FIRST 5 YEARS:(Wednesday-Monrovia, Indiana--My son Bill is riding with me for awhile)
I woke at 6 AM EST and Bill stayed asleep. We headed for Cleveland(Ohio) by 6:30 AM EST on I-70. It was not until 8:30 AM EST, and we were crossing into Ohio, when Bill finally got up. We stopped at Ohio's very first rest area fod a "drop & hookr a half hour break and then off we went.
As we got close to Columbus, Ohio, we took I-270 north and came upon a car accident; a fellow was be cut out of his Datsun putup. What happened??? Don't know...
We followed I-270 to I-71 and headed to Cleveland. We stopped at a rest area for a short break and then we were off. We got to the Cleveland engine plant, along I-71, and did a "drop & hook". I called into dispatch at 1:45 PM EST and told him I was ready for my next load. I was told that it looked like we would be here until tomorrow but for me to call in every hour.
Bill and I went to what I called the "Pit" truckstop. It was inside one the pits around the lower east side of Cleveland, between I-71 and I-77. We had dinner and then went to the tractor for the rest of the day. We just watched my TV and I wrote...
About Me
- The Protraveller...
- Starting as a preschooler, I remember my Grandfather bringing me rocks from his trips he took after he retired. Each rock had a story to tell. In the sixth grade, I watched a freeway be built and then wondered where all the trucks would go. I remember in high school looking at the mountains and wanting to travel. I did many jobs BEFORE trucking but I always wondered what driving would by like. I really wanted to see things and drive a big truck. So after almost finishing nursing school, a divorce and three cute little kids, I became a truck driver. While earning a living, I found myself enjoying North America and seeing the land and people. NO ONE ENJOYED TRAVELING MORE THAN ME. There are two things I have enjoyed in this life and they are traveling and writing. I use to call myself "Protourist" but my Mother-in-law and Wife would become upset with me as they know I really love THE "travel" and not THE stopping to see things. I now call myself "protraveller"(I like it with a double "L") and my Mother-in-law and Wife are now happy!!! I love to write and this blog gives me the opportunity to share my past and thoughts with the public.
July 31, 2011
July 30, 2011
July 30, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Tuesday-Kansas City, Missouri)
I talked with Bill--my oldest son--this morning and I am going to try and pick him up so that he can ride with me for awhile. I had the needed permits for him to ride with me.
Side note: The federal, and I believe all state, DOTs require trucking companies to give writers' permits for all those that drivers wish to ride with them. I believe all trucking companies have rules and regulations concerning "riders". If you are a 'trucker", or future "trucker", check with your company concerning their "rider" rules.
At 9:30 AM CST the Kansas City terminal dispatcher called me to his window. I was given a couple loads to choose from: Denver or Cleveland??? I took Cleveland as I could pick up my son as I pass Kingdom City, Missouri.
I was given a trailer of empty racks going to the Cleveland(Ohio) engine plant. I left our Kansas City terminal by 10:30 AM CST after fueling(96 gallons), hooking up the trailer, doing a vehicle inspection and calling my son, and his Mother, telling him that I will pick him up at the Kingdom City(Missouri) convenience store that I often stop at. I got there at 1 PM CST and loaded Bill's stuff on the tractor. We picked up some munchies and a couple sodas(soft drinks in Canada) and then left for Cleveland east on I-70 at 1:30 PM CST. When we got to I-270, around St. Louis, I took it over the northern end and into Illinois. I-270 then connected back with I-70 which we took to Effingham, Illinois. We stopped at our Effingham fuelstop for dinner. Bill got to eat with three other drivers from my company; he seemed excited. At about 6:30 PM CST we continued east on I-70. The night darkness set in before we reached Monrovia, Indiana at 9:15 PM EST and settled in for the night....
I talked with Bill--my oldest son--this morning and I am going to try and pick him up so that he can ride with me for awhile. I had the needed permits for him to ride with me.
Side note: The federal, and I believe all state, DOTs require trucking companies to give writers' permits for all those that drivers wish to ride with them. I believe all trucking companies have rules and regulations concerning "riders". If you are a 'trucker", or future "trucker", check with your company concerning their "rider" rules.
At 9:30 AM CST the Kansas City terminal dispatcher called me to his window. I was given a couple loads to choose from: Denver or Cleveland??? I took Cleveland as I could pick up my son as I pass Kingdom City, Missouri.
I was given a trailer of empty racks going to the Cleveland(Ohio) engine plant. I left our Kansas City terminal by 10:30 AM CST after fueling(96 gallons), hooking up the trailer, doing a vehicle inspection and calling my son, and his Mother, telling him that I will pick him up at the Kingdom City(Missouri) convenience store that I often stop at. I got there at 1 PM CST and loaded Bill's stuff on the tractor. We picked up some munchies and a couple sodas(soft drinks in Canada) and then left for Cleveland east on I-70 at 1:30 PM CST. When we got to I-270, around St. Louis, I took it over the northern end and into Illinois. I-270 then connected back with I-70 which we took to Effingham, Illinois. We stopped at our Effingham fuelstop for dinner. Bill got to eat with three other drivers from my company; he seemed excited. At about 6:30 PM CST we continued east on I-70. The night darkness set in before we reached Monrovia, Indiana at 9:15 PM EST and settled in for the night....
July 29, 2011
July 29, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Monday-Kansas City, Missouri)
I was stuck at the terminal all day and truly didn't do anything but talk to the other drivers, write and watch the terminal TV. I hope to get out of here tomorrow.
SECOND 5 YEARS:(disgust with Baltimore, Maryland)
I was a meat hauler, when I got a call to pick up a load of pork--I believe--in Columbus Junction, Iowa. I got to the meat plant and found it smaller then most meat plants I had picked up from. After getting the load, I had to weigh the load at a scale about a half mile from the plant. I was always irritated that some plants would not let us weigh our loads from them on their scales.
I was scheduled to unload on a Sunday night at 10:30 PM EST in the downtown area. I got there at 10 AM EST and parked in a parking lot of an empty warehouse across the street from where I was to deliver.
After the church service--next to where I was delivering--was over, a man came over to my tractor and introduced himself as an employee of the receiver of my load. We talked and he told me that theft was common in this area and that I shouldn't sleep or even take a nap. He told me that I need to back my trailer up against the empty warehouse and keep a watch on it. He said that the thieves had been known to cut holes in the top of the trailer and one fellow would get inside and pass the boxed meat up to the fellow on top of the trailer. I did what he said to do.
In the late afternoon, another fellow came to the tractor and we talked. He claimed to be the one who would be unloading me. After convincing me that he was going to unload me, he begged me for a cask advance. I let him have $60 and he was off up a street that rose in elevation as he continued. I watched him and as he walked, people would come out of the buildings and take something(money???) from him that he seemed willingly give. He later came back and unloaded me.
I was unloaded at 10:30 PM EST and when backed up to the dock, my tractor was sticking out into the street. There was little street lighting so I set out my safety triangles. Thank goodness when I was done there.
I hated this place so much that I told my dispatcher to put it on my computer screen never to send me back there. If I got another load to this place I would refuse it or, after picking it up, would take it to a truckstop, notify dispatch of my location, and then abandon the truck and load. A really bad idea but I hated this place so much that I would risk my career to stay away from it...I got two more loads from the Columbus Junction meat plant but the loads never went to Baltimore...
I was stuck at the terminal all day and truly didn't do anything but talk to the other drivers, write and watch the terminal TV. I hope to get out of here tomorrow.
SECOND 5 YEARS:(disgust with Baltimore, Maryland)
I was a meat hauler, when I got a call to pick up a load of pork--I believe--in Columbus Junction, Iowa. I got to the meat plant and found it smaller then most meat plants I had picked up from. After getting the load, I had to weigh the load at a scale about a half mile from the plant. I was always irritated that some plants would not let us weigh our loads from them on their scales.
I was scheduled to unload on a Sunday night at 10:30 PM EST in the downtown area. I got there at 10 AM EST and parked in a parking lot of an empty warehouse across the street from where I was to deliver.
After the church service--next to where I was delivering--was over, a man came over to my tractor and introduced himself as an employee of the receiver of my load. We talked and he told me that theft was common in this area and that I shouldn't sleep or even take a nap. He told me that I need to back my trailer up against the empty warehouse and keep a watch on it. He said that the thieves had been known to cut holes in the top of the trailer and one fellow would get inside and pass the boxed meat up to the fellow on top of the trailer. I did what he said to do.
In the late afternoon, another fellow came to the tractor and we talked. He claimed to be the one who would be unloading me. After convincing me that he was going to unload me, he begged me for a cask advance. I let him have $60 and he was off up a street that rose in elevation as he continued. I watched him and as he walked, people would come out of the buildings and take something(money???) from him that he seemed willingly give. He later came back and unloaded me.
I was unloaded at 10:30 PM EST and when backed up to the dock, my tractor was sticking out into the street. There was little street lighting so I set out my safety triangles. Thank goodness when I was done there.
I hated this place so much that I told my dispatcher to put it on my computer screen never to send me back there. If I got another load to this place I would refuse it or, after picking it up, would take it to a truckstop, notify dispatch of my location, and then abandon the truck and load. A really bad idea but I hated this place so much that I would risk my career to stay away from it...I got two more loads from the Columbus Junction meat plant but the loads never went to Baltimore...
July 28, 2011
July 28, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Sunday-Lebo, Kansas)
Woke at 4:30 AM CST, did vehicle inspection and logbook and then left up I-35 toward the Kansas City area.
By 6 AM CST I was at J.C.Pennys in Lenexa, Kansas. I checked with security and then did a "drop and hook". I called local dispatch and was instructed to go to the terminal.
