Chandler,AZ

I saw my parents yesterday, first time in almost a year.  Mother looks virtually the same for several years; however, my father has changed the most.  Medication for nerve pain has changed his features so much.  It was still good to see them and spend a few hours talking while we sat at the truck stop.  

I meet with Charlie today.  I had not told Paula or the brothers ahead of time.  I asked him to meet me at Mervyn's because in TX they are closed.  Not so in Stockton!  So I drove around to the back and parked.  He asked for forgiveness, I reminded him that he was already forgiven.  I also asked for forgiveness.  He has lost over a year of his life being in the situation he was in; however, he gained something from it that nothing else could provide.  I pray the lesson has stuck.

Crazy in Laredo

First I averaged over 8.3 mpg for 1217 miles!  Very light load, but also watching my fuel consumption.  With price protection built into the system, I should pay virtually nothing for fuel the closer to 8 I get.  So this trip should be very profitable.  I need very profitable!

Arrived at the receiver, only to be turned away to have the trailer inspected by our local person in Laredo, then return to receiver and drop the trailer.  Then ran across town to pick up a part for the truck and headed for WalMart.  This one is unique because they have a large area for bobtail trucks to park in front.  Today it was almost full.  Bought some food and other necessities, then headed for Stevens drop yard.  I sent a message pleading for a load out of here.  I also pleaded on the QC and phone for a load home.  It has been 75 days since I had 24 hours off at home.  75 days too long.  So I'll listen to my free Sarah Brightman singing of Silent Night, maybe even splurge if I get paid tomorrow and buy Josh Groban's Christmas CD.  Merry Christmas Darling and I'll be home for Christmas by Karen Carpenter, ah Christmas in Laredo.

Early Sunday and I'm crushed

Tongue waggers and naysayers have once again prevailed.  Besmirching my reputation behind my back, disfellowshipped without the benefit of being confronted with a crime.  If I willingly conform to someone's ideal, then will I be given the secret handshake? We are too busy stabbing each other in the back to concern ourselves with love, mercy, and grace to be extended to the world.  Being a hermit by nature I would not notice some earmarkings of disfellowship, but to discover the true disfellowship due to gossip, breaks my heart.  

One may forgive such things, but can I? More important letting go and letting God, is it time to decide, "if you are not part of the solution you are part of problem."  Where does one go to find the peace and fellowship they long for beyond the private time with God? I am crushed.

Darcol

Leaving the Flying J with my freshly laundered clothes heading for my truck I noticed what is unflatteringly referred to as Super Trucker.  He was one space away from my truck in an extremely uncrowded parking lot.  He was holding the CB mike up to his mouth attempting to hide the fact he was talking on the CB, (hey dude, you might want to hide the cord), laughing, staring, watching my every move.  Yes I was wearing my kilt again.  I have had lots of different reactions, but that was my first jerk reaction.  Needless to say I "entertained" him a little more when I took the trash bag from my truck to the dumpster.  Darcol was the name on the truck.

If I make it to Laredo with this small load (less than 6,000 pounds), I hope to convince the powers that be to send me to California, even for a 34 hour restart.  I need to see Paula, remind her how much she is loved and how important she is to me, I need to begin my journey with Jesse, I need to affirm to Christopher that I love him and how very proud I am that he has completed his studies at GYA; and lastly I need to remind Matthew that he is loved and encourage him to share with someone the self talk he plays in his head.  And if I am home on a Sunday to be prepared to meet Charlie. Can I get all that done in 1 day?

Latta, SC

Delivered in Richmond, VA which freed me to pick up another load two days earlier than planned.  Driving into VA I thought of Randy W. and his family.  They left VA to come to Stockton.  Just like driving past a golf course, I cannot help but think of Nick Smith.

Picked up in Fayetteville,NC and the two people who helped me at the shippers area were both informed today that as of 8PM today they were unemployed.  They were helpful, etc. but dazed.  I didn't ask if they got a severance package or just notified.  One week before Christmas.  Some companies know how to celebrate the season.

Paula tried to call, but with the three boys they were overwhelming her so much that she hung up.  Somebody needs a vacation really bad.  Her personality demands that she is right, so when one of the children state something that is factually incorrect she must correct it.  Matthew stating he weighs 130 when in fact he weighs 140.  Factually she was correct; however, by the time the conversation ended with her upset enough to cry, everyone was incorrect.

eyelashes

Driving out of Ozark,AR the truck was covered with ice.  Above the windshield was a row of  icicles that reminded me of eyelashes. I drove only 343 miles in 11 hours.  It was really bad.  Cars spun out, one going the opposite direction spun out in front of me, and two trucks had rolled onto there side.  But that was yesterday.  Today it was a drizzly rain most of the trip until I got to Peidmont,SC where it is warm (around 70) and no rain at the moment.

I sent an email to Chris via his counselor and have not heard back from him.  I have encouraged Paula to put forth the effort to surprise Chris by bringing his girlfriend down to his graduation.  I think that would be a great thing for him.

My deliveries are messed up now do to the weather but will work to get all delivered tomorrow from Peidmont to Richmond,VA.  The mileage is do able the only question is if the receivers will work to get their product off the truck quickly!

going the wrong way or driving with a broken heart

I left Los Lunas for Cactus,TX.  I awoke this morning and started driving for final stop of Richmond,VA.  I hope Chris is able to forgive me for not being present for his graduation on the 19th.  I will be about as far away as possible on that date.  But as I thought of this situation this morning, how true that I am going the wrong direction.  I have worked for others most of my adult life, therefore the basic difference between me and slavery is I sold myself so someone else could decide where I would be, what I would do, how I would dress, even how I cut my hair.  I could whine and whimper that Stevens should have sent me to California as I requested for over 3 months, but is that their job? I think the answer lies more in Todd Clark: "This day we fight!" In this case it means fighting for better choices, life rather than existence.  But that does not mean I am not still broken hearted to disappoint my family once again.

Side note: observed 5 Ring Neck Pheasants yesterday and my first cardinal (Bright RED) today.

QC Silence

Listening to the top 40 on Amish radio.  Watching plastic bags become entangled on there journey to no where as they blow in the wind.  These are a few of my favorite things.  You can not leave the truck to long, since Dallas may send a message to leave.  They will send a pre-plan.  If you do not respond in a timely manner, they will take it away.  So you are partially trapped in this little box called home. So until the dispatch people go home for the day, one must remain close awaiting that call.  If one is stuck here longer than a day, you could journey to the edge of crazy.  The only question of any importance: getting back to California before Chris graduates from GYA.

So it will be church in the truck, maybe I'll work on Psalms 119.  Unless things change soon, I'll have plenty of time.

Los Lunas again

I left Dallas finally on Thursday, only to have the QC get all excited as I drove across town.  Someone back at the yard wanted to chew me out for almost getting them in trouble.  Rather than contact me a week ago or while I sat on the yard waiting for them to get my new truck ready, no they wait and want me recalled to the yard.  I finally was able to speak to the person on the phone.  He was really upset.  I assumed all the blame which put a large gapping hole in his sails.  It was nice to be able to take a calm approach.  

