It Is Just Killing ME..... Isn't It??

I just got off the phone with my new super awesome boss man. Every Friday morning, we do our weekly dispatch and loads are assigned to the drivers. It is a process of elimination. The driver with the most seniority chooses his load first and this progresses to the newest driver taking the last available load.

With Averitt, I was 12th in line. With there only being one other driver willing to brave the concrete jungle, I was pretty well guaranteed the NYC route, my beloved baby!!

With AAA, I am now 7th in line!! Wooo hooooo.

But what is this?! One of the drivers (I believe he is the #3 man) has decided that I am hording the little pot of gold at the end of the George Washington Bridge... That particular route pays extremely well and offers the most home time each week. I ain't no fool. I mean really, you drive one big city, you can face them all. Right?? So, I have absolutely no qualms about running it each week. I have developed some nice friendships with the customers, and that makes it even better.

WELL, JH has decided to cut me out of the action. And he is toying with my emotions over the whole thing. The first week with AAA, he went to the NE.. I was left to fend for myself.. I chose a route which kept me closer to home, but took literally ALL week to finish. Atlanta, Chattanooga, Memphis, Nashville, Memphis, Nashville, Atlanta, Geneva (slight delay for refueling), Atlanta, Dublin..... If only it had been the real Dublin..... The only plus side to this situation was that I was able to stop at My Fathers house and spend the night the week of his birthday! And, yes, we had OKRA!!

During the course of the week, I ran into JH at the Alum Co on Wednesday and he said, "I WILL be taking YOUR run from now until it snows!" Sissy...Of course, no one wants it when it snows!!

Anyhoo, the next Friday rolls around and I was surprised to find that my baby was available....HUH?? I asked the boss what was up with that? He said JH was playing with me! Loser!!

But, here it is.... Friday morning, and JH has once again taken my load away from me. I hope he has a difficult time. 2 of the customers stop receiving at lunchtime and take deliveries by appointment only.. I wonder if I should tell him?! Nah!!

***Oh yeah, I failed to mention that during the week that I ran close to home.....One of my Queens buddies finished out his 2 weeks notice. He is moving to OHIO.. I did not get to say goodbye! *sniff~sniff* I did not get to take him his farewell gift....That made me sad!! So, au revoir, my lanky ninja friend.. You were the best boyfriend I never had... He always brought me candy on Valentine's Day.....

***Also, if you master one big city, it is not true that you can brave all of them..While I do heart the grandest of all Big Citys, you could not make me go to Chicago.... I will end up in the fetal position after a massive panic attack if you try to send me to the Windy City. I watched someone get killed there a few years ago, and have no desire to ever go see that road again.

It Is Just Killing You.. Isn't It??

Okay and now for some much needed Bachelor Number One info.....

Drum Roll Please.................

We are still dating! I did have issues however, as he seems to be pulling back a little bit. But this was explained that while in the beginning, he was so focused on ME, that now he needs to put some energy back into his business...

He was very reassuring about the whole situation, and while he seemed a bit distant for a few weeks, he is now back to being the guy I have enjoyed spending so much time with.

This is all new to me, so to speak...

Let me just say that 1. I am a bit greedy~ wanting things to go my way when I want them to, and 2. I am a bit of a romantic who believes in the "fantasy" of finding one's True Love, with no complications.... LOL... hahahhahhahahha....

I know, it is a bit silly of me, but I want to believe!!

So there have been a few complications. And things are not what I want, when I want... But this is a fine lesson in being patient and compromising... Something I sincerely need to learn... Being single for long periods of time have gotten me a bit "set" in my ways... So, whether this leads to something in the future, or not... It is a good experience for me!!

And I don't want to hear a single word out of you Mishka..... wink, wink.....

Enough is Enough

With all that goes on in the Truckin Industry, inevitably you run into situations where you just can't take anymore..

I know, everything is looking good for the future...New Company, new truck, new boyfriend, etc..


But here is a tale, I hope you enjoy.

Last week, the first week with the new company, we were given temporary trucks to use until our new ones were delivered. Mine had it's quirks, which surprisingly did not annoy me as much as I had anticipated.. Truth be known, the lack of CB radio was actually quite peaceful the first week!! However, the week itself was very exhausting. On the other hand, the noise level is extremely loud... This truck has over 600, ooo miles on it and accordingly is quite worn out. Oh well!

