I showed up at the school early on the day of the science fair and went right away to set up my project. I had videoed the rocks exploding with the impurities. It was wild. For two months, I did my research and worked on my presentation. It may not be as impressive as some ideas, but at least it's a method that would work if the fire dies before you can boil water. I had to go to a rock quarry to find my rocks. Of course, I had to have help from the man working the yard.
I set up the project, and instead of a fire, with a trusted adult, I used a heat lamp and a thermal holder to heat the rocks to a possible boiling point. I stood by watching as the principal and judges walked around. My family showed up when it was the table next to me. Matthew had to ask to come to the science fair. I watched as the one next to me flopped. I felt bad for her. It was a great idea, too.
I explained the work and how this project could go so wrong if it was not done right. I showed the video of the impure rocks exploding under the cast iron I bought specifically for this project. I put my 'campfire' rocks on a heat-safe surface on the table, then placed my cast iron pot on top of the hot rocks. The water immediately started to warm up, indicated by a thermometer in the cast iron pot.
As soon as the water started to boil, it took no time for it to go to a rolling boil. I even threw in some ramen to show how long it takes to cook while cooling off. I pulled out a bowl and scooped the fully cooked noodles out before making the broth. I served it to whoever wanted it. The person said it tasted just like ramen, and it was hot and ready. At the end of the day, they asked the top three to come up to the stage. I was one of them.
The third-place person was announced first. She did not agree with the standing. She was also supposed to leave the stage, but did not. "In first place, Kylie Ray. Thank you for showing us how to boil water without ruining good cast iron over a fire." Mr. Malcom said, handing me the trophy. The second-place guy was not looking happy with me.
I thanked Mr. Malcom and the judges before pictures were taken with them, then with my presentation. I could tell my boyfriend was hiding at the back of the gym. I had seen him from the stage. I did not want to talk to him. I took my presentation and accessories out to my parents' truck with them following.
They agreed to take it home for me. At lunchtime time I sat with my friends at our lunch table. A chair pulled up behind me. "Congratulations, baby." My boyfriend said. I said thank you to him before I tossed my yogurt cup in the trash next to the door. After lunch, he followed me to my class. I walked in without a care in the world, even if he wanted to say something mean when he had to be nice.
After school, I went directly to Matthew's truck and waited just like every day. Matt unlocked the doors, and I got in. "I am so proud of you, sis. I was worried it was going to flop." He said as we got in. At the ranch, I did my chores before putting my hackamore on Ranger and going to check cattle. My big boy checked on the calves from a distance. I did as good a head count as possible. I was not worried about the time, as it was getting lighter out later in the day.
As I rounded the herd, I saw Ridge riding out to me. "Supper is ready." He said stopping by me. "Ok. I was just about to head back to the barn." I told him. We rode back to the barn together and got our two bedded down. I kissed Ranger on his nose before telling him goodnight and walking with my brother to the house.