Got to the terminal and found myself a 42 on the TRB. I was at the termianal the rest of the day...
Woke at 4:30 AM CST, did vehicle inspection and logbook and then left up I-35 toward the Kansas City area.
By 6 AM CST I was at J.C.Pennys in Lenexa, Kansas. I checked with security and then did a "drop and hook". I called local dispatch and was instructed to go to the terminal.
Got to the terminal and found myself a 42 on the TRB. I was at the termianal the rest of the day...
July 27, 2011
July 27, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Saturday-Fort Worth, Texas)
I slept through the early hours of the morning and when 6 AM CST came I was woken by a light tapping on may tractor. It was the guard telling me I could come in and drop my trailer. I thanked him and dropped my trailer and got an empty one. I called local dispatch(the Lancaster office). They said to being the empty trailer to the Lancaster terminal and pick up a load to J.C. Pennys in Lenexa, Kansas. I wasn't excited about that load but I took it.
I hung around the terminal talking until 10:30 AM CST. I had already topped my tanks off(96 gallons) and done my paperwork so I left up I-35E. I decided to follow I-35 north into Oklahoma where I would have dinner at "Just a Truckstop" in Oklahoma City. I pulled into the truckstop at 2:30 PM CST and had lunch. I ate and checked out the movie room. I didn't care for what was playing so I left and was gone up I-35 at 3:45 PM CST.
I followed I-35 north past Wichita and Emporia, Kansas to a nice truckstop in Lebo, Kansas. I stopped for the night as it was 8 PM CST and I could get a good nights slept before delivery. This load was a "drop and hook" so I wasn't worried if anyone would be there to unload me.
I slept through the early hours of the morning and when 6 AM CST came I was woken by a light tapping on may tractor. It was the guard telling me I could come in and drop my trailer. I thanked him and dropped my trailer and got an empty one. I called local dispatch(the Lancaster office). They said to being the empty trailer to the Lancaster terminal and pick up a load to J.C. Pennys in Lenexa, Kansas. I wasn't excited about that load but I took it.
I hung around the terminal talking until 10:30 AM CST. I had already topped my tanks off(96 gallons) and done my paperwork so I left up I-35E. I decided to follow I-35 north into Oklahoma where I would have dinner at "Just a Truckstop" in Oklahoma City. I pulled into the truckstop at 2:30 PM CST and had lunch. I ate and checked out the movie room. I didn't care for what was playing so I left and was gone up I-35 at 3:45 PM CST.
I followed I-35 north past Wichita and Emporia, Kansas to a nice truckstop in Lebo, Kansas. I stopped for the night as it was 8 PM CST and I could get a good nights slept before delivery. This load was a "drop and hook" so I wasn't worried if anyone would be there to unload me.
July 26, 2011
July 26, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Friday-Laredo, Texas)
As my day started, I was talking with the other drivers at the terminal lounge--nothing like "trucker tales". I finally left and went out to my tractor and to sleep at about 1:15 AM CST. I was back in the terminal around 10 AM CST only to final me number 16 on the TRB.
Went with a couple other drivers to an out-of-the-way Chinese buffet for lunch. It was OK but not as nice as the place I normally went. We all ate well and returned to the terminal.
At 3 PM CST I got called to the dispatch with a choice of loads, nothing really good. I could pick from El Paso, Fort Worth or Houston. Being Friday, El Paso and Houston were discarded as I wouldn't get anything out of either place until Monday at the earilest. I took the Fort Worth load as it was Mattel Toys which I had had several times before. I called our Lancster(Dallas) terminal to see if they could save me a Utah or Seattle tire load but they had given them all out.
I was hooked up, with business done, and heading north on I-35 by 4 PM CST. I kept up my speed and movement until I took a short break at the rest area outside Georgetown, Texas. Fifteen minutes and I was on my way again. I followed I-35 to I-35E and took it to I-20 westbound. I-20 westbound took me to Hwy 360 where I headed north.
I found the Mattel Toy warehouse and parked outside the gate. I got there around 11:30 PM CST and felt like taking a walk, which I did. A short walk and I was back at my truck at midnight...
As my day started, I was talking with the other drivers at the terminal lounge--nothing like "trucker tales". I finally left and went out to my tractor and to sleep at about 1:15 AM CST. I was back in the terminal around 10 AM CST only to final me number 16 on the TRB.
Went with a couple other drivers to an out-of-the-way Chinese buffet for lunch. It was OK but not as nice as the place I normally went. We all ate well and returned to the terminal.
At 3 PM CST I got called to the dispatch with a choice of loads, nothing really good. I could pick from El Paso, Fort Worth or Houston. Being Friday, El Paso and Houston were discarded as I wouldn't get anything out of either place until Monday at the earilest. I took the Fort Worth load as it was Mattel Toys which I had had several times before. I called our Lancster(Dallas) terminal to see if they could save me a Utah or Seattle tire load but they had given them all out.
I was hooked up, with business done, and heading north on I-35 by 4 PM CST. I kept up my speed and movement until I took a short break at the rest area outside Georgetown, Texas. Fifteen minutes and I was on my way again. I followed I-35 to I-35E and took it to I-20 westbound. I-20 westbound took me to Hwy 360 where I headed north.
I found the Mattel Toy warehouse and parked outside the gate. I got there around 11:30 PM CST and felt like taking a walk, which I did. A short walk and I was back at my truck at midnight...
July 25, 2011
July 25, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Thursday-traveling toward Laredo, Texas)
I passed Austin, Texas about 12:30 AM CST and took the upper level of their bi-level interstate(I-35). I enjoyed the night lights of what I saw. Kinda made me feel like I was on the "Top of the World".
Got to San Antonio, Texas around 1:30 AM CST and was tired and pretty much out of hours to legally drive. Pulled into the "Just a Truckstop"for my legal break and rest period. The load wasn't due in Laredo until Friday so I wasn't in any rush. I guess I was asleep by 2 AM CST after not setting my alarm clock. I woke around 9 AM CST and just laid in my bunk and thought about how I got this load(see yesterday).
I went into the restaurant and had the lunch buffet before leaving to go to Laredo. Not knowing where I would be going from Laredo, and not liking our Laredo fuel stop, I decided to fuel before I left "Just a Truckstop". I took 45 gallons, did my vehicle inspection and caught up on my logbook before heading south on I-35.
Left the city and entered the desert(minimal number of plants with nothing growing very high--alot of sandy ground) area. I passed a few little towns before Laredo, but nothing that seemed worth mentioning. I passed Cotulla, Texas which I never thought much of until I heard that past President Lyndon Johnson started his teaching career there.
Got to Laredo, and our yard there, before 1:30 PM CST and checked in with dispatch. Was told to go and deliver the load which I did. The delivery point was like so many "trailer" lots in Laredeo, a dirt lot with all trailers parked tightly. I finally got it dropped and turned the paperwork in. Went back to the terminal and called a gal that I knew. I visited her and her kids until about 9 PM CST and then went back to the terminal. I was 24th on the TRB for Laredo.
The rest of the evening I just sat in the truckers' lounge talking to the other drivers and watching VHS(DVDs aren't available yet) movies they had. As my day ended, I was still in the lounge talking with others....
I passed Austin, Texas about 12:30 AM CST and took the upper level of their bi-level interstate(I-35). I enjoyed the night lights of what I saw. Kinda made me feel like I was on the "Top of the World".
Got to San Antonio, Texas around 1:30 AM CST and was tired and pretty much out of hours to legally drive. Pulled into the "Just a Truckstop"for my legal break and rest period. The load wasn't due in Laredo until Friday so I wasn't in any rush. I guess I was asleep by 2 AM CST after not setting my alarm clock. I woke around 9 AM CST and just laid in my bunk and thought about how I got this load(see yesterday).
I went into the restaurant and had the lunch buffet before leaving to go to Laredo. Not knowing where I would be going from Laredo, and not liking our Laredo fuel stop, I decided to fuel before I left "Just a Truckstop". I took 45 gallons, did my vehicle inspection and caught up on my logbook before heading south on I-35.
Left the city and entered the desert(minimal number of plants with nothing growing very high--alot of sandy ground) area. I passed a few little towns before Laredo, but nothing that seemed worth mentioning. I passed Cotulla, Texas which I never thought much of until I heard that past President Lyndon Johnson started his teaching career there.
Got to Laredo, and our yard there, before 1:30 PM CST and checked in with dispatch. Was told to go and deliver the load which I did. The delivery point was like so many "trailer" lots in Laredeo, a dirt lot with all trailers parked tightly. I finally got it dropped and turned the paperwork in. Went back to the terminal and called a gal that I knew. I visited her and her kids until about 9 PM CST and then went back to the terminal. I was 24th on the TRB for Laredo.
The rest of the evening I just sat in the truckers' lounge talking to the other drivers and watching VHS(DVDs aren't available yet) movies they had. As my day ended, I was still in the lounge talking with others....
July 24, 2011
July 24, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Wednesday-Wichita, Kansas)
Woke at 8 AM CST without an alarm clock. After a great deadhead, somehow I didn't expect to get any assignment for a while , and I didn't. It was 10:20 AM CST went I got my load to pick up. I was to go to a company that makes the Sunday Paper inserts and pick a load of them up for Houston, Texas.
Before leaving for the pickup, I needed to fuel. I only put in 50 gallons as I was going to Lancaster, Texas terminal and could fuel with company fuel.
I found Vlassic Company--the one I was picking up at--and checked in with the shipping department. They had me back up to the dock and I was loaded with a relatively light load; 24,563 lbs. This was light as I only had one stop with this load; Other loads from here I have had have been in the 40,000 lb range where I had two and three drops.
I was loaded pretty quick and found me heading south on I-35 by noon CST.
