Year 2, Day 281 (A Peaceful Sabbath)

I've been back on the road since this past Monday, and every day since our getaway last weekend, Tikvah and I have been talking about potential homes in Eureka Springs, AR. It's actually quite funny. For the past few months we've been talking about homes in our old hometown of Hemet, CA, and we take one trip to Eureka Springs, and our whole focus has changed. HaShem really does move in mysterious ways. For the past year or so, I have harped on how much I dislike Arkansas, and how I couldn't wait to move back to California, now we are planning on moving to a different part of Arkansas. Of course, if you lived where we do now, you would probably feel the same way.

Eureka Springs is like no other city nor town in Arkansas that I've been... and I have been through many of them. Basically, it's like living in Arkansas geographically, without the common mentality. Needless to say, we are looking at homes, but, more importantly, trusting in The L-rd for guidance, direction, and favor... especially in regards to our future "retirement" home (yeah, once we move, we don't plan on moving again... unless G-d says otherwise).

Year 2, Day 280 (Another Weekend Is Upon Us)

After getting unloaded yesterday in Conklin, NY, I made my way to Allentown, PA to get this load, which is heading to Robert, LA. It took longer than hoped to get loaded, so I didn't get to cover as much ground as I had hoped. I haven't been to Louisiana in over 2 1/2 years, though that doesn't hurt my feelings in the least.

In less than 3 weeks will be Election Day, more importantly, it will be the day that the impending decision is made whether we keep the Socialist (Obama) in for another 4 years, or if we get the Socialist in sheep's clothing (Romney) for a term. Obviously I'm none too thrilled with either of them. I can honestly say we have absolutely nobody worthy to choose from this time around. The sad part is, too many people are voting along party lines, and the sheeple from both sides are running with the current "catch phrases", such as "War On Women". There's a "war on women" really?! Use a little logic and common sense! I've never seen military troops combing the streets looking for women to place in custody for interrogation; I've never seen women grappling with soldiers. What I have seen is woman, like many of their male counterparts, spewing vile comments in line with the talking points of the day in whichever direction the political winds happen to blow (i.e. spitting on a soldier in an airport, calling them "baby killers", reminiscent of Viet Nam).

Men and women need to open their eyes and wake up to what is going on in America... we are being handed a broken claw hammer and being told it's a power drill. It's interesting how we have either Obama or Romney to choose from, when people like Ron Paul have garnered some major support, yet haven't even gotten coverage from the lame stream media (I'm not a Ron Paul supporter either, so don't take that as an endorsement of his campaign). It's outright pathetic that people support Obama just because he's a Democrat, or Romney just because he's a Republican. If you take to the streets based on your gut (your inner convictions) and demand that our voices are heard, and that we choose the candidate, NOT some polls or Electoral College, then - and only then - can we get the candidate, and, ultimately, President that this country deserves; one that will do the job demanded of him.

With Sabbath approaching, I bid you all farewell, until the morrow.

Year 2, Day 275 (Off The Grid, Part 2)

As I had mentioned yesterday, Tikvah and I are out of town for our anniversary escape, so I am re-posting a couple previous blog posts from this past year. This is the second of two of the most popular posts in 2012. this, like yesterday's post, was authored by a guest blogger. Today's re-post comes to you from RebbeSoul: singer, songwriter, musician, and blogger.

When I got to Israel, I played a lot of weddings as a guitarist/sideman, particularly in Jerusalem. Often the material consisted of Reb Shlomo Carlebach's songs and that's how I learned many of them. He wrote something like 2000 songs, many of which are so popular and common in Jewish culture, people think they are traditional, folk songs. One of the most popular that I played was "Adir Hu." It's from the Jewish holiday of "Pesach" or Passover, the holiday that occurs at this time of year.

I love the scale and I love the groove. Naturally, when it came time to record the new RebbeSoul album, which was to consist entirely of the material of Reb Shlomo Carlebach, his "Adir Hu" was high on my list. Even though, I had played it often, recording it was anything but routine and expected. Here's what happened.

