From Dresses to Jeans
My two brothers and I would always get into trouble for running through our neighbor’s corn fields and playing in the silos. It became a favorite memory of my hometown in – Lancaster, Pennsylvania. We didn’t think to check my long, black hair for the strands of silk, but the corn in my brothers’ pockets was another give away. My dad was strict and reflected this in his lifestyle. I’ve learned to respect that and I’m thankful he has taught me morals, and that hard work and dedication are valuable. I still hated having to wear dresses and nightgowns though; being a tom-boy in that up-bringing was quite difficult. That all changed when I was finally able to put on my first pair of jeans. From that moment on, I was always up to something little girls aren’t usually fond of learning. Instead of worrying about my makeup running, I was replacing beads of sweat with oil and soot.
I’ve always had a humble pride about myself and enjoy the moments I’m recognized, but it can still be tough. Being 5’3″ and 90 pounds at best, I don’t easily intimidate. Especially when there’s a 6’4″ man who is irate due to his vehicle being impounded for improper parking. They’re naïve to think I’m just the secretary, but I suppose glancing at me and judging my size is easily assumed. Not many are aware this petite powerhouse can handle a beefy Ford F550 while cautiously hauling 10 to 15 tons around like it were a pillow fight at a sleep over. I adapt like a chameleon, from elegant designer dresses for a formal event with the Shriners/Daughters’ of the Nile to a D.O.T. regulation safety vest, recovering vehicles at a multi-collision with a roll-over.
I met my husband 10 years ago, when he first started Firehouse Towing. At the time, I was content in the electrical field and gained knowledge of his company and how it’s operated as well. As time progressed, I grew an interest in the towing field and brought the idea to my husband. He was immediately open to the thought, and we began vigorous training for the next few months with no special treatment. He diligently demonstrated, evaluated, corrected and tested me to ensure I was fully acknowledged and successful. Most would say ‘I took the bull by the horns’, but I say ‘I took the truck by the J-hooks’! I’ve been a professional tow truck driver for the better half of 5 years now.
In this line of work, I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside some of the greatest people. I’ve gained respect from my peers, police and fire departments. It is fulfilling to work as a team when an incident calls us together. I’m honored to assist others and ensure they are taken care of completely, but I can also keep my composure while being cussed for a parking violation. I’m proud to say I can do things many may think impossible, but no doubt about it, I always get the job done.
On my down days, I’m with my husband and kids. I love that I never have to worry about not having time for them. Along with the demands of the towing company, I manage to take care of my “wifely/motherly duties” daily. Having such a supportive husband, who also takes pride in his family, makes my personal life less stressful as well. I enjoy the simple things in life with a touch of an adrenaline junkie ready to dive head first out of an airplane.
Also, I want to take advantage of this opportunity to stress the importance of slowing down and/or moving over for any emergency responder assisting a vehicle. It isn’t just the fear of being hit, but also the wind could very possibly blow my tiny self up under a truck! That being said, be safe and take care!