Downtime Beginneth

DATELINE: BLACKSBURG, SC, 6:23 p.m.

Miles Today: 459

Today was about getting the load I picked up yesterday from Louisville, KY to USA's terminal in Spartanburg, SC, then starting my 34-hour downtime. Mission accomplished. I drove through a few snow flurries, but nothing that caused any worry about road problems. And I must say some of the route was some of the most scenic roads I've driven in my truck yet. That would be I-40 in eastern TN and western NC. Just gorgeous. I hope to drive it sometime when everything's green. Then again, since I was hauling a fairly heavy load, the twisty, downhill road did require my full attention. Fortunately, it didn't snow any during that portion of the drive, so I didn't have that stress added on top.

So now I sit at yet another Flying J, this one, as the dateline above indicates, in Blacksburg, SC. I was planning on sitting out my downtime at the Spartanburg facility, but once I got there (this was my first time there), I discovered it's mostly a parking lot and shop/garage. I didn't see a drivers' lounge or any other accessible accommodations, so I consulted my truck stop directory and found this "J" just 30 miles up the highway. Much better. So after dropping my trailer (someone else will pick it up and take it to its destination 'cuz the delivery date is during my home time next week), I booked on over here. I've had my dinner and am now ready for some quiet time with my computer and Prairie Home Companion on the radio right now.

Thanks once more for participating in my audience. Have a great Sunday, and keep on truckin'.