Let's Get You Up to Speed (part 13).....

July 9, 2008 - My second attempt at the written test. New protocol told me that I would have to re-take the test. So in the months prior to the test, I again read, typed notes, studied in the car in the Life Care Parking Lot...and finally the day arrived. I felt prepared, just like last time, however this time I was much more relaxed....and it showed. A few weeks later, I got my results, and I scored an 83. Much higher than last. Seemed this relaxation technique might be working.

March 9,2009 - My second attempt at the physical agility test. This was a little tricky. I had to leave work, take the test, and then come back. Again, I went in relaxed. I headed to the Training site, joined up with 70+ other hopefuls, and ran my test. All the same obstacles...same amount of time.

August 17, 2009 - The polygraph Test. 5 months had passed. I pretty much forgot about the fire department. In that time, I was preparing for a new career. I was going to become a teacher. I had passed a Praxis II test in Middle School AND Elementary School. I had gone on 4 interviews at 4 different elementary schools. But as the summer ended and the school year started, I found that there was no place for a wanna be teacher trying to teach on an alt certification. Then out of the clear blue sky, a message requesting me to take a polygraph. And on September 9th, I did just that. Hard to be relaxed for a polygraph test. I mean after all, your hooked up to a machine measuring everything from your pulse to your breathing. Passed with no problems. I was starting to think, maybe this firefighter career could actually happen.

August 25, 2009 - I immediately started exercising. Running and walking a combined 3 miles most everyday. I also had to submitted background check information, including references and previous employers. And yes, the sent my current employer a letter. And yes, I had to explain to my boss my situation. He was supportive.

Beginning of October, 2009 - I was called and told that I was one of 52 selected candidates. Show up at the training center for another physical test. Push-ups, Sit-ups, and a 440 Run. While I didn't do the most, I did enough. I passed all parts.

Mid October, 2009 - I get a call. I've been selected as one of 32 candidates for the next academy.

Late October, 2009 - As from my previous posts, I had physicals, tests, and more tests.

November 5th, 2009 - All 32 of us gathered at City Hall at 9:00 to fill out paperwork. We finally get a look at the folks we will be spending time with for the next 6 months. I also had to say good by to the TFP and the friends I've made over the last year.

They helped me say goodbye by getting me this cake:



So now that leads us to right now. I lay here in bed, thinking of my past journey. Thinking of all those who have helped me along the way:

To Kathy, Leah, Dan, Dana, Terrell, Annie & Bridget from BAP in StL
To Aaron, Terrance, Bob, and all the volunteers from the O'Fallon FPT
To Chris, Pat, Mark, Mark, Matt, Jimmy, Josh, and all the folks at WDEF
To Ryan, Malcolm, MJ, Keith, Jarred, and all my NET Brothers and Sisters
To ED, Chris, Brad, Ken, Laura, Megan, Celina, and the folks at the TFP
To Mom, Dad, Susan, Michael, Jason, Madison, Juta, Heidi, Brad, Ava and all my Family

and finally....

To Katrina, Kolsten, Kaleena, Jamie, Misty, Mason, and Emerson

Thank you for believing in me, praying for me, and giving me the strength when I needed it the most. You have all formed me into who I am today and who the City of Chattanooga has hired. You are all in my prayers.

Tomorrow I start my training to become a firefighter for the City of Chattanooga. Over the last few weeks I have written down the past. But my past is just that...the past. And while I've learned a ton from my past...It's time to start the present.