After some stuff we got done today, I took the family in the afternoon to the local Bi-Lo grocery store where they had the car on display. It is cool man, COOL Man!They all enjoyed looking at the professional race car up close and personal!
Friday, April 21, 2006
Family Sport
After some stuff we got done today, I took the family in the afternoon to the local Bi-Lo grocery store where they had the car on display. It is cool man, COOL Man!They all enjoyed looking at the professional race car up close and personal!
One SWEET Ride
Today we had our Spring Report. Basically the company was telling us how things are doing inside the corportation. It was good, very good. But of course before the meeting we all got to check out the race car on display. Most excellent dude!They also started the thing up for us so we could take a listen to the engine. Super SWEET!
Man - it's been a great morning!
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Latest Pet Peeve
What is the deal? I've taken three trips this week, two last and many other trips since starting my new job. One thing this job requires is the use of public toilets.I had forgotten how so many people (read: guys - since the mens rooms are only ones I enter! **Grin**) lack a little courtesy.
I cannot believe how many toilet seats are - shall we say - soiled in a potential 'couple' of ways.
That is just flat out gross. It takes like 2 whole seconds to lift the lid with the one and dude, if you can't hit the 'huge' hole in the middle of these things with the other, you need to get some depends!!! Seriously.
What is wrong with you guys that first off, make the mess and secondly don't clean it up?
Frankly - I've got some good ideas on how we can make you clean it up so you'll never do that again, but I guess that'd be 'cruel & unusual' punishment. NOT!!
Thanks for letting me vent!
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Sugar Bath...
We've had our little doggie, and we're thinking she's a Chiuauah/Dashaund (however the heck you spell those names *grin*) mix.She got her first bath with us and did great. She was ready to be done - but stood still while Doreen and Joelle scrubbed her down!
Now she's all clean, soft and fluffy! :)
Investiture
Friday night, Joelle was promoted in our little Adventurers group (kinda like a co-ed Boy Scouts for pre schoolers.) This last year she was a Little Lamb and next year, she will be an Eager Beaver. Here - Joelle and her campmates were performing in front of the group. What an awesome job they did!
Joelle's getting congratulated for her achievement. It was a very cool service. Natalie can't wait to take part next year!!!
"On a Steek!"
On my trip out Saturday night, when I run out with this same partner, we have a schedule worked out that works great for us. So I typically take our portable DVD player and watch a movie or program or something. One of my favorite comedians is Jeff Dunham. He's a ventriqulist and one of his characters is named "Peanut." Hilarious. He's got others, and they're funny, but Peanut is the best!!!
He finally came out with a DVD and I got it Friday, so I took it with me Saturday night. I had to hold my laughter - cuz I didn't want my partner to think that while I'm in the bunk that I'm a nut.
I laughed so hard and it was great. I needed a laugh like that!
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Queen, the rock band - KJV style!
Tonight we were watching American Idol. (Yeah - I know - some of you are gonna comment about how Reality Shows bite, or just regular TV stinks. Got it! **grin**)
Anyway, the Idol wannabes were singing songs from the rock group Queen.
It made for a very interesting show because how eclectic the tastes of Queen were/are! (Two of the original 4 are still peforming around the world.)
Anyway, Doreen and I were talking, because one of the contestants were peforming this song, and Doreen mentioned the title of this particular song. I think it is one y'all probably know very well...
..."We Shall Rock You."
It took me a sec, then I started chuckling and then giving her a hard time about the King James Version of the lyrics for Queen's song "We Will Rock You!!" Maybe they ought to change it to "We Shall Rock Thee."
It just gets funnier and funnier every time I think about it - of course it's getting later and later...
...Waaaa ha, ha, ha, ha! :)
Anyway, the Idol wannabes were singing songs from the rock group Queen.
It made for a very interesting show because how eclectic the tastes of Queen were/are! (Two of the original 4 are still peforming around the world.)
Anyway, Doreen and I were talking, because one of the contestants were peforming this song, and Doreen mentioned the title of this particular song. I think it is one y'all probably know very well...
..."We Shall Rock You."
It took me a sec, then I started chuckling and then giving her a hard time about the King James Version of the lyrics for Queen's song "We Will Rock You!!" Maybe they ought to change it to "We Shall Rock Thee."
It just gets funnier and funnier every time I think about it - of course it's getting later and later...
...Waaaa ha, ha, ha, ha! :)
Sunday, April 09, 2006
FREAKED OUT!!!
So this Saturday night, I was headed to Hagar Hill, KY for work. Didn't get a chance to call my 1st driver to find out who would be driving out from the bakery before leaving, so we decided it on the yard. I drove out. That was fine with me because I got a bit of a nap in the afternoon, just in case.
To east KY we go. Giddie yup! We chat for a while, then he streaches out on the bunk. I listen to my audio book as we go. (John Grisham's The Last Juror)
At about 2am I get to London, KY and need to streach my legs and get a bit of refreshment to assist in my staying awake while I drive. Very Important! :)
About 3am, I start to get sleepy. I'd been driving through a freezing fog. That and the time of day was just wearing me out. Finally about 3:30 am I pull over onto a wide spot in the road, pull the parking brake, lay the drivers seat back, set an alarm on my watch, and snooze for a few mintues. Just to take the sleepy edge off.
15 minutes later my alarm goes off, and I jerk awake, about 20 feet in front of me I see the yellow and black stripes of the edge of a guard rail, "Oh my goodness, I've fallen asleep driving," my mind instantly reacts. I step on the brakes, nothing, I yank on the trailer brake, nothing, I try to shift down, nothing, still 'heading' toward the edge of the road. So I start hollerin at my partner, worried we're gonna crash. My breathing is heavy, my heart is beating, I'm yanking at the steering wheel trying to turn back into the road, but it feels like it's bogged down in the mud. My partner pops out of the bunk, at the same time I look out the side window and see the rumble strips not moving - and realize that I woke up from a short nap, that I was actually parked on the edge of the road and that we were safe. It took me about 2 minutes to completely come around. Boy was I awake then! :)
So now I turn the lights on, release the brakes, and head to our first drop of the morning - glad to be safe and sound and I've re-learned a lesson.
When I take a quickie nap like that to either jump into the passenger seat or lay cross-wise across the two seats so as to avoid further episodes like this. That's 'tough' on the heart to 'freak out' like that! :)
Wheeeew!
To east KY we go. Giddie yup! We chat for a while, then he streaches out on the bunk. I listen to my audio book as we go. (John Grisham's The Last Juror)
At about 2am I get to London, KY and need to streach my legs and get a bit of refreshment to assist in my staying awake while I drive. Very Important! :)
About 3am, I start to get sleepy. I'd been driving through a freezing fog. That and the time of day was just wearing me out. Finally about 3:30 am I pull over onto a wide spot in the road, pull the parking brake, lay the drivers seat back, set an alarm on my watch, and snooze for a few mintues. Just to take the sleepy edge off.
15 minutes later my alarm goes off, and I jerk awake, about 20 feet in front of me I see the yellow and black stripes of the edge of a guard rail, "Oh my goodness, I've fallen asleep driving," my mind instantly reacts. I step on the brakes, nothing, I yank on the trailer brake, nothing, I try to shift down, nothing, still 'heading' toward the edge of the road. So I start hollerin at my partner, worried we're gonna crash. My breathing is heavy, my heart is beating, I'm yanking at the steering wheel trying to turn back into the road, but it feels like it's bogged down in the mud. My partner pops out of the bunk, at the same time I look out the side window and see the rumble strips not moving - and realize that I woke up from a short nap, that I was actually parked on the edge of the road and that we were safe. It took me about 2 minutes to completely come around. Boy was I awake then! :)
So now I turn the lights on, release the brakes, and head to our first drop of the morning - glad to be safe and sound and I've re-learned a lesson.
When I take a quickie nap like that to either jump into the passenger seat or lay cross-wise across the two seats so as to avoid further episodes like this. That's 'tough' on the heart to 'freak out' like that! :)
Wheeeew!
Friday, April 07, 2006
Spiced Up - Sugared Family
We've added a 'Sugar' to our family. She's just the right amout of spice! :)
Here's the back-story. Joelle is a HUGE animal lover. She loves any creature, critter or crawly thing out there. EVERYTHING. She's been wanting a dog forever. We told her that we couldn't get a dog until we got into our own house. Then we move here and she mentions that - so we promise her a dog by her 6th birthday. We originally started looking for a Miniature Pincher - cuz those dogs are so smart and cute, but couldn't see spending $500+ on a dog.
So one day, our good friends call and tell us that a 1 year old Min Pin - Chichaua (however you spell that) mix has been abandoned at their animal, would we be interested. We saw this critter and just fell in love with her.
