end up becoming more follicly challenged. It feels super weird though to touch up there and feel sandpaper.
Monday, September 6, 2010
I know... I'm kind of a slob.
I took some pictures of my apartment. I didn't clean it up on purpose to prove a point. It looks like blogspot cut off the right half of them, so if you want to get the full picture just click on them and they'll take you to photobucket.
This is my kitchen. On the left side, you can see my dishwasher up against the wall. It's about half the size of a normal dishwasher. It's not really worth running, but seeing as how I bought the soap for it, I'm going to use it until I'm out of soap. Then I'll probably just use it as a place to put clean dishes after washing them by hand. I bought a broom that I haven't used yet. I have a nice pan that is just like the one that came heavily recommended to mom by some random lady at Costco. It's currently dirty, I wash it when I need to use it. It does not go in the dishwasher. The far left is my stinky fridge. It smelled of death when I moved in, and it's gone down a few levels to merely puke. Well, at least maybe it doesn't smell so bad, maybe I'm just getting used to it. I think the vinegar and the baking soda have helped somewhat.
Here is my box collection room. I'm afraid to throw away decent sized boxes because I'll need them in 8 months when I leave here. The powerade bottle (partially filled with water) next to the shoepolish and rag is my boot shining station. A little water, a little kiwi polish and a lot of buffing get my shoes reasonably shiny.
This is my front door. In the corner I have a big box that I keep filling with trash. I'll get around to emptying it eventually. There isn't anything rancid in there, it's mostly plastic. This is also the area where I dump everything I'm carrying when I get home from work. My gym bag and towel are on the floor there, and I do not want to inhale any fumes from that in my bedroom when I'm sleeping.
Next 2 pictures are my "home office/dining room" I have space to put a bowl or a plate of food in front of my keyboard. The chair is the only place I have here to sit down other than on the floor.
This is my bedroom. That is an 8 dollar inflatable mattress from Walmart on the floor. It's actually not too uncomfortable, and it holds air good enough that I only need to put a few puffs into it every few nights or so. I blew it up with my lungs on my first night here, when it was 100 degrees in here at 11 pm. That sucked. Lightheaded and burning up.
Last is the bathroom. I looked at 5 or 6 different apartments before coming to this one. This wasn't even on my list, I just saw it as I was leaving a different nearby apartment. This is the only one I found with a washer and dryer already in the room. It has been a life saver! I do at least 1 load every day, usually 2. If I was doing this at a laundry room, even one on site, I would have shelled out a fortune so far, not to mention spending hours and hours away from my apartment keeping an eye on my laundry. It washes larger loads than you would think just from looking at it.
I'm doing pretty well. Today is Labor Day, and we didn't have any school. I went out and ran at one of the city parks that has running trails. 4.15 miles in 34 minutes. I ran through my mile and a half in 10:35 today which is putting me on track to come close to my goal of 9 flat before the academy is over. I have lost a considerable amount of weight, and I'm pretty sure it's going to continue when we start having to do PT in bunker gear. That reminds me, looking at the FD website, they show some of the cadets wearing bunker gear. They have first initial and last name across the bottom of the coat. I'm going to be A FOX. That ought to be worth a few laughs at my expense, even if I am a handsome man.
I just want to say that having to take care of myself has opened my eyes a little more. I already knew I was married to the greatest woman I ever could have hoped for, but she takes care of me, which is a big job in and of itself, and she keeps 5 kids mostly clean and usually out of trouble. I don't know where or what I'd be without her. She doesn't give herself a whole lot of credit, but she is really one amazing person, and I am the luckiest guy in the world to have her in my life. I am counting down the days until Thanksgiving, and I am excited to be able to provide a life for her that she has always deserved. I love you Jenn, you're awesome!
This is my kitchen. On the left side, you can see my dishwasher up against the wall. It's about half the size of a normal dishwasher. It's not really worth running, but seeing as how I bought the soap for it, I'm going to use it until I'm out of soap. Then I'll probably just use it as a place to put clean dishes after washing them by hand. I bought a broom that I haven't used yet. I have a nice pan that is just like the one that came heavily recommended to mom by some random lady at Costco. It's currently dirty, I wash it when I need to use it. It does not go in the dishwasher. The far left is my stinky fridge. It smelled of death when I moved in, and it's gone down a few levels to merely puke. Well, at least maybe it doesn't smell so bad, maybe I'm just getting used to it. I think the vinegar and the baking soda have helped somewhat.
Here is my box collection room. I'm afraid to throw away decent sized boxes because I'll need them in 8 months when I leave here. The powerade bottle (partially filled with water) next to the shoepolish and rag is my boot shining station. A little water, a little kiwi polish and a lot of buffing get my shoes reasonably shiny.
This is my front door. In the corner I have a big box that I keep filling with trash. I'll get around to emptying it eventually. There isn't anything rancid in there, it's mostly plastic. This is also the area where I dump everything I'm carrying when I get home from work. My gym bag and towel are on the floor there, and I do not want to inhale any fumes from that in my bedroom when I'm sleeping.
Next 2 pictures are my "home office/dining room" I have space to put a bowl or a plate of food in front of my keyboard. The chair is the only place I have here to sit down other than on the floor.
This is my bedroom. That is an 8 dollar inflatable mattress from Walmart on the floor. It's actually not too uncomfortable, and it holds air good enough that I only need to put a few puffs into it every few nights or so. I blew it up with my lungs on my first night here, when it was 100 degrees in here at 11 pm. That sucked. Lightheaded and burning up.
Last is the bathroom. I looked at 5 or 6 different apartments before coming to this one. This wasn't even on my list, I just saw it as I was leaving a different nearby apartment. This is the only one I found with a washer and dryer already in the room. It has been a life saver! I do at least 1 load every day, usually 2. If I was doing this at a laundry room, even one on site, I would have shelled out a fortune so far, not to mention spending hours and hours away from my apartment keeping an eye on my laundry. It washes larger loads than you would think just from looking at it.
I'm doing pretty well. Today is Labor Day, and we didn't have any school. I went out and ran at one of the city parks that has running trails. 4.15 miles in 34 minutes. I ran through my mile and a half in 10:35 today which is putting me on track to come close to my goal of 9 flat before the academy is over. I have lost a considerable amount of weight, and I'm pretty sure it's going to continue when we start having to do PT in bunker gear. That reminds me, looking at the FD website, they show some of the cadets wearing bunker gear. They have first initial and last name across the bottom of the coat. I'm going to be A FOX. That ought to be worth a few laughs at my expense, even if I am a handsome man.
I just want to say that having to take care of myself has opened my eyes a little more. I already knew I was married to the greatest woman I ever could have hoped for, but she takes care of me, which is a big job in and of itself, and she keeps 5 kids mostly clean and usually out of trouble. I don't know where or what I'd be without her. She doesn't give herself a whole lot of credit, but she is really one amazing person, and I am the luckiest guy in the world to have her in my life. I am counting down the days until Thanksgiving, and I am excited to be able to provide a life for her that she has always deserved. I love you Jenn, you're awesome!