I have 43,000 pounds of water on my back going to the same place I did last time.  The weather is supposed to be a little rough around this area for traveling without a load, so hopefully I will repower someone so I can make it to California this coming week. The one joy of going to Los Lunas is I can shop at WalMart! I remember shopping at Dillard's but that seems like ancient memories.

Saw two herds of antelope today.  At the first herd, one of the rams was chasing another away.  I wished the whole herd would have gotten nervous and ran, since they run at 45mph.

Saturday in Dallas

Waiting is not my best talent.  I attempt to be patient; however, the weariness of not having answers does get old.  When our classes/meetings were over yesterday, after signing 19 pages of lease forms etc., I wait for truck 7683 to be vacated so I can move from 5748.  7683 has almost as many miles as the truck I am leaving; however, it is newer.  It is a 2007 Kenworth.  By agreeing to this vehicle, my payments are reduced greatly.  Unfortunately it does not have an APU so I am stuck with no heat or AC without running the truck.  Which is illegal in several states to ideal over 3-5 minutes.  Enough whining. 

Dinner last night was very interesting.  I walked over to the driver lounge area to use the facilities while someone was walking around attempting to find everyone who ordered Chinese food.  Great luck for me was someone did not announce they were the one, so for a few dollars I had Chinese and what I feast!

Rather than sit in the drivers lounge while 5748 is being worked on, I am sitting in the break room of the main office building.  This building is no smoking, the other one is a clogged fireplace.  Since I am now no longer employed, I am responsible for health insurance.  They offer a plan for $1300 a month!  I searched on-line and found blue cross of ca cheaper.  I will probably go without coverage for a few days so I can contact people who can assist in making this critical choice.

You're family

As in unwanted step child family.  Welcome to the Dallas yard.  It is in their best interest to not make one feel like this is home, other wise some might be encouraged to stay here longer than absolutely necessary.

I am on the Dallas yard to prepare myself, my thinking anyway, to be a "business owner" a lease truck driver.  So it was leave Mt. Vernon, TX this morning at 3AM drive to Fort Worth before 6AM, drop the trailer, pick up another trailer, then drive it the 40 plus miles from Fort Worth to Mesquite/Dallas.  It is on a weekday so the traffic in was okay, it was the traffic across town that was not fun.  Anyway, I made it back.  I then spent virtually all day in class.  I had my last meal bar while driving over, drink a coke and ate a small Baby Ruth, they supplied a hamburger with french fries for lunch and even though I have money, I do not have change for the machines so it will be time to heat up some water and get those tasty top ramen noodles heated up.  yum. Maybe I can use the microwave in the break room area to heat up some real Campbells soup.  Now that would be a better meal.

Kilts & kids

I arrived in Smiths Grove,KY; parked the wrong way (nose in) so I could use the indoor plumbing and then I walked to McDonald's.  It was around 7:30 local time when I strolled in wearing my corduroy kilt.  Yes it is freezing cold in KY; however, it is much warmer than it was in the snow this morning in Harbor Creek,PA. Anyway, there were all these children eating dinner about two tables away, when one of the boys speaking to another at the table, "That man's wearing a skirt."  He was talking to his friend, but the direction of his talking was straight at me.  I read his lips.  I spoke up, "I am also half deaf and read your lips."  The mothers just laughed.  We talked for a few moments.  Live human inter-action. Not via phone, computer or other means, but live talking with a fellow human, that has nothing to do with your load, how much your carrying, or "that will be $4.52".  I love wearing a kilt because it helps rid the world of one more introvert: me.  As Zig Zigler has said, "Shy salesman have skinny kids."

Anniversary

Our anniversary finally fell on the correct day (The Saturday after Thanksgiving); but I alas was in Milford,CT instead of at home.  People in MA really needed to eat there beef.  If all goes well I should be out of this area before the main part of the storm hits.  Getting south of here will not protect me completely from the storm, but it should warm up faster than it will around here.

Arriving to Milford was a challenge.  You take I95 from NJ, drive across the Geo. Washington Bridge into NY, and stay on 95.  That seems simple.  Until you remember the narrow passages, 70 feet of truck/trailer, toll booths with less than 8" of clearance and the road keeps shifting to the left.  Cutting across lanes of traffic is always the joy of driving a big rig.  Jesse called just as I entered the bridge.  I told him to call back.  Now is not the time to converse!

There were Canadian geese on a grassy patch in NY.  It looked funny to see wildlife in the concrete jungle.

Thanksgiving

It is Thanksgiving, Dallas time as it is 12:05 AM.  It does not feel like Thanksgiving.  Not that I do not have plenty to be thankful about; however, I am in the small confines of truck 5748, I will not be home and the best food sampling I can hope for will be at the buffet line at the TA later today.

I received a card from my parents while I was in Dallas.  My mother mailed it on the 13th.  I will need to send her a letter explaining my new life.  Traveled through OK and AR in route to TN (I am in Denmark,TN), it was slow going in sections since I was on the back roads leaving TX.  The distance traveled today was not to bad, about 472 miles, great things to look at, but it still wore me out.  I have 321 miles to travel tomorrow.  Need to be in Louisville,KY before 7 PM

Yes I have plenty to be thankful. I saw hitchhikers looking very ragged. I see people in their cars looking lost.  The Lord has taken care of me and mine so much this year, yes I have of reasons to be thankful.  I still think of home.

Going to Dallas

My grad 2 status will end tomorrow in Dallas.  I hope this is good news because they have directed me to Dallas.  Most of the other drivers tell you to avoid Dallas so one is always a little leery. 

They announced on the QC if you sign up with Alliance in the month of December there will be no truck payments until January 09.  That could be good news.  Hopefully there is still the cash bonus being offered as investment capital. I have driven over 22000 miles in those 60 days, including taking 5 days off.  But I shall not count my chicks before they are hatched.

When I arrived in San Antonio this morning I got to a point where I knew I did not belong.  So pull my 70 feet over to the curb in a small residential neighborhood and begin the frantic pleasure of finding out where you are and where you need to be. The first Google maps had me on the wrong end of town.  When the QC sent corrected information, then it was a matter of about 15 minutes to the location.  I drove across one small bridge that said "Load Limited Bridge", but it did not state what the limit was, so I drove.  Just on the other side was a police officer.  He did not pull me over so I kept going!

What a concept in prayer.  Stop praying all about me and instead seek how the Lord may use you in his service.  Thank you Randy.

One more area of thought tonight.  Jean had warned me about being alone with my thoughts to much.  Usually I can handle what all is going on in my head, driving a truck keeps me very engaged most every moment; however, I still have attacks of extreme negativism.  I would love to listen to my iPod, but since it plugs into my hearing aids, it wipes out the hearing aid batteries a little faster than desired, so that will need a better solution.  There are many hours I drive without any other sounds, but sometimes I need great input to counter the garbage in my head.

Wash

I love it when a word means two really different things. Let us take WASH.  While driving in various parts I come upon areas marked ____ wash. Now if you take the first definition of the word and sub for the one listed, you have fun.  You learn where you can wash your peacock, your twins, rattlesnake, and Aster; however, can you wash your aster in public?

I am back in Fort Stockton, TX for the night before I head off to San Antonio in the early morning, about 3:30.  Spoke with former partner who has now decided to stay with Stevens.  He really needs a mentor, (don't we all!) who will get him to think.  I bought a quart of milk today and only drink part of it. Saving it for breakfast in the trailer.  Milk at 28 degrees.  AWW.