It's a typical trait in these particular dogs to be faithful to one owner or family, and so far, that's Doreen and Joelle - but Natalie and I are winning our way into her heart so she loves us all! :)
Y'all just warmly welcome Sugar into the clan! :)
Basket Building, Travels & Memories
Done a lot of traveling this past week. A LOT. A lot more than usual anyway. :) I actually drove right by this building in Newark, OH. It's the Longaberger Company and if you have to ask what they make - don't even bother!! :) It actually Shocked the socks off me when I first saw it. Cool though.
We had a pick-up in Lexington, KY and on the way back to the interstate to continue our trip west, we drove right by a dozen or so big beautiful horse farms. Gorgeous!!!
We also drove through this city, Louisville. It's got a beautiful riverfront and we were blessed to hit it about sunset. What an awesome view to enjoy while driving long hours.
In my previous job I took a business trip to Louisville, and I made some time to tour the Louisville Slugger plant. But we could still see the bat and outside of the building as we drove into the sunset.
This trip took us through the Gateway to America's west. This is a very, VERY neat site at night. I always get a little excited about seeing the Arch as I drive closer and closer to St Louis. We also drove past Bush Stadium, the St Louis Cardnals Baseball team home venue. I don't know if they were playing that night, but it was lit up like a roman candle and awesome to see.
One other city I drove through was Fenton, MO - the HQ for United Van Lines is right next to the Interstate, so I got to see that again and be reminded - I've got a much better job. We enjoyed our time out there and did well financially, but it was tiring! :)
We zipped passed Six Flags over St Louis and it brought back memories of living in S Illinois and all the friends we made while living there. The most standout memory from visiting 6 Flags one summer was Jozsef P and Mo Mo in a 'drive 'em car' following Doreen and I. :)
While driving through the drops in OH, we also passed the amusement park, Kings Island - where I was finally tall enough to ride my first 'real' roller-coaster, "The Beast." It is wooden and fast. What a ride that was with my dad and I on it. Whoooo hoooo! It was even more the better because I remember a couple of Sundays having 'garage sales' to get rid of some of our junk and come up with enough money for a family of 5 to go!!!
Also, on this trip we got into Oklahoma and zipped right through the town of Muskogee, OK - a cursed town. My first year of college, the night before a big algebra final, a friend, Keith E came up to me with a request. He had loaned his car to a friend to go home for the weekend - and the friend came back without the car, so we both jump in my car and according to the 'friends' directions the car was sitting in a Burger King parking lot in Muskogee, OK. Well turns out that it was in McCalister, OK an hour south of Muskogee. So we spent HOURS searching for that dumb car, ended up giving up and came home. We had time to grab a quickie shower and get to the Algebra - which I promptly failed miserably. He, he, he - it has been a good week. Lots of cool sites and locations and lots and LOTS of remembering!
"Here's to you family & friends!!!"
Sunday, April 02, 2006
Waiting... Long Run
Hey - how are ya? Good I hope! :)
So this was my weekend to be on call in case of a driver calling in sick, or other situations that would keep him/her from making the run.
I was home Sat night, which was nice cuz we had some friends over and had a lovely evening playing games etc.
Well, during breakfast today, I got the call. And they're sending me on an enormous run. :)
I start in TN, go to OH, then back down to KY, over to AR, down to TX and back home to TN. That's almost 2200 miles. Wowwie!
I should be back home early, early Wed AM and be done with my week, unless they need some more help covering another load so I can make some extra cash!
Have a great week y'all!
So this was my weekend to be on call in case of a driver calling in sick, or other situations that would keep him/her from making the run.
I was home Sat night, which was nice cuz we had some friends over and had a lovely evening playing games etc.
Well, during breakfast today, I got the call. And they're sending me on an enormous run. :)
I start in TN, go to OH, then back down to KY, over to AR, down to TX and back home to TN. That's almost 2200 miles. Wowwie!
I should be back home early, early Wed AM and be done with my week, unless they need some more help covering another load so I can make some extra cash!
Have a great week y'all!
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
Broken
This last few days has been interesting.
We've had 'connection' issues with our cable & high speed internet. For some reason, they keep phasing in and out, in and out, in and out, in and out, but mostly out, except when the technician shows up.
Well - they've tried a few things and fixed an amplifier or two on the pole, so hopefully it's been fixed. HOPEFULLY! :) Hate not being able to connect when I want to, or Doreen needs to download notes for class etc. Argh!
Fingers crossed.
So, Saturday night I left on a run for NE TN, VA and 6 miles into KY. When I hooked up, the truck acted a bit funny, but smoothed right out. Ok!
We leave the yard and head out. My partner, stops at the Shell on the corner to grab a drink or two, and just before he climbs out, all the indicator lights start flashing and the thing starts beeping at us. So we decided to hastily head back to the yard and hope to get there before the 'explosion.' :) About a third of the way down LD Parkway, he goes to shift and nothing. Couldn't get it into any gear. Then the thing just dies. So he pulls off and we call dispatch. So they bring us a different tractor. We pull the broken one out from under the trailer, hook the new one up and head off. (All told, this took about an hour.)
My first broken truck with this company. Hopefully - that experience is far and few apart!
They actually take care of their trucks very well. Every time one is returned from a trip, they run it through the Safety Lane for a very thorough inspection before the next trip out.
Hopefully no more brokenness!!! :)
We've had 'connection' issues with our cable & high speed internet. For some reason, they keep phasing in and out, in and out, in and out, in and out, but mostly out, except when the technician shows up.
Well - they've tried a few things and fixed an amplifier or two on the pole, so hopefully it's been fixed. HOPEFULLY! :) Hate not being able to connect when I want to, or Doreen needs to download notes for class etc. Argh!
Fingers crossed.
So, Saturday night I left on a run for NE TN, VA and 6 miles into KY. When I hooked up, the truck acted a bit funny, but smoothed right out. Ok!
We leave the yard and head out. My partner, stops at the Shell on the corner to grab a drink or two, and just before he climbs out, all the indicator lights start flashing and the thing starts beeping at us. So we decided to hastily head back to the yard and hope to get there before the 'explosion.' :) About a third of the way down LD Parkway, he goes to shift and nothing. Couldn't get it into any gear. Then the thing just dies. So he pulls off and we call dispatch. So they bring us a different tractor. We pull the broken one out from under the trailer, hook the new one up and head off. (All told, this took about an hour.)
My first broken truck with this company. Hopefully - that experience is far and few apart!
They actually take care of their trucks very well. Every time one is returned from a trip, they run it through the Safety Lane for a very thorough inspection before the next trip out.
Hopefully no more brokenness!!! :)
Saturday, March 25, 2006
Why do You blog?
So why do You blog?It's kind of interesting to read blogs. Blogs of family, friends and those of the vast unknown worldwide population but are plugged into the internet - and type in english! :) (Tried reading some in Chinese and Turkish and failed miserably! He, he, he!)
I read people who blog for a creative outlet. Some, like me, blog to keep family located a great distance away, updated on what's happening. Some get up on soap boxes for political or religious reasons. Some need an outlet to vent and use the blog for that purpose. Some want to just talk about themselves. Others have one issue that is a sticking point with them and they just go with it, no matter what sense they make. Still others just like to write, so...
...Why do you take the time to blog.
I'm curious to know!
Blogging away!
Friday, March 24, 2006
3 Way
Man - ain't technology cool!!!
I just got off the phone with my sister-in-law and parents, at the same time. So we were connected here in Tennessee with my sister-in-law in Minnesota and my folks in Colorado.
Very, VERY cool!
I just got off the phone with my sister-in-law and parents, at the same time. So we were connected here in Tennessee with my sister-in-law in Minnesota and my folks in Colorado.
Very, VERY cool!
100/60
We're all finally moved, FINALLY!!!
Today, 4 pickup loads moved all the rest of our stuff out of the old place and into the new.
FINALLY!!!
Now were 100% moved in and 60% settled. We've got boxes and stuff sitting everywhere. We've got one picture hung. Our garage is packed with stuff and none of the rooms are finished.
So - now we're stepped into the phase of getting settled!
I've gotta feeling that's gonna be months in happening!
At least were all in!
Thank the Lord!!!
Have a good weekend all!
Today, 4 pickup loads moved all the rest of our stuff out of the old place and into the new.
FINALLY!!!
Now were 100% moved in and 60% settled. We've got boxes and stuff sitting everywhere. We've got one picture hung. Our garage is packed with stuff and none of the rooms are finished.
So - now we're stepped into the phase of getting settled!
I've gotta feeling that's gonna be months in happening!
At least were all in!
Thank the Lord!!!
Have a good weekend all!
Testing...
Doreen had spring break last week, and had plans to study for three tests coming up this week. Well - in the whole process of getting moved, she didn't any studying done. So she was extremely worried about her tests this week.
She took her first two tests on Tuesday and then one on Thursday.
Well, she got the results of one of her tests back on Thur and the teacher wrote in reponse to her answer on one of the essay questions. "It is rare that I get to read such fine work. Thank you!"
Most awesome.
By the way, Doreen hasn't gotten below a 98 on any of her tests since she's been back in school!
