This was not my favorite day. I've been so worn down, that I woke up late. Therefore we missed the motel's breakfast. I had just finished dressing, when the maid walked in.
The drive from Great Falls to Kalispell was to be endured, not enjoyed. We drove on the south side of Glacier National Park. We drove through rain, sleet, hail and snow. The roads really weren't bad but some of it in the mountains were scary. Jim drove faster than I did. I had a hard time keeping him in sight. But we had a safe trip for which I am very thankful.
Our sale in Kalispell wasn't worth the trip. We had five customers.
There's a store from Washington that delivers veggie food in Montana. It looks like they are running just ahead of us. They were in Helena delivering an hour before us. They don't play fair. They seem to wait for our schedule and price list, then undercut some of our prices and deliver within a week before us. Smart business planning, bad ethics.
But God is blessing our work. Our sles are up. And best of all (for us) is the safe travels we've been blessed with.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
March 29 Great Falls, MT
We had to get up early to be in Helena by 11:00 for our first sale. Pastor John was exceptional in helping us. He picked up orders for people, called others to remind them that we were here and just anything he could to help us. We really appreciate that.
We stopped half way to Great falls to get gas. The wind was horrible. Luckily it had been blowing us down the highway. I really didn't enjoy driving a truck through that.
The mountain scenery was beautiful. I love the rocks, hills and all the different colors. Too bad I'm driving, or I'd had lots of pictures out the dirty windows.
We stopped half way to Great falls to get gas. The wind was horrible. Luckily it had been blowing us down the highway. I really didn't enjoy driving a truck through that.
The mountain scenery was beautiful. I love the rocks, hills and all the different colors. Too bad I'm driving, or I'd had lots of pictures out the dirty windows.
March 28 Bozeman, MT
Our motel had truck parking. The only problem was that another truck (pick-up) parked behind us in such a way that it was almost impossible to get out. If Jim wasn't such a good driver and I so good at telling him where to go, we'd still be setting there. It's unbelievable how many cars dart around you as you're moving.
It was interesting having two trucks for the sale. Both of them are really full. I backed the Penske truck up to the back of our bookmobile. Jim could walk from one to the other to get what he needed. I'm posting pictures of both trucks, inside and out for your viewing pleasure. Actually I don't have the Penske truck picture yet, it'll come later.
Between Billings and Bozeman, they had posted wind warnings. It was very gusty. The signs even suggested an alternate route, but we missed that turn, so drove slow and careful.
It's a good thing I didn't have my camera with me. I would have taken pictures instead of drive carefully. The mountains were so pretty. You could see layer after layer of mountain tops. The back ones were always dark blue with white snow. And the clouds were gorgeous, with silver linings. We were driving during sunset. so everything had neat colors.
This was our warmest day yet, up to at least 68. Wonderful!!!!
March 27 Billings, MT
We woke up to snow. Not much, but enough to cover the ground.
The drive to Billings was long. Especially since I drove one truck and Jim drove the other. No naps or reading for me.
The trip reminded me of our honeymoon, except we didn't have six children with us. But we did drive from Kansas to California in two cars. Jim drove the U-Haul and I followed in the car. Ah! memories...
The drive to Billings was long. Especially since I drove one truck and Jim drove the other. No naps or reading for me.
The trip reminded me of our honeymoon, except we didn't have six children with us. But we did drive from Kansas to California in two cars. Jim drove the U-Haul and I followed in the car. Ah! memories...
March 26 Casper, WY
We rented a car today to drive to Cheyenne and back. Renting a car was cheaper than driving the truck.
Suzanne from the Denver ABC rented a Penske truck to bring us our pre-orders for Montana. Denise followed her up in a car. We took the truck and Denise took Suzanne back to Denver. For the next two weeks I get to drive that truck behind the Bookmobile, so we will have enough product for our customers. It'll be like having a closet to our store! She brought us her biggest chest freeqer, a cooler and a pallet full of food. Actually she wasn't able to fill all the orders that came in. We've never had pre-orders like this before.
We both had to hurry because there was a storm coming. Suzanne said she got back just before it started snowing in Denver.
We could see storm clouds all around us, mostly following the mountains. But we drove in sunshine most of the time. When we got back to Casper, it was sleeting for about 12 minutes.
We thought we would go to Olive Garden for supper. It was only 5:15 but there was already a 35 minute wait time. It's a new restaurant here in town, so very popular. We went to South of the Border instead.
Suzanne from the Denver ABC rented a Penske truck to bring us our pre-orders for Montana. Denise followed her up in a car. We took the truck and Denise took Suzanne back to Denver. For the next two weeks I get to drive that truck behind the Bookmobile, so we will have enough product for our customers. It'll be like having a closet to our store! She brought us her biggest chest freeqer, a cooler and a pallet full of food. Actually she wasn't able to fill all the orders that came in. We've never had pre-orders like this before.
We both had to hurry because there was a storm coming. Suzanne said she got back just before it started snowing in Denver.
We could see storm clouds all around us, mostly following the mountains. But we drove in sunshine most of the time. When we got back to Casper, it was sleeting for about 12 minutes.
We thought we would go to Olive Garden for supper. It was only 5:15 but there was already a 35 minute wait time. It's a new restaurant here in town, so very popular. We went to South of the Border instead.
Friday, March 26, 2010
March 25 Casper, WY
Sometimes I have days that it seems like nothing is really right, not necessary bad, just not good. That is today....