Will find out tomorrow where to next; hopefully back to California.  That would finish my miles of 20,000 in less than 60 days.  Life would be good.

Eloy,AZ

I reread the last blog titled "Trains", funny thing is I forgot to talk about them!  We were parked next to the railroad tracks in Gallup. They would blow the whistle just behind my truck as they past by.  With the hearing aids off, 53' of trailer at by back, I never heard them all night long.

Gallup to Sacramento/Modesto. Spent the night at home while truck windshield was repaired.  Then it was off to Salinas area.  I love some things about picking up in the salad bowl.  I think it is the fact it is close to home; however, what I hate about it is the really slow loading.  I was supposed to be loaded on the 20th but they did not finish loading me until the 21. LATE on the 21st.  Rather than take that load to Houston, which was due on the 23 at 7:30 AM, it was repowered from me in Gila Bend, AZ.  I took an empty trailer, traveled back to CA and picked up a beef load bound for TX.  Yes you read that right. Beef from CA going to TX. In reality I think it is beef from Mexico, processed in the US, going to TX.  So I am to be in San Antonio on Monday.  I have to drive 614 miles tomorrow, then 316 miles early Monday morning to arrive at HE Butt by 10:30 AM

Can anyone who reads this please email me any questions I should ask before signing the owner/operator agreement at Stevens.  Yes it is a business and therefore some risk, but they have structured the deal in such a way to reduce the risk as much as possible.  Anyone's thoughtful input would be appreciated.

Trains

I waited in Vega,TX for a repower.  The other driver did not look at the map, so he drove from Liberal,KS to Tucumcari,NM then back on I40 to Vega.  He arrived around 1AM.  So knocking on my door, get up, get dressed, drive forward, connect to the other trailer, turn it around, back into a tight corner and finally go back to sleep. 

The cold in the high country is driving animals south.  Along I-40 I observed something I had seen pictures, but never ones in life.  They are in groups along the fence line of the freeway.  That is great protection.  They cannot be hunted along the fence line of the freeway!

Two people, two different ways of conducting life.  The first was David Chontosh.  The most friendly, helpful, driver from Stevens I have ever come across.  He invited me into his truck for a moment, it was almost brand new with the latest toys on it.  What got me next was his statement, "Call me if you need any help, God has blessed me with the ability to help others and I love using that gift." WOW.  The second Stevens driver I meet in Gallup,NM.  Friendly, helpful; however, he started discussing how he falsifies his log book.  "Oh they don't monitor that, just the fuel stops..." I thanked him for his assistance and then fled.  He may have 9 months of driving on me; however, I have 30 years of life on him.  Falsifying your log book and then have an accident is a great way to go to prison.  I think I like David's idea better.

Skunk

Not really. Entering the small community of Genoa,CO there is a welcome to the community sign.  They also have sculpture work representing the wild game in the area.  It was snowing in this part of CO today, so the sculpture that was to look like a deer ended up with a large patch of snow on the back.  At first look, it was a skunk.

Alarm rang at 6, but it was just to dark and cold to go anywhere.  I waited until 7 (6 local time) and went into the diner to eat a hot breakfast.  I should have ordered steak and eggs or maybe an omelet, but I wanted pancakes.  I was disappointed in the quality once again.  It had not snowed a lot during the night/early morning hours; however, it was very cold and the snow was staying attached.  I have had a crack in my windshield for a couple of weeks near the right wiper, but after defrosting the window it is all the way across the windshield! The camera on the computer reverses which direction something is happening. You get the drift, the crack expanded 47" in about 1 second!

Chasing clouds

I left Fort Bridger late, (it was after son rise!) so Dallas got nervous; however, I sit here in Watkins, CO right where I need to be located.  With time to spare!  Anyway, as I am driving east on I-80 the clouds are casting a hard shadow on the freeway.  They are moving faster than I am so it appears that I am chasing the clouds.  I believe my mother would tell it is not the first time!

In the emptiness of Wyoming I observed ravens, but all the little birds were gone until I got to Cheyenne when I saw a few at the truck stop.  The wind was WOW today, even apparently blowing over a truck.  

QC sent me a message that I would be charged $50 per week because of an accident I had.  What accident? I called Dallas quickly to discover the information.  "You hit a dumpster while backing up to the dock in Livingston,CA"  I was in Livingston, but I did not back to the dock, nor did I hit anything.  Several minutes of this conversation later, ended with you have the right to appeal to the review board.  About 10 minutes later Dallas called back.  It could have been while you were picking up the load in Dodge City.  Oh wait you did not pick up the load in Dodge City.  I will need to investigate this further.  So at the moment... the penalty will not accessed pending further review.  I need to purchase a new digital camera to take photos frequently of my truck!

My load to Cleburne is going away and I am repowering a load to California.  Hope to have more time with family this time.

Fort Bridger,WY

Crazy days between blogs.  I was in Stockton on Sunday; however, I was hoping to be in Lodi on Saturday so I could spend time with Paula.  Instead we spent 30 minutes.  I am supposed to be home around Thanksgiving, so we shall see.  Delivered a load of frozen bread dough from Fresno to Portland.  Now I am going from Albany, OR to Cleburne, TX.  Traveling I-84 from Portland was a beautiful drive.  The weather was great in that it was raining slightly BUT NOT SNOWING! I  passed snow on the drive into Pendleton and one could see snow on the peaks driving from Utah to Wyoming; however, tomorrow it is off to Laramie with a peak of 8500 on I80.  I pray that the weather report is correct that calls for wind and rain.

In my reading, not as daily as I desire, I read EC 12:12. Part B is most interesting: "People are always writing books, and too much study will make you tired." Shelves and shelves of books, several of which were actually read, but the hard part was applying all that instruction/wisdom.  It is so much easier to read about someone else's achievement, someone else's great thoughts rather than actually put it to work yourself. A radio commercial by Kaiser talks about living and thriving.  How many of us settle for living, getting by, surviving; rather than thriving in a life with Christ.  

Observed a presumed homeless man with a dog at a rest stop while traveling north.  He had the usual cardboard sign; however, what crushed my heart was his face.  I could see tattoos on his legs through the hole in his pants, but as you got closer you realized he had a large mask tattoo on his face.  I cannot fathom the self talk to create that image of yourself.  It truly breaks the heart.

Dancing with tumble weeds

While driving from Fort Stockton to Willcox, AZ; the wind was rather intense at times.  Tumble weeds were blowing across the road one at a time; however, in one location there was a large grouping.  One in particular was interesting in that group since it was picked up by the wind and danced about 25 feet off the ground.  It then settled into the median and was blown further across the plains.  I will make it to California tomorrow, but I will not make it to my stop on Friday.  When I park tomorrow in Coachella there are still about 440 miles to Patterson.  I only have about 7 hours on my clock.  7*55 does not = 440.  In fact I will be one hour shy of the math to get me to Patterson.  Dallas has been informed, but I have not heard back from then yet.  So at 5AM I will be heading off to Coachella. I hope to avoid the morning rush hour in Phoenix.  

It is post election day.  The sun still rose, the sky was still lovely in the parts I was in today.  May it continue to be until the day of His return.

