You Can't Rain On My Parade

Again... another crazy week. I think they keep getting more ridiculous in the sheer amount of tasks I have to accomplish, obligations to fulfill, and places to be. Although, this week, the week of the 4th of July, is typically a crazy week for me, Shawn, and pretty much most all of my close friends and in-laws.

This past week I have had to...

• Read three chapters for my two online courses. Complete a quiz, an essay, three forum discussion questions, finish a project, and do another small assignment.
  
• Work two different EMS jobs (but I did take off Saturday)
• Teach the EMT course
• Host a cook out this past weekend with over a dozen guests
• Do all the 4th of July craziness, including the parade, fund raising, setting up, and lighting of the fireworks.
• And probably lots of other stuff I forgot...

But it has been a great week and I've had quite a few adventures. Everything from thunderstorms (which I love love love), structure fires, and lighting off 4" finale chains in the rain (exhilarating and insane!). And hopefully things are going to get even better.... tomorrow Shawn and I head to the Old Orchard Beach/Portland area for an over night stay, some time at the ocean, and some much needed relaxation time together. This summer may be jammed packed with events, but so far I feel as if I am enjoying and taking advantage of every one of them.

Some pictures from the past week....

Storms framing Burke Mountain.


And the structure fire that resulted from the above storm (lightning strike)


Husband and wife before the 4th of July Parade

It literally rained... actually POURED... on our parade, but it was still a good time. Nothing beats having a crowd clap and cheer for you as you march by just because you are a firefighter. Its very humbling.


Island Pond, Island Pond Vermont. (no that's not redundant... it's the lake's name)

The weather went from showers, as seen in the distance on the other side of the lake, to complete misting rain. It was disappointing, but it did not dampen our spirits.



The show must go on. Putting together the finale raft in the rain. Now that's dedication.



And the show did go on.

Boy did it rain and it was a whopping 50 degrees on the 4th of July (ick!) If we did the show this year there is not way we are going to cancel the fireworks. And like I mentioned earlier... I got to light the 4" finale chains (which are six 4" fireworks connected to each other). They light instantly so you have to duck and look away as soon as you touch the flare to the fuse. The ground shakes and your whole body reverberates. The ringing in my ears just barely stopped. The experince definitely ranked up there on my list of "The coolest things I have ever done."

I can't wait to see what this next week brings...