I was recording at the studio of Dan Gil, the Gearer Rebbe in Sharon, MA. Dan is called the Gearer Rebbe because he knows a lot about musical gear and is obsessed with it. He had just acquired some new equipment and instruments and one of them was a Turkish saz, sometimes called a baglama. I was at the studio for a few days and Dan kept telling me about the saz and how I should play it on the new album. "I don't know how to play saz. I don't even know the tuning," I replied. That didn't matter, he didn't stop trying to convince me to play it. At one point, he was setting up 4 mics in an elaborate configuration for something I was about to play and of course while doing so, he carried on about the saz. I finally conceded. "Okay, since you're busy doing this and I'm waiting, why don't you get me the saz and I'll see if I can do something with it?" As soon as he handed it to me, I strummed it once and knew it would be perfect for something. The Gearer Rebbe had quite an insight.

A Turkish saz

"Adir Hu" was exotic sounding to begin with, incorporating the fragish (Yiddish) or hijaz (Arabic) scale so that seemed like the right tune to choose for the saz. I used some of the strings as drones and whether or not that's part of the method of playing or not, it sounded good. So I stayed in the performance room for 3 hours figuring out how to play it and we got it all. I even laid down a 2nd track and the 2 sounded really good together. I was astonished at how well it came out and grateful that the wise Gearer Rebbe, Dan was so persistent.

I went back to Israel and was listening to the tracks. Although they stood well on their own, I wanted to add a few more things. I was just having too much fun with the song and didn't want it to end. I had made a stop in San Francisco on the tour before returning to Israel and went to one of my favorite music stores, Clarion Music, named after little Clara Hsu who is now a fully grown woman, by her loving father who founded the store. It's a wonderful place in San Francisco's Chinatown to explore non-Western instruments. I first discovered it in the mid-90s, with our percussionist in RebbeSoul, Cassio Duarte and both of us were like kids in a candy store. We were in San Francisco to play Great American Music Hall and Cassio heard about this store so we went there and didn't leave for a few hours. I got a dolak from Pakistan and used shortly afterward on "A Narrow Bridge" or "Kol Ha Olam Kulo" in Hebrew, on my Fringe of Blue album.

This time, in 2009, I was in Clarion music with my brother, Scott and his son Steven. We were having fun being tourists in Chinatown and this was one of our stops. I left with a jaw harp and some hand percussion from Viet Nam and China. When it came time to record the additional material for the song. I was tracking on my mobile recording studio in Israel and pulled out these new toys of mine and rolled a few tracks. I added some finger cymbals which I often use. You can hear them all over my recordings. Between the finger cymbals and the newly acquired Asian percussion, the top end was pretty well covered. The only thing missing was a deep sounding drum for the bottom end. All the drums I had to fit the bill were in the United States and I wasn't there at the moment. It was so hot in Israel, I was drinking bottles of water constantly and just polished one off. I gave it a bang and it sounded pretty good so I played "four on the floor" on the water bottle and that's what you'll hear on the track. It comes in toward the end and sounds like a big drum.

I had so much fun with this tune, I decided to do another take on it and record it again, only more techno or electronic as opposed to this version which was entirely organic, with all real instruments.

I jumped on the computer and came up with a short programmed drum part or a loop, as they are fashionably called. I added some synth sounds and created a nice bed for the new lead instruments. But what would they be? I took out my nylon string and it sounded divine, so soothing. I recorded it and didn't want to stop because I was having so much fun with the tune. I spotted my balalaika, sitting in the corner, being ignored so I picked it up and played a track of balalaika which sounded really nice too, totally different, but really nice. I liked them both and decided to use them, the balalaika at the beginning and the nylon string afterwards.

Me and my balalaika in NY; photo by Melissa Stonehill



I wanted an intense, groove-oriented bass part so I called up one of my very favorite bassists, Moran Baron who happens to live on a kibbutz just minutes away from me and he came over slammed a killer bass part. Moran has lots of ideas and usually lays them all down. Then it becomes an editing exercise to decide what to keep and what to discard. One must be brutally disciplined to discard anything he plays because it's always so musical. I loved what he played so much that I lengthened the song by a few minutes with a long ride-out at the end just to accommodate his many ideas. If you listen to the bass on the song, you can hear a variety of different ideas, all working well but all a little different from each other, especially at the end where he play 1/16 note harmonics. The long ride-out also allowed me to indulge myself, playing another one of my new toys, the jaw harp I got in San Francisco.