I-35, between Wichita and Emporia(Kansas), I find beautiful. South of Wichita, on I-35, I find "OK". I wasn't worried about the scenery today as I had my CB radio going and my tapes I was singing to. Yes, it was going to be a good drive...
I was happy about this load as I just knew I could get to our Lancaster(Dallas) terminal and find someone to trade their "Laredo" load with for my Houston load.. I JUST KNEW IT !!!!
I went into Oklahoma and onto "Just a Truckstop" in Oklahoma City where I stopped for dinner. I had the buffet and then headed south on I-35 again. I traveled past the downtown Dallas area getting to Lancaster by 7:30 PM CST.
There weren't but a couple drivers in the yard but they didn't have loads. I went to the fuel island and fueled(132 gallons). While I was fueling, a husband & wife team stopped to fuel. I asked where they were going and they said Laredo. I tried to take them into trading but they wouldn't. I watched as they drove out saying to myself, "There goes my last chance. I guess I had better head for Houston."
I prepared myself to head for Houston but I wanted to call a friend in Portland, Oregon first. I drove up to the main building and noted that their was someone on the phone; his tractor was parked next to me. I asked if he'd be off the phone soon and he said yes; I waited. The fellow got off the phone and asked where I was going. I said, "Houston". He then asked if I would trade for his Laredo load as he didn't want to go to Laredo. I COULD HAVE BEEN KNOCKED OVER WITH A FEATHER. We traded and I headed for Laredo; it was about 8:30 PM CST when I headed south on I-35E. I kept moving south, keeping my speed up, and I was getting close to Austin, Texas as my day ended...
Woke at 8 AM CST without an alarm clock. After a great deadhead, somehow I didn't expect to get any assignment for a while , and I didn't. It was 10:20 AM CST went I got my load to pick up. I was to go to a company that makes the Sunday Paper inserts and pick a load of them up for Houston, Texas.
Before leaving for the pickup, I needed to fuel. I only put in 50 gallons as I was going to Lancaster, Texas terminal and could fuel with company fuel.
I found Vlassic Company--the one I was picking up at--and checked in with the shipping department. They had me back up to the dock and I was loaded with a relatively light load; 24,563 lbs. This was light as I only had one stop with this load; Other loads from here I have had have been in the 40,000 lb range where I had two and three drops.
I was loaded pretty quick and found me heading south on I-35 by noon CST.
I-35, between Wichita and Emporia(Kansas), I find beautiful. South of Wichita, on I-35, I find "OK". I wasn't worried about the scenery today as I had my CB radio going and my tapes I was singing to. Yes, it was going to be a good drive...
I was happy about this load as I just knew I could get to our Lancaster(Dallas) terminal and find someone to trade their "Laredo" load with for my Houston load.. I JUST KNEW IT !!!!
I went into Oklahoma and onto "Just a Truckstop" in Oklahoma City where I stopped for dinner. I had the buffet and then headed south on I-35 again. I traveled past the downtown Dallas area getting to Lancaster by 7:30 PM CST.
There weren't but a couple drivers in the yard but they didn't have loads. I went to the fuel island and fueled(132 gallons). While I was fueling, a husband & wife team stopped to fuel. I asked where they were going and they said Laredo. I tried to take them into trading but they wouldn't. I watched as they drove out saying to myself, "There goes my last chance. I guess I had better head for Houston."
I prepared myself to head for Houston but I wanted to call a friend in Portland, Oregon first. I drove up to the main building and noted that their was someone on the phone; his tractor was parked next to me. I asked if he'd be off the phone soon and he said yes; I waited. The fellow got off the phone and asked where I was going. I said, "Houston". He then asked if I would trade for his Laredo load as he didn't want to go to Laredo. I COULD HAVE BEEN KNOCKED OVER WITH A FEATHER. We traded and I headed for Laredo; it was about 8:30 PM CST when I headed south on I-35E. I kept moving south, keeping my speed up, and I was getting close to Austin, Texas as my day ended...
July 23, 2011
July 23, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Tuesday-Wheat Ridge, Colorado)
I spent the night at the 76 truckstop waiting for an assignment out of here. When I got up this morning, I started calling in to see if I had a load...nothing until 11:30 AM MST...
I was deadheaded to Wichita, Kansas where I was to call in and see what they have for me. I left Wheat Ridge, Colorado at noon MST and headed east on I-70.
After starting my trip, I left the "city" and was in the flat--looked barren--"country".
I stopped at Rip Griffin's truckstop in Limon, Colorado. I walked into the truckstop and saw the first person I have seen twice that was not working for my company. We talked while we both had lunch. I was enjoying myself but had to get moving. Eastward I went and into Kansas with no change of scenery. The scenery didn't change for what seemed hours. I stopped at a rest area near Park, Kansas for a short break. Back eastward I was moving and noticed that night was starting to fall.
Continued to Salinas, Kansas where I took I-135 south and just before midnight CST I was pulling into our fuelstop the north side of Wichita. I spent the night at this truckstop...
I spent the night at the 76 truckstop waiting for an assignment out of here. When I got up this morning, I started calling in to see if I had a load...nothing until 11:30 AM MST...
I was deadheaded to Wichita, Kansas where I was to call in and see what they have for me. I left Wheat Ridge, Colorado at noon MST and headed east on I-70.
After starting my trip, I left the "city" and was in the flat--looked barren--"country".
I stopped at Rip Griffin's truckstop in Limon, Colorado. I walked into the truckstop and saw the first person I have seen twice that was not working for my company. We talked while we both had lunch. I was enjoying myself but had to get moving. Eastward I went and into Kansas with no change of scenery. The scenery didn't change for what seemed hours. I stopped at a rest area near Park, Kansas for a short break. Back eastward I was moving and noticed that night was starting to fall.
Continued to Salinas, Kansas where I took I-135 south and just before midnight CST I was pulling into our fuelstop the north side of Wichita. I spent the night at this truckstop...
July 22, 2011
July 22, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Monday-Big Springs, Nebraska)
I woke after 1 AM MST and couldn't go back to sleep. I got up and faced the night with a desire to get moving.
I was off traveling the short distrance on I-80 to I-76 by 1:30 AM MST. Southwest on I-76 I went getting to Golden, Colorado around 4:45 AM MST. I found the receiver and the company was full of workers at this hour; I checked with receiving. I was told to dock the trailer and they would unload me. I docked and they unloaded. They had me unloaded and out of there at 6 AM MST.
I drove to the big Denver (along I-70) truckstop and called into dispatch. I was told to call back every hour as they had no "next" assignment for me. I called back throughout the day with no luck. After 4 PM MST(5 PM CST) I quite calling and just waited for tomorrow...
I woke after 1 AM MST and couldn't go back to sleep. I got up and faced the night with a desire to get moving.
I was off traveling the short distrance on I-80 to I-76 by 1:30 AM MST. Southwest on I-76 I went getting to Golden, Colorado around 4:45 AM MST. I found the receiver and the company was full of workers at this hour; I checked with receiving. I was told to dock the trailer and they would unload me. I docked and they unloaded. They had me unloaded and out of there at 6 AM MST.
I drove to the big Denver (along I-70) truckstop and called into dispatch. I was told to call back every hour as they had no "next" assignment for me. I called back throughout the day with no luck. After 4 PM MST(5 PM CST) I quite calling and just waited for tomorrow...
July 21, 2011
July 21, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Sunday-traveling through Nebraska)
Traveling west on I-80 past Grand Island, Nebraska when the day started. A half noon out my drivers' window to keep me company, with the radio, throughout the night; the CB radio wasn't embracing much chit-chat.
The only excitement was an east bounder on the side of the road dealing with a highway patrolman. Why? don't have any idea.
The only break I took during this driving period was at a rest area by Kearney, Nebraska. By 3 AM MST I was pulling into our fuel stop in Big Springs, Nebraska. After fueling(172 gallons) I parked my rig and walked around the truckstop for awhile. I bought some munchies and went to my truck to enjoy them. I went to sleep, waking around noon MST. I had a chef salad and then went to their movie area for truckers. I drank alot of soda pop(soft drinks in Canada) while I watched the movies. I went to my truck and laid down for a long nap at 9 PM MST. I was asleep as my Sunday ended...
Traveling west on I-80 past Grand Island, Nebraska when the day started. A half noon out my drivers' window to keep me company, with the radio, throughout the night; the CB radio wasn't embracing much chit-chat.
The only excitement was an east bounder on the side of the road dealing with a highway patrolman. Why? don't have any idea.
The only break I took during this driving period was at a rest area by Kearney, Nebraska. By 3 AM MST I was pulling into our fuel stop in Big Springs, Nebraska. After fueling(172 gallons) I parked my rig and walked around the truckstop for awhile. I bought some munchies and went to my truck to enjoy them. I went to sleep, waking around noon MST. I had a chef salad and then went to their movie area for truckers. I drank alot of soda pop(soft drinks in Canada) while I watched the movies. I went to my truck and laid down for a long nap at 9 PM MST. I was asleep as my Sunday ended...
July 20, 2011
July 20, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Saturday-traveling Michigan/Indiana)
Midnight found me traveling into Indiana on I-94. I found myself again with a load with alot of time to get it delivered; I don't delivery until Monday. I followed I-94 to I-80 and then went west on I-80.
I stopped at a strange little truckstop in Geneseo, Illinois for a half hour break(bathroom & walk around). I wasn't really impressed and didn't plan on making further stops there. I noticed that most the trucks parked there were "grain haulers"(trucks with special trailers made for hauling grain).
I went west on I-80, past the quad-cities and stopped at one of my favorite stops on the south side of I-80 at Williamsburg, Iowa. It was getting close to 5 AM CST when I pulled into the truckstop. Having plenty of time, I just laid down and slept 'til 2 PM CST. I got up, had the 1 lb. steak dinner, then went to their trucker movie room and watched a movie.