The electricity was off for about a half hour in the motel, so I showered in the dark. We went to eat their free breakfast, they had put everything away. While we were in the room, the maid just walked in, without knocking. We walked across the street to the restaurant they recommended, it was closed. When we did find one, they put bacon on our plates, when we definitely said 'no meat'. It's almost funny, to have so many things in a row. That's not all - but enough to write about.
We did have a safe trip to Casper and a nice sale. It's cooler here, but still nice. And my let isn't quite as swollen as it has been. How much better can it get?
The electricity was off for about a half hour in the motel, so I showered in the dark. We went to eat their free breakfast, they had put everything away. While we were in the room, the maid just walked in, without knocking. We walked across the street to the restaurant they recommended, it was closed. When we did find one, they put bacon on our plates, when we definitely said 'no meat'. It's almost funny, to have so many things in a row. That's not all - but enough to write about.
We did have a safe trip to Casper and a nice sale. It's cooler here, but still nice. And my let isn't quite as swollen as it has been. How much better can it get?
March 24 Buffalo, WY
We had another situation at a Weight Station. They went through Jim's log book with a fine tooth comb. They checked his gas receipts to the book and his motel receipts. And they must have checked a million other things, as he was in there about 45 minutes. She did eventually compliment him on keeping a neat book. But they wrote him up for having a passenger - ME! How many times in the last two years have we both gone through weight stations? Jim had to get written permission from the Press for me to go with him.
We had two sales today. The second was over by 6:15. We were looking forward to time for ourselves tonight.
Jim ended up working about three more hours in the trailer and I spent the same time getting caught up on laundry again. Now it's 10:30 and we still haven't had personal time. We both are really getting tired.
We had two sales today. The second was over by 6:15. We were looking forward to time for ourselves tonight.
Jim ended up working about three more hours in the trailer and I spent the same time getting caught up on laundry again. Now it's 10:30 and we still haven't had personal time. We both are really getting tired.
March 23 Spearfish, SD
What started out as a slow leisurely day, ended up a bit hectic.
We went back through Rapid City about noon. We stopped and got a new tire for the trailer. We go through too many tires on that trailer. But it's far better to do it before it causes a problem on the road and keeps us from a sale or something worse.
Next we went to a Urgent Care. My legs keep swelling. Basically he said life on the road is the problem. This is our 4th trip and the first time I've had this problem, so I don't buy that completely.
Because of all the feet and leg problems, I splurged and bought some of those unique Z Coil shoes. I do hope they are all they claim to be.
We had our first sale in Spearfish. I'm not sure the truck has ever been here before. The people were excited about us stopping for them. Great people.
We went back through Rapid City about noon. We stopped and got a new tire for the trailer. We go through too many tires on that trailer. But it's far better to do it before it causes a problem on the road and keeps us from a sale or something worse.
Next we went to a Urgent Care. My legs keep swelling. Basically he said life on the road is the problem. This is our 4th trip and the first time I've had this problem, so I don't buy that completely.
Because of all the feet and leg problems, I splurged and bought some of those unique Z Coil shoes. I do hope they are all they claim to be.
We had our first sale in Spearfish. I'm not sure the truck has ever been here before. The people were excited about us stopping for them. Great people.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
March 22 Hot Springs, SD
Wow! what a beautiful day. Not only do we have sunshine, it got up to 60 degrees also.
We worked in the trailer all morning. We're carrying so much extra stock, that it makes it hard to work around it. The cubby hole above the 5th wheel is full of food. The living space in the truck is full of books and sometimes food too. The main thing we can't carry enough of is frozen foods.
We had lunch at Ruby Tuesday's, for the fourth day in a row. They have the best salad bar. And they have broccoli soup, baked potatoes and a veggie sandwich. That's about it for what we usually eat. Being a vegetarian and eating out every day is kind of limiting.
We had another super sale! We were there a half hour early. So was about half of the church people. And they kept coming for over two hours. Nice!!!
They have had such a hard winter here in the Dakota's that many people haven't taken their Christmas decorations down. I saw several more decorated houses last night. No Christmas trees, but lots of yard art and roof decorations.
We worked in the trailer all morning. We're carrying so much extra stock, that it makes it hard to work around it. The cubby hole above the 5th wheel is full of food. The living space in the truck is full of books and sometimes food too. The main thing we can't carry enough of is frozen foods.
We had lunch at Ruby Tuesday's, for the fourth day in a row. They have the best salad bar. And they have broccoli soup, baked potatoes and a veggie sandwich. That's about it for what we usually eat. Being a vegetarian and eating out every day is kind of limiting.
We had another super sale! We were there a half hour early. So was about half of the church people. And they kept coming for over two hours. Nice!!!
They have had such a hard winter here in the Dakota's that many people haven't taken their Christmas decorations down. I saw several more decorated houses last night. No Christmas trees, but lots of yard art and roof decorations.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
March 21 Rapid City, SD
We had a great sale in Pierre. It was suppose to be one and a half hours long. It lasted almost three hours.
On our way to our next sale, we stopped at the Badlands National Park. It's only about five miles off the highway. We actually only went as far as the Visitor Center, since we've been there before and the road wasn't in good repair. But I did take a few pictures to share for those who have never been there.
My first impression was that it's about as opposite of the Grand Canyon as you can get. All the erosion was above ground, instead of looking down on it. And what we saw today was not pretty. It just looked like dirt! I know some of it actually is pretty, but not what we saw today.
Our second sale was in Rapid City. That was another good sale, with great people. We ran into one of the couples at the restaurant later where we had supper.