Am I a proud hubby or what??!! :)
She took her first two tests on Tuesday and then one on Thursday.
Well, she got the results of one of her tests back on Thur and the teacher wrote in reponse to her answer on one of the essay questions. "It is rare that I get to read such fine work. Thank you!"
Most awesome.
By the way, Doreen hasn't gotten below a 98 on any of her tests since she's been back in school!
Am I a proud hubby or what??!! :)
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Drivers of the USA... MERGE
Now let me ask you, what is the problem with merging in this country? It's really not that hard a concept to follow. Really it's not!!!You get onto the on ramp, also known as the acceleration lane, as soon as you can see, you check for on-coming traffic and speed up and merge in seamlessly, in most cases.
Granted in rush hour and some other times, it's a little more challenging.
But I'm talking to the folks who have a problem merging when I've got half a mile of empty road in front and behind me and yet some yahoo merges directly even with me, no speeding up, no braking - doesn't even look until their lane is about to end.
I JUST don't understand it. I've seen people merge onto an interstate with a speed limit of 70mph at 35mph, I know cuz I've had to slam on the brakes and slow down to keep from rear ending them.I've seen people stop at the end of a ramp, with the lane next to them have 3 different spots open for them to merge into, but end up stopping because they didn't look.
I've had people get mad at me and wave a special finger and honk a horn because I wouldn't get over for them, but I've got 3 cars on the other side of me in the next lane. (Of course I slowed down for them to get in front of me, but they weren't paying attention until the last minute and didn't notice that until it was too late.)
So I appeal to you drivers of the USA, learn to merge! PLEASE??!!!
Saturday, March 18, 2006
The Unknowns
Oh my goodness. I really, REALLY dislike, with a passion, moving, as I mentioned earlier. In fact if I could have a choice between getting an ice pick shoved under my toe-nails or moving, I'd choose the ice pick! :)
Anyway, in this move process, in any move process, there is always these hidden unknown costs.
We had a pretty big one hit us in the bank account yesterday. In our Madisonville home, the washer would occassionally leak. I thought we found it and plugged it up. Well, at my inlaws place, when they moved the washer - they found the remains of where it looked like it leaked a little a few times. Monday, when Doreen did the laundry, we ended up with a small creek in our utility room. So, we called an appliance repairman to come check it and the dryer out. (It took 2 cycles for the dryer to actually work.)
Turns out, the dryer's thermostat wasn't working - he replaced that. Then the tub of the washing machine has a crack in it - not economical for replacement or repair.
So we bit the bullet and bought a new washing machine yesterday.
Glad for that, but unfortunatly, we had to use the cash we had earmarked for a new recliner for the living room on the washer! PTL and DOH!!!
We're thankful we had the cash, and yet dissapointed it had to be used on an 'emergency' we didn't have planned in the moving budget!!
Aaahhh - the unknowns!!!
Anyway, in this move process, in any move process, there is always these hidden unknown costs.
We had a pretty big one hit us in the bank account yesterday. In our Madisonville home, the washer would occassionally leak. I thought we found it and plugged it up. Well, at my inlaws place, when they moved the washer - they found the remains of where it looked like it leaked a little a few times. Monday, when Doreen did the laundry, we ended up with a small creek in our utility room. So, we called an appliance repairman to come check it and the dryer out. (It took 2 cycles for the dryer to actually work.)
Turns out, the dryer's thermostat wasn't working - he replaced that. Then the tub of the washing machine has a crack in it - not economical for replacement or repair.
So we bit the bullet and bought a new washing machine yesterday.
Glad for that, but unfortunatly, we had to use the cash we had earmarked for a new recliner for the living room on the washer! PTL and DOH!!!
We're thankful we had the cash, and yet dissapointed it had to be used on an 'emergency' we didn't have planned in the moving budget!!
Aaahhh - the unknowns!!!
Deck Doings
UPDATE TIME!!! As I mentioned in a previous blog, our deck was finally being built! Here's the beginning of the skeleton of it.
While some guys were doing the 'hard' work outside, a couple of guys were inside finishing the frame of the openeing created between the dining room and living room.
Here's the door going out onto the deck. Sure glad they got the deck done, cuz after the put the door in before they built the deck, that was quite a first step! :)
Here's the topside view of the deck. 16'x16' with plenty of room for chairs, a grill and great place to enjoy a cool Tennessee summer night.
The backside of the house now looks complete with a door and a deck. Now onto other work that's got to get done around here! :)
When we moved in, the previous family had a black dishwasher. (Not pictured, it's under the counter on the right.) So we decided to get a black stove, black hood, black refrigerator and replace our white microwave - given to us at our wedding over 13 years ago and dying) with a black one. They all look really nice and match each other. Not to mention, they're pretty easy to keep clean! :)
Friday, March 17, 2006
Funky Colored Collars
This last week, I was teamed up with a driver that was majorly unhappy. This is about the 2nd or 3rd driver I've gone with that had these same challenges.
He's looking for something else. He's tired of being 'blue collar.' He wants to go out, have more time at home and make more money doing something 'easier.' The entire trip he's belly-aching about this that and the other. I just listen to him and try to change the conversation because what he's complaining about - I enjoy. Odd isn't it? He doesn't think we make enough money, I'm more than happy with my income. He feels he doesn't have enough time at home with his family. I ran 3 trips last week and I'll be home Sat, Mon, Thur, Fri, Sat & Sunday. That's a WHOLE heck of a lot more time than I was getting before. He says this job is filled with stress, What backing up a truck, blindside? Counting cases of cookies? What is the stress? Shifting 10 times? What??? :)
Now, I don't know if it's because I do have my college education, or because I had a 'white collar' job once or twice that I just can't understand where these guys are coming from.
This guy things he can get a 2 year degree at a State College then go get an entry level job that pays $30+ bucks and hour, plus extremely nice benefits.
Maybe those jobs are out there, but I haven't found them.
If someone knows of one of those jobs with an opening, give me a hollar!
Anyway, I wish these guys the best of luck as they search for these endavors. I'll continue to work where I'm at, have more time at home, make more money and have virtually no stress!!! I'll also wish I don't ever have to run with them again cuz I don't want to listen to their bellyachin!
Hey, y'all have a GREAT weekend!
He's looking for something else. He's tired of being 'blue collar.' He wants to go out, have more time at home and make more money doing something 'easier.' The entire trip he's belly-aching about this that and the other. I just listen to him and try to change the conversation because what he's complaining about - I enjoy. Odd isn't it? He doesn't think we make enough money, I'm more than happy with my income. He feels he doesn't have enough time at home with his family. I ran 3 trips last week and I'll be home Sat, Mon, Thur, Fri, Sat & Sunday. That's a WHOLE heck of a lot more time than I was getting before. He says this job is filled with stress, What backing up a truck, blindside? Counting cases of cookies? What is the stress? Shifting 10 times? What??? :)
Now, I don't know if it's because I do have my college education, or because I had a 'white collar' job once or twice that I just can't understand where these guys are coming from.
This guy things he can get a 2 year degree at a State College then go get an entry level job that pays $30+ bucks and hour, plus extremely nice benefits.
Maybe those jobs are out there, but I haven't found them.
If someone knows of one of those jobs with an opening, give me a hollar!
Anyway, I wish these guys the best of luck as they search for these endavors. I'll continue to work where I'm at, have more time at home, make more money and have virtually no stress!!! I'll also wish I don't ever have to run with them again cuz I don't want to listen to their bellyachin!
Hey, y'all have a GREAT weekend!
Monday, March 13, 2006
I HATE MOVING!!!
Oh yeah, I hate, HATE moving!
Doreen and I worked with United Van Lines for a little over 3 years and didn't mind moving other people's stuff. Of course we got paid for it too!
I typically don't mind helping move friends. If I have a choice between getting an ice pick stuck under my toe nails or helping a friend move, I'll choose the latter! :)
But I HATE moving my own stuff. I ABSOLUTELY HATE, WITH A PASSION, MOVING MY OWN GARBAGE!!!
Hate it, hate it, hate it!
Friday, we got most of our stuff moved. We've still got a bunch of little things at the previous residence, but we're in and can function here along with all of our big things. But I hated, hated moving it!
Anway, the back deck is almost done and we'll have to touch some things up with paint, etc! But it is good to be in - even though I hated the moving experience.
I'll post some updated pics - soon maybe!
Meanwhile, I plan to stay here a long, LONG time because I hate, HATE moving our stuff!!! :)
Doreen and I worked with United Van Lines for a little over 3 years and didn't mind moving other people's stuff. Of course we got paid for it too!
I typically don't mind helping move friends. If I have a choice between getting an ice pick stuck under my toe nails or helping a friend move, I'll choose the latter! :)
But I HATE moving my own stuff. I ABSOLUTELY HATE, WITH A PASSION, MOVING MY OWN GARBAGE!!!
Hate it, hate it, hate it!