I went out to my truck, did a vehicle inspection and was heading west on I-80 by 6 PM CST. It was a nice evening--warm but I had air conditioning--to drive and I was surprised that the traffic was so light. I was picking up AM radio stations that were bouncing off the atmosphere throughout the evening and night. I went through the construction zones of Omaha, Nebraska and was closing in on Grand Island, Nebraska as my day ended at midnight CST.
Midnight found me traveling into Indiana on I-94. I found myself again with a load with alot of time to get it delivered; I don't delivery until Monday. I followed I-94 to I-80 and then went west on I-80.
I stopped at a strange little truckstop in Geneseo, Illinois for a half hour break(bathroom & walk around). I wasn't really impressed and didn't plan on making further stops there. I noticed that most the trucks parked there were "grain haulers"(trucks with special trailers made for hauling grain).
I went west on I-80, past the quad-cities and stopped at one of my favorite stops on the south side of I-80 at Williamsburg, Iowa. It was getting close to 5 AM CST when I pulled into the truckstop. Having plenty of time, I just laid down and slept 'til 2 PM CST. I got up, had the 1 lb. steak dinner, then went to their trucker movie room and watched a movie.
I went out to my truck, did a vehicle inspection and was heading west on I-80 by 6 PM CST. It was a nice evening--warm but I had air conditioning--to drive and I was surprised that the traffic was so light. I was picking up AM radio stations that were bouncing off the atmosphere throughout the evening and night. I went through the construction zones of Omaha, Nebraska and was closing in on Grand Island, Nebraska as my day ended at midnight CST.
July 19, 2011
July 19, 1991,2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Friday-Belleville, Ontario)
I had my alarm clock set for 1 AM EST and it went off as planned. After a short walk, vehicle inspection and logbook update I was off toward the Taylor(Detroit) terminal at 1:30 AM EST.
I was in NO hurry as this load didn't deliver in Golden, Colorado until Monday. The night was pleasant as traffic was minimal and I had the company of a half shining noon most the morning.
I stopped at our fuel stop in Milton, Ontario for a quick 100 liters (about 30 gallons) of fuel. This fuel was an insurance that I wouldn't run out of fuel before getting to the terminal.
I went over the Ambassator Bridge into Detoit, Michigan and US customs at 7:45 AM EST. Customs wanted to inspect my aluminum so I had to back up the the customs dock after opening my trailer door. The US customs officer took one look into the trailer and said, "OK,...." and I left.
I was at the terminal 9:30 AM EST and decided the hung around there for the day. At 11 AM EST I and two other drivers went to the Swedish Buffet for lunch...I had the barfet. Went back to my rig and laid down for a nap and napped until 8 PM EST.
I got up and fueled(164 gallons). I left heading west on I-94. As my day was ending, I was passing New Buffalo, Michigan and going into Indiana...
I had my alarm clock set for 1 AM EST and it went off as planned. After a short walk, vehicle inspection and logbook update I was off toward the Taylor(Detroit) terminal at 1:30 AM EST.
I was in NO hurry as this load didn't deliver in Golden, Colorado until Monday. The night was pleasant as traffic was minimal and I had the company of a half shining noon most the morning.
I stopped at our fuel stop in Milton, Ontario for a quick 100 liters (about 30 gallons) of fuel. This fuel was an insurance that I wouldn't run out of fuel before getting to the terminal.
I went over the Ambassator Bridge into Detoit, Michigan and US customs at 7:45 AM EST. Customs wanted to inspect my aluminum so I had to back up the the customs dock after opening my trailer door. The US customs officer took one look into the trailer and said, "OK,...." and I left.
I was at the terminal 9:30 AM EST and decided the hung around there for the day. At 11 AM EST I and two other drivers went to the Swedish Buffet for lunch...I had the barfet. Went back to my rig and laid down for a nap and napped until 8 PM EST.
I got up and fueled(164 gallons). I left heading west on I-94. As my day was ending, I was passing New Buffalo, Michigan and going into Indiana...
July 18, 2011
July 18, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Thursday-Milton, Ontario)
I was up at 1:50 AM EST to get ready to head for Montreal, Quebec. I wanted to get into Quebec without dealing with their weigh stations and DOT(see November 15, 1989). I did my vehicle inspection, logbook update and headed toward Montreal on the Queen's(now King's) Highway 401. I kept my speed up as not to waste time as I wanted to pass the Quebec scales before they opened.
I got to the scales just after they had opened and I had to get weighed by them. I had no problem and was on my way to Montreal. We delivered to this warehouse all the time and the directions were real clear; I found and had checked in with receiving clerk by 9 AM EST. They put me to a dock and started unloading me. I was totally done with this warehouse by 9:45 AM EST and calling dispatch.
Dispatch dispatched me to go empty to Kingston, Ontario. I was on my way by 10 AM EST. I took Quebec Hwys 40, 520 & 20 to the Ontario Queen's Hwy 401. Kepting my speed up, I got to the shipper's place at 1:30 AM EST. I checked in with shipping and found three other trucks from my company waiting for loads, all going to where I was...Golden, Colorado. We were all picking up Aluminum for a can making company. I had three huge rolls of aluminum put on my trailer and I was gone southwest on the Queen's Hwy 401 by 3:30 PM EST.
It had been a long day and so I stopped at the Belleville(Ontario) truckstop at 4:30 PM EST from the night. I walked around for about half an hour and then back to my truck for some sleep. ..
I was up at 1:50 AM EST to get ready to head for Montreal, Quebec. I wanted to get into Quebec without dealing with their weigh stations and DOT(see November 15, 1989). I did my vehicle inspection, logbook update and headed toward Montreal on the Queen's(now King's) Highway 401. I kept my speed up as not to waste time as I wanted to pass the Quebec scales before they opened.
I got to the scales just after they had opened and I had to get weighed by them. I had no problem and was on my way to Montreal. We delivered to this warehouse all the time and the directions were real clear; I found and had checked in with receiving clerk by 9 AM EST. They put me to a dock and started unloading me. I was totally done with this warehouse by 9:45 AM EST and calling dispatch.
Dispatch dispatched me to go empty to Kingston, Ontario. I was on my way by 10 AM EST. I took Quebec Hwys 40, 520 & 20 to the Ontario Queen's Hwy 401. Kepting my speed up, I got to the shipper's place at 1:30 AM EST. I checked in with shipping and found three other trucks from my company waiting for loads, all going to where I was...Golden, Colorado. We were all picking up Aluminum for a can making company. I had three huge rolls of aluminum put on my trailer and I was gone southwest on the Queen's Hwy 401 by 3:30 PM EST.
It had been a long day and so I stopped at the Belleville(Ontario) truckstop at 4:30 PM EST from the night. I walked around for about half an hour and then back to my truck for some sleep. ..
July 17, 2011
July 17, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Wednesday-Peru, Illinois)
I was up at 4 AM CST and walked around the "dumpy" truckstop I was staying at. I didn't enjoy the walking around but I did "kill" the time to 5 AM CST when I could do my vehicle inspection and take off east on I-80. I usually would stop at "Just a Truckstop" in Lake Station, Indiana(where I-94 & I-80 split on the east side) but I didn't today. The traffic wasn't bad through the roads that I-94 and I-80 run together so I kept going; just felt like driving and just feeling great. Followed I-94 up into Michigan and onto our Taylor(Detroit) terminal. Got to the terminal at 12:15 PM EST, fueled(179 gallons) and got my Canadian customs paperwork.
I was heading for Canada around 12:45 PM CST. Went over the Ambassador Bridge and got through customs with little troblem(secret...I always tried to had all my paperwork in order).
Got on the Queen's(now King's) Highway 401 and stopped at the Tilbury rest stop for some "Canadian" donuts--see May 15, 1991--and then got moving again. I passed London and Cambridge and stopped at our fuel stop in Milton, Ontario for my long sleep break. I was there at 6 PM EST and I went right to bed as I was really tired. Was asleep as my day ended...
I was up at 4 AM CST and walked around the "dumpy" truckstop I was staying at. I didn't enjoy the walking around but I did "kill" the time to 5 AM CST when I could do my vehicle inspection and take off east on I-80. I usually would stop at "Just a Truckstop" in Lake Station, Indiana(where I-94 & I-80 split on the east side) but I didn't today. The traffic wasn't bad through the roads that I-94 and I-80 run together so I kept going; just felt like driving and just feeling great. Followed I-94 up into Michigan and onto our Taylor(Detroit) terminal. Got to the terminal at 12:15 PM EST, fueled(179 gallons) and got my Canadian customs paperwork.
I was heading for Canada around 12:45 PM CST. Went over the Ambassador Bridge and got through customs with little troblem(secret...I always tried to had all my paperwork in order).
Got on the Queen's(now King's) Highway 401 and stopped at the Tilbury rest stop for some "Canadian" donuts--see May 15, 1991--and then got moving again. I passed London and Cambridge and stopped at our fuel stop in Milton, Ontario for my long sleep break. I was there at 6 PM EST and I went right to bed as I was really tired. Was asleep as my day ended...
July 16, 2011
July 16, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Tuesday-Lake Station, Indiana)
I woke at 4:45 AM CST after a good night sleep and headed for the Hershey's Chocolate factory in south Chicago(Illinois). I had good directions and so I was at the plant--not too far off I-94--at 6 AM CST. I checked in with the guard shack and was told where to go. I went to the instructed area and waited until 8 AM CST for a dock.
