Stevens Transport Aviary . . cont'

Dont break a hip dancing there emul

 

Living in limbo...ugghhh...I'm so full of mixed emotions. I was offered incentive to resign my position due to downsizing or face probable termination with no incentive, so I took the incentive. I'd rather control my destiny, as much as possible, than have someone decide it for me. I've been pretty much done with this job anyway (public high school), I had accrued about 40 state leave days, so I've been taking Fridays off to get my stuff in order; my last day of work here is May 15. Will arrive in Dallas May 18.

I'm cautiously confident I will do well on the general knowledge/air brakes/combination written tests. Will probably take those tomorrow. Been studying everyday for the last 3 weeks, doing very well on all the practice tests. Had my eyes checked and have my new specs. Wife bought me 6 pairs of jeans, new steel-toed work boots, cushioned work socks...have over $10,000 squirreled away...don't want to touch it unless I HAVE to...but it's there.

Been married to the some wonderful woman for 35 years...gonna be tough leaving her for the summer; we've not been apart for more than a week or two. But she's got a strong spirit. It makes it easier on the mind knowing I do this much for her sake, her health and well-being. She works a very stressful job, and the doctor told her she had to retire or it would kill her...so she will retire this summer and stay home for a while, relaxing and spending quality time with my 90 year old mother whom she adores.

My emotions churn day by day...excitement over a new career (something I've always wanted to do) with new opportunities...nervous with the fear of failure...sad at having to be apart from my love for a time...glad to leave this present job of 14 years....all mixed up inside of me...one minute looking forward to my flight to Dallas...the next dreading it.

Not that I have any doubts or regrets. I've studied this out for 6 years, preparing for this day. I believe in God, and have confidence in where He leads me. I've watched Him close many doors, and throw this one wide open. I have the courage and fortitude. My wife and I are in full agreement....it's not knowing the unknown...but it is by faith I live....and having done all to stand, stand therefore...

...hope i've not bored you...a little catharsis for my own soul...

 

I got passed by a Stevens truck today, considering I drive a 70mph truck that is saying something. Unfortunately I was coming down Cajon pass at the time, doing 45. So he was not only speeding, he was in violation of at least one policy. A few minutes later I saw him on the side of the I15, 4-ways going. hope he was broken down and not being a sitting duck.

 

I have no idea what's crawled into the planners head that a delivery date on the 29th on a 700 mile load to make them think that's ok, but it's not. Ugh.

 

Dangit Emul why ya gotta be off today? Lol

 

for all you buzzards, check your weather if heading into WY this sunday....

http://forecast.weather.gov/showsig...8&local_place1=&product1=Winter+Storm+Warning
heavy spring wet snow for sunday.
With 60 mph winds... for laramie and cheyenne, elk mountain...

snow may continue as the front stalls out in the plains, causing more snow for southeastern wyoming.... through wednesday

 

Well, day 2. Got an imaginary repower. DM was like he's on his way. Then, he didn't stop. Swore up and down he could deliver his load on time. So I sit here, gummy bear supply drastically diminishing and entertainment options quickly running out. All I need is a soccer ball (or is it a volleyball?) and I'd be Tom Hanks in Castaway. Which is what I feel like lol.

 

Can any Stevens company drivers please tell me what to expect from Stevens? Like percentage of running reefer vs. running dry goods? Does reefer require much night driving? Frequency of drop and hook vs. live load and unload? Does reefer require running different hours than dry goods? How frequently would I run to the west coast? Living in SW Florida where would I park the truck, no tractor dealers in my town.
Sorry for so many questions, any help is appreciated.