Monday, August 23, 2010
Not much to say
I'm not really supposed to post much about my new job, so I won't. I'll just say that I am getting along quite nicely, and I'm happy I came.
It's been rough being away from family, and I've been without internet for over a week until today. I'm really looking forward to video chatting with Jenn and the kids as soon as Jenn thinks about answering her phone.
I've been eating pretty healthy and I've lost quite a bit of weight.
I moved into my new apartment on my 11th anniversary, 8-14. Last year on 8-14 I was here in San Antonio taking the written test. I've missed my last 2 anniversaries, which means number 12 had better be pretty darned cool.
Anyways, I'm doing ok, and I might not be updating this much, since all I really do is work, and I can't blog about it. I'm on a strict diet, which means that eating at some of the cooler bbq places is kind of out of the question for a while.
It's been rough being away from family, and I've been without internet for over a week until today. I'm really looking forward to video chatting with Jenn and the kids as soon as Jenn thinks about answering her phone.
I've been eating pretty healthy and I've lost quite a bit of weight.
I moved into my new apartment on my 11th anniversary, 8-14. Last year on 8-14 I was here in San Antonio taking the written test. I've missed my last 2 anniversaries, which means number 12 had better be pretty darned cool.
Anyways, I'm doing ok, and I might not be updating this much, since all I really do is work, and I can't blog about it. I'm on a strict diet, which means that eating at some of the cooler bbq places is kind of out of the question for a while.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
The Journey
I'm now in San Antonio, Texas. I've got a few days to prepare for the start of the fire academy on August 16.
On Saturday, the seven of us and Molly went to go see my Grandma in San Jacinto before I left California for good. We had a good time, the kids got more than too many stuffed animals, and we got chased by a pack of ducks.
These ducks were hoping for a handout and came right up to our golfcart. We went around their pond and they swam across to cut us off, still hoping for food. It was pretty hilarious watching them sprint-waddle up to us.
On Monday morning, I set out on a 2 day drive from Apple Valley to San Antonio. It's a total of 21 hours in a car. It was really really hard to leave, and it took a few hours for my red puffy eyes to get back to normal. I'm really going to miss my family, and my only hope in taking this job for now is that it will be worth the time I am spending away from them. I love all my kids and I love my lovely Jenn.
I drove through Lucerne Valley to Yucca Valley on the 18, and then down to Palm Springs on the 62. The rest of the trip was on I-10. Once I got across the Arizona state line I noticed that there were tons of highway patrol out. This wasn't meant to be a quick trip. The highways were pretty heavily patrolled until I made it to Texas.
In Tempe, I stopped at Chompie's, a New York style Deli that was featured on Man V. Food a few weeks ago. They had the big challenge that Adam ended up failing on the show, which is 12 Jewish Sliders in 30 minutes or less. A Jewish Slider is a delicious mini sandwich with a potato pancake, brisket, and jack cheese. I ordered 3 of them and downed them in 5 minutes. I think I might try for the T-Shirt and free meal next time I'm in the area as long as there are plenty of people there cheering me on. I don't think gorging myself all alone would be very fun. If I had driven through there on a Tuesday after 4pm I could have had all I could eat sliders and actually seen if 12 would be possible. Oh well.
I stopped by Grandma and Granddad Black's house in Mesa after I ate lunch. We had a nice chat, and I had a nice couch to sit on to give me a break from the car. Thanks for opening your home to me, I appreciated the break and the conversation. I hope I'll get to see you in November.
I drove to Tucson and stopped at El Guero Canelo, another Man V. Food restaurant. I had a Sonoran Style Hot Dog, which is a hot dog wrapped in bacon, and smothered with beans, mayo, jalapeño sauce, mustard, onions and tomatos. There is a lot of love in that soft bun for $2.39. I'm glad I made the small detour, it was probably the best hot dog I've ever had (by that I mean the best way I've ever eaten a run of the mill "Farmer John" style wiener, obviously kosher all beef franks or brats are better tasting sausages, imagine what a Sonoran style brat would be like...).
Normally I would have taken pictures of my famous food, but Jenn kept my camera in California. I guess I'll just have to go back :)
I stayed in Las Cruces on Monday night, woke up somewhat early and began driving the last 9 hours to San Antonio. As I drove through El Paso, the Mexican border was so close in one spot that I could see over the river border into Ciudad Juarez, and there was a hill covered in shacks. It's amazing how different life must be across the street.
There weren't any more foodie places to eat on the border towns along I-10. I was surprised with the scenery of West Texas. I guess the western part of the state up until about San Antonio is known as Hill Country. It was pretty. The hills were rolling, giving variety to the road, and the sky was vibrant blue with a multitude of puffy white clouds. I remembered that I do have a camera on my phone, but I don't have the capability as of yet to get the pictures off of it and on to my computer, plus, it's 1.3 megapixels and probably really blurry.
I got to my hotel at about 6:30 and now I'm here. I guess I'll write more when I have more to say.
Here's a crappy cell phone picture of the view from my car.
On Saturday, the seven of us and Molly went to go see my Grandma in San Jacinto before I left California for good. We had a good time, the kids got more than too many stuffed animals, and we got chased by a pack of ducks.
These ducks were hoping for a handout and came right up to our golfcart. We went around their pond and they swam across to cut us off, still hoping for food. It was pretty hilarious watching them sprint-waddle up to us.
On Monday morning, I set out on a 2 day drive from Apple Valley to San Antonio. It's a total of 21 hours in a car. It was really really hard to leave, and it took a few hours for my red puffy eyes to get back to normal. I'm really going to miss my family, and my only hope in taking this job for now is that it will be worth the time I am spending away from them. I love all my kids and I love my lovely Jenn.
I drove through Lucerne Valley to Yucca Valley on the 18, and then down to Palm Springs on the 62. The rest of the trip was on I-10. Once I got across the Arizona state line I noticed that there were tons of highway patrol out. This wasn't meant to be a quick trip. The highways were pretty heavily patrolled until I made it to Texas.
In Tempe, I stopped at Chompie's, a New York style Deli that was featured on Man V. Food a few weeks ago. They had the big challenge that Adam ended up failing on the show, which is 12 Jewish Sliders in 30 minutes or less. A Jewish Slider is a delicious mini sandwich with a potato pancake, brisket, and jack cheese. I ordered 3 of them and downed them in 5 minutes. I think I might try for the T-Shirt and free meal next time I'm in the area as long as there are plenty of people there cheering me on. I don't think gorging myself all alone would be very fun. If I had driven through there on a Tuesday after 4pm I could have had all I could eat sliders and actually seen if 12 would be possible. Oh well.
I stopped by Grandma and Granddad Black's house in Mesa after I ate lunch. We had a nice chat, and I had a nice couch to sit on to give me a break from the car. Thanks for opening your home to me, I appreciated the break and the conversation. I hope I'll get to see you in November.
