Upside down, round and round.

Sorry that is has taken me sooo long to post. Finding some sort of access to the internet in this place is about as frustrating as having sewing machine problems right in the middle of a project. You fellow crafters know what I mean.

Anywho… talk about a lifestyle change. Anything that I have ever considered to be a normal life ceases to exist in my new world. This is not necessarily a bad thing either. I am surrounded by the so called “melting pot.” Every spice, flavor, aroma, and seasoning all thrown into one stew. I have to say it’s a good change for my palette though. I am definitely learning and interacting with people who I would normally never get to know. For example, one of my roommates and quick to be friend- Iesha, from Brooklyn- who frequently tells me to “Do my thang.”

I am sure some of you are wondering what my days are like here in Perry Point. Well they have been filled with physical training, community dinners, Powerpoint presentations, meeting new people, more physical training (ugh), exploring the surrounding towns, power tool training, movie nights, team meetings, information sessions, oh and more 6 am physical training.

Saturday morning was the “Pack Test.” It’s a physical fitness test to see if you qualify to become a Wildland Firefighter. (More info on that later if I make the team) Those interested had to write an essay on why they wanted to try out for this specialized squad and then take The Test. You have to wear a 45-pound vest and complete a three-mile course within 45 minutes. Lets just say 45 pounds is heavier than I remember. About a mile in my shoulders were already in pain and sweat was dripping down my face. There is a happy ending to this section though… I finished in 41:40! So I’ve qualified for the fire team but I haven’t found out if I’m officially on the team yet. They are only taking about 30 people. Time will tell. 

I better post this now while the internet works. 

More to come. 

- Liz