I called this track, "Adir Hu Revisited" and it's at the end of the album, just before the radio mixes. I liked the way it finished off the album, providing a long, late-night, college dorm kind of mood.

You can listen to "Adir Hu Revisited" on SoundCloud

RebbeSoul - singer, song writer, musician, recording artist, guest blogger:

At first glance, you would not label him as a Rabbi or a Rebbe. In fact, not even at a second glance, but RebbeSoul is a musical brand name who combines Jewish music with soul and jazz. Now he is coming out with a project renewing Carlebach nigunim (melodies) as instrumental pieces, unique from the more prevalent, Carlebach style and just as unique for the soul.

He made aliyah (moved to Israel) about 3 1/2 years ago and lives in Zichron Yaacov and, like many other Jewish, western, music creators, his heart lies in the east but his work originates far in the west. He was born in upstate New York and embarked on his musical career at the age of 22, when he moved to California. At age 12, he had a plastic guitar his parents rented for him "because they didn't believe that I would take the instrument seriously. I played at bars that I wasn't even allowed to enter because I was too young." he tells, "They just looked the other way, and let me play."

Like the classic Jewish mother, his own mother didn't see music as a worthy profession one can make a living at. With a degree in engineering and his guitar in hand, which he was much more attuned to, he traveled across the US to look for a his place. "I went out of my house in a snow storm and drove for 2 weeks until I finally got to sunny California, where I only had on a pair shorts and my guitar in the back of my car. I spent 3 months practicing about 10 hours a day, working on every style of music. I didn't care what it was."

(Excerpt taken from RebbeSoul's press page of his website, rebbesoul.com, where you can see his current touring schedule, or even order his amazing music - yes, that was a plug... and yes, I have several of his CD's).

He can also be found on YouTube, Facebook, and on ReverbNation, both as RebbeSoul, and with Shlomit Levi as Shlomit & The Rebbe.

Year 2, Day 267 (A Few More Days Until I'm Home)

Yesterday I had unloaded in Munster, IN (just outside of Gary) and - since my next load didn't have to pick up right away - I went over to Merrillville to do some wishful shopping at Guitar Center. I did this because for the past few months I've been pondering getting back into the D.J.'ing world. Since Panasonic no longer makes the Technics MK 1200 turntables (which were the turntable of choice by many "old school" jockeys), it looks as if I may - albeit reluctantly - be going the digital route.

After looking at a few things, toying with some equipment, and even Darren (one of the guitar Center reps) showing me some of the capabilities of one piece, I think I may be hooked... I was certainly drooling. Though the only setback is the financial aspect. To build from the ground up, the system I was compiling would cost around $10K... and that's not even including a basic lighting setup. At least I can still dream.

This has been a peaceful, and blessed Sabbath. Since I am due to be home on Tuesday, Monica (my Fleet Manager) arranged for a load swap for me, so instead of picking up today in Franklin Park, IL (on the west side of Chicago) and heading to South Carolina, I did a drop & hook last night in Chicago, going to Covington, TN... which will have me closer to home. Yes, HaShem is awesome!

May your day continue to be blessed!

Year 2, Day 266 (The Torah Cycle Re-Starts)

As the Sabbath approaches, so does the end of the Torah cycle. This last potion of the Torah is the only one that is not read on the Sabbath, but instead next Tuesday, on Simkat Torah (the giving of the Torah), the commemoration of when Moses received the Torah from HaShem on Mt. Sinai. The next Sabbath, 13 October, will be the reading from Parashah Beresheit (the first portion, also known as beginning in Genesis 1:1). Now that I have all the volumes for Daily Dose of Torah (series 1), I'll be able to keep up more with the various commentaries (there were a few times that I was on the road when a volume came in, so I had missed on a few days, sometimes a full week, of commentary). As such, I am contemplating the launch of a once weekly blog post, possibly called Journey Through Torah, or something like that.

