Sometimes, being little is better than being young.

I know it's been a while. Cut me a little slack. Life has a way of stepping in and taking up our free time. In any event, here I am.

I am staying with the P90X program. Perhaps I should say that I am staying with the diet portion of the program and I am trying to work in the work outs, as I can.

The idea of this came from different things. Above all, I knew I had a few pounds to lose and I was not as healthy as I should have been and wanted to be. I also wanted to get in better shape to enable me to be successful in a new adventure and what I had hoped would lead into a new career as a fire fighter.

I was able to get myself into the department as a Probationary Fire Fighter, also called a Probe or a Probie or a Newbie and there are several other terms that I have been made aware of, but I'll keep those to myself. I wanted this transformation to help me stick around and see what life is like on the other end of the remarks.

A few weeks ago, all the new Probies were called into the station to be fitted for Turnout Gear. Turnout gear is the protective clothing worn like boots, pants and coat. When my turn came, I stood up in front of the officers in charge of the fitting and they looked at me and one said to the other; "He looks like he's Little D's size. Go try his gear on."

I honestly can't remember the last time I was compared to or in any way referenced to anyone or anything "little", but I am sure I was probably about 7 years-old at the time. Cool!

I knew who they were talking about. I've met this 'Little D'. I don't know his real name. I don't know many of the real names of the guys I have met. They all have nick names. Little D is not that "little". He's not a tall guy, but he's not a short guy, either. We are about the same height. So, ok, I can see that. He's in great shape, too. The first time I saw him, I thought to myself that he obviously works out and takes care of himself and I hope I never piss him off, because he would surely stomp me into a little greasy spot. So, I felt really good to have my build compared to "Little D". A few months ago, things may have turned out differently. There is a guy in the department that they all call "Chunk"...but, he's a cool guy, too.

Training is going well. After the classroom sessions, we all go out to the service bay for PT, physical training. The Captain that is doing the training seems to be a good guy. I am reminded of the movie Forrest Gump. Specifically, when he meets Lieutenant Dan for the first time. I am certain that he and I will never make our fortune working on a shrimp boat, but I can't help but think to myself; "I sure hope I don't disappoint him."

25 push ups was barked out. pppppppth No problem. A few months ago...different story. 25 squats. Dude, this is a cake walk. 20 push ups. Ok, you have my attention, now. 20 squats. Dude, I thought we were cool. 15 push ups. I'm starting to dislike you. 15 squats. I see a pattern forming, here. 10 push ups. Perhaps we got off on the wrong foot, here. 10 squats. Perhaps we can crank up one of the engines and pump some water over here...I'm just saying. 5 push ups. If you guys need me, I'll be under the ladder the truck. I'll be the one curled up in the fetal position with the snot bubbles coming out of his nose.

Now, what happened next was a valuable lesson. Another Probe who I am sure was trying to be gung ho and not a smart ass barked out; "5 squats"...then proceeded to do them. The Captain announced that since he could not follow instructions, he would do everyone's last 5 squats. There were 25 of us there.

Note to self...always follow instructions.