March 20 Pierre, SD
The most exciting thing we did today was to see the Corn Palace in Mitchell. It's the only one in the world like it.
The outside of the building and several walls inside are murals made out of corn. One of the pictures show how they make a template of a picture, then they take corn on the cob, cut it in half and nail it. By using different colors of corn, they make pictures. All these pictures are on the outside walls of the corn palace. They change the pictures every year, using around 30,000 bushel of corn and costing around $130,000.
This really was interesting to see if you're in the area, but I'd never make it my destination for a trip.
March 19 Mitchell, SD
We had to go back through Sioux Falls to go west on I-90 instead of going the way we came yesterday. They were expecting that road to be flooded today. We saw lots of flooded fields by I-90 too.
After getting to Mitchell, we worked in the trailer several hours. We about froze our bones, it was so cold.
So we got in the hot tub here at the motel to warm up. That was about the hottest hot tub I've been in. It's been two hours since then and we're still trying to cool down. Just can't win sometimes!
After getting to Mitchell, we worked in the trailer several hours. We about froze our bones, it was so cold.
So we got in the hot tub here at the motel to warm up. That was about the hottest hot tub I've been in. It's been two hours since then and we're still trying to cool down. Just can't win sometimes!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
March 18 Pipestone National Monument, MN
We had sunshine again today. A person could get used to that!
Jim took the truck in to get the oil changed this morning. The shop was next door to the motel, so that was convenient.
Pipestone was only about an hour down the road, back to Minnesota. After we got our motel, we went to the Pipestone National Monument.
This is where the Indians got the rock that they made their peace pipes. There are several big rock cliffs and rock quarries. It was a perfect day to walk around out there and enjoy nature while learning a little history.
The first two pictures show some flood waters, although certainly not the worse we've seen. and the rest are all of our walk around the Pipestone Memorial.
Oh yea, we had a sale too. We were able to visit quite awhile with the first couple that came on the truck. Her name is Melody. Her folks used to teach at Enterprise Academy in the late 70's. They weren't there when we were, but I do remember knowing they were there, the Crandall's. I love connecting the dots of who we know.
I just found out today that the house we're renting in Meridian is officially for sale. Our landlords, which are also our friends, need to sell. I just hope and pray the timing is right, since we won't be home until June. But I'm not going to worry about it, as God is still in control. He has a plan.
March 17 Sioux Falls, SD
It's amazing to see all the water everywhere. Several of the people who came in to the store tonight were telling how they had to detour to get to us.
This is the second day of sunshine almost since we left home. They need that and wind to dry up this water.
Great sale and great people tonight. You know, I could get to liking this job...........
This is the second day of sunshine almost since we left home. They need that and wind to dry up this water.
Great sale and great people tonight. You know, I could get to liking this job...........
March 16 Aberdeen, SD
We were on the road before 8:00 this morning. We had a lot of driving to do before we got to our first sale in South Dakota.
I wish I had my camera out while we were driving. Especially in North Dakota, fields were so full of water they looked like lakes. There was water over I-29 one place.
I saw the neatest worn out old barn. It's been well used and now totally empty. You could see through the walls. It was setting out in a field of water, with a couple skeletal trees standing guard. I do wish I'd had my camera ready.
We also saw hundreds of muskrat homes by the wet lands. That was neat too. Some were several feet above the water.
I'm having a problem with these long days. It's Tuesday and I already have a 30 hour work week. This morning we had a glass of orange juice for breakfast. When we stopped for gas around 11:00, I picked up a sandwich at the filling station. Supper was after our evening sale, around 8:00. I hate eating that late.
The threat of flooding is serious around here. Please remember us in your prayers.
I wish I had my camera out while we were driving. Especially in North Dakota, fields were so full of water they looked like lakes. There was water over I-29 one place.
I saw the neatest worn out old barn. It's been well used and now totally empty. You could see through the walls. It was setting out in a field of water, with a couple skeletal trees standing guard. I do wish I'd had my camera ready.
We also saw hundreds of muskrat homes by the wet lands. That was neat too. Some were several feet above the water.
I'm having a problem with these long days. It's Tuesday and I already have a 30 hour work week. This morning we had a glass of orange juice for breakfast. When we stopped for gas around 11:00, I picked up a sandwich at the filling station. Supper was after our evening sale, around 8:00. I hate eating that late.
The threat of flooding is serious around here. Please remember us in your prayers.
March 15 Minneapolis, MN
I did it! I left my cell phone at the motel last night. No one calls me very often, so oh well!!
We drove to the Maple Grove ABC to meet Chad. He brought us our order of food from Wisconsin so we could restock. We met him around 3:30, so we really had to move to get it all put away. We got three full pallets. We finally quit around 9:30. Most of it is where it belongs.
After a very late supper at Perkins, we found a dumpy motel. The room smells, the bed was as hard as a board and it was either too hot or too cold all night. But it was dry and has a nice enough shower.
An interesting tidbit about their decorations... Going up the stairs to the second floor, I noticed that they had tastefully arranged three pictures on the wall. They were all the same picture! Then in our room, there were two more copies of the same picture. Okay, so they liked the picture!
We drove to the Maple Grove ABC to meet Chad. He brought us our order of food from Wisconsin so we could restock. We met him around 3:30, so we really had to move to get it all put away. We got three full pallets. We finally quit around 9:30. Most of it is where it belongs.
After a very late supper at Perkins, we found a dumpy motel. The room smells, the bed was as hard as a board and it was either too hot or too cold all night. But it was dry and has a nice enough shower.