Stupid hinnie

"God you are awesome, thank you for protecting my stupid hinnie." Probably not a prayer you will find in a great book of prayers; however, I did not know what else to say at 60 mph while traveling down I-35.  The alarm rang on my phone.  I thought that was strange since it was 3:20 in the afternoon.  But when I looked at the time closely on the phone the AM/PM was wrong.  I had needed to get up at 3:20 in the morning to make from Segovia to Austin.  I had woke up and had gotten dressed, ate breakfast and made it to Austin with 15 minutes to spare.  

I will go to bed without the benefit (?) of knowing who is the president.  I am in Fort Stockton,TX and will probably turn on the computer in the morning to find out.  I do not think it will matter who wins, I feel in my heart my faith will be tested more in the next few years than in a long time.

Slow Fade, a song by Casting Crowns, is a great song because it makes me think.  "People never crumble in a day, it's a slow fade." The choices I have made over the years, were they from spiritual enlightenment, or crumbling?  And on this, the eve before the results of the election, is the direction of the country over all a slow fade to crumbling or on the verge of greatness in God?  I may not know the future, but I know who holds it.  

Reefer Madness

Received notice via the QC that "pets will no longer be aloud due to security issues for the food supply."  Use any reason you wish, "we have now established a no pet policy..." whatever, but do not wrap your new ideas around "security."  I know I work for a refrigerated carrier, we haul reefer units; however, someone has been out in the trailer with the doors a little to tight.

I am in Segovia, TX tonight.  For some reason I keep thinking of Princess Diary, the Kingdom of Genovia.  Will leave here around 4AM to head for Austin.  As I look out the truck window the grackles are preparing to roost for the night.  They are circling a field across the freeway with scrub oaks and small bushes.  They make noise all night long; however, it is not just one noise, it is an entire conversation.  If I had great hearing they would drive me nuts (to late isn't it?), but since I only hear less than 1/2 normal, I find them entertaining. 

I had a shower Friday in N. Palm Springs, CA, knew I would not be able to take one on Saturday in Deming, so I was looking forward to filling up in Van Horn,TX at the Loves where I could take a free shower. WRONG! "We are sorry but our restrooms and showers are out of order.  We have porta potties at the west side of the building."   Yes I needed to use the indoor plumbing by the time I got to Van Horn (or in this case the outdoor plumbing), but I really wanted a shower.  I get the privilege of discovery here in Segovia.  Shower and Laundry maybe?

Where am I now?

Since last writing I was in Cheyenne,WY.  It was then off to Holcomb, KS; Albuquerque, NM; Buckeye, AZ; National City, CA; Vernon,CA; Compton,CA; Victorville/Hesperia,CA; and finally where I am now: Napa,CA.  I had driven past my stop today in the past and having a vague idea of its location was very important because I had no time to spare for errors!

I arose at 2:45 Dallas time this morning, paid my $10 for a shower, got back in the truck and started driving.  I stopped for fuel in Lost Hills, CA and did not stop again until I reached Napa.  430 miles in 7.75 hours, but the bad news is my clock has expired so I am sitting in my truck on the side of the road in an industrial section of Napa, actually closer to Vallejo.

I need to finish my Keynote for Sunday and work on my web address; however, I am very tired so I will take a nap.  Then work on those projects.  It has been crazy the past few days, with extreme winds, crazy delivery times, insane drivers and a traffic accident in Phoenix that shut down the I-17 in both directions.  I think it is time for a nap.

Cheyenne,WY

Arriving here really ate the fuel economy out of my truck.  I have been averaging over 6 mpg; however, this leg of life's journey I only got 4.35, Ouch.  Hopefully by the ending of the week I can ink it back closer to 6.

The drive from the rest stop last night to WalMart DC 0777 was easy going except 3 things. The running on empty light came on, so I had to stop and use the measuring stick to confirm I had enough fuel to make delivery.  The other two items are related.  I was stopped at the weigh station in Colorado and Wyoming this morning.  This truck was not in there computer system as having current registration so I had to go in and confirm it with each one.  They all have computers, but each state decides what information it wants to share.  

It is still windy around this area, but not nearly as windy as yesterday.  

I do not have filtering on my google searches.  I have discovered that several times some challenged person has decided that a piece of art needed to be filtered while I am searching for images for the Psalms.  That said, it is amazing the smut one finds while typing innocent words. I wish internet porn would be gone, but baring that; their address was required by law to be ___.XXX.  That would be easy to filter.   It is hard to imagine if the world continues on like it is, what will be available in 20 years.

Brrr

I know winter is coming.  I am on the open plains of Colorado tonight.  The wind has calmed down greatly from earlier; however, it is biting cold.  I left Fort Worth area this morning with the best intentions, but failed to head the direction I needed to so took a longer way of getting to where I am tonight.  I am still within my variance, but I did eat up my comfort zone!  Where am I tonight? First a story.  My rest stop for the night was to be in Springfield,CO.  The truck stop guide stated there was a Valero with an XL parking area.  When I arrived in town, with less than 30 minutes left on my clock, the Valero was no where to be seen.  There was a run down station with a bar, but I will not park in such a place.  So I drove on.  I am praying for a solution since this is a desolate section of Colorado.  I am praying very diligently for a place to park my 70 feet of road space.  Just as my faith is beginning to wavier, thinking I will need to call Dallas and tell them of my problem, a blue sign appears: "Rest Area, 1 mile".  I pull in and set my brakes.  I look at the clock.  6:30.  Exactly when I would need to stop.  So I am at a rest stop between Springfield and Lamar, about a mile from some windmills.  I am so thankful for the location, one does not complain about the outhouses they have installed!

Grow where your planted

While driving back from Laredo I observed a cactus growing out of concrete pieces on a bridge.  It had been there for a while.  Unfortunately I was unable to take a picture but hopefully it will still be there next time I drive by.

I watched the trailer for Fireproof.  I would like to see the movie; however, I do not know when I'll be near a theater.  Part of the extreme disadvantages of being on the road is when there is trouble at home. 

 Matthew was having a mental breakdown while I was talking with Paula tonight.  This is not the first.  There is something lurking down deep within that child that will not finish releasing him.  A fear, a partial memory, I do not know, but he goes into a rage.  I hope we are able to find someone who can help him and help us to help him.  I am heading toward Dallas in the morning.  Currently I do not know where I am going which always adds to the fun of a large truck!

Von Ormy

They are working on I35, so as you turn off of 410 you have to travel an extra mile to reach I35.  Then I missed the exit I needed to take, so add two more miles! Oh well.  This is one of the largest and newest lots for a Loves truck stop.  Most of them are very small with hardly enough room to park, let alone enough shower facilities.  I will find out about the shower facilities in the morning (around 4 in the morning!)  I am heading for Laredo in the morning.  Need to be there between 8 and 10 AM. I am planning on leaving at 5AM so I can be present as close to 8AM as possible.

Driving was able to listen for a while to Prairie Home Comp. with Garrison Keeler at ACU.  It was very funny and telling at times.  Also was able to hear various bible lessons, some made me cringe and some were great food for thought.  The lesson of the harvest, thinking about what I sow, or more importantly what kind of crop I desire should determine the seed I use.  I would never plant apple seeds and expect to see corn.  If I want X then X seeds I better plant.

