week five

just finished up week five. this week was our first chance to come face to face with fire. on Wednesday we did our car fire evolution, which consisted of putting out fire in two cars with a simulated fuel leak in between them. we did it in groups of two, with one man working the nozzle and the other pulling the hose. one run through took maybe two minutes and then we would switch positions. i was pretty nervous going into it because we were going to be on air having to pull hose which can be taxing. the last time i was on air doing work was on maze day, and it had left a bad taste in my mouth. but i guess pt is serving its purpose because it was no sweat; actually it was great fun. while the hose can be a bear to control, it is also like wielding a sword when you are going up against the fire. when me and my partner were finished, i immediately wanted to go again. i cant wait until the next evolution. pt has been increasing in intensity. we have been starting every workout with a mile and a half run at capt. belger's pace, and we have to do 100 burpees for everyone who doesn't finish with him. needless to say, i have yet to finish with him, along with a few others. we are currently up to roughly 2000 burpees. we will be working on paying those off for the rest of the program. the running is helping as it is forcing me to work on my breathing, which is making working on air much more bearable. as far as class time, at the start of the week i held the top GPA in the class. by Friday i had dropped to second. i just cant seem to shake this annoying streak of 96's. everyday the program is becoming more fun, and everyday i feel like i belong here more. with every skill we learn and every push up we do, i feel more like a fireman. thanks again to everyone who has been sending their love and support, you guys are such a vital part of my success. uncle Bo, thanks so much for the letters and such. unfortunately this next week an integral part of my support system will be absent as Bethany will be jet setting in Berlin for a conference and other fun activities. while i was sad to see her go, i am so excited for her and i know she is having a great time spreading her pixie magic around Germany. hope everyone has a great week. enjoy the cool weather while it lasts.