An interesting tidbit about their decorations... Going up the stairs to the second floor, I noticed that they had tastefully arranged three pictures on the wall. They were all the same picture! Then in our room, there were two more copies of the same picture. Okay, so they liked the picture!
March 14 Moorhead, MN
Our noon sale was in Thief River Falls. It was not a big sale but we met some very nice people. We met the Glass's. Their daughter is the ABC manager in the KS-NE ABC store. Evelyn Glass has been the Women's Ministry Director for North America. They are a very friendly, neat couple.
The drive to Moorhead was very scenic. It looked like lakes or small oceans on both sides of the road. In one 'ocean', it even looked like it had icebergs. The snow is melting so fast around here. They are expecting flooding soon.
At Mooorhead a man met us at the truck. He had just attended their CHIP alumni potluck. He shared his left over soup with us. That was so kind of him. And the soup was good.
He stayed with us the whole two hours and even helped us get the trailer packed up for moving, by putting up some of the bars that holds the books in place while we travel.
We are always blessed by wonderful people.
The drive to Moorhead was very scenic. It looked like lakes or small oceans on both sides of the road. In one 'ocean', it even looked like it had icebergs. The snow is melting so fast around here. They are expecting flooding soon.
At Mooorhead a man met us at the truck. He had just attended their CHIP alumni potluck. He shared his left over soup with us. That was so kind of him. And the soup was good.
He stayed with us the whole two hours and even helped us get the trailer packed up for moving, by putting up some of the bars that holds the books in place while we travel.
We are always blessed by wonderful people.
Friday, March 12, 2010
March 12 Thief River Falls, MN
Jim got the truck over to Goodyear to get a new tire first thing this morning. They were finished around noon.
He called everyone he could and still can't find anyone to fix the heater. So we drove on to our next stop. This is a small town, so we can't find anyone here to fix it either.
After we got our room, Jim went out to work in the trailer. While he was out there, he kept praying about the heater. God fixed it! for no reason that he can figure out, it started working. Isn't God great?!!!!
He called everyone he could and still can't find anyone to fix the heater. So we drove on to our next stop. This is a small town, so we can't find anyone here to fix it either.
After we got our room, Jim went out to work in the trailer. While he was out there, he kept praying about the heater. God fixed it! for no reason that he can figure out, it started working. Isn't God great?!!!!
March 11 Grand Forks, ND
We stopped to get propane and make sure that wasn't the reason our heater didn't work. It wasn't. We had plenty of propane, but not enough time to figure out what the problem is.
When we stopped in Grand Forks to get a room, we noticed a bigger problem. The middle tire on the trailer wasn't flat, it was gone, rim and tire!
Personally, I think that while we were driving, someone ran along beside us and took the tire off. It was one of our newer tires.
Jim doesn't believe me. Really he just doesn't have enough imagination. He says that 7 our of 8 of the lugs (whatever that is) were completely sheared off. The sad thing is that we have no idea when the tire flew off. It was definately on when we started driving. Can you imagine driving behind us and watching a tire roll down the highway towards you> The Lord was certainly watching over us and those behind us.
We couldn't find anyone to fix it tonight, so it'll get fixed first thing in the morning.
So we went to our sale. This is where we took the three children for a big truck ride around the Church last time. The kids were there and definitely glad to see us. But no truck ride tonight. We were too busy.
The heater still isn't working. The customers are such good sports about shopping in the freezing cold. And they still thank us for coming.
After we got back to the motel, we decided to walk across the street for supper. That walk ended up being about a half mile one way, because of the snow drifts and water puddles. Also, it was dark, cold and raining. By the time we got back to our room, my legs were frozen.
What a day!
When we stopped in Grand Forks to get a room, we noticed a bigger problem. The middle tire on the trailer wasn't flat, it was gone, rim and tire!
Personally, I think that while we were driving, someone ran along beside us and took the tire off. It was one of our newer tires.
Jim doesn't believe me. Really he just doesn't have enough imagination. He says that 7 our of 8 of the lugs (whatever that is) were completely sheared off. The sad thing is that we have no idea when the tire flew off. It was definately on when we started driving. Can you imagine driving behind us and watching a tire roll down the highway towards you> The Lord was certainly watching over us and those behind us.
We couldn't find anyone to fix it tonight, so it'll get fixed first thing in the morning.
So we went to our sale. This is where we took the three children for a big truck ride around the Church last time. The kids were there and definitely glad to see us. But no truck ride tonight. We were too busy.
The heater still isn't working. The customers are such good sports about shopping in the freezing cold. And they still thank us for coming.
After we got back to the motel, we decided to walk across the street for supper. That walk ended up being about a half mile one way, because of the snow drifts and water puddles. Also, it was dark, cold and raining. By the time we got back to our room, my legs were frozen.
What a day!
March 10 Jamestown, ND
Another soggy day. If this week was the only time I'd been in North Dakota, I would never move here. It's been cold, rainy, drizzly, sloppy, foggy and nasty. Last night on TV they were talking about getting ready for flooding.
Our sale tonight was bad. Not the customers though, they were good sports. It was raining still and cold. The furnace in the trailer didn't work. For two hours we worked in the cold. It was hard to want to take my hands out of my pockets to ring up sales. Besides that, my feet got wet walking outside in all that standing water. So my feet were frozen too. I think it's time for long johns and hip boots.
We do have a decent room for tonight, with heat! Nice!!!!