Friday, we got most of our stuff moved. We've still got a bunch of little things at the previous residence, but we're in and can function here along with all of our big things. But I hated, hated moving it!
Anway, the back deck is almost done and we'll have to touch some things up with paint, etc! But it is good to be in - even though I hated the moving experience.
I'll post some updated pics - soon maybe!
Meanwhile, I plan to stay here a long, LONG time because I hate, HATE moving our stuff!!! :)
NY, NY
This last week for work I had to take a trip to Hackensack, NJ with is just across the water from New York City, NY. I'd not been back by NYC since fall of '99, pre Sept 11 attack.
I saw the skyline at night, a beautifully clear night of course. It was odd seeing it without the twin towers. But I could still see the Empire state building beautifully aglo. It is also a pretty awesome experience to be driving south on the New Jersey Turnpike right by the Newark Liberty airport and having an airplane, like 747 in size, land within a few hundered feet of ya. Awesome!
Anyway - that was a long trip, but it had interesting stuff like that to fill my thoughts and time for quite a while! :)
Monday, March 06, 2006
Tax Return to Sender
We went to get our taxes done today. We went to a tax professional because we had so many things to consider in the mix. We sold our Illinois property, our Vonore property and our Madisonville home. I changed jobs and a number other things to consider.Turns out we made a nice profit on one place, had a huge loss on another and kinda broke even on the third, when all was said and done. So the loss helped to balance our Capital Gains on the even and profit.
By the time everything was added up, we get a cash return. I hate giving the government a interest free loan every year, but I'd prefer that than owe money every April 15th, especially when the amount can vary!
So with all said and done we're praising the Lord that we get a return this year. Both of us were pretty much sure we were gonna have to pay in, but thankfully - NOT!
Other things are returning to normal. Sorry I don't have any pics, but the house is getting done. They got the one opening cased in and the prep work for the deck done. That'll be started tomorrow.
Can't wait for it all to get done so we can get movedand really return to normal.
HA!
Sunday, March 05, 2006
More Caching!!!
This Sabbath, our friends invited us over for lunch - yummy food. Then we went out to show them the activity of Geocaching - oh what fun we had. We found 5 caches and had a TON of fun while doing it. Y'all oughta try it sometime! Oh yeah!
FOUND IT!
A real coverup! ;)
Joelle's been beggin me to make them some masks. So we did and here they are wearing them. Precious!
"Oscar" Thoughts
Doreen's (I'm keeping an eye on 'em too! **grin**) watching the Oscars tonight.
So, a theme that has been running through tonight, and mentioned again and again and AGAIN! In fact, the President of the 'Academy' made a huge point of this during his speech. They've had two or three montages trying to bring this point home.
They want us to pass on the DVD's and go to the theater. They want us to spend the big bucks to see every movie. You know what, I got kids and it's a pain to get 'em a baby sitter. It's just easier to pop in a DVD at home after they're already in bed etc!
I can't believe the number of times they've mentioned that tonight. I read and article a few months back of how ticket sales have been down this year, big time, and I guess they're worried.
Well - make better movies! Then I might go to the theater to see em. (Not likely!!!) :)
(Of course I still won't go. I love being able to pause it and go to the bathroom. To be able to really relax. To be able to watch the DVD with the extras and to watch it when I want, not only at 5:15, 7:30 or 9:45. He, he, he!)
Ok so what's your preference. Home or Theater? DVD or Bigscreen?
Of course - they've got the whole outfit thing. What are some of those people thinking. I see some of those outfits and realize that 'normal' people wouldn't be caught dead in 'em. I mean, Charleze Theron's got a bow on her shoulder the size of a car. JLo's puke green dress, and some other lady's dress looks like they took lace just cut it completely randomly and glued it on. Weird man, very, VERY weird!!!
Then why do they have such a hard time picking movies and music that people really enjoy?
They just gave the Oscar for best original music to a rap group with the song, "It's hard out here for a pimp." Hello? For starters rap 'hardly' rates as music and it beat everything else out? Come on people get real. GET REAL!
I could rant on and on and will probably do so in my mind after they pick the 'Best Movie' cuz it obviously won't be this years best movie out there - but the 'Academy' deems it so. UGH!
Any - this pimp is out! :)
So, a theme that has been running through tonight, and mentioned again and again and AGAIN! In fact, the President of the 'Academy' made a huge point of this during his speech. They've had two or three montages trying to bring this point home.
They want us to pass on the DVD's and go to the theater. They want us to spend the big bucks to see every movie. You know what, I got kids and it's a pain to get 'em a baby sitter. It's just easier to pop in a DVD at home after they're already in bed etc!
I can't believe the number of times they've mentioned that tonight. I read and article a few months back of how ticket sales have been down this year, big time, and I guess they're worried.
Well - make better movies! Then I might go to the theater to see em. (Not likely!!!) :)
(Of course I still won't go. I love being able to pause it and go to the bathroom. To be able to really relax. To be able to watch the DVD with the extras and to watch it when I want, not only at 5:15, 7:30 or 9:45. He, he, he!)
Ok so what's your preference. Home or Theater? DVD or Bigscreen?
Of course - they've got the whole outfit thing. What are some of those people thinking. I see some of those outfits and realize that 'normal' people wouldn't be caught dead in 'em. I mean, Charleze Theron's got a bow on her shoulder the size of a car. JLo's puke green dress, and some other lady's dress looks like they took lace just cut it completely randomly and glued it on. Weird man, very, VERY weird!!!
Then why do they have such a hard time picking movies and music that people really enjoy?
They just gave the Oscar for best original music to a rap group with the song, "It's hard out here for a pimp." Hello? For starters rap 'hardly' rates as music and it beat everything else out? Come on people get real. GET REAL!
I could rant on and on and will probably do so in my mind after they pick the 'Best Movie' cuz it obviously won't be this years best movie out there - but the 'Academy' deems it so. UGH!
Any - this pimp is out! :)
Friday, March 03, 2006
Doin' Some Cachin
Our weather has been so incredibly nice the last few days. Highs in the 70's, low's in the 50's. Very, VERY nice. In fact on my last trip for work, I ended up putting shorts on it was so warm. (I haven't done that since mid Oct.) Anyway, today we wanted to get out and about. Doreen asked - where should we go? My answer,
GEOCACHING!!! Yeah Baby. Going out to find something someone's hidden somewhere! Man it was cool finding the two we did. Both of them were around cemeteries. (Wouldn't want to hit these caches at night. Spooky! He, he, he!)
But we did have a lot of fun!
Have a GREAT weekend all!!!
Remodeling Day Arriveth!
We were super excited to head over to our new home today and find our carpenter actually there actually working and getting started on remodeling our new house, just a bit. <--This window is gonna be taken out and a french door installed in it's place. 
Here's one shot--> of a wall of the room that's gonna be opened up to the living room to give us a feel of a 'wide open space!' (To quote the Dixie Chicks.)
Here's the <--outside in the back before demolition. (Note the far left window on the upper level.) You're outta here!
Here's the result of the remodel. -->(Sweet) Now picture, if you will, a 16'x16'deck back there to enjoy on those cool evenings. Oh yeah!
Here's the <-- skeleton of the offending wall that is being removed.
Ahh --> now that's space! Can't wait to see it finished!!! Can't wait to move in! :)
SE TN Way of Fishin! :)
Doreen and the girls are fishin for Sting Rays at the Tennessee Aquarium. (Look at the apprehension on Doreen's and Natalie's faces - CUTE! Joelle would'a dived in there to grab one had we let her!) We had a ball at the Aquarium that day! :)
Are You Normal???
Are You Normal?
Your Normalcy Quotient is: 64 out of 100.
Your quiz results make you a Quirky Character
You've found yourself mostly in the middle of the road, but you have enough quirky habits to not be entirely normal. You're probably glad to be more than ordinary, but you're normal enough to fit in. Sounds like a perfect balance.
Take this free personality test by or going to www.chatterbean.com/runormal/
Your Normalcy Quotient is: 64 out of 100.
Your quiz results make you a Quirky Character
You've found yourself mostly in the middle of the road, but you have enough quirky habits to not be entirely normal. You're probably glad to be more than ordinary, but you're normal enough to fit in. Sounds like a perfect balance.
Take this free personality test by or going to www.chatterbean.com/runormal/
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Seein Angels Everywhere!!!
After seeing the musical the other night, Joelle was incredibly impressed with all the angels!Impressed so much - she's been playing an 'angel' regularly! :)
Last night when I was driving on my trip home, I called to say good night to the girls and let them know I'd be home for breakfast etc. Joelle had to make sure to tell me at the beginning, the end and the end of the phone call that she'd be an angel for me today!