$2.00

It is rainy, misty today as I drive from TN-NC-SC-GA.  I am hauling a load of cardboard.  

While driving around Atlanta the traffic was a mess.  I was very thankful I was not heading the opposite direction.  I had saved enough from paycheck, etc. that I had enough for a scale ticket today ($9.00); but after buying breakfast (2 bananas and one milk) I have two one dollar bills in my wallet.  I have a large collection of change, plus I have food that I purchased previously, but it seems strange to be down to my last two dollars.  I could feel sorry for myself; however, as I walked into the Pilot station here in Newnan,GA there was a young couple who had made some very poor choices.  They were attempting to hitchhike to FL via truckers.  They were sitting at the edge of the store to get out of the rain.  I talked to them for a few moments; however, I could not assist them on their journey.  

I had planned to be in Lafayette,LA tomorrow, but with the traffic situation in Atlanta I will head to Hammond instead. The weather report for tomorrow looks much better than todays.

Toad Suck and Mouse Tail Landing

One of the disadvantages of traveling from point A to B without having time to stop is not knowing the history of a particular item.  Who named a park Toad Suck or why is it called mouse tail landing?

While using the indoor plumbing in one of the fine places I stop, I observed the usual scribbles on the wall; however, this one caught my eye.  Someone had drawn male anatomy on the wall (not unusual), but this time it was, shall we say, uncircumcised.   A generation ago, the age group of the people who normally do this, would not have known what one looked like unless it was circumcised.  

Tonight I am in Knoxville, TN and will be at the Rcv by tomorrow afternoon.  Anyone's guess as to where I will be by this time tomorrow.

Hog Trough Liquor

Drove 624 miles.  That is just on the edge of my legal ability.  It was a lot of work; however, without the migraines of the previous days and therefore I was able to enjoy it a little more.  Including spotting a sign for a group who was cleaning up a section of highway: Hog Trough Liquor.  I was raised around hogs and that name certainly brings up a wild image!  Driving on I-40 from Tucumcari,NM; just west of Amarillo; there is a large feed lot to the south side of the road.  It was windy this morning (over 40 mph from the south) and very wet, but the smell from the feed lot was extremely gross.  That reminds me of my favorite TV cigarette commercial. "Come to where the flavor is, come to Marlboro Coutry," while the cattleman is riding a horse in a feed lot.  From what I smelled, that is not a smell I want in my mouth!

I am so proud of who Christopher is becoming.  He had a couple of challenges and he met them both with flying colors.  He has discovered that he can write poetry.  I think he also has discovered he is loved.  I pray the same for all my children.

Migraines and Cicadas

 I had a migraine headache yesterday.  I was outside of Flagstaff,AZ and told myself I need to pull over soon.  I watched the road signs and there was my sign: "Rest Stop 9 Miles", thank you Lord! I used all three methods of cure that I have known in the past: 1. dark, cool, quite. 2. aspirin  3. A discovery from the Harvard School of Medicine.  I awoke this morning feeling somewhat better; however, by this afternoon, it was haunting me again.  So I am in Tucumcari, NM rather than Amarillo, TX.  I will need to spend a few moments and make sure I can make it to Maxton, NC on time.

Cicadas, those are the load noisy bugs you hear, but some times have difficulty seeing even though they are fairly large.  I included a picture just for fun.  Anyway, they are back.  My ears have not 'buzzed' for a long time; however, they are buzzing load and clear right now.  It sounds like cicadas going off in my head.  Not like you are right next to them, but as you approach them sound.  I do not think this helps my head.

Just outside of Tucumcari are two great signs. The first is a state mileage marker stating the mileage to Amarillo is 114 miles.  The second is an ad for the free steak 72 oz steak if you eat it within 3 hours.  It says Amarillo is one hour away.   The speed limit is 75.   This must be some of that new math that I missed.

The journey of a 1000 miles

begins with the first step or in this case a journey of 2800 miles begins with 377 miles.  I am wanting to keep track of my expenses, partially for tax purposes.  One that I have not been keeping track of until now was ATM.  In order to access part of my pay check, I must use an ATM.  The ATM charged me$2.95; however, the company that holds my money charged me $1.25 for me to get my money.  $4.20 to withdraw my own money.  That fee does not vary, except the ATM fees may increase at some locations.  Not only do I need to keep track of that expense, I need to be careful that I am with drawing an amount where such a fee is justified.

Dallas was miffed this morning that I had rushed to collect a trailer.  The shipper had us listed for a 3 PM appointment so I figured what would be the rush; however, the tone on the QC said differently.  So back to Stockton and get a trailer.  After I am connecting to trailer, I get a message to get fuel where I had been in Ripon.  I stated it was a little to late.  I arrived in Sacramento with lots of time to spare, sitting around for 4 hours, before they finally were able to load me.  Had I waited until later in the day, I would be in Barstow now and not Mojave.   But the little truck stop in Mojave is very clean and there was plenty of parking for this hour of the night.  Let us all be thankful.

Off to no where

"I will return to the truck on 10/8 at 9:30 AM" Unfortunately they have had so many people quite when they arrive home for their few days off the first time, they do not have any loads planned for me, so wait.  I drove south to Ripon to the Love's truck stop and they finally sent me a preload for tomorrow.  So it is back to Stockton to pick up a trailer, then off to Sacramento to pick up a load heading for the east coast.  

It is different in the truck than previously.  I now have sheets on the bed rather than sleeping in a sleeping bag.  I had a pillow that was left over from a hospital visit years ago that I was using.  I would roll it up so I could use it, but when I arrived home, the pillow had expired.  So now I have two pillows.  I have office type supplies that will make life easier.   It was wonderful to be home for so many reasons.  The being with family and seeing others at church was the main item; however, going shopping for the little things was certainly icing on the cake.

Home

Today is the 7th. I will leave in the morning to get back to the road.  I did not arrive on slippers, but a Kenworth, so I was not looking for KS.  I arrived home on Thursday, having taken another trucks load late Wednesday and making two deliveries in LA area and one in Fresno.  Paula worked Friday night & Saturday, leaving us just three days together.  Part of the problem of course is the honey do list, such as repairing part of the roof over the bedroom.  The price of asphalt shingles has gone up drastically over what we paid last time, so it had to be a patch job again rather than replace the worn out area.  Are we having fun yet? 

It was good to see the body of believers in Stockton, it has certainly been a while.  I missed seeing Fran who was out of town.  I observed son #1, looking better than he has in years.  Smiling, laughing; I pray that God will continue to watch over him and allow him the time to come to terms with life.  It has not been an easy road and he has certainly chosen a difficult path.  

I spoke with Jean and updated her website.  I will need to make a minor correction when I get back on the road, but it was major changes.  The laptop cannot connect to the internet while at home.   I discovered the error to my QuickVerse program and downloaded the fix.  It now works correctly on the laptop.  To have access to so many things will be wonderful while out on the road.  I pray to touch lives in a positive, uplifting way over the course of the next few months and look forward to being home again December 17.

