Northbound

"And that's a Vikings..."

"FIRST DOWN!!"

That got a little annoying after a while.  But you know what?  The end result was rewarding.  Packers victory in Minnesota.  And after attending Joel's Halloween Party the night before, I was needing a good reason to get up that early.  And to drive that far.  After drinking that much.  Period.

Downtown Minneapolis was very nice.  Looking around, the city seemed very clean with many places to go and things to do.  People can thank Target for that.  Hence Target Field and Target Center where the Twins and Timberwolves play respectfully.  Mall of America Field, where the Vi-Queens play, seemed much smaller than I expected.  But, I thought the same thing my first trip to Lambeau Field. 

Side note though, New York so much better.  Can't seem to get off my NYC trip.

Byrge

Sweet Ride!

Few different things I've wrote about in this damn thing.  Mostly though its been about the working out I haven't been doing, the Jeep that I have been working on or shit that's happening on the fire department.  Well guess what?  This one's not too far off either.  Searching around for bikes online, and yes, it is a hobby of mine, I came across this cruiser.  And let me tell ya, I love it.  Perhaps I can sell mine and get onto one of these next year?  How sweet would that be?

Anyway, back for another tour of duty tomorrow at 31's.  News about house picking came in the other day.  Can't pick 24's.  Pissed.  The department is making that the second HURT house.  Which I'm alright with, just disappointed about not heading up to 51st and Capital every third day.  Oh well.

Byrge

Quick Visit

First day of a 48 here at 31's.  Been an interesting day.  DOA, PNB and a seizure plus man down.  Now this guy was hilarious.  Once J-Rod woke him up, he entertained us quite a bit.  Calling us everything under the sun.  Half of it I couldn't understand but smirked at some of his comments as we informed him that he could not sleep where he was at.  Just another moment where you just had to be there.

Wife and kids stopped by early evening.  Reed's been here numerous times, but this one was special.  He's never been able to run free on his own two feet while here.  I think he enjoyed it.

Future HEO?

Six runs so far. What will the night bring?

Byrge

House Picking

In the a couple of weeks, the members of the department will be "picking" their house to work at for the next four years.  I'm a little nervous though.  I like being somewhat of a planner and have an idea of what's going on.  But right now, this process is not letting me.  I've heard rumors that my chances of staying somewhat busy are pretty good.  BUT WHERE!?!  Knowing that 13's, 30's and 32's will all be full by the time I step up and decide where to go, here's a short list of what I'm hoping will be available for me.  And a short reason why...

Engine 31

Why not?  Started out of the academy here and would love to continue.

Engine 24

Knowing that the HEO exam is coming soon, I'm guessing this is a good spot to be at.

Engine 36

Second busiest Engine Co. in the city in 2010.  Do I need to say more?

Engine 34

For some reason, I just like the house.  Another spot that will keep one honest.

Engine 6

Ok, so this one I just threw in for giggles.  Not the busiest of places, but after being in NYC, I loved how much foot traffic certain firehouse out there were around.  This is the closest I can relate to that.

And finally, a Squad Co.

Now this might just be the death of me, but what the department plans on doing with these squads is much different than FDNY.  Meant for only "squad" runs, hence the name.  Might just be one thing I can say I did if and when I ever take the Lieutenant's exam.

Byrge

Square One

192.4#

Byrge

"Engine 31 In Quarters Available"

Was shortly after 12 and we were just finishing lunch when I picked up the ringing phone.  It was Chief Lipski from the shop wanting to talk with the officer.  My first thought, our new rig was ready for delivery.  Guess what?  It was.  Shortly, we were out the door and on our way to the shop to accept the newest engine to Milwaukee's fleet.  It is a thing of beauty.  Enjoy the photos.  (more to come)  I get to appreciate the real deal.

Byrge