Cute! :)
Friday, February 24, 2006
Two from Galilee
Tonight we took the girls to their first 'Community Theatre' type play. (They'd been to a couple of church plays before, but this is the first amatuer/semi-pro type production.) It was called Two from Galilee - basically it's the story of Mary and Joseph, expanded. In fact here's...The Synopsis:
Mary and Joseph, two young people in love from the village of Nazareth, fight against the Jewish tradition of prearranged marriage for the chance to be together. But just as they are betrothed, God reveals His plan for the birth of the Messiah. Mary will be the chosen one to fulfill the ancient prophecy: "A virgin will conceive and bear a Son."
Joseph struggles to accept this turn of events as truly being from God, while Mary continues to believe in God and her love for Joseph, even in the face of her family's unbelief.
At his father's deathbed, Joseph begins to understand and accept his part in God's plan. He and Mary journey to Bethlehem and, against difficult odds, struggle to see God's plan accomplished: the birth of God's Son, Jesus, in a tiny stable in Bethlehem. At His birth, Joseph and Mary finally realize fulfillment much greater than they had ever dreamed.
It was a very good musical play (With a full orchestra that was exceptional) and some great moments of humor, and the girls really enjoyed it. Joelle more so than Natalie, but that's basically due to the age thing. Joelle was 'enthralled' during the entire thing and kept whispering things to me she noticed. Very precious! We had two good friends Pilgrim & Trailady who were actors in the play and enjoyed seeing them and their kids take part!
They're excited to go to their next play - and frankly we can't wait to take them.
Anyway, Hope things are good with you. Just found out tonight that I'm scheduled for 2 runs that will have me back home at a pretty decent hour Monday night. I'll run about 1000+ miles and unload two trucks of product in KY and SC/GA. Should be interesting.
Monday our carpenter starts putting holes in our new house walls and building a deck. Hope he gets it done soon! Can't wait to move in! Gotta go - probably on Sunday eve or Tuesday am to pick up our new refrig and range for the house. Yeee haw!
Have a great weekend y'all! I'm'a going to bed.
Thursday, February 23, 2006
Spelling OR Violations OR Score
Hey, hey, hey - whadda ya say??!!! :)
So, the other day visiting Grandma March in the hospital, Joelle had a little rubber bat (as in the flying animal) with her she'd gotten in Sabbath School. She kept talking about it, and then said, "Hey - I know how to spell bat." Then she proceeded to sound out and spell the word - all on her own with no prompting. Dude that is awesome!! I have such a smart daughter!!!
I'm no longer a 'Probie' at work. It's good to be past that 4 month period. Anyway, part of my final evaluation was a look at my logbook violations during my time here. I only had three violations - one, my partner and I showed driving at the same time. (His gaffe!) The other showed me driving as a partner was off duty. (Didn't count because I'd run back to back trips with different partners and so when I was returning from a trip he was off duty. The final one, and the one that was an actual violation by company policy, I logged 72 mph one day. (Our trucks are governed at 70. - Oops) They seemed pretty happy with my work though. I'll take that! :)
Doreen and I just got letters with our credit score in them. I guess they're required to disclose them to us because we applied for a home loan for our house. The scores range between 300 to 850. With 850 being the best. We're both closer to the top score, but not quite, with Doreen's being 8 points higher than mine! Dooh! :)
Have a happy day!
So, the other day visiting Grandma March in the hospital, Joelle had a little rubber bat (as in the flying animal) with her she'd gotten in Sabbath School. She kept talking about it, and then said, "Hey - I know how to spell bat." Then she proceeded to sound out and spell the word - all on her own with no prompting. Dude that is awesome!! I have such a smart daughter!!!
I'm no longer a 'Probie' at work. It's good to be past that 4 month period. Anyway, part of my final evaluation was a look at my logbook violations during my time here. I only had three violations - one, my partner and I showed driving at the same time. (His gaffe!) The other showed me driving as a partner was off duty. (Didn't count because I'd run back to back trips with different partners and so when I was returning from a trip he was off duty. The final one, and the one that was an actual violation by company policy, I logged 72 mph one day. (Our trucks are governed at 70. - Oops) They seemed pretty happy with my work though. I'll take that! :)
Doreen and I just got letters with our credit score in them. I guess they're required to disclose them to us because we applied for a home loan for our house. The scores range between 300 to 850. With 850 being the best. We're both closer to the top score, but not quite, with Doreen's being 8 points higher than mine! Dooh! :)
Have a happy day!
Color? Who the freak cares!!!
Why does someone always have to bring color into play in life? Why can't we enjoy things colorblind and just enjoy things for what they are? Why did Gumble have to take it to this level? Eh??? It's just disgusting when people have to bring down a good thing. Instead of criticizing - he ought to be encouraging other kids like S Davis (Speed Skater) to get into winter games insead of being down on it just because of color. That just perpetuates the problem instead of helping to fix it! On Olympics and color, Gumbel should know better
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
...We'll leave the light on!
Man, it is SOOOOO nice. I've been with my new company for 4 months now. (Yeah, no longer a probie!) During the majority of my return home from trips, it's well past everyones bedtime. But everytime I get home (Like this morning at 2:45a) the porchlight is on. My precious wife is very faithful at leaving the light on so I can see my way in without stumbling over things and banging my gear bags on everything. What a blessing, to have a light and to have it turned on for me every time I come home!Home sweet home!
I'm 'a going to bed now! :)
Later!
Friday, February 17, 2006
Full Freaky Fridays
So - how are y'all?
Good I hope. I'm tired. Had a very, VERY busy week at work so I'm kinda wore out. (I took 4 trips this past week (The typical trip load is 2) and in the voice mail this afternoon, orders are even higher this week - so I may be busier!!! Great for finances, hard on the body!)
So, yesterday, we just took it easy. Since I'd been gone most of the week, after breakfast and Doreen left for school, I just laid on the floor of the girls room for almost 2 hours playing with them. It was nice. Then cleaned things up and headed to the mall to the indoor playplace, where Doreen met us after classes and we had Taco Bell.
Then we went to Lowes and looked at refrigerators and flat top stoves.
---Aye carumba, Doreen's talking with her sister who lives up in Minnesota and the high temp today was -13. That's dang cold!---
We did our grocery shopping, went home, put everything away, then headed over to the new house. (The carpenter didn't get to start doing his job this week - maybe Mon or Tue.) We took some measurements, and headed back to Lowes and ended up buying a new refrig and flat top stove for our new house. Yippeee!
So today, we headed to Doreen's Grandma March's house to help her with her cell phone operations and then to get some boxes from her store to assist in our move.
Then as I was packing some boxes in the vehicle, I heard a scream out of the store (which was closed at the time) and I sprinted for the door and heard a whistle, and passed Doreen who said, Grandma fell and needs help. Grandma fell down the stairwell and banged her head, back, hip and ankle. She knocked herself out - so I went down and tended to her and Doreen ran to get help.
She was out for 5 min, then came to, and help arrived and we got her to the hospital. She amazingly had NO broken bones. She's got a TON of bumps and bruses and stuff.
Luckily, during this whole ordeal, the girls were blissfully watching a movie in the van and didn't need any attention.
So we checked on her tonight - and she's doing fine. We took her glasses to Wal-mart and they fixed 'em right up.
They'll keep her in the hospital for 24 to 48 hours for observation, and then she'll be relased. It'll take a while, but before long she'll be around as good as ever.
What is it with accidents happening on Fridays lately?
Larry & Sandra's (Doreen's folks) garage burned on a Fri.
Sandra's fall and broken arms on a Fri.
Grandma's fall on a Friday.
Freaky Fridays indeed!!!
Good I hope. I'm tired. Had a very, VERY busy week at work so I'm kinda wore out. (I took 4 trips this past week (The typical trip load is 2) and in the voice mail this afternoon, orders are even higher this week - so I may be busier!!! Great for finances, hard on the body!)
So, yesterday, we just took it easy. Since I'd been gone most of the week, after breakfast and Doreen left for school, I just laid on the floor of the girls room for almost 2 hours playing with them. It was nice. Then cleaned things up and headed to the mall to the indoor playplace, where Doreen met us after classes and we had Taco Bell.
Then we went to Lowes and looked at refrigerators and flat top stoves.
---Aye carumba, Doreen's talking with her sister who lives up in Minnesota and the high temp today was -13. That's dang cold!---
We did our grocery shopping, went home, put everything away, then headed over to the new house. (The carpenter didn't get to start doing his job this week - maybe Mon or Tue.) We took some measurements, and headed back to Lowes and ended up buying a new refrig and flat top stove for our new house. Yippeee!
So today, we headed to Doreen's Grandma March's house to help her with her cell phone operations and then to get some boxes from her store to assist in our move.
Then as I was packing some boxes in the vehicle, I heard a scream out of the store (which was closed at the time) and I sprinted for the door and heard a whistle, and passed Doreen who said, Grandma fell and needs help. Grandma fell down the stairwell and banged her head, back, hip and ankle. She knocked herself out - so I went down and tended to her and Doreen ran to get help.
She was out for 5 min, then came to, and help arrived and we got her to the hospital. She amazingly had NO broken bones. She's got a TON of bumps and bruses and stuff.