I drove to Tucson and stopped at El Guero Canelo, another Man V. Food restaurant. I had a Sonoran Style Hot Dog, which is a hot dog wrapped in bacon, and smothered with beans, mayo, jalapeño sauce, mustard, onions and tomatos. There is a lot of love in that soft bun for $2.39. I'm glad I made the small detour, it was probably the best hot dog I've ever had (by that I mean the best way I've ever eaten a run of the mill "Farmer John" style wiener, obviously kosher all beef franks or brats are better tasting sausages, imagine what a Sonoran style brat would be like...).
Normally I would have taken pictures of my famous food, but Jenn kept my camera in California. I guess I'll just have to go back :)
I stayed in Las Cruces on Monday night, woke up somewhat early and began driving the last 9 hours to San Antonio. As I drove through El Paso, the Mexican border was so close in one spot that I could see over the river border into Ciudad Juarez, and there was a hill covered in shacks. It's amazing how different life must be across the street.
There weren't any more foodie places to eat on the border towns along I-10. I was surprised with the scenery of West Texas. I guess the western part of the state up until about San Antonio is known as Hill Country. It was pretty. The hills were rolling, giving variety to the road, and the sky was vibrant blue with a multitude of puffy white clouds. I remembered that I do have a camera on my phone, but I don't have the capability as of yet to get the pictures off of it and on to my computer, plus, it's 1.3 megapixels and probably really blurry.
I got to my hotel at about 6:30 and now I'm here. I guess I'll write more when I have more to say.
Here's a crappy cell phone picture of the view from my car.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Mavericks Game
Last night, Grant treated Emery, Cam, Addie, Bailey, Molly, Ceri and I to a Mavericks game on Ebmeyer Charter Munchie Monday. Nachos, hamburgers and small sodas were a buck each. I think I won the most food downed award with 4 orders of nachos, 3 burgers and 3 drinks. Cam had 3 burgers and a nachos, Bailey had 2 nachos and 2 burgers, Addie ate 2 nachos and a burger. Emery picked at some nachos, but finished a whole burger.
The game was a blowout. It was 16-3 66ers in the 5th inning. We left in the 7th inning when the score was 16-8. The game ended up a 17-11 loss for the Mavs. It was still a fun game though. They played stupid songs for the 66ers when they came to bat, one guy had "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" which was pretty funny. They had a promotion where one of the 66ers had to strike out in order for the fans to get $1 beer. The kids got to run across the outfield chasing Wooly Bully in the middle of the 5th inning. After the run, Bailey, Addie and Cam all got him to sign their hands. Emery was mortified whenever the mascot was around. Emery had a great time when Wooly Bully wasn't around, and shook her stuff to the music in between innings.
Brad Ebmeyer was there, and I was talking to him while putting stuff on burgers and nachos. I lost track of which nachos were mine and ended up putting jalapeños on his nachos as well, which he no longer wanted. I'm sorry Brad :)
We all had a pretty good time, I hadn't been to a kooky single A game for probably 15 years.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Kids Books
We're going through a bunch of stuff getting ready to move. Jenn found these old coloring books that we let the kids color in at church. She said that she didn't order these books specifically, that they came in a large cheap package deal. The bookstore must have been dying to get rid of them.
I tried to describe them before posting the pictures, but my words won't do them justice.
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Balding kids, bearded kids, mustachioed kids, and kids in jail. It's amazing these books couldn't sell on their own. I don't think you need to turn Paul into a child to get kids to color him in. If you're going to turn biblical prophets and apostles into kids, at least don't make them mutants.
I tried to describe them before posting the pictures, but my words won't do them justice.
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Balding kids, bearded kids, mustachioed kids, and kids in jail. It's amazing these books couldn't sell on their own. I don't think you need to turn Paul into a child to get kids to color him in. If you're going to turn biblical prophets and apostles into kids, at least don't make them mutants.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Adventures in Census Taking
I've had the chance to meet quite a few people in the last few weeks. Most have been very cooperative, a few have been a bit paranoid about how the information would be used, but until today, I hadn't run into the scum of the earth.
Last week at about 1:30pm, I was knocking doors, and saw a man loading a car out in front of a house that was on my list. I told him who I was, and asked him if he had a moment to answer a few questions. He told me "Not now, come back tomorrow, but earlier" I asked if noon would work for him, and he told me 1:00. I went back the next day right at 1:00 and no one was there.
I finally made it through my area today, and I started going back through all the houses that didn't answer their doors the first time around. As I was walking down the other side of the street, I recognized that man from a week ago, and called out to him. I apologized that I had missed him the previous week, and asked him if he had a moment to help me fill out my form. He got annoyed, told me that he had already filled it out, and what he wanted to do was show me the form that he had already filled in but forgot to mail. I explained that if the mailed form doesn't make it in on time, I am required to fill out a form with them. He started yelling that that was not what he and I had agreed to do, and that I needed to get the hell out of there. He said a few more choice words, told me that I had better leave, insulted me as I walked to my car, and demanded that I come back to him to take a flyer I had left at his door. When I continued walking to my car, he screamed at me, crumbled up my paper, and threw it in my direction. I just kind of laughed to myself in my car as I drove away. I don't know what would cause someone to blow up over something as trivial as the census, maybe a census worker ran over his dog.
Anyways, I'll have to get his information from a neighbor, at least the number of people who live there. I have a feeling he's there alone.
Last week at about 1:30pm, I was knocking doors, and saw a man loading a car out in front of a house that was on my list. I told him who I was, and asked him if he had a moment to answer a few questions. He told me "Not now, come back tomorrow, but earlier" I asked if noon would work for him, and he told me 1:00. I went back the next day right at 1:00 and no one was there.
I finally made it through my area today, and I started going back through all the houses that didn't answer their doors the first time around. As I was walking down the other side of the street, I recognized that man from a week ago, and called out to him. I apologized that I had missed him the previous week, and asked him if he had a moment to help me fill out my form. He got annoyed, told me that he had already filled it out, and what he wanted to do was show me the form that he had already filled in but forgot to mail. I explained that if the mailed form doesn't make it in on time, I am required to fill out a form with them. He started yelling that that was not what he and I had agreed to do, and that I needed to get the hell out of there. He said a few more choice words, told me that I had better leave, insulted me as I walked to my car, and demanded that I come back to him to take a flyer I had left at his door. When I continued walking to my car, he screamed at me, crumbled up my paper, and threw it in my direction. I just kind of laughed to myself in my car as I drove away. I don't know what would cause someone to blow up over something as trivial as the census, maybe a census worker ran over his dog.
Anyways, I'll have to get his information from a neighbor, at least the number of people who live there. I have a feeling he's there alone.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Cam the Baserunner
I won free tickets to a Bees game when I joined a March Madness bracket group started by one of the local sports radio stations. Cam and I went on Saturday night.
