OH Bound - April 15

Originally picked today to head out with my trainer. Home time for the trainer for Mother's Day turned that into sometime later this week. Then I got word yesterday about something that demands my presence in town on the 23rd. Long story; maybe sometime I'll tell it. Was worried about being perceived as 'that guy' who says he'll do something then makes every excuse for why he can't. I hate that guy.

A couple quick calls to my trainer and Ellan and everything was rearranged with no hassles at all. Both were very accommodating and understanding. More affirmation that I picked the right company. Probably helped that I expressed concern for them NOT having to work the schedule so I'd get back home after only one week out - although if they wanted to do that, I would have gone along with it. Was also prepared to skip the the 23rd thing if I had to absolutely, positively choose between it and the job.

Now I just have to figure out what to do with the remaining extra 9 days at home. I got all my priority chores done before I left for Trenton. Maybe I'll rebuild the back part of my shed to keep my sense of accomplishment tank full...

 

Starting my 4th day out with my trainer. After getting picked up in PA we've hit Milwaukee, Belleville IL, St Louis, and now we are getting ready to drop at Richfield. Then it's off to Quad Graphics for a load to Philly.

Got 334 miles the first day (only got picked up at noon), 518 the 2nd, & 551 yesterday. At this rate the 15k is gonna go by fast!.

Cadman is awesome as a trainer. Easy to get along with; no bad habits; seems like we're of similar mindsets. Helps me along through my newbie-itis without making me feel like the idiot I am.

The lifestyle is a good fit for me and I'm already plotting how I'll be setting up my own truck. No casualties, no parts left on the highway, and no damaged loads so far. I'd call that a success.

See you out there!

 

Finishing up week one with the trainer. Turned in Philly today with dunnage back to Milwaukee. Will have 3061 miles for my first week. Actually unexpectedly got to sleep in my own bed last night along the way. Trainer & I parked at my brother's , where my whole family was having their Memorial Day picnic. Sweet timing.

I must say these HOS regs really screw with the schedule. I came out here to make money, not to count the minutes some egghead thinks I should be counting. It is what it is.

I am really digging this gig.

 

Currently waiting out my 34 in the Middletown Days Inn while my trainer spends some quality timer with his family. The more I ponder the HoS regs, the more I loathe government. Oh well, I have a long history of that sort of emotion. I wrote a book about it once.

Looks like the students that are here must be doing some night driving...