Next week I have orientation with a trucking company based in Florida. I won't be saying the name until I make it to training. I don't want to assume anything, and I certainly don't want to drop a name like I've already got the job, when in fact I've got to get through orientation first.

I should do well. I've got time to review materials on the way down to FL, sitting back in the relaxed atmosphere of a Greyhound. I'm basically one part nervous, but 4 parts excited, so overall I'm really psyched to "Get 'er done!".

After 2-4 weeks of training, my final test will be at Tunnel Hill, GA. Then I'll be issued a truck, hopefully more close to home, where I'll then bobtail it back for a little R & R before setting out solo.

I can't wait. I've got so many plans to make my OTR experience the best possible. From my friend Don I've purchased a microwave, CB, inverter, refrigerator, road atlas, fans, etc. etc. etc. all at fair prices for stuff that's still in good/excellent condition. Considering I've still got backpacker blood running through my veins, I think living in a sleeper with all of these luxuries will beat the heck out of sleeping outdoors in a tent and using a gas stove.

And of course I'll have a laptop. A flat screen TV is probably in the not too distant future as well.

I do need to buy a George Foreman Grill to round out my repertoire however. I plan on cooking all my own food. There's no way I'm going to gain back the 40 pounds I lost since last summer. I've got a whole new lifestyle of eating and I refuse to compromise and return to my old ways. The old way of eating seems gross to me now anyway!



Next Up: Orientation Part B