On Wednesday evening, I had to make a short trip to Geneva, Alabama. On the way, I noticed my fuel gauge began to drop dramatically. I stopped to check for leaks... None found. I physically checked the fuel level (sometimes those silly gauges are not so precise) and found that I was indeed low of fuel. No problem.. My new Corporate Service Center just happens to be on the way.

I check my employee guide book and with directions in hand, proceed to the service center. Upon arrival, I find that the gates are locked, there is no security guard on duty, all the lights are out and there is a huge sign stating " No Admittance 6PM to 6AM..

HUH?? You are kidding , right? This is the headquarters....

I walk the fence line (it is 2AM) to try and locate anyone who can help me get some fuel as I am dangerously low. No such luck!! I then make the decision that I am not going to let this get to me. With no remorse whatsoever, I head off to my delivery destination, 50 miles away on a two lane county road... I arrived with no problems and went to bed.

The next morning, I had to move my truck... As I put it into gear.....it dies!! Knowing it is a futile attempt, I try to crank it up anyway and YES, I was definitely out of fuel...

Surprisingly, my attitude was...."Who gives a flying rat's arse?" I phone in to my New Boss and fill him in on the situation.

Of course, all the standard questions were asked. "Why did you not get fuel, Why did you not go by the service center, why why WHY????"

I explained the scenario of the previous nights events and another truck was immediately dispatched to my rescue.

Here is the funny part.. The directions in the employee guide book are for the rear entrance. The front gate is 2 blocks away on a separate road.... There is no sign on this gate indicting that there was another entrance...It is accessible 24 hours a day...

Hmmmm, don't you think that information would be useful to print in the guide book, you know, for us new employees who don't have a clue.

Ironically, this whole situation did not bother me in the least.... I did not care whatsoever!! In fact, it was quite funny to me... Like I said before, sometimes you just reach those limits and all you can do is laugh....

Riddle Me This, Batman

I recently noticed my SIL posted about the searches that brought people to her blog.

Naturally, I had to check mine out as it had been awhile.... Yeah, I know.... Been awhile for a lot of things....

Here are the most amusing searches that brought people to ME..

Petrified Chicken Feet

Recreational Reptile Truck

Officers Cutting Open Mattress Pillows

Cervical Spondylosis Helicopters

Who the hell googles this stuff???? Okay, I get the "Officers" search. I mean, we all need to know where NOT to hide our stash, right..... Ha/ha.

Where Does The Time Go??

Hello, is anyone there???

Yeah, I know. I have been quite absent lately.

Bachelor Number One is not entirely to blame. I have also been busy with the whole job transfer situation... no new truck yet!.... And have been feeling a bit under the weather lately. To be honest, I just have not felt like sharing and if you are a member of my family, you will immediately know that is for the best... (Thanks Mom!!) sarcasm intended...

I do however, feel a resurgence coming on.....CLAP CLAP....

But I do want to say Thanks to the few people who have tolerated my antics the last few days/weeks. You know who you are!! xoxo...

Close Call

I don't know how I forgot to incorporate this little tidbit into my last post, but here goes..

Along with everything else that I am thankful for in the Changing Of The Guard, I am sure most of you are aware that my greatest thrill of all will be the new Truck. I put 250,000 miles on the last one and about 95% of that was under poor conditions. Having multiple computer problems, sensors, lights, suspension, air-ride, flaming wheel hubs, shoddy breaks, and several air leaks that no one could seem to find.

I will have a temporary Big Truck for a week or two until the NEW ( 0 Miles) Trucks arrive at our domicile... Brand Spanking New!! I am sure the temp truck will have its quirks, but it is only temporary. Already I noticed it had no way/where for me to hook up my CB radio.. I hate riding with no communication.. Not that I am partaking of the useless banter that ensues, but it is always nice to know traffic conditions before you drive up on them, especially if there is an accident... I will resolve this somehow.

But my point to this post....

The final week, my truck started having sensor problems again.... Every time I would make a left turn, my sensor would indicate that I had NO COOLANT. As a precautionary measure, the truck immediately shuts itself off under such a warning. So, can you imagine, every time you make a left turn, your vehicle shuts itself off!!! In the middle of traffic, at an intersection, on a ramp, at a dock, whenever, where ever.

Easy enough to resolve... Simply keep coasting, turn ignition switch off, count to ten and restart your motor.....Put back into gear and go.. But after doing this EVERY single time I made a left turn, you can imagine how frustrating it became...