The game was pretty boring, and the Bees lost 6-2. After the game, the promotion for the night was letting the kids run around on the field, which I thought would be pretty cool.
We got to go down on the field, and they let each of the kids take off running from home around all the bases.
I took video of most of it, but I wanted to get a nice picture of Cam when he was getting close. He was running so fast that he blurred it.
The game was pretty boring, and the Bees lost 6-2. After the game, the promotion for the night was letting the kids run around on the field, which I thought would be pretty cool.
We got to go down on the field, and they let each of the kids take off running from home around all the bases.
I took video of most of it, but I wanted to get a nice picture of Cam when he was getting close. He was running so fast that he blurred it.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Walk it off
Addie came home today with bandages on both of her knees. They didn't look too good, the bandages looked like they had been soaked through with something. She was hobbling around really slow. Jenn didn't pay really close attention to what had happened, and really with good reason because Addie is a huge baby and has no pain threshold whatsoever.
Both of the older girls had activity days today, it's close enough to walk. A couple of neighbor girls came over and wanted Bailey and Addie to walk with them. They were running a little late, so Jenn started to threaten Addie with trouble if she didn't move her butt with the rest of the girls. "I swear Addie, if you make the rest of the girls 20 minutes late to activity days you're in trouble" and "It won't hurt if you don't think about it" They set off somewhat briskly, and Addie was already lagging behind. Jenn was yelling out the front door "ADDISON, YOU'VE GOT TO BEND YOUR KNEES, YOU CAN'T WALK THAT WAY!!! WALK NORMAL!!!" I asked Jenn if she had even looked at Addie's knees and she said no. I said they looked pretty banged up to me. Then I went downstairs.
A few minutes later, Addie came back home, alone, and crying. Jenn finally looked at her legs, which were pretty chewed up. Apparently, today at school Addie was running to try to get first in line on the monkey bars, and she tripped and fell on the concrete, skinning her knees something fierce. She went to the office, where they put some bandages on her, and told her to call home. They let Addie use the office phone, but since she doesn't use the phone much, she didn't know what to do when Jenn's voice mail picked up. Then rather than try to contact us themselves, they sent Addie back to class where she probably suffered through the day. Her left knee isn't too bad, looks like a rug burn, but the right knee has lost a few layers of skin and looks really painful. We slathered it with antibiotic, and let her watch cartoons.
Jenn feels bad now, but I think it's funny. I wouldn't ever think about using the word heartless to describe my wife, so the thought of her screaming menacingly at her hobbled daughter as she struggles to keep up with her healthy sister and friends strikes me as humorous. Now Jenn has set a precedent for how I can treat the kids' injuries. Rub some dirt in it and walk it off you big baby.
Both of the older girls had activity days today, it's close enough to walk. A couple of neighbor girls came over and wanted Bailey and Addie to walk with them. They were running a little late, so Jenn started to threaten Addie with trouble if she didn't move her butt with the rest of the girls. "I swear Addie, if you make the rest of the girls 20 minutes late to activity days you're in trouble" and "It won't hurt if you don't think about it" They set off somewhat briskly, and Addie was already lagging behind. Jenn was yelling out the front door "ADDISON, YOU'VE GOT TO BEND YOUR KNEES, YOU CAN'T WALK THAT WAY!!! WALK NORMAL!!!" I asked Jenn if she had even looked at Addie's knees and she said no. I said they looked pretty banged up to me. Then I went downstairs.
A few minutes later, Addie came back home, alone, and crying. Jenn finally looked at her legs, which were pretty chewed up. Apparently, today at school Addie was running to try to get first in line on the monkey bars, and she tripped and fell on the concrete, skinning her knees something fierce. She went to the office, where they put some bandages on her, and told her to call home. They let Addie use the office phone, but since she doesn't use the phone much, she didn't know what to do when Jenn's voice mail picked up. Then rather than try to contact us themselves, they sent Addie back to class where she probably suffered through the day. Her left knee isn't too bad, looks like a rug burn, but the right knee has lost a few layers of skin and looks really painful. We slathered it with antibiotic, and let her watch cartoons.
Jenn feels bad now, but I think it's funny. I wouldn't ever think about using the word heartless to describe my wife, so the thought of her screaming menacingly at her hobbled daughter as she struggles to keep up with her healthy sister and friends strikes me as humorous. Now Jenn has set a precedent for how I can treat the kids' injuries. Rub some dirt in it and walk it off you big baby.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Storytime with Emery
This morning, I got out of bed and heard Emery telling a story to Cameron on the couch upstairs. I laid down and listened too. I asked her if she wouldn't mind telling the story to the camera, and she said she would. She froze up when I turned on the camera, but when I put it down on the table and laid back down she eventually got back into it.
This is Emery retelling Goldilocks and the Three Bears as told to her by Cameron. He probably heard it it school or something, because Goldilocks isn't on my rotation of bedtime stories.
This is Emery retelling Goldilocks and the Three Bears as told to her by Cameron. He probably heard it it school or something, because Goldilocks isn't on my rotation of bedtime stories.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Gooey Cinnamon Rolls
Once upon a time, Costco sold a box of 6 cinnamon rolls that were just drenched in frosting. I've never been too fond of sweet foods (I mean, I'll eat them, I'll eat ANYTHING), but I had a soft spot for those cinnamon rolls, with the cream cheese frosting that made your eyes roll back into your head.
They stopped making them years ago, probably because they don't go through your digestive system, they just clog it up. After a while, I forgot that they ever existed.
When I went to San Antonio in January and brought home the giant cinnamon roll, I remembered the lovely Costco ones, and lamented that they weren't available anymore. The giant cinnamon roll was ok, but it's popular for it's size more than for it's quality. The Costco rolls are what sweet food must be like in Heaven.
A few weeks ago I was buying diapers, baby formula, and milk at the Orem Costco. I noticed a circular tin of 9 cinnamon rolls that looked somewhat familiar. I passed on them to go and do the rest of my shopping. When I was waiting in line to checkout, an employee walked by announcing a new bakery item, gooey cinnamon rolls, and he was holding a few tins that had just come out of the oven and were still warm. I figured I was destined to take them home.
They were amazing. Just as good as I remembered them. Maybe even better.
If you're lucky, they're at a Costco near you.
They stopped making them years ago, probably because they don't go through your digestive system, they just clog it up. After a while, I forgot that they ever existed.
When I went to San Antonio in January and brought home the giant cinnamon roll, I remembered the lovely Costco ones, and lamented that they weren't available anymore. The giant cinnamon roll was ok, but it's popular for it's size more than for it's quality. The Costco rolls are what sweet food must be like in Heaven.
A few weeks ago I was buying diapers, baby formula, and milk at the Orem Costco. I noticed a circular tin of 9 cinnamon rolls that looked somewhat familiar. I passed on them to go and do the rest of my shopping. When I was waiting in line to checkout, an employee walked by announcing a new bakery item, gooey cinnamon rolls, and he was holding a few tins that had just come out of the oven and were still warm. I figured I was destined to take them home.
