Holy shit. I’m registered for the 24th in Staunton VA.  That’s…coming up soon.  But this allows me to have time to find another test site for any stations I might have to retest.

Shit shit shit shit shit.

Okay, so, as many know, I’ve been trying to pursue my EMT-Intermediate certification (think mini-medic).  Well, mostly due to work and the number of hours I’ve been putting in there, I haven’t been able to take the practical exam nor really spend any time practicing.  My dilemma was financial, time, as well as the fact that the NR-EMT will be getting rid of this particular certification.   Once they get rid of this certification, I will be forced to take a bridge class to EMT-P (Paramedic).   This course is a lot of money and even more time.  So…a huge part of me thought why bother?  (This wasn’t even taking into consideration the whole process of getting cleared as an ALS provider within the county)

Well, a good friend (Adam, one of the best medics I know) kind of talked some sense into me regarding this.  He pointed out that in Virginia, it will still be recognized by the state for much longer than NR-EMT recognizes it (which is ultimately what matters).  Also, he made the very valid point that our system will pay for the intermediates to go through the bridge to paramedic class.  This class will be MUCH easier to deal with, than to go for paramedic from the very beginning.

Also, the work/time issue has become MUCH less of an issue now as …my boss is now watching the clock for what time I come in, so I am now watching the clock in the afternoon as to what time I leave.  I have an alarm set on my treo that says "GTFO! Now!" set at 5pm.  While I dislike how this has come about, I think I’m liking other things this change has brought about.  (This change came about in a very demeaning/condescending and rather disrespectful email from my boss on Thursday).

This means I need to get my ass in gear though and practice practice practice.   I have 2 months left to test.  I’ve already emailed a few sites that test Memorial Day weekend to see if they still have space…so.  I would really like to get into a May test date as there are 11 skill stations and passing all 11 the first time is…not common.  As long as I don’t have more than 5 to retest, they may offer to let me retest that particular night, or I can register for JUST those stations at another test site.

Much of this means I also need to be a LOT less social for the next 2 months and use that time to ride and/or study.