Our sale tonight was bad. Not the customers though, they were good sports. It was raining still and cold. The furnace in the trailer didn't work. For two hours we worked in the cold. It was hard to want to take my hands out of my pockets to ring up sales. Besides that, my feet got wet walking outside in all that standing water. So my feet were frozen too. I think it's time for long johns and hip boots.
We do have a decent room for tonight, with heat! Nice!!!!
March 9 Carrington, ND
The laundry took forever and I only had two loads. The washer might have taken 20 minutes. The person before me said he started the dryer three times before his clothes got dry. So I waited more than an hour to even put my clothes in the dryer. I ended up hanging my second load around the room as it was 11:00 by then and I wanted to sleep.
Our first sale was in Harvey. It was rainy and dreary driving there. A car pulled up just before us, the Easley's. Wanda decided that this was a soup day, so she made enough to share with us. How wonderful! She brought us soup, crackers, bread, peanut butter, applesauce, drinks, fruit and plates, cups and plastic utensels. They just got back from a two week trip to Africa, so it's not like she was setting there with nothing to do. They have been missionaries in Africa in the 90's.
Our second sale was in Borden. The trip over was foggy and rainy too. The weather has just been drizzly and YUCK! But we're thankful that it's not ice and snow.
Our first sale was in Harvey. It was rainy and dreary driving there. A car pulled up just before us, the Easley's. Wanda decided that this was a soup day, so she made enough to share with us. How wonderful! She brought us soup, crackers, bread, peanut butter, applesauce, drinks, fruit and plates, cups and plastic utensels. They just got back from a two week trip to Africa, so it's not like she was setting there with nothing to do. They have been missionaries in Africa in the 90's.
Our second sale was in Borden. The trip over was foggy and rainy too. The weather has just been drizzly and YUCK! But we're thankful that it's not ice and snow.
Monday, March 8, 2010
March 8 Minot, ND
We found a motel across the street from the dentist office. So Jim was able to walk over there to get his tooth fixed. He was lucky that the root wasn't exposed since he had to wait two days to get it fixed. He thought the dentist was good.
We had to drive 100 miles through fog to get to Minot. We've not had a sale here before. We were very busy the whole time.
From the schedule, it looked like we had the afternoon off. We just did a different kind of work. We had to ship several boxes of books back to R&H and PPPA from the men's books, so we wouldn't have to carry them around the next three months. We're crowded enough, as it is.
We also had banking, shopping, laundry and lots of routine store work. It's 9:00 now and Jim is still working in the truck. And I have one more load of laundry to finish.
We had to drive 100 miles through fog to get to Minot. We've not had a sale here before. We were very busy the whole time.
From the schedule, it looked like we had the afternoon off. We just did a different kind of work. We had to ship several boxes of books back to R&H and PPPA from the men's books, so we wouldn't have to carry them around the next three months. We're crowded enough, as it is.
We also had banking, shopping, laundry and lots of routine store work. It's 9:00 now and Jim is still working in the truck. And I have one more load of laundry to finish.
March 7 Bismarck, ND
We had a nice group of men again this morning. After they left, we spent a couple hours taking out the extra men's books and putting the Spanish books back in.
Then we went to the Bismarck Church for our second sale of the day. We were very busy there too.
We had soup and salad at Olive Garden for supper. It's cold and drizzly out, so the soup was special.
Then we went to the Bismarck Church for our second sale of the day. We were very busy there too.
We had soup and salad at Olive Garden for supper. It's cold and drizzly out, so the soup was special.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
March 6 Bismarck, ND
We had an interesting start to the day. We started getting ready for Church, when I realized that I didn't bring my Church clothes, they are 15 miles away in the truck. We never get around early enough to spend an extra half hour driving around.
When we finally decided that Church wasn't going to work, we decided to put on our regular clothes to work in tonight. NOT!!! I forgot to pack clean clothes for Jim.
Did I talk about being under stress!
Next, (YES - there is a next!) we went to the motel restaurant for breakfast. We had eggs and hash browns. Jim bite on something hard. After spitting it out, he found half his tooth. He now has an appointment Monday morning at 7:00 to fix it. Our Monday sale is 100 miles down the road at 12:00.
The rest of the day we just spent reading and relaxing until time for our sale. We got there about 7:00 PM. We wanted time to work in the truck before the men came out to spend their money. It was around 9:00 before their meetings were over. The really neat thing is that several men were given prizes for some game they played. The prizes were gift certificates to our store. We did a very brisk business tonight. We actually didn't get out of there until midnight.
When we finally decided that Church wasn't going to work, we decided to put on our regular clothes to work in tonight. NOT!!! I forgot to pack clean clothes for Jim.
Did I talk about being under stress!
Next, (YES - there is a next!) we went to the motel restaurant for breakfast. We had eggs and hash browns. Jim bite on something hard. After spitting it out, he found half his tooth. He now has an appointment Monday morning at 7:00 to fix it. Our Monday sale is 100 miles down the road at 12:00.
The rest of the day we just spent reading and relaxing until time for our sale. We got there about 7:00 PM. We wanted time to work in the truck before the men came out to spend their money. It was around 9:00 before their meetings were over. The really neat thing is that several men were given prizes for some game they played. The prizes were gift certificates to our store. We did a very brisk business tonight. We actually didn't get out of there until midnight.
March 5 Bismarck, ND
Another day of driving and driving. The further east we got, the more snow there was, but didn't drive through any bad weather, just some drizzles and gloom.