Hotel California: Hesperia

First some observations I have failed to post, but they keep at me.  A car towing a trailer with two kayaks and two bicycles passes me.  I later observe them at a rest stop, the woman is out doing jumping jacks.  Just imagine if you will, Olive Oil out doing jumping jacks.  Stick figures unite.  I-40 coming into New Mexico a man in the east bound lanes is hitch hiking.  He has a bag, wearing a lot of loss clothing; however, the strange thing is the 'walking stick' he is holding.  It is almost 6 feet tall, with a large head of things at the upside end.  The larger end looked like a skull with feathers.  

I have not posted any pictures in a while because my camera finally died.  It was a good camera and I am very sad to see it go.  There were mountains in NM, AZ and the desert of CA that Jean could have used for paintings, but alas, no photos.

I heard from my former trainee partner.  He had gone team grad.  He really did not know the person he went with and found out the hard way.  He is back in Dallas because of a minor accident by the other person.  He is okay, he was not in the truck at the time of the accident; however, his partner will probably be let go for dishonesty.

I got to do repairs on the truck yesterday in Albuquerque. I stopped at the Kenworth dealer and they stated it would be the next day before they could even fix the part.  I took the screws loose, examined the connection, Stevens bought the part and I put it on.  I would not have wanted to drive the road I was on without my engine brake.  I would have had to gear down a lot more and use the brakes more than I wanted to do the work that little switch could do instead. I wonder if I should request shop pay for the work done? (Ha)

I will be cranking the truck up at 5:30 AM Dallas time, get fuel, then head for the LA basin.  Two deliveries, one at 7AM CA time and one at 11.  Three hours scheduled time to go about 75 miles should be enough time I hope!  There is a scale house between here and there, I pray for quick and easy passage tomorrow morning.  

Heading home

Church was interrupted this morning by the QualComm.  Just as Max was making a great point, beep.  Fortunately I was present to answer the beep which was a pre trip.  If I did not answer it quickly they would assign it to someone else.  So off to Amarillo to pick up a load, then to the LA basin.  It is supposed to deliver by 7AM on the first.  I may need to recalculate my times! The bad news I sit here at the shipper, already dropped my trailer, waiting for the load.  Another day without a shower!  I need to plan things better; however, tomorrow I should be at a truck stop.  

Stuck in Los Lunas

Delivery was scheduled for 4 PM local time, I arrived early and by 6 PM local time I was done.  I received a message for a possible repower to move a load to Gas City (where is that? It is in Indiana); however, by the time I sent the I am empty message, they had given the load to someone else.  So now I sit.  I will probably be here until Monday.  So I sit behind the WalMart waiting for a load to California.  I can use the restroom, but what I really want is a shower!

I searched for a church near here; however, they are across the freeway, a long walk. Worship services will be in the truck at about 8AM if anyone wants to join!

Los Lunas

The load did not leave the yard in a timely manner, (not my fault), so they rescheduled the delivery time from Thursday at 8PM to Saturday at 4PM.  I am on the side of the road, in a commercial district where trucks park, able to view my final destination, but unable to go there until tomorrow!  That does not make for a good pay check!  My only hope will be after 6 PM here they may allow me to come and deliver.  That would mean I was still stuck in Los Lunas; however, I would be empty ready to travel tomorrow.  

Because advances come off my overall paycheck, I need to thrive on the amount of my pay check I have coming directly to me and not home.  Advances are to be used for paying tolls, scales and things like that.  I am parked behind the WalMart in Los Lunas.  It must be time to go shopping!

Almost alone

John, my partner for the past month, stayed at his uncle's house last night so he could easily fly out this morning for Atlanta, GA.  He is going team grad.  So last night I was alone and if everything is correct today, I will be leaving here before noon...alone.  That is the largest difference between the local driver and the local driver.  The amount of alone time.  Even if you are at a truck stop, go in and watch TV, talk to people, etc.; you are still very much alone.

That will finally provide me with the time to complete other things without the concern of a co-driver or trainer.  With a co-driver who liked to stay out to late in the night, I would sometimes not sleep well concerned for his safety and in the training situation, the trainer would dictate when everything was to be done, without talking to me the night before.   I am supposed to put close to 20,000 miles on the truck on 60 days, time starting after my few days of home time.  As they say that means keeping the left hand door closed as much as possible.  Stevens has policies regarding driving late, the government as laws regarding how many hours you can drive per day, and of course let us not leave out speed laws.  The 20,000 is do able, but there is a real need to keep moving.  Lord willing, let the next adventure begin.

98% ready

Today I arrived around 7:30 and started the day by doing laundry.  Then off to class for all day.  Some people very encouraging, some attempting to make you feel guilty for having been born.  But by sitting in class all day I have my form filled out, needing a couple of more signatures tomorrow.  I will attend two things tomorrow; however, I will be early again because I need to empty my stuff from the truck.  They have another key to the truck and they moved it today.

Did not get to sleep until late, was wakened at 3AM and then did not get to go back to sleep until after 4:30.  I believe God put the two of us together; however, I hope we have both learned everything we were supposed to learn.

Received a call from Christopher who had done some great things at GYA.  He sounded so proud, I just wish I could have heard the call and talked to him in person.  But that should be okay by next week.   Received a call yesterday from GYA that his mentor had not fulfilled his obligations. This puts a bind on Chris.  Hopefully we can contact his mentor or get another to fill the need.

Were in Dallas

We delivered the bananas early this morning, then they sent us off to a water bottle plant to transport water back to the yard, that is eventually headed to New Mexico.  We played the game they play, by collecting on advance on our check before we turned in the truck.  Once the truck is on the yard, the ability to get money ends.  The paper work states I will be paid for two days (hopefully that is Tuesday and Wednesday since I worked most of today) then the money ends.  I also pray that they will have a truck ready for me with a load to home.  It has been a long time.

The WiFi connection in the room is very strange.  It is very slow and will not allow me to send my mail.  So I will need to work around that issue. I am staying at a new facility.  We have stayed at the HOJO and Value Inn, but right now we are staying at Crossland, an extended stay hotel.  There is a Krogers near by, so I will do some grocery shopping as the need arises.  We have a stove top, toaster, microwave, coffee pot, sink and refrigerator.   I do not have to be at the yard before 10 AM tomorrow; however, I will go in early and use the free laundry.  Plus it gives me an excuse to wear a kilt for a few hours in the morning!  

Not stuck in Lodi

We were to pickup in Corpus Christi on the 19th; however, since the dock there was doing extra work after Ike, they were severely behind.  Therefore we did not load until after 8 AM on the 20th.  Our receiver is closed on Sunday so we now deliver at 5AM on Monday.  We are spending the night in San Antonio, TX then spending Sunday night in Dallas area so we only have a short drive to deliver.  Then off to the Dallas yard and begin the grad fleet process of solo driving.  The process takes 2 to 3 days, then hopefully I will get a load to California.  It has been a long time since I was home.

Corpus Christi

Left for Victoria,TX at 3:30 this morning.  Unloaded then drove the mile plus back up the road to a small diner/truck stop.  Ate breakfast and then started to wait for the next call.  Message stated to head for Corpus Christi, TX.  So now we are sitting at the beach front of this lovely town.  There is an empty lot at the corner of Born and Water streets, so that is where I parked the 18 wheels.  If there were an event going on at the city, we would have to pay to park where we are currently.  We are easy walking distance to the bay.  All that to say it is no fun traveling all over the country without someone to share the journey. The temperature is a very mild 83, with slight breeze.  According to Willard Scott the perfect temperature for running around naked!  QC just beeped, we are hauling 40,000 pounds of bananas to Dallas area.  Sounds like fun.