I backed into the assigned dock and was told I was to help unload. I didn't like the idea but the work wasn't hard--big bags of fine corn flakes weighed maybe 15 lbs each(????)--and the air was filled with the smell of chocolate. What I found interesting were the two fellows that helped me unload. An older gentleman and a real young one. The older guy referred to the younger one as, "My Bother" instead of using his name. The younger one just seemed to ignore the older. The younger guy was using the forktruck and the older was helping me pick up the light bags and put them on pallets. The older guy would often said something like, "My Brother, I do believe it is my turn to drive the forktruck"and the younger would ignore him. Well, when we would fill up a pallet, the younger would pick it up with the forktruck and move it to the building floor. While picking up one pallet, the younger guy hit a bag of corn flakes with the forks of the forktruck. Very fine corn flakes all over and they blew around with the slightest breeze. The older guy apologized for the younger one by telling me that it takes a good 5 years to learn how to drive a forktruck and that the young guy had only been driving it for a few months---BULL!!!!.
I got empty and called dispatch. They said to go to Newton, Iowa and pick up a load of refrigerators going to Montreal, Quebec. By 10:30 AM CST I was headed down I-94 to I-57 south. Went I-80 west and stayed with it into Iowa. Follow I-80 to Newton, getting there at 4 PM CST. I checked in with shipping and they had me back to a dock and stated loading me. It went real fast and I had my paperwork and was headed east on I-80 by 5:15 PM CST. I was tired by the time--9 PM CST--I got to Peru, Illinois--as well as out of driving time--so I pulled into a truckstop and went to sleep for the night...
I woke at 4:45 AM CST after a good night sleep and headed for the Hershey's Chocolate factory in south Chicago(Illinois). I had good directions and so I was at the plant--not too far off I-94--at 6 AM CST. I checked in with the guard shack and was told where to go. I went to the instructed area and waited until 8 AM CST for a dock.
I backed into the assigned dock and was told I was to help unload. I didn't like the idea but the work wasn't hard--big bags of fine corn flakes weighed maybe 15 lbs each(????)--and the air was filled with the smell of chocolate. What I found interesting were the two fellows that helped me unload. An older gentleman and a real young one. The older guy referred to the younger one as, "My Bother" instead of using his name. The younger one just seemed to ignore the older. The younger guy was using the forktruck and the older was helping me pick up the light bags and put them on pallets. The older guy would often said something like, "My Brother, I do believe it is my turn to drive the forktruck"and the younger would ignore him. Well, when we would fill up a pallet, the younger would pick it up with the forktruck and move it to the building floor. While picking up one pallet, the younger guy hit a bag of corn flakes with the forks of the forktruck. Very fine corn flakes all over and they blew around with the slightest breeze. The older guy apologized for the younger one by telling me that it takes a good 5 years to learn how to drive a forktruck and that the young guy had only been driving it for a few months---BULL!!!!.
I got empty and called dispatch. They said to go to Newton, Iowa and pick up a load of refrigerators going to Montreal, Quebec. By 10:30 AM CST I was headed down I-94 to I-57 south. Went I-80 west and stayed with it into Iowa. Follow I-80 to Newton, getting there at 4 PM CST. I checked in with shipping and they had me back to a dock and stated loading me. It went real fast and I had my paperwork and was headed east on I-80 by 5:15 PM CST. I was tired by the time--9 PM CST--I got to Peru, Illinois--as well as out of driving time--so I pulled into a truckstop and went to sleep for the night...
July 15, 2011
July 15, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Monday-traveling in Canada)
Traveling southwest on Queen's(now King's) Highway 401 as my day started. My driving time was coming to an end as I pulled into the West Lorne(Ontario) rest area for my long sleep break around 1:30 AM EST.
I slept well until 9 AM EST when my alarm clock went off. I was in no hurry but I wanted to get back to the Taylor(Detroit) terminal. I got up and walked around for awhile, buying some donur for breakfast. I was in my truck moving toward Detroit by 9:30 AM EST.
Munching on my donuts, I got to the U.S. customs--after the Ambassitor Bridge--around noon EST. I got through customs with no problem and went onto out Taylor terminal. At the terminal, I fueled(89 gallons) and went to the Swedish Buffet Restaurant for lunch. By 2:15 PM EST I was again heading for Chicago. I traveled I-94 west.
Got to "Just a Truckstop" in Lake Station, Indiana around 5:15 PM CST and decided to stay there for the night. I went into the restaurant and saw no one I knew so I got me a big soda(soft drink in Canada) and went to the movie room. By 9 PM CST, I was tired of watching movies and went out to my truck and went to sleep...
Traveling southwest on Queen's(now King's) Highway 401 as my day started. My driving time was coming to an end as I pulled into the West Lorne(Ontario) rest area for my long sleep break around 1:30 AM EST.
I slept well until 9 AM EST when my alarm clock went off. I was in no hurry but I wanted to get back to the Taylor(Detroit) terminal. I got up and walked around for awhile, buying some donur for breakfast. I was in my truck moving toward Detroit by 9:30 AM EST.
Munching on my donuts, I got to the U.S. customs--after the Ambassitor Bridge--around noon EST. I got through customs with no problem and went onto out Taylor terminal. At the terminal, I fueled(89 gallons) and went to the Swedish Buffet Restaurant for lunch. By 2:15 PM EST I was again heading for Chicago. I traveled I-94 west.
Got to "Just a Truckstop" in Lake Station, Indiana around 5:15 PM CST and decided to stay there for the night. I went into the restaurant and saw no one I knew so I got me a big soda(soft drink in Canada) and went to the movie room. By 9 PM CST, I was tired of watching movies and went out to my truck and went to sleep...
July 14, 2011
July 14, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Sunday-Taylor, Michigan)
Midnight came and I was at the Taylor(Detroit) terminal waiting for my Canadian border paperwork. I was given it a couple minutes after midnight. I was informed that I could get through customs now and that this load was a "drop" load(I drop the loaded trailer and get an empty one if there is one) if I get it there today--Sunday.
I was off for the border at 12:30 AM EST up I-75. Crossed into Canadian and sought out the customs broker so I could clear the load. I got to the broker and, being the middle of the night-Saturday/Sunday at that-, the gal was trying hard to find something to do. She did my paperwork is a matter of minutes and then we talked for about 15 minutes before I left. I was some heading for the Queen's Highway(now the King's Highway) 401 and toward Toronto. After getting through customs, my driving time was just about gone and I was tired. I pulled into the Tilbury(Ontario) rest area and took my sleep break.
Being in no hurry, I awoke at a little before 10 AM EST and got me the standard donuts(see May 15, 1991, 2011) and I was on my way to Toronto. Nice drive for driving and I love the lay out of the land--as opposed to Illinois--all the way to Quebec. Anyway, I found Mattel Toys at 2:45 PM EST and dropped my trailer. There were no empty trailers so I was sent the the Ford Auto plant in Oakville(Ontario) to get a trailer. I had my trailer by 4:30 PM EST; I had to clean it out as it was really dirty..
I called dispatch to tell them I had a trailer and they gave me a load to pickup in Toronto tonight. Back to Toronto where I found the plant where they made real fine corn flakes. I hooked up to the trailer but there was no paperwork. I called display and they told me that I would have to wait until someone came in to get it. Well, about 10 PM EST, the night shift started coming in and I was able to get the needed papers. I was gone, heading toward Chicago, by 10:30 PM EST.
I left southwest on Queen's(now King's) Highway 401. A small "sliver" of moon hung in the sky as I drove. As midnight came--and the end of my day--I was about an hour from London, Ontario...
Midnight came and I was at the Taylor(Detroit) terminal waiting for my Canadian border paperwork. I was given it a couple minutes after midnight. I was informed that I could get through customs now and that this load was a "drop" load(I drop the loaded trailer and get an empty one if there is one) if I get it there today--Sunday.
I was off for the border at 12:30 AM EST up I-75. Crossed into Canadian and sought out the customs broker so I could clear the load. I got to the broker and, being the middle of the night-Saturday/Sunday at that-, the gal was trying hard to find something to do. She did my paperwork is a matter of minutes and then we talked for about 15 minutes before I left. I was some heading for the Queen's Highway(now the King's Highway) 401 and toward Toronto. After getting through customs, my driving time was just about gone and I was tired. I pulled into the Tilbury(Ontario) rest area and took my sleep break.
Being in no hurry, I awoke at a little before 10 AM EST and got me the standard donuts(see May 15, 1991, 2011) and I was on my way to Toronto. Nice drive for driving and I love the lay out of the land--as opposed to Illinois--all the way to Quebec. Anyway, I found Mattel Toys at 2:45 PM EST and dropped my trailer. There were no empty trailers so I was sent the the Ford Auto plant in Oakville(Ontario) to get a trailer. I had my trailer by 4:30 PM EST; I had to clean it out as it was really dirty..
I called dispatch to tell them I had a trailer and they gave me a load to pickup in Toronto tonight. Back to Toronto where I found the plant where they made real fine corn flakes. I hooked up to the trailer but there was no paperwork. I called display and they told me that I would have to wait until someone came in to get it. Well, about 10 PM EST, the night shift started coming in and I was able to get the needed papers. I was gone, heading toward Chicago, by 10:30 PM EST.
I left southwest on Queen's(now King's) Highway 401. A small "sliver" of moon hung in the sky as I drove. As midnight came--and the end of my day--I was about an hour from London, Ontario...
July 13, 2011
July 13, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Saturday-Pocahontas, Illinois)
Got up at the Pocahontas Motel around 7 AM CST without the aide of an alarm clock...Didn't see Wandering Bull--The one who showed me the "BAR SCENE" last night--this morning. I got up, got ready for the day and then went over to the restaurant for breakfast. There were quite a few drivers there so I sat and talked with them. I was in my tractor waiting for my relay around 10 AM CST; he got there at 11:30 AM CST with my load of Mattel Toys.
