SO, many of you know that I have made a big jump across the country in pursuit of a trauma nursing degree. I find myself about 8,000 feet lower than previously, and there are no mountains anymore, but there is a beach! The people are a little different, the rules are a little different, and the cost of living is different, but there's no sales tax here. I first became a firefighter in 1998 and now find myself on the opposite side of the country and in 2008 I become a probie again. I wasnt thrilled at the prospect of redoing all of my training, as they wont recognise my out of states certs here in Delaware, but I am changing my attitude. I figure it certainly cant hurt anything except maybe a blow to the pride, which I feel is a necessary hit in the fire department. It helps keep us humble and dissolves the big head issues that sometimes arise, reminds us we are not invincible. So, as I look back through the same books(newer editions) and remember the good old days it is kind of exciting. It feels fresh all over again. I even get those probie butterflies going into the new station..LOL I am excited to learn new things and get different experiences. Though this time I think I will be pushing for those nationally recognised certs. This is ok once, but I dont think I will be as...how shall I say..."enthusiastic" about taking these courses again should I decide to move again in the future. I hope you all are having/had a happy holiday! I'll keep you posted on my progress at the new station. (I start January 3rd)