They were amazing. Just as good as I remembered them. Maybe even better.
If you're lucky, they're at a Costco near you.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Baby Joelle Celina
Jennifer was induced this morning. She had an epidural that didn't work too well, and had a rough go of it, but she did a good job and delivered a healthy 9 pound 9 ounce baby about 2 hours into labor.
We had narrowed down to a few names that Jennifer had picked (I had and utilized veto power quite often). She liked Joelle, and we talked to my mom about family names we could use for the middle name. Celina is my great great grandmother on my dad's side.
I've taken a few pictures. I probably won't see Jenn or Joelle until Sunday, because the rest of the kids are still a little under the weather.
We had narrowed down to a few names that Jennifer had picked (I had and utilized veto power quite often). She liked Joelle, and we talked to my mom about family names we could use for the middle name. Celina is my great great grandmother on my dad's side.
I've taken a few pictures. I probably won't see Jenn or Joelle until Sunday, because the rest of the kids are still a little under the weather.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
The Amazing Shopko Clearance Rack
When we moved in to Jenn's parents' basement in April, we weren't planning on being here this long. I misjudged the amount of time it takes to get through government hiring processes, as well as my ability to find work to fill in the gap. I only brought 3 pairs of exercise shorts with me, which I mostly used as pajamas.
Any clothes I wear during my workouts now are unusable until they can be washed. They have stink lines radiating from them after an hour of sweating in them. I had been looking for a good deal on some shorts in the newspaper and I hadn't seen much.
Shopko finally had a sale on some generic brand shorts that were normally 12 bucks. They were selling for 7.50. We decided to go check it out. I found 4 nice pairs, and walked around the store with Bailey and Emery while Jenn tried on clothes. I had PLENTY of time, let me tell you. You shouldn't go clothes shopping with an immensely pregnant woman unless you're a pillar of patience, and lucky for all of us I am :). I decided to go look at the clearance rack before heading over to the register to pay for our clothes. I found shorts on clearance for 2.99 and 4.99. I got 6 pairs for less than the original 4 I had picked out. The shorts on clearance were nicer than the ones that were on sale too. I guess they had been discontinued or something (the newer ones appear to have been made from shinier fabric, that was the only difference). Anyways, I cleaned them out of their XXL and XL shorts. I'm feeling good.
Now I can work out 8 times a week and not run out of shorts, and not repulse the people on the treadmills next to me at the gym or faint from my own foul smell. I don't remember ever sweating as much during high school or collegiate athletics. Getting old stinks, literally.
Any clothes I wear during my workouts now are unusable until they can be washed. They have stink lines radiating from them after an hour of sweating in them. I had been looking for a good deal on some shorts in the newspaper and I hadn't seen much.
Shopko finally had a sale on some generic brand shorts that were normally 12 bucks. They were selling for 7.50. We decided to go check it out. I found 4 nice pairs, and walked around the store with Bailey and Emery while Jenn tried on clothes. I had PLENTY of time, let me tell you. You shouldn't go clothes shopping with an immensely pregnant woman unless you're a pillar of patience, and lucky for all of us I am :). I decided to go look at the clearance rack before heading over to the register to pay for our clothes. I found shorts on clearance for 2.99 and 4.99. I got 6 pairs for less than the original 4 I had picked out. The shorts on clearance were nicer than the ones that were on sale too. I guess they had been discontinued or something (the newer ones appear to have been made from shinier fabric, that was the only difference). Anyways, I cleaned them out of their XXL and XL shorts. I'm feeling good.
Now I can work out 8 times a week and not run out of shorts, and not repulse the people on the treadmills next to me at the gym or faint from my own foul smell. I don't remember ever sweating as much during high school or collegiate athletics. Getting old stinks, literally.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
A Pleasant Month
Yes, I just wrote about how much I hated Budget Rent a Car, but really I can't complain much about the past month. Other than deciding never to do business with them again, it really hasn't affected my overall mood very much.
On Fast Sunday this month, in Elder's Quorum, we talked about new year's resolutions, and habits and things we should all be doing. We went through a pretty long list, and discussed ways that made each of those habits easier to do or more effective when we did them. I don't remember much of anything that was on the list, because one thing stuck out to me more than anything. I hadn't been studying my scriptures much at all. This wasn't a habit that I lost recently, I don't think I've consistently read my scriptures for a prolonged period of time since my mission. I think I almost finished the Book of Mormon when President Hinckley challenged us to a few years ago, but that was about it.
I read my scriptures pretty faithfully during seminary, and then my freshman year of college. I had some amazing experiences with it too, to the point where there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that the Book of Mormon is true. I've been coasting on that testimony for quite some time, not really feeling the need to do any further studying. I know that prophets have said they learn something new every time they read it, I just never really saw much benefit the few times I halfheartedly attempted to restart my habit in the last 10 years.
Another issue I've had so far is not seeing immediate blessings. I've had the blessing (or curse) of recognizing most blessings as they came immediately to me for good works that I had done, or good decisions I had made. I wasn't used to waiting things out. Sure, I had my moments where I was pretty impatient waiting for things to happen, but for the most part, I was able to tie financial blessings to specific decisions or good works that I had done. Up until a year ago, I always felt pretty secure that God was looking out for me.
I've spent the past year or so since losing my job suffering through various levels of depression. The moment I lost my job, I vowed to remain upbeat, but as time wore on, and job prospects weren't materializing, those positive feelings went away. I've said a few things in the presence of my wife and kids that I regret now because I was angry. Angry that I had to go through what I was going through. Angry that I wasn't being rewarded for the parts of the gospel that I diligently followed. I recognized where those feelings were coming from, but there were days and weeks that I didn't feel like fighting those feelings off.
Anyways, I started reading my Book of Mormon on January 4, I've missed one day, and I made up double the next day. I started out the first few days reading in the middle of the day, and then spending some time with the Joseph Smith Papers book that I got from the Beebes for Christmas (so far a good book if anyone is interested). Then I spent a few days barely getting my reading in right before bed, which didn't work out as well so I made more of an effort to get my reading done while I was still awake and alert. I took my scriptures with me to Texas and I read them every day I was there.
Now that I've read a few weeks, I've started making other changes to my lifestyle. I'm trying to get to bed earlier. I started working out so I can be in good shape for whatever academy I end up at. I'm getting healthier and stronger (still haven't lost any weight though :( ) and I'm sure that's contributing to my overall positive feeling, but I feel that it's safe to say that my scripture habits are the main reason.