I was on my way toward Toronto, Ontario by noon CST. So I traveled east on I-70 through the exciting(just joking) land of Illinois, into Indiana. Went through the middle of Indianapolis and caught I-465 on the east side. Went north on I-465 to I-69 and headed north. I-469 wasn't built yet so I took the route threw Ft. Wayne(Indiana) and stopped at one one my favorite convenient stores in New Haven(Indiana). Continued northeast on Hwy 24 into Ohio and onto I-475 east of Waterville, Ohio(pretty during Christmas time). Followed I-475 north and then east to I-75 which I took north into Michigan.
I got to the Taylor(Detroit) terminal at 10:15 PM EST and fueled(106 gallons) first. As my day ended, I was waiting for my paperwork to cross the border and talking to a couple drivers. I was told I could cross the border tonight so I will...
Got up at the Pocahontas Motel around 7 AM CST without the aide of an alarm clock...Didn't see Wandering Bull--The one who showed me the "BAR SCENE" last night--this morning. I got up, got ready for the day and then went over to the restaurant for breakfast. There were quite a few drivers there so I sat and talked with them. I was in my tractor waiting for my relay around 10 AM CST; he got there at 11:30 AM CST with my load of Mattel Toys.
I was on my way toward Toronto, Ontario by noon CST. So I traveled east on I-70 through the exciting(just joking) land of Illinois, into Indiana. Went through the middle of Indianapolis and caught I-465 on the east side. Went north on I-465 to I-69 and headed north. I-469 wasn't built yet so I took the route threw Ft. Wayne(Indiana) and stopped at one one my favorite convenient stores in New Haven(Indiana). Continued northeast on Hwy 24 into Ohio and onto I-475 east of Waterville, Ohio(pretty during Christmas time). Followed I-475 north and then east to I-75 which I took north into Michigan.
I got to the Taylor(Detroit) terminal at 10:15 PM EST and fueled(106 gallons) first. As my day ended, I was waiting for my paperwork to cross the border and talking to a couple drivers. I was told I could cross the border tonight so I will...
July 12, 2011
July 12, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Friday-New Paris, Ohio)
I was to relay the load I had with a driver in Pocahontas, Illinois at noon CST. I left "Just a Truckstop" at 7 AM EST and was heading west on I-70. Traffic was minimal so I shot straight through Indianapolis and to Monrovia, Indiana where we had a fuel stop that would fill our tanks and we didn't have to log it as "work". I let then fill my tanks(55 gallons) as I didn't know where I would be going after Pocahontas. Some directions we wouldn't have available fuel stops for awhile. I went on to Pocahontas where I pulled into our drop yard--relay point--at 11:15 AM CST.
I met the driver I was to relay with--handle was "6 Pack"--and we exchanged trailers and I gave him my paperwork. I called dispatch and was told I had a relay that was going to Toronto, Ontario. The problem, it wouldn't be here until tomorrow.
FRIDAY EVENING...I got myself a motel room about 2 PM CST. I wrote two letters and decided to go to the Pocahontas post office and mail them. It was nice outside about 6:30 PM CST so I left to walk to the downtown area. I walked out of my room and another driver--handle was "Wandering Bull"--was walking out of his. He was walking to the small town bar and so we decided to walk together to the post office and then the bar. Wandering Bull was all dressing up and wearing a cowboy hat. He had heard that the bar was having a band there and he thought it would be better than sitting in his motel room. We mailed my letters and then walked toward the bar. We walked past the laundrymat where the high school kids were hunging out. As we walked by, they made fun of Wandering Bull's cowboy hat but it didn't bother him. We walked into the bar...boring!!!. No band and what surprised me was the children drinking their parent's beer. We sat at the bar and the female bar tender got him his beer and me my diet Pepsi. The evening got worse as a guy at the bar next to me started talking to me about making money with garbage...The final straw came when Wandering Bull was trying to get familiar with the bartender by telling her that she looked good in her jeans. Even though she did look good in her jeans, I had had enough; I excused myself and went back to my motel room. I just watched TV and went to sleep...
I was to relay the load I had with a driver in Pocahontas, Illinois at noon CST. I left "Just a Truckstop" at 7 AM EST and was heading west on I-70. Traffic was minimal so I shot straight through Indianapolis and to Monrovia, Indiana where we had a fuel stop that would fill our tanks and we didn't have to log it as "work". I let then fill my tanks(55 gallons) as I didn't know where I would be going after Pocahontas. Some directions we wouldn't have available fuel stops for awhile. I went on to Pocahontas where I pulled into our drop yard--relay point--at 11:15 AM CST.
I met the driver I was to relay with--handle was "6 Pack"--and we exchanged trailers and I gave him my paperwork. I called dispatch and was told I had a relay that was going to Toronto, Ontario. The problem, it wouldn't be here until tomorrow.
FRIDAY EVENING...I got myself a motel room about 2 PM CST. I wrote two letters and decided to go to the Pocahontas post office and mail them. It was nice outside about 6:30 PM CST so I left to walk to the downtown area. I walked out of my room and another driver--handle was "Wandering Bull"--was walking out of his. He was walking to the small town bar and so we decided to walk together to the post office and then the bar. Wandering Bull was all dressing up and wearing a cowboy hat. He had heard that the bar was having a band there and he thought it would be better than sitting in his motel room. We mailed my letters and then walked toward the bar. We walked past the laundrymat where the high school kids were hunging out. As we walked by, they made fun of Wandering Bull's cowboy hat but it didn't bother him. We walked into the bar...boring!!!. No band and what surprised me was the children drinking their parent's beer. We sat at the bar and the female bar tender got him his beer and me my diet Pepsi. The evening got worse as a guy at the bar next to me started talking to me about making money with garbage...The final straw came when Wandering Bull was trying to get familiar with the bartender by telling her that she looked good in her jeans. Even though she did look good in her jeans, I had had enough; I excused myself and went back to my motel room. I just watched TV and went to sleep...
July 11, 2011
July 11, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Thursday-Lake Station, Indiana)
Was awake and heading east on I-94 by 5:15 AM EST. Yesterday I was bored out of my mind and today I go through the part of Michigan I really enjoy--the southwest corner.
I had directions to the receiver in Detroit so I didn't go to the terminal in Taylor(Michigan) first.
By 9:30 AM EST I found the place I was going on the west side of the street; I only had access to the buildings on the east side. I had to turn around and that was fun. I found a street I could turn around on and so I did. The curbs were a good foot to 18 inches high and my trailer tandems went over them--slowly, of course. I got back to the receiver and they took there time unloading me but I really didn't care.
By 2 PM EST, I was back at the Taylor(Detroit) terminal. I fueled(129 gallons) and went into the terminal. I went on the TRB with a low number as there weren't many truckers waiting for loads. At 6 PM EST I was given a load to relay at Pocahontas, Illinois...I was on my way down I-75 by 6:30 PM EST. I decided to stay on I-75 to I-70. I went west on I-70 and stopped at "Just a Truckstop"for the night at 10:30 PM EST at New Paris, Ohio...
Was awake and heading east on I-94 by 5:15 AM EST. Yesterday I was bored out of my mind and today I go through the part of Michigan I really enjoy--the southwest corner.
I had directions to the receiver in Detroit so I didn't go to the terminal in Taylor(Michigan) first.
By 9:30 AM EST I found the place I was going on the west side of the street; I only had access to the buildings on the east side. I had to turn around and that was fun. I found a street I could turn around on and so I did. The curbs were a good foot to 18 inches high and my trailer tandems went over them--slowly, of course. I got back to the receiver and they took there time unloading me but I really didn't care.
By 2 PM EST, I was back at the Taylor(Detroit) terminal. I fueled(129 gallons) and went into the terminal. I went on the TRB with a low number as there weren't many truckers waiting for loads. At 6 PM EST I was given a load to relay at Pocahontas, Illinois...I was on my way down I-75 by 6:30 PM EST. I decided to stay on I-75 to I-70. I went west on I-70 and stopped at "Just a Truckstop"for the night at 10:30 PM EST at New Paris, Ohio...
July 10, 2011
July 10, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Wednesday-West Memphis, Arkansas)
I was told that my pickup appointment was for 11 AM CST so I left the truckstop just before 8 AM CST. I just went north on I-55 to Hwy 63 northwest. At 9 AM CST I was at the shipper cheching in. They had me back up to the dock and started loading me. At 9:45 AM CST I was loaded, dispatched and on my way to Detroit, Michigan.
I took Hwy 140 to I-55 where I went north. I made a bad choice when I decided to follow I-57 up to I-80/I-94 in north Illinois. I was bored to death....long and boring...no where on the interstart did I enjoy this drive. I thought I-80/I-94 would never come.
When I got to I-80/I-94 I went east into Indiana where I stopped for my long break at the "Just a Truckstop" in Lake Station(Indiana) at 7:45 PM CST. I had dinner and then went to bed. Boy, was I glad this day was over...
I was told that my pickup appointment was for 11 AM CST so I left the truckstop just before 8 AM CST. I just went north on I-55 to Hwy 63 northwest. At 9 AM CST I was at the shipper cheching in. They had me back up to the dock and started loading me. At 9:45 AM CST I was loaded, dispatched and on my way to Detroit, Michigan.
I took Hwy 140 to I-55 where I went north. I made a bad choice when I decided to follow I-57 up to I-80/I-94 in north Illinois. I was bored to death....long and boring...no where on the interstart did I enjoy this drive. I thought I-80/I-94 would never come.
When I got to I-80/I-94 I went east into Indiana where I stopped for my long break at the "Just a Truckstop" in Lake Station(Indiana) at 7:45 PM CST. I had dinner and then went to bed. Boy, was I glad this day was over...
