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Overacheivements

Feeling a bit over-extended these days.  But oh, it feels good.  I’m making up for five months of being unemployed and purposeless, I guess.  A lot is happening all of a sudden.  I’m going into my third winter in Utah, and I’m reminded of my third year at Clark University: the first two years were [...]

Living the Dream – Season Three

I started my job as a snowmaker today, though Mother Nature seemed to be sending me a message that, if she was going to be honest, she didn’t really need my help.  Thick snowflakes curtained the road up Little Cottonwood Canyon, and Chris’ truck slid around a few corners despite being in four-wheel drive.  Fresh [...]

The Construction of a Wildland Firefighter

White's 10-inch, lace-to-toe Smokejumpers, men's size 5.

Welcome to the new Susan. From hippie world traveler to burly, smoke-breathing firefighter. Instead of hugging trees, now I’m wishing they’d catch on fire so I could save them and start getting some of that legendary overtime and hazard pay. It’s not a natural transition; it’s taken [...]

Sweet As Part III: Sawdust and Sunshine

Finally!  Let’s get a big YEE HAW from the middle of Dubois, Wyoming (DOO-boys – pronounce it in the French fashion at your own risk).  The town is small (900 souls) and high (6,900 feet above seal level), but it’s got a library with wireless internet access.  I’ve been here for two weeks, and I’ve [...]