And, OH Yeah, there was plenty of coolant!!

The Ending Of An Era

Today, my friends, was the official final day. It's all over but the crying.





Who am I kidding? Everyone is very excited about the changes taking place with the New Trucking Co. taking over the command post. However, there are a few items of note to mention that I am a bit concerned about.


Okay, really there is just one. This week, dispatch did not go according to plans.. My beloved NE route was ripped from my very clutches. There is only one other driver who is fond of heading to the NE, and normally, he is able to do so while pulling the crane trailer. Today, there was no crane trailer to dispatch, so because he has more seniority than I do, he was able to claim my beloved route. Which left me feeling quite helpless and defenseless. Not knowing which way to turn, I chose a route that will possibly allow me to stop and have lunch with my Father... (Maybe he has some extra OKRA)...


The reason this is a concern of mine, is because gossip (very substantiated gossip) is going around that the Crane trailers are to be dismantled.... Which means I would not be first in line for the NY, CT, MA trip. Therefore, I would have to reconsider what my most beneficial plan of action might be. I lean towards the NE route because it allows me to do in 4 days what it takes the other drivers 5-6 days to do. It allows me to complete one trip and have a substantial amount of time at home each week. Otherwise, I would have to fall in among the ranks and "fight" for extra loads to earn a decent paycheck.... But is that such a bad thing? YES.......




So we will see how this plays out....


In other news, I am a SUPERSTAR!







Today I had the pleasure in starring in a video to demonstrate how to properly check load securement and open and close the different types of Conestoga Trailers that we pull. You see, the New Truckin Co has never had a flatbed division, much less trailers with tarp assemblies attached to them. So my video will be sent to the corporate office to familiarize the Management with just exactly what this division has to endure..And believe me folks, there is a lot of physical work involved with manipulating some of these trailers. It will also be used to train any new employees the proper methods of handling these trailers. It was quite a fun experience, and I cannot wait to see the actual video.. I feel it will be quite "cheesy" if you will... Maybe I will be able to post it for your amusement! The decision to have me as the star of the video is based on 1.) I have familiarity with the trailers 2.) I have quite a bit of charm (or so they tell me) and personality. 3.) They believe if the video shows a 4'11" little girl manhandling the trailers, there would be no excuse for any of the men to not be able to do it, right?!







Anyways, I had fun doing it. And have I mentioned that , so far, everyone I have met employed by The New Employer is awesome!! That might not last, as everyone falls into their respective rhythms, but at least the new Dispatcher (my Boss) has a huge personality and is quite hilarious.. I believe we will find him to be a delight to work for.







And finally, as we bid Homer adieu....







Let me mention in closing that while I have fussed about him for his job performance on several occasions, as well as many other things. I feel the need to say that he does seem to be a ummmmm decent fellow, if you get him away from work.. We have our differences, and have never established a friendship , but I am sure he is a nice guy....







So , with his permission, I give you Homer...









Can you see the resemblance??

What A Difference A Day Makes.....

This week was quite a stressful week for me, so before I forget to post, I thought I would share this little tidbit.

Tuesday afternoon, as I was trolling around on I-495 (Massachusetts), I came upon a construction zone. Travelling this stretch of road frequently, I was already aware of the impending lane closures. But for those not-so-frequent motorists, there are several signs indicating the possible delays ahead.

ROAD CONSTRUCTION 2 MILES AHEAD... RIGHT LANE CLOSED

RIGHT LANE CLOSED 1 MILE AHEAD...THRU TRAFFIC KEEP LEFT

EXITING TRAFFIC MUST USE CENTER LANE.....

RIGHT LANE CLOSED AHEAD....USE CAUTION..... MERGING TRAFFIC AT EXIT RAMPS

To me, it was all very clear... There are 3 lanes. The right lane is closed... The center lane has access to the exit/entrance ramps and thru traffic should stay to the left to avoid the heavy merge.... 2+2=4

For others, well I can only assume that 1.) They cannot read 2.) They were not paying attention or 3.) They assumed the signs did not pertain to them ?!

So, upon sighting the first construction sign, I ease into the extreme left lane. Traffic begins to slow as we near the ramp. I adjust accordingly. The right lane is closed off and the center lane comes to an abrupt halt.