The men's retreat is held at the Academy out side of Bismarck. We tried to get a room in the dorm, but only men are welcome here this weekend. Even the cook is a man, with all male workers.
We were only open an hour, but did a good business. We were at the academy a couple hours early, which was good. I took that time to take out all my Spanish books and put in all my Men's books. Our trailer just isn't big enough.
One of the leaders for the men's group invited us to stay for supper, and even gave us free meal tickets. The food was good but it certainly was a man's meal. It was chili, rice and bread. Nothing fancy. But especially since breakfast was a distant memory, we enjoyed and appreciated it.
Pastor Richard O'Ffill is the main speaker this weekend. He has written eight books. When I found out that he was the speaker, I made it a point to read some of his books. I've enjoyed them and would have loved to hear him speak.
While we were eating our supper, he came to our table and started talking to us. Actually he was giving me a hard time, saying I was spy from the women's Ministry. Luckily after reading his books, I knew he had a since of humor. Once I let him know that Jim and I were selling his book and without me, Jim couldn't be here, he changed his tune. Then I became the most welcome guest on campus. We were even invited to attend his meetings, as long as I set in the back! He's funny!
I think the attending men are in for a real treat this weekend.
We heard bad news today about our academy in Kansas. At the end of this school year, it will be closing. I understand the financial reason, but I still hate it. Not only was that four very important years of my life, but that's where Jim and I met, 50 years ago.
We borrowed a car from the Thompson's for the weekend. He was boy's dean when Jim was in school. Without the trailer, the truck would bounce around too much to drive. So, we are able to drive to town, find a motel and relax a little. It's been stressful trying to get here on time and be ready for our first sale. We're about 1,000 miles from home.
The men's retreat is held at the Academy out side of Bismarck. We tried to get a room in the dorm, but only men are welcome here this weekend. Even the cook is a man, with all male workers.
We were only open an hour, but did a good business. We were at the academy a couple hours early, which was good. I took that time to take out all my Spanish books and put in all my Men's books. Our trailer just isn't big enough.
One of the leaders for the men's group invited us to stay for supper, and even gave us free meal tickets. The food was good but it certainly was a man's meal. It was chili, rice and bread. Nothing fancy. But especially since breakfast was a distant memory, we enjoyed and appreciated it.
Pastor Richard O'Ffill is the main speaker this weekend. He has written eight books. When I found out that he was the speaker, I made it a point to read some of his books. I've enjoyed them and would have loved to hear him speak.
While we were eating our supper, he came to our table and started talking to us. Actually he was giving me a hard time, saying I was spy from the women's Ministry. Luckily after reading his books, I knew he had a since of humor. Once I let him know that Jim and I were selling his book and without me, Jim couldn't be here, he changed his tune. Then I became the most welcome guest on campus. We were even invited to attend his meetings, as long as I set in the back! He's funny!
I think the attending men are in for a real treat this weekend.
We heard bad news today about our academy in Kansas. At the end of this school year, it will be closing. I understand the financial reason, but I still hate it. Not only was that four very important years of my life, but that's where Jim and I met, 50 years ago.
We borrowed a car from the Thompson's for the weekend. He was boy's dean when Jim was in school. Without the trailer, the truck would bounce around too much to drive. So, we are able to drive to town, find a motel and relax a little. It's been stressful trying to get here on time and be ready for our first sale. We're about 1,000 miles from home.
March 4 Miles City, MT
Today was a big day of travel. We stopped at Mt Ellis Academy in Bozeman to make sure they had everything they needed.
The first part of the trip, there was snow by the roads and in the fields. the roads were all clear. About 50 miles east of Bozeman, the snow was basically all gone.
We drove until almost 9:00 PM. That means supper was around 9:30. That's just too late. We still have almost 300 miles to travel tomorrow by 4:00.
The first part of the trip, there was snow by the roads and in the fields. the roads were all clear. About 50 miles east of Bozeman, the snow was basically all gone.
We drove until almost 9:00 PM. That means supper was around 9:30. That's just too late. We still have almost 300 miles to travel tomorrow by 4:00.
March 3 Idaho Falls, ID
You know I have a love-hate relationship with this job. I truly love the travel, meeting new friends everyday and all those books. I actually think the hardest part is being home.
There always is way too much to do. The unloading the truck and finishing all the paperwork, while making new order list and creating new paperwork. I've mentioned most of that several times before. And any truck repair Jim tries to get done during this time too.
And of course we want to spend all the time with family and friends that we can.
The part I really haven't shared is all the medical problems that have started since we've worked here. I seem to enjoy health problems more than Jim. Lucky me!
Last year I woke up one morning with eye problems. It looked like someone had scribbled on my eyeball. So last year and this, I've gone in for several tests to rule out several problems. I never have enough time to do it all at once. Can't get appointments that quick.
I've also had problems that called for a colonoscopy two years in a row. That's definitely not fun, but certainly better than ending up with colon cancer. They found polyps both times.
When we started on the truck in August 2008, my right knee was giving me major problems. I couldn't climb into the truck, my leg would give out while I was standing and it just plain hurt. Finally, that got better and I could walk without hurting. Last week my left knee started doing the same thing. When you're on the road, it's hard to get therapy for anything.
When we went to Las Vegas and again last week in Maryland, my ankles started swelling. Last week they got very big and painful. The swelling would barely go down by morning, then start all over again. So now when I fly or we are going to drive several hours, I need to wear support stockings. (Am I getting old, or what?)
