Sharen Retires

Being a twin is special
All twins, identical or not have a connection, a kinship, an understanding, an unexplained bond.
But it's much more than that. I like to think it's more like having a life that's blended.

We grew up doing everything together. We got measles, mumps, our ears pierced, drivers licenses, our first real full time jobs at the same place, together. Don't ask me which one did it first. Doesn't matter, and the stories change; one day it's Sharen and the next time it's me. It all blends together.

We ended up at the doctor at the same time once . One of us stepped on a rusty nail and the other had a display of paint fall on top of her. Really, I do not know which one happen to me, but I do remember it happening.

Some things can only happen to one person, but that didn't stop us from being there for each other.
She was right with me when I won the middle schools free throw shooting contest and I watch her win the Female Bowler of the Year for the city of Elgin.

There are so many stories, but my point is - Twins Forever!

Sharen retired yesterday.
I was there for her.
The guys made breakfast for her and she jokingly told them that she was glad they had breakfast together, because they would probably get a call when her party starts and no one would be there. Now red shift hasn't had a fire in a year. Party starts at 2pm. A call for a garage fire came in at 1:48. Party started anyway.

 A beautiful quilt, made by Brita, her replacement. She found 40 different firefighter materials. A great keepsake for Sharen. On the table sits her teddy bear I made her out of one of her old work shirts and flowers sent from the grandkids.

Sharen trying to strike a pose like our Dad did.

 The Engines were finally back and the grandkids watch them back the big rig in with Grandma.

 Her firefighters gave her this awesome golf bag. She was overwhelmed to say the least. This gift could not have been more perfect, hers is really old. Harvey took charge and even got the colors right - matching her Ohio state head covers.

Sharen and some of her boys. When she started there were only 9 full time firefighters. Now, 22 years later, there are 30 full timers and 14 POCs  (paid on call).



 

After lots of hugs her last day ended. The party continued over at Mary's Corner Tap.
What better way to cap off her work life but with a ride on the engine over to the bar. She offered me a ride along, but I said no "This was her day."
When she asked me a second time I agreed to join her. I almost forgot that we share things, that's what we do, and she wanted to share this with me.
We made arrangements for someone to drive Carrie's car over to the bar so she could ride with us too. I am So glad I went with her. A ride I will never forget.
Sharen rode in the front and Carrie and I took the back seats.

Now the guys get to meet the fun Sharen. The relaxed Sharen who drinks beer, teases them, and laughs at their stories. I heard some pretty nice things about my twin from people who knew her, but don't know me. They really liked her. They will really miss her. I heard from a couple wives who were there (one was there while her husband was at work) who are going to miss her too. I certainly was feeling the love for my twin and I couldn't have been more proud.

 

I am so glad that Justin grabbed my camera for a picture of the 2 of us.

 

Now the fun times begin. When she's not playing in the park with her grandkids or off playing golf with her husband I am pretty sure she will be getting in just a little bit of trouble with me.