Luckily, during this whole ordeal, the girls were blissfully watching a movie in the van and didn't need any attention.
So we checked on her tonight - and she's doing fine. We took her glasses to Wal-mart and they fixed 'em right up.
They'll keep her in the hospital for 24 to 48 hours for observation, and then she'll be relased. It'll take a while, but before long she'll be around as good as ever.
What is it with accidents happening on Fridays lately?
Larry & Sandra's (Doreen's folks) garage burned on a Fri.
Sandra's fall and broken arms on a Fri.
Grandma's fall on a Friday.
Freaky Fridays indeed!!!
Monday, February 13, 2006
Ice Skating... In an 18-Wheeler
So that 'storm' that hit NY, Boston and pretty much the whole north east, well it hit Kentucky too! Got up there last night to the tune of about 4 inches. (The worst weather I've been in yet in my new job.)
We got the job done, got empty and I'm driving us home.
Just as you cross from Kentucky into Tennessee, you gotta go over Jellico Mountain. Well, we almost get to the top and have to stop because of traffic. Why is there traffic, because these 'snow-chasers' from the south can't handle more than a 1/8 inch of snow a season without freaking out.
Granted, the top was pretty much a sheet of ice - and I felt like I was ice-skating in our 18-wheeler, but come-on people. Others all over the world drive on snow and ice regularly without spinning around 5 times and get High-C'd on a ditch, etc.
On the southbound side, their were 4 accidents. 3 of 'em were single car. One invloved 3 cars.
On the northbound side, 3 accidents, one from a southbounder losing control and sliding across the median taking a pickup truck out before ending up in the ditch.
Aye, yai, yai!
It's good to be home, it's even better I'm leaving out for South Georgia tomorrow morning. No more snow! :)
Later! :)
We got the job done, got empty and I'm driving us home.
Just as you cross from Kentucky into Tennessee, you gotta go over Jellico Mountain. Well, we almost get to the top and have to stop because of traffic. Why is there traffic, because these 'snow-chasers' from the south can't handle more than a 1/8 inch of snow a season without freaking out.
Granted, the top was pretty much a sheet of ice - and I felt like I was ice-skating in our 18-wheeler, but come-on people. Others all over the world drive on snow and ice regularly without spinning around 5 times and get High-C'd on a ditch, etc.
On the southbound side, their were 4 accidents. 3 of 'em were single car. One invloved 3 cars.
On the northbound side, 3 accidents, one from a southbounder losing control and sliding across the median taking a pickup truck out before ending up in the ditch.
Aye, yai, yai!
It's good to be home, it's even better I'm leaving out for South Georgia tomorrow morning. No more snow! :)
Later! :)
Saturday, February 11, 2006
Only in the South - Snow Chasers
We had quite an experience today. The last couple of days we've had very cold, dreary, rainy weather. No snow here in the Chattanooga area though.So in Sabbath School today the teacher asked Natalie if she'd seen any snow lately. Obviously the answer was no. (She asked the other kids as well.)
Turns out, after Sabbath School, Doreen and the 'teacher' were talking and their Sabbath afternoon plans were to head up into the Smoky Mountains and go "Snow-Chasing."
Has anyone ever heard that term/phrase before??? I've heard of tornado chasers, weather chasers etc, but never snow chasers. Interesting concept.
If I didn't have to leave for a a trip tonight, we'd probably go chasing some snow! :)
Have a great weekend! :)
(PS That pic is actually of some snow in the Smoky Mountains! *grin*)
Friday, February 10, 2006
New Home!
Well, we signed the paperwork today. Once again, we are home owners. We're not gonna move in until a 2 bits of a small amount of remodeling is done. (That way we won't have to deal with all the dust and stuff. (Hole punched in the wall between the dining and living room, French door added to the back for and exit out the back and a 16x16 deck to be built.)
I thought about it today. This is essentially the 3rd home we've owned.
Our first home purchace was under $50k. Our second was under $80k and this is just over $100k. Man, inflation, bigger homes, different types of home, bigger family has required this growth of expense of homes!
Interesting.
Well - we'll be glad to be moved in. Not looking forward to the process though!!!
Y'all are invited to come visit - anytime! :)
I thought about it today. This is essentially the 3rd home we've owned.
Our first home purchace was under $50k. Our second was under $80k and this is just over $100k. Man, inflation, bigger homes, different types of home, bigger family has required this growth of expense of homes!
Interesting.
Well - we'll be glad to be moved in. Not looking forward to the process though!!!
Y'all are invited to come visit - anytime! :)
3 Blessings - 1 Event
It was cool. Coming back from Florida, we had to stop in Valdosta to swap out trailers.
So just before Valdosta, we stopped at the Flying J in Lake City, GA to fuel. There on the islands were two other LD trucks.
So my partner decided to pull in behind one of them. I looked at the trailer number and realized that was the trailer we were supposed to swap. So we hopped out and went up and talked to the other driver.
So while he fueled my parner and I swapped all the gear, then we fueled quickly and then swapped trailers and headed on home.
It was cool for 3 reasons...
#1 - What's the chances of us pulling up the the same fuel stop with in mere moments of the other driver. We were headed to our outstation to pick up the other trailer, we probably had enough fuel to go the distance, but decided to fill up just to be safe.
#2 - What's the Chances of him having the exact trailer we were meant to swap.
#3 - What's the Chances that the timing was just perfect so we could get the work done quickly without killing any of his time or ours.
Man - that was a HUGE blessing! Very, VERY cool.
On a quick note, on our trip down to FL we made a delivery that would have cakes delivered to the Bahamas. Awesome!
Also, I just found out that I'll have two trips for this week under my belt by midnight Monday. (I've requested extra trips for this week to get some extra $$$'s to help catch our budget up.)
What a cool week of work! I Love my job! :)
So just before Valdosta, we stopped at the Flying J in Lake City, GA to fuel. There on the islands were two other LD trucks.
So my partner decided to pull in behind one of them. I looked at the trailer number and realized that was the trailer we were supposed to swap. So we hopped out and went up and talked to the other driver.
So while he fueled my parner and I swapped all the gear, then we fueled quickly and then swapped trailers and headed on home.
It was cool for 3 reasons...
#1 - What's the chances of us pulling up the the same fuel stop with in mere moments of the other driver. We were headed to our outstation to pick up the other trailer, we probably had enough fuel to go the distance, but decided to fill up just to be safe.
#2 - What's the Chances of him having the exact trailer we were meant to swap.
#3 - What's the Chances that the timing was just perfect so we could get the work done quickly without killing any of his time or ours.
Man - that was a HUGE blessing! Very, VERY cool.
On a quick note, on our trip down to FL we made a delivery that would have cakes delivered to the Bahamas. Awesome!
Also, I just found out that I'll have two trips for this week under my belt by midnight Monday. (I've requested extra trips for this week to get some extra $$$'s to help catch our budget up.)
What a cool week of work! I Love my job! :)
70 Things
70 Things About Me
1. Initials: SSP
2. Name someone with the same birthday as you: Eric Anderson (Friend), Robbie Kenievel (Son of Evil Kenievel), Tracy Lords (Actress), Rondell Jones (Former Broncos Safety), Johnny Unitas (NFL QB), Peter Il'yich Tchaikovsky (Composer), Louis I (King of France)
3. Last thing you ate: Bagle w/ cream cheese & tomato, Yogurt.
4. For or against same sex marriage: against them but thats for God to judge
5. Are you homophobic: no
6. Do you still watch cartoons: When I can :)
7. Do you believe in God: absolutely
8. How many U.S states have you been to: 49 (Only missing Hawaii)
9. How many of the U.S states have you lived in: 7
10. Ever lived outside of the US: no
11. Name something you like physically about yourself: My perfection once we get in heaven! :)
12. Something non-physical you like about yourself: Organizational Ability
13. What is your dads name: Lawrence
14. What is your dream car: Anything Brand New! :)
15. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? Hawaii, Cancun, Bahamas (Got the theme?) :)
16. Favorite type of food: Lasagna
17. Favorite holiday: All of them
18. Do you download music: I have
19. What illegal things have you done: Shoplifted a GI Joe Braclet at age 11
20. Where would you want to go on a first date: Picnic on the beach would be cool
22. Has anyone ever sang or played for you personally: not that I remember
23. Have you ever cried for no reason: Nope - gotta have a reason
24. Do you like President Bush: Yes
25. Have you ever bungee jumped: No
26. Have you ever white-water rafted: No
27. Has anyone ten years older than you ever hit on you? No
28. Last person you hugged: My Wife
29. Have you met a real redneck: Oh yeah - I live in redneck land! :)
30. How is the weather right now: Cold
31. What song are you listening to right now: Olympic Theme! :)
32. What are your current fav songs?: Starship "Nothings Gonna Stop Us Now."
33. What was the last movie you watched: Saint (Val Kilmer & Elizabeth Shue)
34. Do you wear contacts: Not anymore thanks to Lasik
35. Where was the last place you went besides your house? Restroom in warehouse in Kendall, FL
36. What are you afraid of: hmmmm... Familiy hurting
37. Have you ever been hit-on by someone of the same sex: We moved two 'gay' couples with United and I'm sure at least one did. Aye, yai, yai!!!
