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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: Fire-fighter (10/05/06)
The rays from the sunlight glistened off the still waters of the bay. Nothing but sailboats in the distance and a few seagulls accompanied me.

Only a few hours ago, I bustled about my house putting out fires with my hose of discipline and assistance which had finally worn thin.

"Mother, mother, I need something borrowed, and something blue," said my daughter.

“Honey, I need you to pick up my tux,” my husband called from his bedroom. “And did you remember my shoes?”

“Ruff, ruff,” my four-legged fur ball yelped, and scratched at the back door.

Now, I heeded only to the sounds of lapping water splashing against the buoyant brigantine of comfort. I never seemed to find the time to utilize this extravagance my husband convinced me we needed; I finally agreed.

I needed a moment of peace to collect my thoughts and rejuvenate. Disappearing on the water for a few hours seemed like the best solution to calm the burning fire of anxiety running through my household and my veins.

As I lay on the lounge chair sipping sparkling water, and listening to jazz music, I chuckled as I thought,"if they could see me now."

They’d run for my medical card and make an appointment with the psyche doctor. Type-A Mama lying on a boat eating chocolate covered strawberries two days before the biggest day of her daughter’s life was not in my character.

The wedding would be at the firehouse. Funny, I thought. A place that is responsible for putting out fires would take over the commencement of festivities where I’d left off.

The time had come for me to hand over my hose to God and the new man in my daughter’s life. My husband and I would sit back and celebrate the event, and leave the work for the firemen and women dressed in satin gowns and black tuxedos.

Although, I knew I’d always be a part of the reserve, I was no longer first-mate. Isn’t this the moment every mother prays for? Isn’t this the beginning of the rest of my independent life? A tear fell down the side of my face; a tear of joy; a tear of release.

The descending sun reminded me time had quickly passed, and I needed to fare. I had lots to prepare for before I’d have the opportunity to return to this place of solitude and retreat. Time would soon allow me all the enjoyment of this lovely vessel I could desire.

So much quiet to look forward to—so much peace—it’s been what I’ve longed for. But, I knew I needed to get back home, just in case I had to put out one or two more fires. After all, I’m an expert fire-fighter.
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Member Comments
Member
Date
Marilyn Schnepp 
10/12/06
A very unique and different take on "fire fighter"...which at first I thought was very farfetched from the Challenge topic...but on second thought, I guess you nailed it - topic-wise. Nicely done, and loved the solitude scene; restful and serene.
Lynda Lee Schab 
10/14/06
This piece has a smooth, peaceful quality to it. A minor clip here and there but overall, a creative take on topic. I think every woman can definitely relate - must of us really are expert firefighters, especially when it comes to our families. Nicely done.
Amy Michelle Wiley 
10/22/06
Ah, I remember those days of stress before a wedding (my sister's, in my case). Great story!