I've probably read 1 Nephi a million times (I always started there any time I tried to restart my habit) I know the story very well. I knew that Nephi and Lehi went through all sorts of trials to get to the Promised Land. I was never able to liken their story unto myself because I don't think I was ever in any sort of similar situation. Now having been unemployed and waiting for blessings for the past year, and watching the trials that my wife and kids have had to face, and feeling helpless to fix things for them, it's been really easy to put myself into the scriptures, and I've had some really nice insights into it. I never knew what to think when Lehi murmured because Nephi's bow broke. For crying out loud, he was a prophet, he had seen visions, what was the matter with him? It's not like the Lord is going to let you go hungry. It turns out, he got a little impatient, and probably a little hungry. Here he was, doing everything he was asked to do, and their only source of food was broken, not to mention he's got two idiot sons who refuse to get a clue even when angelic visitors rebuke them for being stupid all the time. Looking back, I bet Lehi was a bit ashamed that he didn't hold out hope for heavenly help, but at the time, he was probably thinking 'come on, as if this isn't hard enough already'.
Nephi did just about everything right, and still suffered immensely at the hands of his idiot brothers. The Lord allowed him to be bound, injured, humiliated, and none of it was ever brought about by his own doing.
The thing is, eventually, things worked out well for them. They made it to the Promised Land, they received warnings to flee when it became unsafe for them, and they were blessed as promised when they followed the commandments. It just took them some time to get into a situation where those promised blessings could be honored. It required a lot of patience, long suffering and perseverance to arrive at the point in time where The Lord could make good on His promises. I am not right now in the position where I can realize all the blessings that have been promised to me. My kids are going through a tough time, but they aren't hungry or cold. Living with my in-laws is not ideal, but I am thankful that they are putting up with us. I still don't know what is going to happen (which is a bad thing, I once got really ticked off at Jennifer for surprising me with hockey tickets, she didn't tell me what we were doing til we got to the arena [it was a great present once I knew what I was doing, I just really hate hate hate surprises]) but I feel like I'm getting closer to being gainfully employed.
We are excited about all of our prospects, and I can see the hand of The Lord in the trials that I have faced over the past few years (my last job kind of sucked too) If nothing pans out this summer, I hope I can continue pressing forward knowing that eventually this specific trial will be over. I don't look forward to starting another major trial, but I have faith that I'll be able to meet it head on. I just hope it's not so bad that it has me longing for the days I was unemployed.
I don't use this blog often to express myself this way, but I thought I should today. I'm thankful that I was prompted to begin studying the scriptures again. I'm thankful that I have them, and I'm thankful that I know they're true. I'm thankful for excellent examples that were set for me when I was growing up. I'm thankful for everyone who has helped us out during this difficult time, it would have been impossible to get through this otherwise.
Now I really should be getting to bed, it's past my self imposed bedtime, and Jennifer just looked at me like I'm some sort of hypocrite for being up this late.
On Fast Sunday this month, in Elder's Quorum, we talked about new year's resolutions, and habits and things we should all be doing. We went through a pretty long list, and discussed ways that made each of those habits easier to do or more effective when we did them. I don't remember much of anything that was on the list, because one thing stuck out to me more than anything. I hadn't been studying my scriptures much at all. This wasn't a habit that I lost recently, I don't think I've consistently read my scriptures for a prolonged period of time since my mission. I think I almost finished the Book of Mormon when President Hinckley challenged us to a few years ago, but that was about it.
I read my scriptures pretty faithfully during seminary, and then my freshman year of college. I had some amazing experiences with it too, to the point where there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that the Book of Mormon is true. I've been coasting on that testimony for quite some time, not really feeling the need to do any further studying. I know that prophets have said they learn something new every time they read it, I just never really saw much benefit the few times I halfheartedly attempted to restart my habit in the last 10 years.
Another issue I've had so far is not seeing immediate blessings. I've had the blessing (or curse) of recognizing most blessings as they came immediately to me for good works that I had done, or good decisions I had made. I wasn't used to waiting things out. Sure, I had my moments where I was pretty impatient waiting for things to happen, but for the most part, I was able to tie financial blessings to specific decisions or good works that I had done. Up until a year ago, I always felt pretty secure that God was looking out for me.
I've spent the past year or so since losing my job suffering through various levels of depression. The moment I lost my job, I vowed to remain upbeat, but as time wore on, and job prospects weren't materializing, those positive feelings went away. I've said a few things in the presence of my wife and kids that I regret now because I was angry. Angry that I had to go through what I was going through. Angry that I wasn't being rewarded for the parts of the gospel that I diligently followed. I recognized where those feelings were coming from, but there were days and weeks that I didn't feel like fighting those feelings off.
Anyways, I started reading my Book of Mormon on January 4, I've missed one day, and I made up double the next day. I started out the first few days reading in the middle of the day, and then spending some time with the Joseph Smith Papers book that I got from the Beebes for Christmas (so far a good book if anyone is interested). Then I spent a few days barely getting my reading in right before bed, which didn't work out as well so I made more of an effort to get my reading done while I was still awake and alert. I took my scriptures with me to Texas and I read them every day I was there.
Now that I've read a few weeks, I've started making other changes to my lifestyle. I'm trying to get to bed earlier. I started working out so I can be in good shape for whatever academy I end up at. I'm getting healthier and stronger (still haven't lost any weight though :( ) and I'm sure that's contributing to my overall positive feeling, but I feel that it's safe to say that my scripture habits are the main reason.
I've probably read 1 Nephi a million times (I always started there any time I tried to restart my habit) I know the story very well. I knew that Nephi and Lehi went through all sorts of trials to get to the Promised Land. I was never able to liken their story unto myself because I don't think I was ever in any sort of similar situation. Now having been unemployed and waiting for blessings for the past year, and watching the trials that my wife and kids have had to face, and feeling helpless to fix things for them, it's been really easy to put myself into the scriptures, and I've had some really nice insights into it. I never knew what to think when Lehi murmured because Nephi's bow broke. For crying out loud, he was a prophet, he had seen visions, what was the matter with him? It's not like the Lord is going to let you go hungry. It turns out, he got a little impatient, and probably a little hungry. Here he was, doing everything he was asked to do, and their only source of food was broken, not to mention he's got two idiot sons who refuse to get a clue even when angelic visitors rebuke them for being stupid all the time. Looking back, I bet Lehi was a bit ashamed that he didn't hold out hope for heavenly help, but at the time, he was probably thinking 'come on, as if this isn't hard enough already'.
Nephi did just about everything right, and still suffered immensely at the hands of his idiot brothers. The Lord allowed him to be bound, injured, humiliated, and none of it was ever brought about by his own doing.
The thing is, eventually, things worked out well for them. They made it to the Promised Land, they received warnings to flee when it became unsafe for them, and they were blessed as promised when they followed the commandments. It just took them some time to get into a situation where those promised blessings could be honored. It required a lot of patience, long suffering and perseverance to arrive at the point in time where The Lord could make good on His promises. I am not right now in the position where I can realize all the blessings that have been promised to me. My kids are going through a tough time, but they aren't hungry or cold. Living with my in-laws is not ideal, but I am thankful that they are putting up with us. I still don't know what is going to happen (which is a bad thing, I once got really ticked off at Jennifer for surprising me with hockey tickets, she didn't tell me what we were doing til we got to the arena [it was a great present once I knew what I was doing, I just really hate hate hate surprises]) but I feel like I'm getting closer to being gainfully employed.