North Little Rock

It is Wednesday.  I worked on a blog for Sunday; however, we have been very busy attempting to deliver every where on time.  I got pulled over in Chicago.  The officer stated I wasn't doing anything wrong, but I think he wanted to make sure I wasn't going to be affected by all the flooding in my route to the receiver.  The receiver was a crazy place to get into.  We had 3 drops around the Chicago area.  The freeways are worse than New York; however, the streets are much wider in the areas we were delivering.

Sunday I went to "church" at the truck driver's chapel.  There were 7 of us present.  There were 3 present from the organization, so 10 of us total.  All have a CDL.  I walked in thinking they were playing a cappella, but when I turned the hearing aids up, I could hear the piano on the MP3.  We were to sing along to 2 different, very traditional hymns, all recorded on MP3.  The story one man told of his life was inspiring; however, the lesson itself was a little to dramatic for the number of people present.  The soft spoken style of a Max Lucado would have worked wonders.

We are on day 22 of 21 and I do not know why.  I called our Driver manager earlier, but he did not return my call.  We are headed for TX, near Corpus Christi; however, the yard is in Dallas.  I am hoping we deliver this load on the 19th, then we are directed to Laredo with a load to Dallas.  That would be good.  We have several signatures that need to go on the paper work that allows us to drive alone, so Monday-Friday works best.  So tomorrow we arrive in Houston area where the other driver can spend time with his loved ones, before we deliver on Friday.  I haven't seen loved ones since July 5.  I need to get home.

No where fast

We drove quickly to TN, only to have a repower from Knoxville.  The problem was the load did not arrive at our location until after 5:45, which made it impossible to deliver to Blandon,PA in a timely manner.  We drove until 0400 attempting to get it there, but to no avail.  The funny thing is the receiver was more than happy to wait until 4PM SUNDAY! to receive their product.  So here we sit for 34 hours waiting to drive a little further down the road.  The good news is we avoided the "fun" of Ike. We would have been sitting right in Dallas as it rolled through.  So even though we sit, the Lord was good to us who are ignorant.

Our official time of being a team ends on Tuesday.  That is good since I cannot afford him much longer.  10 dollars here, 20 there, soon it has added up to 164 in less than 4 weeks.  Both of us need to think more like business men and less like parent/child.  But tomorrow we deliver a load, then it will be time to pick up a load headed for TX before Grad fleet.

Sleeping In

For another day more than I care to think about, my young coworker is sleeping in.  Of course when you go here and there until 1AM I guess sleeping in past 7 AM is a relative term.  He wants to drive the morning shift, but then does not plan his day to drive the morning shift.  The joy of youth.

There is a slight drizzle in Harrisonburg,VA this morning.  QC stated we may see dense fog.  Hope not, I would just as soon postpone that as long as possible.  We stayed at a non-chain truck stop last night.  Large lot for parking; however, the store area was rather small.  They had a restaurant, but alas the budget is a little tight.  Maybe next time I am in the area I can stop in for breakfast.  Breakfast may not be my favorite meal, but I cannot eat breakfast out, without thinking of my wife. 

If I expect to get on the road before 10, I best wake up sleepy head. Is that like the book I observed in the church library: "Some days I wake up grumpy and somedays I let him sleep in."

New York

The leaves are changing color on I-80 thru PA, NJ and NY.  Left to head into NY early this morning and made 2 mistakes.  One: move the trailer tandems to make the tight turns in NY. Two: Trust that you did not make a wrong choice.  The second mistake made me turn around then head the wrong direction, only to turn around again.  Then once heading the correct direction again, I turned onto a street that was so narrow, if I kept driving I would have driven over a car!  We backed up, drove up the block; however, W. Lincoln did not help me getting to my final destination.  I made a another turn and... we were trapped!  The receiver was kind enough to send someone out to help us and we made the delivery basically on time!  Not bad for the first time of driving in this crazy place.  

Finally got my .com address to point correctly, so I will finally have my website up running correctly shortly.  It is a stormy day now in NYC.    While driving in, I prayed for safety for myself and others while driving in (along with the other situations in life) and was very thankful to have been paying attention to all the little details that prevented problems.  God is good.

Almost home.

We were in Lodi today, so I must be near home.  Unfortunately it was Lodi, OH and not Lodi, CA so I was still a long way away.  We are off to the Big Apple in the morning, very early in the morning.  I guessed the truck route via google and just confirmed it with the QualCom!  Yeah!  So far I have not used that feature on the QualCom to assist us in finding any location.  I have worked with the regular maps and Google.  I appreciate looking at a map.

We pulled into the truck stop and were supposed to fuel; however, since it is a staging area for NY it was filling up quickly so we took a parking space over fueling first.  I will do that at 2:30 in the morning.  And since it is almost 9PM here and I earned a free shower, I best sign off for tonight.

Has it been that long?

I am sitting in Grove City, OH waiting on my partner, so I thought I would post.  Then I discovered it had been several days since I lasted posted.  oops. We loaded in Campbell, NY and are heading for Fort Worth, TX.  We will spend the night in Franklin, KY tonight.  I am looking forward to the 16th; however, I realize there is a purpose for everything under the sun.  So why the team of John & John?  I do not know all the answers yet and pray that God will continue to work through this to bless others also.

We stopped at a rest stop in NY along a river (Susquehanna), you are not able to actually get down to the river, so I took a few shots through the fence and of a flower.  So often there are great things to photograph, but it is on the wrong side of the truck.

Sunday in Florence

I awoke early enough this morning to have breakfast at the Waffle House.  There should be a first time for most everything.  It was OK but I would not rush across the street to eat there again.

Church was not nearly as formal as previous, very friendly people and warm welcomes.  When they knew I was parked at the TA about 1.3 miles away, several went out of their way to make sure I had a ride back.  They even offered to pick me up for evening service.  People were dressed from suits and dresses to casual.  It was still in the same time warp as last Sunday, preacher using more scripture than he had time to use and this one is caught up in the preach against rather than preach for.  We went from Gn to Hb with several stops in between, all informing us of our sinful nature.   I would find it difficult to make this a home congregation; however, I would have no problem making this a great visiting congregation.  The warmth of the people was refreshing.

Went to the Mall in Florence.  Walked around for about 1.5 hours, bought two things (lunch and massage oil for my hands), called my partner since I left him in the truck and I did not have a key to get in.  

Updated: Attended church Sunday evening.  Never attended anything like it before.  A formal worship time, very short; followed by a class.  Very relaxed, song leader was even wearing a T-shirt.  As stated earlier this group is very friendly.  I was invited to someone's home for dinner tomorrow since I will still be in town.  

Eating truck stop food is expensive and certainly not healthy.  On September 16th this phase is supposed to be over.  When soloing for 90 days WalMart and Costco are looking very exciting!

One more day to spend in Florence.  Our mad dash for New York begins on Tuesday.