I'm not done, there's more.... since we've been living on the truck, I have allergies to something. I get places that itch and of course, I have to scratch. When we got home this year, I had a rash on my stomach. Then that cleared up and another started on my legs. After that my arms. Finally, it was all over my body. You know a person just doesn't have time to scratch in all those places.
So, my regular doctor gave me a steroid to clear that up and sent me to a specialist (at my request). The doctor also said I would be on a antihistamine the rest of my life.
The allergist said I couldn't see him until I had been off that for a week (I had just started the day before!) The night before my appointment something triggered a reaction and my throat started swelling up. So I took a pill. The doctor couldn't test me for anything because of the benadryl. Am I lucky or what? Yes I am! I'm still alive and the allergies have quieted down. Good thing, because we're on the road again and can't do anything else.
Any other medical problems? Probably, but that's enough to think about right now.
So, especially just before we start out for another three month run, I start feeling anxious, stressed, panicked, etc. It doesn't take much and I'm ready to cry. And really, I'm not a crybaby.
In spite of all this, I feel like we're exactly where God wants us to be for now.
I guess I just wanted to be 'real' about our life on the truck. It's hard, but the rewards are mighty (and I'm not talking about money)
Just this week we had an exciting experience while at home.
Sometimes for a night or two before a trip, we bring the whole semi home and park it in our driveway. We live in a culdesac, so there's room for it to stick out. Also, we live in a Mormon neighborhood. Last trip, one of our neighbor ladies wanted to see what the trailer looked like inside, so we gave her the grand tour. She loved it. Immediately she started picking out books to buy, one book being 'Creation and Evolution'. She came back to us yesterday wanting to buy another copy of that book. She was reading that book while on the airplane. She told me that she was marking places and folding down the page corners, where she wanted to go back and read again. She was so excited about what she was reading, that she started talking about it to a lady that was setting next to her. Finally she gave it to her. She explained that it was written by a Seventh-day Adventist, but it really was good anyway!!! Actually, she gave me a book report on that book, in case I haven't read it! Now she needed another copy for herself. She also wants to buy other books for her women's study group.
Always before we start on a big trip like this, it seems like the devil tries to discourage us and make it almost impossible to start. Today was almost funny. I thought we could be ready by 10:00 AM. We left at 3:00 PM.
First I went to put on my new support stockings. I just bought them yesterday. My prescription was for 2 pair. The clerk told me that each package came with two. Also, they didn't have my size, so he convinced me to buy the one for men. He promised that there was no difference, except for the picture on the package.
so first of all, when I opened the package, there was only one pair of socks. At $42. a box, I expected two, like he promised. Then I put them on. The socks were so tight, I could hardly get them over my foot, let alone my leg. When I finally did get them up, the foot was about 3" too long. Definitely a man's sock. So we went back to the store and returned the socks. About the two stockings in the package, he was correct, one for the right foot and one for the left!
We had to go on to Boise to find another medical store that also carries these stockings. They were cheaper, only $32. a pair, but after the last place, that seemed cheap!
Now it's around 11:00. Jim wanted to go to the Press while I finished putting stuff together for the trip. Jim has been expecting one more box of books to come in for the Men's Retreat we're doing this weekend. It wasn't there.
When he almost got back home, he got a phone call. They found his box of books! So Jim went back to pick them up. The sender didn't put Jim's name on the package, so the Press had no idea who it was for. The box came Feb 25, today is the 3rd.
So I went shopping! After all I'm already packed and ready to go. I found a little 'stair stepper' that we can use for exercise. If nothing else, I can put it in front of the cash register and 'step' while I'm ringing up sales!
Between no exercise and not being able to eat healthy for three months at at time, it's no wonder life on the road is so hard on the truck, physically.
One last thing, after we were about four hours down the road, Jim realized that he forgot his jacket.
Oh well! we'll be lucky if that's all we forgot.
There always is way too much to do. The unloading the truck and finishing all the paperwork, while making new order list and creating new paperwork. I've mentioned most of that several times before. And any truck repair Jim tries to get done during this time too.
And of course we want to spend all the time with family and friends that we can.
The part I really haven't shared is all the medical problems that have started since we've worked here. I seem to enjoy health problems more than Jim. Lucky me!
Last year I woke up one morning with eye problems. It looked like someone had scribbled on my eyeball. So last year and this, I've gone in for several tests to rule out several problems. I never have enough time to do it all at once. Can't get appointments that quick.
I've also had problems that called for a colonoscopy two years in a row. That's definitely not fun, but certainly better than ending up with colon cancer. They found polyps both times.
When we started on the truck in August 2008, my right knee was giving me major problems. I couldn't climb into the truck, my leg would give out while I was standing and it just plain hurt. Finally, that got better and I could walk without hurting. Last week my left knee started doing the same thing. When you're on the road, it's hard to get therapy for anything.
When we went to Las Vegas and again last week in Maryland, my ankles started swelling. Last week they got very big and painful. The swelling would barely go down by morning, then start all over again. So now when I fly or we are going to drive several hours, I need to wear support stockings. (Am I getting old, or what?)
I'm not done, there's more.... since we've been living on the truck, I have allergies to something. I get places that itch and of course, I have to scratch. When we got home this year, I had a rash on my stomach. Then that cleared up and another started on my legs. After that my arms. Finally, it was all over my body. You know a person just doesn't have time to scratch in all those places.
So, my regular doctor gave me a steroid to clear that up and sent me to a specialist (at my request). The doctor also said I would be on a antihistamine the rest of my life.