38. How many pets do u have: None, yet
39. Have you ever loved someone: Yes
40. What really turns you on: Yes! :)
41. What do you usually order from Starbucks: Can't stand paying $4 on a cup of coffee!
42. Have you ever fired a gun: Oh Yes!!!
43. Are you missing someone: My Papaw (Died in '92)
44. Say something totally random about yourself: I Love Life!
46. Has anyone ever said you looked like a celeb? Yeah, Wesley Crusher on Star Trek Next Gen
47. Whats your mom's name: Jerilyn
48. Who would you like to see right now: Who I am seeing, my family - our friends in CA, Eric & Holly!
49. Are you comfortable with your height: yea, except I have for female cousins my height and taller.
50. Dogs or cats: Dogs
51. Have you ever been caught doing something you weren't supposed to? In academy can you say, "Social."
52. Favorite flower: Roses
53. Butter, plain, or salted popcorn: Yes!
54. What books are you reading: Louis Lamour
55. Have you ever ridden in a limo: Nope
56. Has anyone you were really close to passed away? Yes, Grandfather
57. Do you watch MTV: Nope - no cable
58. What's something that really annoys you: Being Late
59. What are some things you really like doing: Geocaching, watching football or sports in general
60. Do you like Michael Jackson: Like a few of his songs but not him as a person
61. Can you dance: Never really tried, goofed around a bit and freaked my family out! He, he, he!
62. Favorite basketball team: I pic a favorite for the playoffs, don't really have an NBA favorite.
63. Favorite cereal: Fruit Loops
64. Do you drive: Yes, and then some!
65. What's the latest you have ever stayed out: Waaaayyyy tooo late/early!
66. Last time you went bowling: Aug
67. Were you ever rushed by an ambulance into the emergency room: Yes, after being robbed while working at convenience store.
68. Who was your last phone call? Work voice mail.
69. Last time you were at work: This morning at 1 am.
70. Whats your favorite state to be in: Colorful Colorado
1. Initials: SSP
2. Name someone with the same birthday as you: Eric Anderson (Friend), Robbie Kenievel (Son of Evil Kenievel), Tracy Lords (Actress), Rondell Jones (Former Broncos Safety), Johnny Unitas (NFL QB), Peter Il'yich Tchaikovsky (Composer), Louis I (King of France)
3. Last thing you ate: Bagle w/ cream cheese & tomato, Yogurt.
4. For or against same sex marriage: against them but thats for God to judge
5. Are you homophobic: no
6. Do you still watch cartoons: When I can :)
7. Do you believe in God: absolutely
8. How many U.S states have you been to: 49 (Only missing Hawaii)
9. How many of the U.S states have you lived in: 7
10. Ever lived outside of the US: no
11. Name something you like physically about yourself: My perfection once we get in heaven! :)
12. Something non-physical you like about yourself: Organizational Ability
13. What is your dads name: Lawrence
14. What is your dream car: Anything Brand New! :)
15. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? Hawaii, Cancun, Bahamas (Got the theme?) :)
16. Favorite type of food: Lasagna
17. Favorite holiday: All of them
18. Do you download music: I have
19. What illegal things have you done: Shoplifted a GI Joe Braclet at age 11
20. Where would you want to go on a first date: Picnic on the beach would be cool
22. Has anyone ever sang or played for you personally: not that I remember
23. Have you ever cried for no reason: Nope - gotta have a reason
24. Do you like President Bush: Yes
25. Have you ever bungee jumped: No
26. Have you ever white-water rafted: No
27. Has anyone ten years older than you ever hit on you? No
28. Last person you hugged: My Wife
29. Have you met a real redneck: Oh yeah - I live in redneck land! :)
30. How is the weather right now: Cold
31. What song are you listening to right now: Olympic Theme! :)
32. What are your current fav songs?: Starship "Nothings Gonna Stop Us Now."
33. What was the last movie you watched: Saint (Val Kilmer & Elizabeth Shue)
34. Do you wear contacts: Not anymore thanks to Lasik
35. Where was the last place you went besides your house? Restroom in warehouse in Kendall, FL
36. What are you afraid of: hmmmm... Familiy hurting
37. Have you ever been hit-on by someone of the same sex: We moved two 'gay' couples with United and I'm sure at least one did. Aye, yai, yai!!!
38. How many pets do u have: None, yet
39. Have you ever loved someone: Yes
40. What really turns you on: Yes! :)
41. What do you usually order from Starbucks: Can't stand paying $4 on a cup of coffee!
42. Have you ever fired a gun: Oh Yes!!!
43. Are you missing someone: My Papaw (Died in '92)
44. Say something totally random about yourself: I Love Life!
46. Has anyone ever said you looked like a celeb? Yeah, Wesley Crusher on Star Trek Next Gen
47. Whats your mom's name: Jerilyn
48. Who would you like to see right now: Who I am seeing, my family - our friends in CA, Eric & Holly!
49. Are you comfortable with your height: yea, except I have for female cousins my height and taller.
50. Dogs or cats: Dogs
51. Have you ever been caught doing something you weren't supposed to? In academy can you say, "Social."
52. Favorite flower: Roses
53. Butter, plain, or salted popcorn: Yes!
54. What books are you reading: Louis Lamour
55. Have you ever ridden in a limo: Nope
56. Has anyone you were really close to passed away? Yes, Grandfather
57. Do you watch MTV: Nope - no cable
58. What's something that really annoys you: Being Late
59. What are some things you really like doing: Geocaching, watching football or sports in general
60. Do you like Michael Jackson: Like a few of his songs but not him as a person
61. Can you dance: Never really tried, goofed around a bit and freaked my family out! He, he, he!
62. Favorite basketball team: I pic a favorite for the playoffs, don't really have an NBA favorite.
63. Favorite cereal: Fruit Loops
64. Do you drive: Yes, and then some!
65. What's the latest you have ever stayed out: Waaaayyyy tooo late/early!
66. Last time you went bowling: Aug
67. Were you ever rushed by an ambulance into the emergency room: Yes, after being robbed while working at convenience store.
68. Who was your last phone call? Work voice mail.
69. Last time you were at work: This morning at 1 am.
70. Whats your favorite state to be in: Colorful Colorado
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
Superbowl XL Thoughts
So, this was a decent Superbowl. It wasn't 'great' because, obviously the Broncos weren't in it. I enjoyed it though.
I'm glad I got to see it! I left on a trip Sat night with 6 stops in Kentucky. We ran 'em all, plus got a decent nap and I missed getting home and seeing the kickoff by like 3 minutes. Not bad. We were running hard heading home though. Didn't even take any potty breaks! He, he, he! We had some good friends over, some yummy pizza and snacks and of course a bowl full of a bunch of different flavored snack cakes! :)
The Steelers beat the Seahawks. Cool. That's who I was hoping would win. Doreen and I like Coach Cower and the owner, Mr Rooney. These guys have stood by each other in the good and bad times. Very unusual for today's sports climate. Typically, a bad season comes along and wholesale changes are made by ownership, or the coach or players jump ship for a better situation or more money. It's good to see this kind of committment! That and, as long as it's not the Raiders playing, I'll typcially pull for the AFC team. (Broncos = AFC West *GRIN*)
The game itself definetly had it's moments, but not the best. (Which game can top the Broncos getting their 1st Superbowl win XXXII, '97, by hanging on to beat Green Bay in the last :28 sec of the game. Not many, I'll tell you that! *GRIN*)
I was a little bit perturbed by some of the officiating in the game, but then I read this ESPN article by Gene Wojciechowski - Sorry conspiracy buffs, a loss sometimes is just a loss, and this is a guy I rarely ever agree with. (He kinda reminds me of the Denver Post Columnist, Mark Kiszla, the same attitude - negative about almost EVERYTHING, who I don't enjoy reading either.) He was right on here!
The commercials, as usual, were pretty good. The group we had here at our place, laughed heartily at: Ameriquest's 2 Ads, 'Doctor' & 'Fly the Friendly Skies,' (he, he, he), Bud Light's 2 commercials, 'Secret Fridge' & 'On the Roof.' We awed at Bud Light's 'Clydesdale American Dream' and were wowed by Bud Lights 'The Wave.'
Overall, it was a good Superbowl!