Crazy Days

We arrived at Kirkersville, OH and spent the night.  Was able to take a shower, do my laundry and this morning I got a hair cut! I then "dead headed" (drove the truck empty) to Florence, KY for our next pick up.  Unfortunately that pick up is not until Tuesday.  It will deliver in Wilton, New York on Wednesday.

Limiting my church searches to church of Christ around Florence, I came upon two that were within walking distance.  Both are within walking distance of me and within walking distance of each other.  Which one is the split? Both websites are similar, legalistic in tone; however, one church put their music on the web.  I listened to a few songs.  Sounded like barber shop music with the tight harmonies, plus the music seemed to be written by the locals.  I will attend the other church in the morning.  135 attended last Sunday.  Hopefully they will have 136 at 10:30 tomorrow.

8/29: This must be Groveport, OH

We started the day in Morton, IL and we are off loading in Groveport.  Driving is only half the fun of trucking.  The other half is shippers and receivers.  Because the system was created who knows when, it has many things in it that are antique.   The system could use an intelligent overhaul.

Stormed on very hard in Morton last night; however, very little rain today, basically a good drive.

Waiting day two

1. We have been assigned a truck: 5748.  We went out and found it in the shop and it is fairly clean on the outside.  When they are done with the work, hopefully everything else will be ready.

2. My partner did not remain at the hotel yesterday, he simply told others what he was doing and failed to keep me in the loop.  Hopefully that will not continue.

3. He and I are off to WalMart shortly to pay his DPS surcharge.  This will prevent his CDL from being suspended.  We would be pulled back to the yard if that happened.  Not good!

So hopefully, we will be out of here today, or at the latest tomorrow.  In some ways I am hoping for tomorrow morning to get our load out of here.  Are we having fun yet?

A Day of Waiting

I arrived before 7 AM this morning.  We are all in the break room waiting.  Waiting for our truck to be road ready or just waiting to be assigned a truck.  Thank goodness for wifi, because otherwise this day would be very bad.

My partner choose to remain at the hotel today.  That is not a good choice.  He will loose his 50 dollars for the day, but more he effects whether we could even leave today.  This is not the best way to impress the boss.

So I set here and wait.  Hopefully tomorrow will be better.

Right turn, a time warp and lunch

I made the correct turn today and got to church.  It was a 3.8 mile walk (one way), service was a return to old times.  One person leading singing, announcements etc. all done at the beginning of service.  The message was not delivered by the regular minister, instead the message was from someone with the congregation who preached a sermon that was heavy on scripture and light on meaning or application.  Reminds me of a sermon delivered by a missionary.  

Lunch today was at Braum's.  Lunch was a large burger but most important was a large milk shake.   It was very good.  Unfortunately I was not sharing it with my bride of 30 plus years.  The extreme disadvantage of all this time away from home. 

I anxiously await Monday when I found out if my partner for the next 21 days has his CDL suspended.  I have already told him I will pay to reinstate his CDL since his delay will delay me also.  So I pray the Lord to continue to watch over me on the great adventure.  

Finished (Almost)

Today we finished class; however, without a truck I am still stuck here in Dallas.  It could be sometime next week before there are trucks free so John and I can leave.  Yes my partner's name is John also.  He is two years younger than my daughter, born late in March 1981.  We have had minimum contact with each other, we have sat in class together; however, he smokes and goes to the smoking section to enjoy breaks, I go elsewhere.

The grackles (the large black birds around the area) have really been out and about.  They are very noisy when the congregate in the trees.  It is amazing to see how many of these large birds can be in one small tree.

Today my website expires; however, it is simply going to move to .mac support.  That will allow me to better manage the content.

I pray for a truck soon; but more importantly this will allow me time to be with others for worship this Sunday.  Hopefully I will not make a wrong turn while walking!

ORT II

Day one.  It is supposed to be over on Friday by 1.  So far it has some good moments and some bad.  Good is some of the instruction has been very helpful.  Bad was forced to pick a partner for the next phase of training without the chance to really determine if the two of us could work together.  It ends up I have a smoking partner, but the good news is he has experience in the truck.  So you take the good with the bad.

I need to repack all my stuff so I can take it with me to the yard in the morning.  I am forced to switch hotels.  But so far the Lord has watched over me very well, so I am confident He will continue to do his part!

Missed church

Added an image from off of I-10.  Not everything is bleak on travels between AZ and Dallas.
Today was my first day to attend worship in over 6 weeks.  I Googled a church near my location and set off to walk the 2.5 miles.  However, I turned left instead of right and walked the wrong direction.  I never made it.  I was very disappointed.  I went on-line and saw what services were like at Stockton this morning, but alas the message is not recorded for broadcasting so I miss that part of worship also.

Tomorrow it is off to Stephens yard for the beginning of ORT II.  Hopefully we are treated with slightly more understanding than the first 6 weeks!  Also found out the hard way that cash advance does not work once you are unassigned from a truck.  I should have taken my cash advance, then sent the message of coming off the truck.  

It will be interesting to see who is here from ORT I.  So far have only seen 5 people.  5 out of 50.  Not very good.

Back to Dallas

The image is from the truck, traveling in El Paso looking across the Rio Grande.  The poverty is horrible.

We arrived to deliver product in Fort Worth, then we waited at the truck stop.  Then it seemed everything happened at once, and I was off the truck waiting for a taxi to take me to the bus station down town.  That is when the problems began!  First the bus broke down so we waited until a fleet of taxi cabs showed up; however, they did not order enough, so I was stuck.  Then they put us on a shuttle that runs to Mexico, who ran round several locations, picking up a drunk at one location.  I finally arrived in Dallas but too late for the shuttle to Mesquite.  The next bus to Mesquite would be 6 hours!  

Stephens was no help, so I called for a taxi.  It was cheaper to take the taxi from the Dallas bus depot than the taxi ride earlier in the day!  So thanks to my computer, I took the taxi ride.

ORT 2 begins Monday.  Hopefully everything will be smoother!

Phoenix,AZ

Arrived from Las Cruces; however, a flat delayed our arrival.  Wait at the Albertson's distribution point in Tolleson, then arise at 4:30 to start the process to unload.  Are we having fun yet!  Without personal control of my day, I am now waiting at a Flying J while my trainer is off visiting his aunt and uncle.  I am unable to contact my brother to let him know I could see him even for a little while.

The seats in a large truck ride on air shocks.  Unfortunately for me, my camera slide under the seat area and was severely damaged.  It still works; however, parts are exposed and the large screen on the back is now broken.  So I know it is only a matter of time before the camera is none functional.  

This is almost my last day of being controlled by others for schedule.  What a great lesson to learn.  Build a business now!

A different mind set

Over the road driving you stop at truck stops; however, as a trainee, your funds are very limited.  I was approached by a black man about my age (early 50) who started the conversation by stating, "Hey Bossman".  However, the next part of the conversation just shocked me.  He said, "I'm a good N...".  I corrected him.  I said no your a good man.

Arrived yesterday in Las Cruces, NM.  As you drive through El Paso you observe the squaller that is on the other side of the border.  One side living the high life, the other side in abject poverty.  I have a feeling Jesus would spend more time south of the border.

I am in Las Cruces until late this afternoon.  It is the home of my trainer.  So while I babysit the truck at a TA, he is home in a nice bed, enjoying home time with the wife.  Oh well, Lord willing my time will come!