We are excited about all of our prospects, and I can see the hand of The Lord in the trials that I have faced over the past few years (my last job kind of sucked too) If nothing pans out this summer, I hope I can continue pressing forward knowing that eventually this specific trial will be over. I don't look forward to starting another major trial, but I have faith that I'll be able to meet it head on. I just hope it's not so bad that it has me longing for the days I was unemployed.
I don't use this blog often to express myself this way, but I thought I should today. I'm thankful that I was prompted to begin studying the scriptures again. I'm thankful that I have them, and I'm thankful that I know they're true. I'm thankful for excellent examples that were set for me when I was growing up. I'm thankful for everyone who has helped us out during this difficult time, it would have been impossible to get through this otherwise.
Now I really should be getting to bed, it's past my self imposed bedtime, and Jennifer just looked at me like I'm some sort of hypocrite for being up this late.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Budget Rent a Car Sucks
First, let me say that I am an idiot, and I could have avoided this situation altogether by paying closer attention.
I rented a car from Budget in Houston when I went there for my firefighter job stuff. I was running on fumes when I got there (I took an early flight, and I was up late packing) I got to the rental counter, and informed the clerk that I had a reservation. She started getting things together, and asked if I wanted to purchase additional insurance coverages. I clearly stated no, that I did not need or want any of the coverages, and that I just needed the car. She printed up my contract, circled a few places for me to initial and sign, and started to explain it to me. When it came time to initial for optional coverages, she told me to initial there to declare that I had declined additional coverages, so I initialed. That isn't what was on the contract. I ended up paying 209 dollars for that little flub, because the clerk decided to try to sneak on additional coverage and hope I wouldn't notice.
When I noticed that I had an extra charge on my credit card, I called them up and asked them what it was for. I explained my situation, what I had verbally told the clerk at the desk, and asked them if there was anything they could do. I was hoping they'd do the right thing, but they decided to take my money instead. There isn't anything I can do legally to fight this since I was enough of a dunderhead to take their clerk's word that the contract was what I had asked for. I thought about disputing it on my credit card, but thought better of it when I found out they could send me to collections even if I won a decision with my credit card.
Dealing with their poor customer service has been a nightmare too, their agents are combative and rude.
Anyways, it's probably a good idea to read thoroughly any contract you sign, even if the line behind you is long and people are getting pissed off waiting. It's also a good idea to not do business with unethical companies like Budget.
Well done Budget, you legally stole 209 dollars from me. I guess I'll be looking elsewhere to rent a moving truck to Texas or Oklahoma this summer.
I rented a car from Budget in Houston when I went there for my firefighter job stuff. I was running on fumes when I got there (I took an early flight, and I was up late packing) I got to the rental counter, and informed the clerk that I had a reservation. She started getting things together, and asked if I wanted to purchase additional insurance coverages. I clearly stated no, that I did not need or want any of the coverages, and that I just needed the car. She printed up my contract, circled a few places for me to initial and sign, and started to explain it to me. When it came time to initial for optional coverages, she told me to initial there to declare that I had declined additional coverages, so I initialed. That isn't what was on the contract. I ended up paying 209 dollars for that little flub, because the clerk decided to try to sneak on additional coverage and hope I wouldn't notice.
When I noticed that I had an extra charge on my credit card, I called them up and asked them what it was for. I explained my situation, what I had verbally told the clerk at the desk, and asked them if there was anything they could do. I was hoping they'd do the right thing, but they decided to take my money instead. There isn't anything I can do legally to fight this since I was enough of a dunderhead to take their clerk's word that the contract was what I had asked for. I thought about disputing it on my credit card, but thought better of it when I found out they could send me to collections even if I won a decision with my credit card.
Dealing with their poor customer service has been a nightmare too, their agents are combative and rude.
Anyways, it's probably a good idea to read thoroughly any contract you sign, even if the line behind you is long and people are getting pissed off waiting. It's also a good idea to not do business with unethical companies like Budget.
Well done Budget, you legally stole 209 dollars from me. I guess I'll be looking elsewhere to rent a moving truck to Texas or Oklahoma this summer.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Almost Home
I'm finally flying back to Utah tomorrow. I'm stopping in downtown San Antonio to buy a giant cinnamon roll (bigger than my head), and driving back to Houston to fly home. It's a 3 hour drive, with hurricane evacuation lanes the whole way (it's just the shoulder, you're not allowed to drive on it unless there is a hurricane, it was still a little creepy seeing the signs though, just like the tsunami signs on the Oregon Coast.)
While I was in San Antonio, I met Grant, Sam and Kyliena for lunch at The Salt Lick outside of Austin. It was really really good. If I end up getting the job here, anyone helping us move will be treated to lunch there. The brisket was good, and the ribs were awesome. The cole slaw wasn't slathered in ranch dressing or miracle whip, it was dressed with vinegar, sesame seeds, and a little salt. Kyliena has really pretty light blue eyes, and when she occasionally got over her shyness she was a neat little kid (eating onions, offering me all her leftovers, and dropping all of Grant's straws on the ground). Sam was very nice to let us eat at an all you can eat BBQ place even though she isn't a huge fan of large quantities of beef. If you guys are reading this, thanks for making the drive down, it was awesome to see you.
I passed the San Antonio CPAT this morning. I took a Behavioral Analysis test this afternoon, got fingerprinted, and got started on my background paperwork. Their academy starts on June 14. Once my paperwork gets in, it'll take a few weeks to do my background, and I should have a conditional offer about a month later. Since I ranked so high, I'm guaranteed a spot in the June academy as long as I get the conditional offer. I'm pretty excited that 5 months from now I should have a few offers on the table.
While I was in San Antonio, I met Grant, Sam and Kyliena for lunch at The Salt Lick outside of Austin. It was really really good. If I end up getting the job here, anyone helping us move will be treated to lunch there. The brisket was good, and the ribs were awesome. The cole slaw wasn't slathered in ranch dressing or miracle whip, it was dressed with vinegar, sesame seeds, and a little salt. Kyliena has really pretty light blue eyes, and when she occasionally got over her shyness she was a neat little kid (eating onions, offering me all her leftovers, and dropping all of Grant's straws on the ground). Sam was very nice to let us eat at an all you can eat BBQ place even though she isn't a huge fan of large quantities of beef. If you guys are reading this, thanks for making the drive down, it was awesome to see you.
I passed the San Antonio CPAT this morning. I took a Behavioral Analysis test this afternoon, got fingerprinted, and got started on my background paperwork. Their academy starts on June 14. Once my paperwork gets in, it'll take a few weeks to do my background, and I should have a conditional offer about a month later. Since I ranked so high, I'm guaranteed a spot in the June academy as long as I get the conditional offer. I'm pretty excited that 5 months from now I should have a few offers on the table.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Update
I've passed everything here in Houston. As of now I am waiting for them to pull a complete background on me. There shouldn't be anything in there that would disqualify me for a job, which means that come June, I should at least have an offer.