The allergist said I couldn't see him until I had been off that for a week (I had just started the day before!) The night before my appointment something triggered a reaction and my throat started swelling up. So I took a pill. The doctor couldn't test me for anything because of the benadryl. Am I lucky or what? Yes I am! I'm still alive and the allergies have quieted down. Good thing, because we're on the road again and can't do anything else.
Any other medical problems? Probably, but that's enough to think about right now.
So, especially just before we start out for another three month run, I start feeling anxious, stressed, panicked, etc. It doesn't take much and I'm ready to cry. And really, I'm not a crybaby.
In spite of all this, I feel like we're exactly where God wants us to be for now.
I guess I just wanted to be 'real' about our life on the truck. It's hard, but the rewards are mighty (and I'm not talking about money)
Just this week we had an exciting experience while at home.
Sometimes for a night or two before a trip, we bring the whole semi home and park it in our driveway. We live in a culdesac, so there's room for it to stick out. Also, we live in a Mormon neighborhood. Last trip, one of our neighbor ladies wanted to see what the trailer looked like inside, so we gave her the grand tour. She loved it. Immediately she started picking out books to buy, one book being 'Creation and Evolution'. She came back to us yesterday wanting to buy another copy of that book. She was reading that book while on the airplane. She told me that she was marking places and folding down the page corners, where she wanted to go back and read again. She was so excited about what she was reading, that she started talking about it to a lady that was setting next to her. Finally she gave it to her. She explained that it was written by a Seventh-day Adventist, but it really was good anyway!!! Actually, she gave me a book report on that book, in case I haven't read it! Now she needed another copy for herself. She also wants to buy other books for her women's study group.
Always before we start on a big trip like this, it seems like the devil tries to discourage us and make it almost impossible to start. Today was almost funny. I thought we could be ready by 10:00 AM. We left at 3:00 PM.
First I went to put on my new support stockings. I just bought them yesterday. My prescription was for 2 pair. The clerk told me that each package came with two. Also, they didn't have my size, so he convinced me to buy the one for men. He promised that there was no difference, except for the picture on the package.
so first of all, when I opened the package, there was only one pair of socks. At $42. a box, I expected two, like he promised. Then I put them on. The socks were so tight, I could hardly get them over my foot, let alone my leg. When I finally did get them up, the foot was about 3" too long. Definitely a man's sock. So we went back to the store and returned the socks. About the two stockings in the package, he was correct, one for the right foot and one for the left!
We had to go on to Boise to find another medical store that also carries these stockings. They were cheaper, only $32. a pair, but after the last place, that seemed cheap!
Now it's around 11:00. Jim wanted to go to the Press while I finished putting stuff together for the trip. Jim has been expecting one more box of books to come in for the Men's Retreat we're doing this weekend. It wasn't there.
When he almost got back home, he got a phone call. They found his box of books! So Jim went back to pick them up. The sender didn't put Jim's name on the package, so the Press had no idea who it was for. The box came Feb 25, today is the 3rd.
So I went shopping! After all I'm already packed and ready to go. I found a little 'stair stepper' that we can use for exercise. If nothing else, I can put it in front of the cash register and 'step' while I'm ringing up sales!
Between no exercise and not being able to eat healthy for three months at at time, it's no wonder life on the road is so hard on the truck, physically.
One last thing, after we were about four hours down the road, Jim realized that he forgot his jacket.
Oh well! we'll be lucky if that's all we forgot.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
February 25 Meridian, ID
The meetings were over before noon. We rode to the airport with Jenny (CA) and Sandi (ID). We got there several hours early, as there was no place else to be.
We had a change of planes in Chicago and enough time to eat a supper. And home around 11:00 PM.
It was a nice trip but it's nice to be home again. We have several very busy days at home trying to be ready for our big trip, starting next week.
We had a change of planes in Chicago and enough time to eat a supper. And home around 11:00 PM.
It was a nice trip but it's nice to be home again. We have several very busy days at home trying to be ready for our big trip, starting next week.
February 24 Hagerstown, Maryland
This was our last full day of meetings. We should be finished by noon tomorrow.
Several of the group got together this evening for bowling. I'm not sure just what they called it, something like duck pin bowling. The pins are smaller. You get three tries to knock down the pins. And the ball is smaller. It was funny. You really don't have control over the ball. Out of our 14 bowlers, only one scored over 100. One of Jim's balls bounced out of the gutter to knock over the last pin, making a spare! Sandi did that too. Weird!! (Not Sandi, the ball!)
Several of the group got together this evening for bowling. I'm not sure just what they called it, something like duck pin bowling. The pins are smaller. You get three tries to knock down the pins. And the ball is smaller. It was funny. You really don't have control over the ball. Out of our 14 bowlers, only one scored over 100. One of Jim's balls bounced out of the gutter to knock over the last pin, making a spare! Sandi did that too. Weird!! (Not Sandi, the ball!)
February 23 Hagerstown, Maryland
The meetings only went until noon today. Everyone who isn't employed by Pacific Press went home after that. We will be here until Thursday afternoon.
After lunch we went to our room and just relaxed. I took a nap and read one of the new books.
We ate supper here in the motel. They had Chinese food. Not my favorite, but it was okay. They've been great about fixing veggie food for our group. Several of us ate our supper here.
After lunch we went to our room and just relaxed. I took a nap and read one of the new books.
We ate supper here in the motel. They had Chinese food. Not my favorite, but it was okay. They've been great about fixing veggie food for our group. Several of us ate our supper here.
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