vanfire.JPG

IMG_1531.JPG, originally uploaded by stephrussell2001.

Well, I think the picture says a thousand things. But I will tell the story anyway. It all starts with my arriving home as usual on a Friday evening. I gathered my things from the van and headed into the house to relax and get into comfy clothes. After I talked with the kids and changed clothes. I happen to look outside to see smoke coming from the van. Well, we have been have some issues with burning oil. When I went to check if it was just a small issue no, Lots and Lots of smoke coming from the van. So I called 911 to get the firemen on their way because there was no way I was going to be able to handle it by myself. I get them alerted and hang up with them. I called David and told him the situation which he was a little disbelieving but I was too. Luckily he was already on his way home from work. I hung up with David and continued to wait.....and wait.....and wait....I ended up calling 911 again because there were flames on the entire front of the van and we were hearing small explosions. Since it was close to the house I was a bit concerned about it spreading. But only the little Geo Metro was affected since it was the closest. When I was on the phone with 911 the second time she verified the directions which were wrong so I told her the right ones. Then finally after a few more minutes of waiting. I can see the firetrucks coming down the road. What a relief that was! It took a few more before they got ready and put it out. Once they finally did the the damage was visible. They figure it was an electrical short near the headlights because most of the damage was done on the driver's side of the engine compartment. I am just thankful I wasn't in it when it started. So we are feeling a bit sad that our van is gone but happy that everyone is safe and sound.
So let's hope this is the only thing that will happen for the next while. Have a happy and safe Labor day weekend.