News From The Road.

Greetings from Grand Island Nebraska. The company flew me out here to cover two drivers taking vacation this week and next. It is rather unusual that I would know what I am doing this far in advance, but the economy is showing signs of rebounding and work is picking up for both my "day-job" here at Ryder and also for my business. I have done five jobs this past two months and I currently have an estimate out on one job and there is yet another looming in the next few weeks.

Meanwhile, after I get back from Nebraska next weekend, I will be touring Ontario Canada for the Pella Window account the following week as they are doing a trade show there. I just got word from my boss that the account manager for the Pella account asked if I would be willing to travel cross country for several weeks. I knew that you don't just do one trade show. There had to be more. I told him that I wouldn't mind it at all, I need the money. And it will be very good money going over the road like that.

I traveled light to get here, cause flying is just such a hassle anymore. I would so rather drive anywhere, but time constraints required a flight here and back. So I travel lightly to avoid the added expense and annoyance of extra charges at the airlines. One duffel bag, one hand bag, my file folder and a newspaper to read on the plane.

I am absolutely floored at just how expensive the little conveniences have gotten, especially out here in the plains. A single 20 ounce soda pop will set you back almost two whole dollars! ($1.89 with tax)! Makes me glad that I live in the densely populated and well traveled mid-west, things are so much cheaper there. I am keeping every single receipt for taxes next year. As an employee who is subject to regulation by the DOT (Department of Transportation) all meals and other unreimbursed expenses that are necessary for the job are tax deductible with some limitations. Meals are subject to a 70% ceiling, others can be written off entirely.

Got to go and get some rest now. I have a busy schedule for the next few months!