It was cold and windy on Friday morning, which is somewhat out of the ordinary for Houston. The CPAT wasn't difficult, each event was done on it's own, not all in order. The only thing that people probably ever fail on is the mile and a half run. I ran with a class of out of state applicants, and I guess everyone took the necessary precautions to pass the test. Our slowest finisher was around 12:10, a full minute ahead of the cutoff. I finished in 11:12, which is pretty decent for my level of fitness, but nowhere near where I expect to be after having another 6 months to a year to improve. I don't think I'm capable of getting back into high school cross country shape, but I bet I can get my mile and a half under 10 minutes. That will end up being my goal.
I ended up joining 24 Hour Fitness in Provo. They had a decent deal for a month to month membership. At the very most, I might have to pay for one month that I wouldn't use, but it's worth it to have somewhere to exercise. Even when I was running outside during the summer, as soon as I finished my 20-30 minute run, I'd go in and shower. Now after I finish my runs, I still do other cardio like the stair machine or the elliptical. I also have weights, which have really helped me get my pushup counts up. I'm hoping that eventually I'll start to lose some weight. I'm trying to drink lots of water every day, and cut down on my portion sizes at meals, but after 2 weeks of pretty solid workouts, I was stuck at 235 pounds.
I'm going to church tomorrow in Katy, which is probably where we'll move if I get hired in Houston. After that, I'm driving to San Antonio. I'm going to see Grant and Sam for lunch in Austin on Monday, and I've got the CPAT there on Tuesday.
I'm looking forward to seeing Jenn and the kids again on Wednesday night. I always miss them more than I think I'm going to.
It was cold and windy on Friday morning, which is somewhat out of the ordinary for Houston. The CPAT wasn't difficult, each event was done on it's own, not all in order. The only thing that people probably ever fail on is the mile and a half run. I ran with a class of out of state applicants, and I guess everyone took the necessary precautions to pass the test. Our slowest finisher was around 12:10, a full minute ahead of the cutoff. I finished in 11:12, which is pretty decent for my level of fitness, but nowhere near where I expect to be after having another 6 months to a year to improve. I don't think I'm capable of getting back into high school cross country shape, but I bet I can get my mile and a half under 10 minutes. That will end up being my goal.
I ended up joining 24 Hour Fitness in Provo. They had a decent deal for a month to month membership. At the very most, I might have to pay for one month that I wouldn't use, but it's worth it to have somewhere to exercise. Even when I was running outside during the summer, as soon as I finished my 20-30 minute run, I'd go in and shower. Now after I finish my runs, I still do other cardio like the stair machine or the elliptical. I also have weights, which have really helped me get my pushup counts up. I'm hoping that eventually I'll start to lose some weight. I'm trying to drink lots of water every day, and cut down on my portion sizes at meals, but after 2 weeks of pretty solid workouts, I was stuck at 235 pounds.
I'm going to church tomorrow in Katy, which is probably where we'll move if I get hired in Houston. After that, I'm driving to San Antonio. I'm going to see Grant and Sam for lunch in Austin on Monday, and I've got the CPAT there on Tuesday.
I'm looking forward to seeing Jenn and the kids again on Wednesday night. I always miss them more than I think I'm going to.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Off to Texas
Tomorrow morning I am flying to Houston. I've got an interview with HFD on the 14th, the CPAT, fingerprinting, and a polygraph on the 15th.
I'm staying in town that weekend, and I'm going to find a church to go to so I can ask where a good place to live is.
After church on Sunday, I'm going to drive to San Antonio, where I have a CPAT on Tuesday.
Jenn has twisted my arm so that I'll pick up one of the monster 3.5 pound cinnamon rolls as seen on Man V Food and bring it home with me. I also might hit up the all you can eat BBQ place up near Austin from the same show.
I'll be back home next Wednesday.
I'm staying in town that weekend, and I'm going to find a church to go to so I can ask where a good place to live is.
After church on Sunday, I'm going to drive to San Antonio, where I have a CPAT on Tuesday.
Jenn has twisted my arm so that I'll pick up one of the monster 3.5 pound cinnamon rolls as seen on Man V Food and bring it home with me. I also might hit up the all you can eat BBQ place up near Austin from the same show.
I'll be back home next Wednesday.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Running
I stopped feeling the effects of strep after the 4th day of taking my antibiotics. I signed up for a 14 day free trial gym membership at 24 hour fitness in Provo on the 29th. I've been trying to push myself to make sure that I'm not on the edge of failing my CPATs when I go to Texas this month. The San Antonio test should be pretty easy, it's the same test I took in Oklahoma, but the Houston test includes a mile and a half run in under 13 minutes.
14 years ago that would have been a joke of a test, but now it's slightly more imposing, especially after being laid up for a week with strep. I pushed myself through a lot of cardio last week hoping to get ready, and it wasn't looking too promising. I kept getting tired on the treadmill, and I couldn't run for long periods of time even at slower jogging paces. Instead of running slow and steady, I'd pump up the speed for a quarter or half mile, and then walk for a few minutes.
Today the weather outside is sunny and cold. The roads are pretty clear in the center, but the sidewalks and curbs are all iced over. I decided to go for a run outside to see where I was. I did a mile in 7:50 which would have left me over 5 minutes to run another half mile. I wasn't really that tired either, and probably would have kept up the pace to the finish. I stopped because my thumbs were freezing and my nose was running.
I'm confident that I'll have no problems completing the test now. The weather in Houston is supposed to be in the 50s next week, and moving down to sea level from mile high conditions can't hurt either.
I'm feeling better about my employment situation right now. I'm hoping that quitting a part time job won't push me out of consideration for some of the fire jobs I've applied for, and I don't think it will.
14 years ago that would have been a joke of a test, but now it's slightly more imposing, especially after being laid up for a week with strep. I pushed myself through a lot of cardio last week hoping to get ready, and it wasn't looking too promising. I kept getting tired on the treadmill, and I couldn't run for long periods of time even at slower jogging paces. Instead of running slow and steady, I'd pump up the speed for a quarter or half mile, and then walk for a few minutes.
Today the weather outside is sunny and cold. The roads are pretty clear in the center, but the sidewalks and curbs are all iced over. I decided to go for a run outside to see where I was. I did a mile in 7:50 which would have left me over 5 minutes to run another half mile. I wasn't really that tired either, and probably would have kept up the pace to the finish. I stopped because my thumbs were freezing and my nose was running.
I'm confident that I'll have no problems completing the test now. The weather in Houston is supposed to be in the 50s next week, and moving down to sea level from mile high conditions can't hurt either.
I'm feeling better about my employment situation right now. I'm hoping that quitting a part time job won't push me out of consideration for some of the fire jobs I've applied for, and I don't think it will.
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