Steven Velásquez - Granting "Sirenity"

By Steven P. Velasquez August 31, 2009 There are many ways that our jobs in emergency services hit "close to home." Most often, a patient may look, sound, or somehow remind us of someone close to us. Children are a big source of identification too. Most of us have a soft spot for the young, usually because of their innocence and the belief that they are, or should be, somehow excused from life's tragedies. Fatherhood has been the single greatest catalyst for change in my personal views on the world and the field I love so much. This time however, I would like to discuss something else that hits close to home -- our hobbies, passions and pass times -- the objects or activities we devote ourselves to when not out "saving the world." A year ago I turned 40, and with the fast approaching pages of my mid-life about to be authored (crises yet to be determined) came the decision to purchase a Harley Davidson motorcycle. A passion of mine since I was a teen, tear...

by Steven P. Velasquez August 10, 2009 Two days from today, we'll be taking our daughters (18, 13 and 2) to Disney World in Florida. The excitement is reaching a fever pitch and the anxiety is palpable. I've promised my daughters since they were babies that we would someday go see "The Mouse." For one reason or another, the finances or time or some other factor always got in the way of what other people make look so simple; a family vacation. During all that time (14 years now but who's counting?), there have been trials and tribulations, problems, crisis, poor report cards, incomplete homework, not coming home at the time they were supposed to, arguments, and rooms not cleaned! You know, the rigors of parenting! We're no different than any of you. Alas, the day has come. The day two parents are to keep their promise to their younglings. This year we thought would be special because, Samantha (my oldest) has graduated high school and will be attending col...