July 9, 2011
June 9, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Tuesday-Memphis, Tennessee)
I was up and ready to go by 8 AM CST but I went inside the terminal for awhile and watched the news and talked.
It was almost 10 AM CST when I left the terminal and traveled east on I-240. I soon got to Hwy 72 and took it into Mississippi.
Just before noon I found the receiver and checked in. They had me back up to the dock and had me unloaded by 12:45 PM CST. They also told me that I could have delivered the load yesterday!!!
I called dispatch and was given a load to pick up tomorrow in Marked Tree, Arkansas to to Detroit, Michigan. My pick up appointment is for 10 AM CST.
By 3 PM CST I was back at the Memphis, Tennessee terminal were I fueled(33 gallons) again before taking off for "Just a Truckstop" in West Memphis, Arkansas. I had dinner and then hit the movie room with a large soda(soft drink in Canada). I was back in my truck and sleeping when my day ended at midnight.
I was up and ready to go by 8 AM CST but I went inside the terminal for awhile and watched the news and talked.
It was almost 10 AM CST when I left the terminal and traveled east on I-240. I soon got to Hwy 72 and took it into Mississippi.
Just before noon I found the receiver and checked in. They had me back up to the dock and had me unloaded by 12:45 PM CST. They also told me that I could have delivered the load yesterday!!!
I called dispatch and was given a load to pick up tomorrow in Marked Tree, Arkansas to to Detroit, Michigan. My pick up appointment is for 10 AM CST.
By 3 PM CST I was back at the Memphis, Tennessee terminal were I fueled(33 gallons) again before taking off for "Just a Truckstop" in West Memphis, Arkansas. I had dinner and then hit the movie room with a large soda(soft drink in Canada). I was back in my truck and sleeping when my day ended at midnight.
July 8, 2011
July 8, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Monday-West Memphis, Arkansas)
A quiet day today as I don't deliver to Corinth, Mississippi until tomorrow at 3 PM CST. I sleep well until I woke on my own at 8:30 AM CST. NO HURRY AT ALL so I went to the movie room and watched Deliverance and then had lunch.
I left West Memphis at 1:30 PM CST and took I-55 to our Memphis terminal. I fueled(174 gallons) and talked with some drivers while I sat in the trucker lounge at the terminal. Before the sun went down, I went to my truck and typed awhile while I watched my TV. Don't remember when I fell asleep...
A quiet day today as I don't deliver to Corinth, Mississippi until tomorrow at 3 PM CST. I sleep well until I woke on my own at 8:30 AM CST. NO HURRY AT ALL so I went to the movie room and watched Deliverance and then had lunch.
I left West Memphis at 1:30 PM CST and took I-55 to our Memphis terminal. I fueled(174 gallons) and talked with some drivers while I sat in the trucker lounge at the terminal. Before the sun went down, I went to my truck and typed awhile while I watched my TV. Don't remember when I fell asleep...
July 7, 2011
June 7, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Sunday-Winfield, Texas)
There was nothing holding me to this Winfield truckstop so I was gone by 8:30 AM CST. Followed I-30 up into Arkansas and through Little Rock. I took I-40 east and the drive this whole day was uneventful. I pulled into the "Just a Truckstop" in West Memphis(Arkansas) at 2 PM CST.
I spent the rest of the day at the truckstop. I finished my "barfet" lunch and went to the movie room where I stayed the rest of the day. I watched Dawn of the Dead, Rocky, Soylent Green and Truck Turner. I was back in my truck and sleeping when my day ended.
There was nothing holding me to this Winfield truckstop so I was gone by 8:30 AM CST. Followed I-30 up into Arkansas and through Little Rock. I took I-40 east and the drive this whole day was uneventful. I pulled into the "Just a Truckstop" in West Memphis(Arkansas) at 2 PM CST.
I spent the rest of the day at the truckstop. I finished my "barfet" lunch and went to the movie room where I stayed the rest of the day. I watched Dawn of the Dead, Rocky, Soylent Green and Truck Turner. I was back in my truck and sleeping when my day ended.
July 6, 2011
July 6, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Saturday-Pecos, Texas)
I was I no hurry with the load I had as I was not due in Corinth, Mississippi until Tuesday at 3 PM CST . I woke at 8:30 AM CST without an alarm clock. I got up and went into the restauant to have breakfast. After a pretty long breakfast--I took my time--I went back to my truck, did a vehicle inspection and updated my logbook.
I originally thought of stopping at our Lancaster(Dallas) terminal but I would get there long after the terminal closed(estimated time: 6 PM CST and terminal closed at noon). I decided to shoot straight for Memphis,Tennessee where I could stop at the Memphis terminal and maybe get a motel room for a night or two.
I left Pecos at 10:30 AM CST heading east on I-20. The day was a beautiful one with small puffy clouds to look at while I drove. I ran my CB radio on the trucker channel(19) but didn't hear anything noteworthy. I kept up with a couple other trucks that were doing a little over the speed limit of 60 miles/hr. I stopped at "Just a Truckstop" in Weatherford, Texas for a short break and to look and see if they had any good movies playing; none so I went on. Itook I-30 as soon as it started and went up through Fort Worth and Dallas.
I stayed on I-30 and by 8:30 PM CST I decided to pull off at a familiar truckstop in Winfield, Texas for the night. I parked next to two other of my company's trucks that had just been there. I walked into the restaurant and found the drivers having dinner. I joined them and we talked for about an hour. They were headed for Dallas and left after we ate. I had no TV reception so I typed on my computer for awhile and then went to bed...
I was I no hurry with the load I had as I was not due in Corinth, Mississippi until Tuesday at 3 PM CST . I woke at 8:30 AM CST without an alarm clock. I got up and went into the restauant to have breakfast. After a pretty long breakfast--I took my time--I went back to my truck, did a vehicle inspection and updated my logbook.
I originally thought of stopping at our Lancaster(Dallas) terminal but I would get there long after the terminal closed(estimated time: 6 PM CST and terminal closed at noon). I decided to shoot straight for Memphis,Tennessee where I could stop at the Memphis terminal and maybe get a motel room for a night or two.
I left Pecos at 10:30 AM CST heading east on I-20. The day was a beautiful one with small puffy clouds to look at while I drove. I ran my CB radio on the trucker channel(19) but didn't hear anything noteworthy. I kept up with a couple other trucks that were doing a little over the speed limit of 60 miles/hr. I stopped at "Just a Truckstop" in Weatherford, Texas for a short break and to look and see if they had any good movies playing; none so I went on. Itook I-30 as soon as it started and went up through Fort Worth and Dallas.
I stayed on I-30 and by 8:30 PM CST I decided to pull off at a familiar truckstop in Winfield, Texas for the night. I parked next to two other of my company's trucks that had just been there. I walked into the restaurant and found the drivers having dinner. I joined them and we talked for about an hour. They were headed for Dallas and left after we ate. I had no TV reception so I typed on my computer for awhile and then went to bed...
July 5, 2011
July 5, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 HOURS:(Friday-San Antonio, New Mexico)
Four AM came pretty fast and I found myself ready to go. I had checked out the tractor and trailer before dark last night so all I needed to do was a fast logbook upgrade. By 4:15 AM MST I has heading south on I-25 and by 7 AM MST I had pulled into the packing lot of "Just a Truckstop 2"(a smmal version of the full truckstop) near the receiver "Old El Paso". I decided to have breakfast before delivery so I did. I was disappointed in the food and the price and will try to avoid this place again.
Went on to the receiver and checked in with the receiving department. I had to wait. This plant had alot of construction going on and a student in another company's truck hit a conveyor hanging out of a building and broke it all up. I was unloaded by 11 AM MST.
I called our local El Paso dispatch and was told to go to the terminal; I did and found myself 26th on the TRB. I sat around the terminal most the afternoon and even took a short nap. My number on the TRB actually got lower quite fast as they were moving freight out pretty good. Then they came to me!!! I sat and sat and sat until just before the terminal closed. I got the last load out and it was to Memphis.
I fueled(143 gallons) and talked with a couple drivers for some time before I left for Dallas. I left the terminal at 7:15 PM MST and headed east on I-10. I was running by myself and enjoying the evening. I wasn't in a hurry so after getting on I-20, I stopped at a big truckstop at Pecos Texas for the night. The time was 11:30 PM CST so I walked around alittle and then went to bed...
Four AM came pretty fast and I found myself ready to go. I had checked out the tractor and trailer before dark last night so all I needed to do was a fast logbook upgrade. By 4:15 AM MST I has heading south on I-25 and by 7 AM MST I had pulled into the packing lot of "Just a Truckstop 2"(a smmal version of the full truckstop) near the receiver "Old El Paso". I decided to have breakfast before delivery so I did. I was disappointed in the food and the price and will try to avoid this place again.
Went on to the receiver and checked in with the receiving department. I had to wait. This plant had alot of construction going on and a student in another company's truck hit a conveyor hanging out of a building and broke it all up. I was unloaded by 11 AM MST.
I called our local El Paso dispatch and was told to go to the terminal; I did and found myself 26th on the TRB. I sat around the terminal most the afternoon and even took a short nap. My number on the TRB actually got lower quite fast as they were moving freight out pretty good. Then they came to me!!! I sat and sat and sat until just before the terminal closed. I got the last load out and it was to Memphis.
I fueled(143 gallons) and talked with a couple drivers for some time before I left for Dallas. I left the terminal at 7:15 PM MST and headed east on I-10. I was running by myself and enjoying the evening. I wasn't in a hurry so after getting on I-20, I stopped at a big truckstop at Pecos Texas for the night. The time was 11:30 PM CST so I walked around alittle and then went to bed...
