Happy 4th Of July

As a parent, there are two holidays that I want off every year: Christmas and the 4th of July. At the very least, no one should have to work both Christmas and Christmas Eve. This would give every respiratory therapist an opportunity to spend time with their family. 

The fourth of July is a little bit different, as even if you work, you still have an opportunity to do something with your family. This is because, where I live, the parade is at 2 pm., and the fireworks are at dusk (usually around 10 or 10:30)

So, even if you work the day shift, you can still get to the fireworks at night. And if you work the night shift, you can get to the parade. So, if you can arrange it so you have the 4th or the 5th off, you are able to in some way participate in the 4th of July festivities -- if you want. 

However, the best strategy is when you have both the 4th and the 5th off. This way you can enjoy the 4th and you are not exhausted the next day. My boss for some reason scheduled to me to work the last two fourth of July's -- something that never should have happened. And this year the fourth was my Holiday off. And, yet, she still put me on for the 5th of July. What is the deal with that? Thankfully I had a coworker with no "little" kids who switched with me so I could enjoy the festivities with my kiddos without having to worry about getting up for work the next day. So, it's always nice when you have great coworkers such as we do here at the RT Cave. 

And I'm not knocking on my boss either. She is a good boss. When you are a boss your goal is to cover all shifts and holidays. And there will be times when things do not work out, as one would say, perfectly fair. I have a coworker who, when she has the 4th off, she uses a vacation day for the 5th, as that is not considered a Holiday. I did something similar when I was on night shift. 

Years ago the 3rd of July was considered the Holiday at my place of employment. At least this was the case for night shift back when I worked night shift. I loved this. I could get the time and a half for the holiday, and I could get up at 1 pm and still catch the parade. And, of course, I would use a vacation day for the 4th, considering it was not considered the holiday. 

Anyway, it is going to be a hot 90 degree day with lots of sunshine here in Shoreline Michigan. Here's wishing everyone a very Happy 4th of July.