The left lane is however, moving fine. Albeit at 25mph, but still moving just the same.

Being the considerate Trucker that I am, my eyes are now trained at the left corner of each vehicle, searching for turn signals.... Several cars take advantage of my generosity and merge into the left lane in front of me.... One by one, I passed 10-15 Big Trucks stuck in the center lane, but no turn signals, so I keep going.

As I near the end of the congested area, my CB radio comes alive..

" I really EFFING appreciate that Averitt!!! Don't think I will ever do any f**king favors for you, you inconsiderate B*t*h..." there were a few more choice words that were said, but you get the idea

ME: Excuse Me? I am sorry, if I would have seen your blinker, I would have let you out.

ASSHOLE: Well, maybe you should get some f**king glasses, what are you $%^$% blind? GD stupid c*#%...!!

ME: Well, I did not see your blinker, but I think if you would have been paying attention to all the road signs posted for the last 2 miles, maybe you would have merged into the left lane and not been trapped in that lane...Or are your glasses broken??

ASSHOLE: F#@* YOU B*T@H!!!

RANDOM TRUCKER: Excuse me, but your blinker is not working on your trailer, so she did NOT see it buddy!

At this point, Asshole Trucker had nothing else to say.Period!

But the story does not end here, Oh NO!!

The next day, as I was heading west thru New York, I pulled into a rest area to use the restroom. When I returned to my truck, I noticed Asshole Trucker was parked right beside me.

As I was leaving, he began another conversation with me... This time a whole lot friendlier.. "You thought you would get away didn't you? Where ya heading? You sure are a cute little thing. Give me a minute, and I will run with ya..."

My only response at this point was..... " Um okay, but hurry up and I will save you a freaking spot!! ASSHOLE!!"

Oh yeah, they are some real winners out there... I cannot wait to get out of trucking!!

Jackpot.....

During the last several years, I have become friends with quite a few of the customers I deliver to on a weekly basis.

They bring me food in the mornings, work late to accommodate my needs and occasionally offer a vehicle to me to allow me to site see while in town (kind of hard to get around in the Big Rig). And several of them how even offered to take me out on the town after work...


Over the course of the past few years, I have also accumulated quite a collection of company logo'd T-shirts....


I have asked the current employer for extra shirts, so I could pass them out to the customers in the NE... They would not oblige me.... I also asked the Alum Co the same request, but they only sell them twice a year, and are usually out before I get home...


This week, while taking care of new employer business, I stumble upon a side walk sale at the Alum Co... Of course, they had no T-shirts (duh) but they did have Igloo Coolers with the company logo. On sale for $1. YEP a whole BUCK...


I was told not to purchase one (slang for The Alum Co is going to GIVE me one).. So instead, I purchased 12 of them.... For $10.00.





Why would I purchase the last remaining case, you might ask....





So I can give them to all the wonderful customers in the NE who have been so kind to me throughout the years.!! I am sooooo excited to be able to do this, I only wish they had more.



As, I was leaving, several of the Alum Co employees asked why i had purchased an entire case. Thinking nothing of it, I answered the question and was on my way.



Word gets around fast.... I returned to the Alum Co an hour later to begin the clean-out process of my truck. (only one more week!!) And before I left, the new boss called me in his office... He told me how proud that everyone was of me to think of those customers up north. To purchase with my own money, gifts for their clients.. Hey , No problem, those guys are very good to me!



So he reimbursed my $10.00 and magically found another case of coolers. He donated those to my cause and said that this gesture would be on the New Employer. He also told me how glad he was to have someone like me on his staff.



Homer never acknowledged I even could drive a truck...



I think I am gonna like my new boss!

Before and After....

Note to self: Never look down at the camera, thus producing millions of neck wrinkles...
You will notice in the first photo, the horrendous 6 inch long dark roots... There is absolutely no excuse for this except laziness.... I chased my stylist to 3 different locations in 2 years and the last time I went to her, she cut my hair wrong and colored it, but I still had dark roots showing. Therefore I parted ways with her...

I recently met Lea and she is my new best friend... She fixed me good. I love her!! She got the cut exactly how I wanted it... Straightened show the longer layers, while curly, the layers really accentuate the curls.... The color is awesome... I will never go blonde again, until the next time!! But for now, I love the darker shades!!

The flash makes the color look lighter than it is....And no, it is not two-toned on the side!! Ha ha.

So, what do you think....