July 4, 2011
July 4, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Thursday-traveling through Utah)
A half moon kind of lite up the upper Utah desert as I traveled toward Green River, Utah on Hwy 6 on this July 4th. Pulled into the large truck parking area and the Green River convenient store and went to bed.
I got up at 9 AM MST and walked into the convenient store--often had hot dogs 3/dollar--and found that they had not put any hot dogs out yet. I got a quart of chocolate milk and left the store. I did my vehicle inspection, logbook update and them headed east and sout on Hwy 191.
Follow Hwy 191 through Moab to Monticello, Utah where I got on Hwy 666 south into Colorado. Before leaving Colorado, I stopped at the Cortez(Colorado) truckstop and got three buffalo(real buffalo) burgers and some onion rings to go. Followed Hwy 666 south into New Mexico where I caught hwy 64 east at Shiprock(New Mexico).
I was in the heart of the Navajo Reservation when I got on Hwy 64. Saw a couple Navajo reservation patrol cars when I got on Hwy 550 south; must have had something happen.
Off the Navajo ground I went, down to I-25 and went south past Albuquerque. Continued down I-25 past Socorro(New Mexico) where I had visited years ago; didn't look like it had changed. Just past Socorro, I found a small truckstop and pulled off for my 8+hour break. The time was 7:15 PM MST and my legal driving time was just about up. I could see all around me as this area is pretty much desert. as night fell, I could see people shooting off fireworks; I heard more than I saw. Went to sleep after setting my alarm clock for 4 AM MST...
A half moon kind of lite up the upper Utah desert as I traveled toward Green River, Utah on Hwy 6 on this July 4th. Pulled into the large truck parking area and the Green River convenient store and went to bed.
I got up at 9 AM MST and walked into the convenient store--often had hot dogs 3/dollar--and found that they had not put any hot dogs out yet. I got a quart of chocolate milk and left the store. I did my vehicle inspection, logbook update and them headed east and sout on Hwy 191.
Follow Hwy 191 through Moab to Monticello, Utah where I got on Hwy 666 south into Colorado. Before leaving Colorado, I stopped at the Cortez(Colorado) truckstop and got three buffalo(real buffalo) burgers and some onion rings to go. Followed Hwy 666 south into New Mexico where I caught hwy 64 east at Shiprock(New Mexico).
I was in the heart of the Navajo Reservation when I got on Hwy 64. Saw a couple Navajo reservation patrol cars when I got on Hwy 550 south; must have had something happen.
Off the Navajo ground I went, down to I-25 and went south past Albuquerque. Continued down I-25 past Socorro(New Mexico) where I had visited years ago; didn't look like it had changed. Just past Socorro, I found a small truckstop and pulled off for my 8+hour break. The time was 7:15 PM MST and my legal driving time was just about up. I could see all around me as this area is pretty much desert. as night fell, I could see people shooting off fireworks; I heard more than I saw. Went to sleep after setting my alarm clock for 4 AM MST...
July 3, 2011
July 3, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Wednesday-Ogden, Utah)
Woke at our Ogden, Utah fuel stop and started calling dispatch with hopes of getting a load.
I called our messages every half hour with hopes of having something out of there. All morning waiting around and then at noon I had a load; go to Idaho and get a load to Texas.
I was off for Eden, Idaho(close to Twin Falls) at 12:30 PM MST. Heading up I-84, I went northwest into Idaho where I had to stop at the Idaho Port of Entry for a very short time. Onto Eden where I easily found the shipper and checked in with the shipping department...
I was loaded on an outdoor ramp/dock. The gal that ran the shipping department of what looked like a huge family business was right there with me as I was loaded. I had arrived at 3:30 PM MST and I apologized for being so lated in the afternoon. She said it was OK and that the order had been called in Monday afternoon. Why did it take so long for me to get it...
I was out of there with my load of beans a little after 5 PM MST. I had 39, 450 lbs of beans going to "Old El Paso" in Anthony, Texas. I took I-84 southeast to where it connects with, and runs with I-15. Once I connected with I-15, I followed it. I stopped for about 30 minutes at our fuel stop in Ogden(Utah) where I bought a could turkey legs and just looked around. back on I-15 south, through Salt Lake City and into the Utah Valley. After Provo, I took Hwy 6 southeast over Soldier Summit toward Green River, Utah. As my day ended, I was about half an hour from Green River where I had plans of stopping for the night....
Woke at our Ogden, Utah fuel stop and started calling dispatch with hopes of getting a load.
I called our messages every half hour with hopes of having something out of there. All morning waiting around and then at noon I had a load; go to Idaho and get a load to Texas.
I was off for Eden, Idaho(close to Twin Falls) at 12:30 PM MST. Heading up I-84, I went northwest into Idaho where I had to stop at the Idaho Port of Entry for a very short time. Onto Eden where I easily found the shipper and checked in with the shipping department...
I was loaded on an outdoor ramp/dock. The gal that ran the shipping department of what looked like a huge family business was right there with me as I was loaded. I had arrived at 3:30 PM MST and I apologized for being so lated in the afternoon. She said it was OK and that the order had been called in Monday afternoon. Why did it take so long for me to get it...
I was out of there with my load of beans a little after 5 PM MST. I had 39, 450 lbs of beans going to "Old El Paso" in Anthony, Texas. I took I-84 southeast to where it connects with, and runs with I-15. Once I connected with I-15, I followed it. I stopped for about 30 minutes at our fuel stop in Ogden(Utah) where I bought a could turkey legs and just looked around. back on I-15 south, through Salt Lake City and into the Utah Valley. After Provo, I took Hwy 6 southeast over Soldier Summit toward Green River, Utah. As my day ended, I was about half an hour from Green River where I had plans of stopping for the night....
July 2, 2011
June 2, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Tuesday-Ogden, Utah)
I was up early calling into dispatch every hour to find if I had a load out of this area. Frustration because after calling in every hour all day...no load and another night here.
I was up early calling into dispatch every hour to find if I had a load out of this area. Frustration because after calling in every hour all day...no load and another night here.
July 1, 2011
July 1, 1991, 2011
FIRST 5 YEARS:(Monday-Provo, Utah)
Was up and ready to go around 5:30 AM MST. Hey, I had yesterday off and I am a "going" person. When I do these tire drops, I usually start with Provo and Orem stores; not today.
I was at the Sandy(Utah) tire store around 6:30 AM MST as I needed to back in off the busy two lane street. The street was not too busy and the backing went well. I sat there until the store opened and two fellows vame to unload me. Got their tires off and it was off to their Van Wickle store
Their Van Wickle store--off of I-215, exit 8--was happy to see me come in and unloaded me rapidly; I guess they needed some of my tires. I wasn' t at the store long and I was off to deliver to their Kearns Store.
The Kearns store was a back in off a busy 4 lane street. I parked in the medium of the road and went in to check in with the manager. The manager said that no one could help me as they were busy. He told me that it may be a half hour before I could get help unloading. It took me awhile before I had a decent break in the traffic to back into area to unloaf the tires. I waited about 20 minutes for help and finally got done there.
The next stop was downtown Salt Lake City. To get to the unloading area here I had to circle around through the residencial neigborhood. Got backed in and they hopped right onto helping me. not long and I was on my way to the next store in Bountiful(Utah),
Got to Bountiful and pulled right into their parking lot. To line up with the unloading door, I had to pull into part of the neighbors parking lot. I was there a short time while they helped me unload about 200 tires. Off to my last stop..
Went up I-15 to Roy, Utah where I had to back in off the street again. Backed in with no help and no problem. The assistant manager came out and helped me empty the trailer. I was totally empty at 3:30 PM MST. I called dispatch and was told that there was no load for me this night.
I went to our fuel stop in Ogden(Utah) and fueled(124gallons) first. I enjoyed dinner in their restaurant and then watched their TV with other drivers in their TV viewing area...I went to my truck and to sleep a little after 10 PM MST...
Was up and ready to go around 5:30 AM MST. Hey, I had yesterday off and I am a "going" person. When I do these tire drops, I usually start with Provo and Orem stores; not today.
I was at the Sandy(Utah) tire store around 6:30 AM MST as I needed to back in off the busy two lane street. The street was not too busy and the backing went well. I sat there until the store opened and two fellows vame to unload me. Got their tires off and it was off to their Van Wickle store
Their Van Wickle store--off of I-215, exit 8--was happy to see me come in and unloaded me rapidly; I guess they needed some of my tires. I wasn' t at the store long and I was off to deliver to their Kearns Store.
The Kearns store was a back in off a busy 4 lane street. I parked in the medium of the road and went in to check in with the manager. The manager said that no one could help me as they were busy. He told me that it may be a half hour before I could get help unloading. It took me awhile before I had a decent break in the traffic to back into area to unloaf the tires. I waited about 20 minutes for help and finally got done there.
The next stop was downtown Salt Lake City. To get to the unloading area here I had to circle around through the residencial neigborhood. Got backed in and they hopped right onto helping me. not long and I was on my way to the next store in Bountiful(Utah),
Got to Bountiful and pulled right into their parking lot. To line up with the unloading door, I had to pull into part of the neighbors parking lot. I was there a short time while they helped me unload about 200 tires. Off to my last stop..
Went up I-15 to Roy, Utah where I had to back in off the street again. Backed in with no help and no problem. The assistant manager came out and helped me empty the trailer. I was totally empty at 3:30 PM MST. I called dispatch and was told that there was no load for me this night.
I went to our fuel stop in Ogden(Utah) and fueled(124gallons) first. I enjoyed dinner in their restaurant and then watched their TV with other drivers in their TV viewing area...I went to my truck and to sleep a little after 10 PM MST...
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