I'm glad I got to see it! I left on a trip Sat night with 6 stops in Kentucky. We ran 'em all, plus got a decent nap and I missed getting home and seeing the kickoff by like 3 minutes. Not bad. We were running hard heading home though. Didn't even take any potty breaks! He, he, he! We had some good friends over, some yummy pizza and snacks and of course a bowl full of a bunch of different flavored snack cakes! :)
The Steelers beat the Seahawks. Cool. That's who I was hoping would win. Doreen and I like Coach Cower and the owner, Mr Rooney. These guys have stood by each other in the good and bad times. Very unusual for today's sports climate. Typically, a bad season comes along and wholesale changes are made by ownership, or the coach or players jump ship for a better situation or more money. It's good to see this kind of committment! That and, as long as it's not the Raiders playing, I'll typcially pull for the AFC team. (Broncos = AFC West *GRIN*)
The game itself definetly had it's moments, but not the best. (Which game can top the Broncos getting their 1st Superbowl win XXXII, '97, by hanging on to beat Green Bay in the last :28 sec of the game. Not many, I'll tell you that! *GRIN*)
I was a little bit perturbed by some of the officiating in the game, but then I read this ESPN article by Gene Wojciechowski - Sorry conspiracy buffs, a loss sometimes is just a loss, and this is a guy I rarely ever agree with. (He kinda reminds me of the Denver Post Columnist, Mark Kiszla, the same attitude - negative about almost EVERYTHING, who I don't enjoy reading either.) He was right on here!
The commercials, as usual, were pretty good. The group we had here at our place, laughed heartily at: Ameriquest's 2 Ads, 'Doctor' & 'Fly the Friendly Skies,' (he, he, he), Bud Light's 2 commercials, 'Secret Fridge' & 'On the Roof.' We awed at Bud Light's 'Clydesdale American Dream' and were wowed by Bud Lights 'The Wave.'
Overall, it was a good Superbowl!
Friday, February 03, 2006
Most Amazing Ad
So, since the Broncos didn't make the Superbowl this year - but ohhhh sooo close - I've been giving some thought to the game. It should be a good one and I'm gonna pull for the Steelers to win. But I've also been giving some thought to the Ads that are going to air this year. I don't know how much they'll cost the company for airtime, but you can bet it'll be a pretty penny! :)
That line of thought also jogged a memory of a GREAT car commercial - never seen over here in the US. It aired only in the UK and on the internet - where I saw it.
So this evening I did a quick Google search on it and wanted to list it here for you to check out if you've got a moment!
Honda Cog Commercial
Some interesting facts...
Remember the popular children’s board game, Mousetrap? The game centered on the ability of an assembly of levers, chutes and ramps to send a plastic trap over a toy mouse.
Segue to a $1 million commercial produced by Wieden+Kennedy UK for Honda. The spot, dubbed "Cog”, features 85 car parts linked in a mesmerizing symphony that culminates with the introduction of Honda's new Accord. No product shots; no Celine Dion; no warnings about professional drivers on closed courses. Just a collection of ball bearings, wiper blades, tires and mufflers seamlessly “interacting” with one another to form a true piece of art.
“Cog” took five months of production and design work before it was ready to be shot. And after 605 takes, the dominos fell as they were meant to.
That line of thought also jogged a memory of a GREAT car commercial - never seen over here in the US. It aired only in the UK and on the internet - where I saw it.
So this evening I did a quick Google search on it and wanted to list it here for you to check out if you've got a moment!
Honda Cog Commercial
Some interesting facts...
Remember the popular children’s board game, Mousetrap? The game centered on the ability of an assembly of levers, chutes and ramps to send a plastic trap over a toy mouse.
Segue to a $1 million commercial produced by Wieden+Kennedy UK for Honda. The spot, dubbed "Cog”, features 85 car parts linked in a mesmerizing symphony that culminates with the introduction of Honda's new Accord. No product shots; no Celine Dion; no warnings about professional drivers on closed courses. Just a collection of ball bearings, wiper blades, tires and mufflers seamlessly “interacting” with one another to form a true piece of art.
“Cog” took five months of production and design work before it was ready to be shot. And after 605 takes, the dominos fell as they were meant to.
Work, work, work
The last three weeks have been very busy for me. The nice thing about where I work - is they allow, no, they encourage us to get overtime when orders are up and they need to get product out.
So, I've been taking an extra trip every week for the last three weeks and I'm wore out!
It's great to have, but I've got to pace myself as well. So I'll still be taking extra trips, but on a more regular basis with breaks in between to allow for rest and recovery! :)
Although it's wonderful - I took a trip last night. Left out at 7 and back home, in bed, by 3:30am. If I figured things right, for that trip I averaged $43 per hour. I'll take that anyday! :)
Work has been a joy lately, and it's gettin better. A brother of a guy I went to college works at the same place, and we're going to run together as a team for a while to see if it works out. (I told Doreen I feel like I've gone back to 'dating' again.) It's actually a good way to partner people together - it just feels so 'high-school.' He, he, he!
Things are good, Guuuuuuuuuuuud! As Bruce Almighty would say!
So, I've been taking an extra trip every week for the last three weeks and I'm wore out!
It's great to have, but I've got to pace myself as well. So I'll still be taking extra trips, but on a more regular basis with breaks in between to allow for rest and recovery! :)
Although it's wonderful - I took a trip last night. Left out at 7 and back home, in bed, by 3:30am. If I figured things right, for that trip I averaged $43 per hour. I'll take that anyday! :)
Work has been a joy lately, and it's gettin better. A brother of a guy I went to college works at the same place, and we're going to run together as a team for a while to see if it works out. (I told Doreen I feel like I've gone back to 'dating' again.) It's actually a good way to partner people together - it just feels so 'high-school.' He, he, he!
Things are good, Guuuuuuuuuuuud! As Bruce Almighty would say!
Home Sweet Home
We just got a call from our mortgage company, everything looks great. We should be going to closing next Friday. P!T!L!
So I get a call from dad on one of my trips, wanting to know a bit about the house and wondering why I hadn't posted any photos here on the site yet.
Well, I've just been a bit busy! :) So now that things have slowed up, just a hair - here's our soon to be new home. It's a split level home (They LOVE those things here in the south for some reason!) that was built in 1972. 1 1/2 baths, 4 bedrooms, Living room, Eat in kitchen, family room down stairs and a one car garage. Approx 1800 sq feet. It's on a nice sized lot in a nice subdivison, 5 min from my work, 20 min from Doreen's school, 10 min from church, 15 min to the mall and kitty corner from the babysitter.
The people we are buying it from, bought it as a repo and have done a major renovation to it, new flooring, cabinets, bathrooms, windows etc. We're just going to have an 18x12 deck built on the back with a french door access through the kitchen, and have another wall between the dining room and living room removed to 'open' things up a bit - all before we move in hopefully!Anyway, here's our new home - anyone who wants to come help us move is MORE than welcome come moving day. We'll even provide pizza as sustinance! :)
Mr Mom
Remember that movie with Michael Keaton and Terri Garr, where he loses his job, so she finds one easily to 'bring home the bacon' for the family. Funny movie.
Anyway, I've kinda taken on the part-time role of Mr. Mom. Doreen has classes on Tuesday and Thursday, so when I'm not on a trip, the girls stay home with me and we hang out together. We'll play around the house, have meals, clean up, do shopping, go swimming (right now, indoor of course), go to the mall and play at the playplace, and go geocaching. (I've taken care of them twice, no three times [???] can't remember which now.)
It's been good to have some quality Daddy, Daughters time. I've really enjoyed it and I believe they have as well. I've had to come down on them a couple of times for not eating at lunch or not getting their toys picked up. Overall, this has been, and will continue to be a very good experience for us!!!
Of course, I've got the best of both worlds, a good job with enough time off to be a Mr Mom! :)
Anyway, I've kinda taken on the part-time role of Mr. Mom. Doreen has classes on Tuesday and Thursday, so when I'm not on a trip, the girls stay home with me and we hang out together. We'll play around the house, have meals, clean up, do shopping, go swimming (right now, indoor of course), go to the mall and play at the playplace, and go geocaching. (I've taken care of them twice, no three times [???] can't remember which now.)
It's been good to have some quality Daddy, Daughters time. I've really enjoyed it and I believe they have as well. I've had to come down on them a couple of times for not eating at lunch or not getting their toys picked up. Overall, this has been, and will continue to be a very good experience for us!!!
Of course, I've got the best of both worlds, a good job with enough time off to be a Mr Mom! :)
Geocaching Milestone
I've been wanting to go Geocaching lately, but just haven't found the time.Well, as I said in my previous post, I've had more time with the girls lately, so yesterday morning we decided to go treasure hunting. We found 3 caches, two that were extremely easy and one really, REALLY difficult one.
I stepped over the spot where this blue container was hidden under a bunch of leaves twice, then Joelle yelled, "Daddy - I found it." Sure enough, she wiped the pile of leaves on it clean and there it was. What a very, VERY cool experience!
So, with that find, we've hit a milestone. Thepesters4 has found 50 hidden caches. We've got some friends who have a bit more time on their hands and they are well over 160, but with two kids etc, I'm proud to have tracked down 50 of these buggers and can't wait to find even more! (Of course, we need to take the next step and hide a couple of caches, but one step at a time!!!) Hip hip horray!
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