Have a blessed Sabbath!

Year 2, Day 265 (What Are People Being Taught In Church?)

Yesterday, as I was scrolling through the Facebook postings, there was one topic that was being opened in debate: circumcision. There are many different opinions and viewpoints that exist for this topic as it is, but this thread was based more in the Bible, even using Scripture out of context (as is common within "the Church") to support the argument that circumcision is not necessary. At first I wasn't going to get involved in the discussion, but I felt the conviction of The Spirit of HaShem urge me otherwise. First I had pointed out that Yeshua (Jesus) never taught anything that was contradictory of The Torah. One person had even pointed out that circumcision was not required under the "New Covenant", to which I pointed out that in order for there to be a "New Covenant" (or Testament), that implies that the "Old" Covenant was flawed. When pressed further on that comment, I had pointed out that everything taught with the pages of the "New Testament" are there to bring a deeper understanding to what was already in The Tanach... and specifically in The Torah. Therefore to use the terms "New Covenant" or "New Testament" is an inaccuracy that more than likely originated from a poor translation, and that a proper rendering of that portion of the Bible should be "The Apostolic Writings".

Even though I had pointed out a few things, even addressing that circumcision is indeed a Scriptural mandate (the commandment from HaShem can be found in Genesis), I feel that those taking part in the discussion choose to stay firm in their belief (in other words, they are saying to HaShem that they know better than He), one woman even mentioning that, concerning food, she was NOT going to give up her pork and shrimp - which is complete disrespect to HaShem's Commandments).

How was your evening?

Year 2, Day 257 (Yom Kippur)

Today is Yom Kippur, translated in english as Day of Atonement. A day that we reflect upon the past year's events within our personal lives, seek forgiveness from those whom we may have done wrong, forgive those who may ask for it, and seek repentance from HaShem, our G-d. It was first implemented by the command of HaShem in Vayikra (Leviticus) 16:1-34, which is also one of the readings we have on this day. For those who are unaware, HaShem is Hebrew, which translates, literally, as "The Name". In Judaism, many (like myself) hold The Lord's name (one of many) in such high reverence, that we address Him as such, instead of speaking out His Holy Name. One of the spellings of His Name is referred to as the tetragrammaton (י-ה-ו-ה). This, when one comes upon it in Scripture, is read simply as HaShem, or it is even permissible to speak it out as, "the yod-heh (י-ה) as joined with the vav-heh (ו-ה)." Not to be misled, though, this is the same G-d that you study in the Bible, whereas Allah (in the quran) is not.

Yom Kippur is also spent as a day of fasting and praying. Anybody who has taken part in such will agree that the praying is easy, the fasting takes some discipline and devotion. For us, fasting is more than choosing one thing to refrain from eating and/or drinking, especially on Yom Kippur. On this day, we fast from all food and drink. Though, much like the Sabbath (and Yom Kippur is also observed as a Sabbath), exceptions can be made. If one has health issues where fasting could be detrimental, they are permitted to eat or drink (whichever would prevent danger of the health issue). In Judaism, life is precious.

The fasting has been relatively easy, though it proves much more difficult as I drive by restaurants. Though I continue to look to HaShem for the strength and endurance to carry on. Fortunately, I do not have a job that requires strenuous activity. I bless HaShem that He has given me the strength to carry on, as I will also bless Him at the end of this fast.

May you all be blessed!

Year 2, Day 253 (A Good Sabbath, A Sweeter New Year)

The weather has been getting cooler (which I enjoy) and the Sabbath has been blessed! As I make my way to Pennsylvania, I reflect upon the year that has just passed and what I can do to make this new year one that HaShem would bless. With Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement) approaching, I search my memory to try and purge my life of past sins and establish forgiveness, not just a forgiveness/repentance between myself and my G-d, HaShem, but also with my fellow man. Repentance is something that, for a long time, people have either dismissed or addressed with a lackadaisical attitude. However, in the years that I have been studying Torah and Jewish traditions, I've discovered that repentance/forgiveness is some that should not be handled in folly. It is something that shapes who you become. A forgiving heart grows a joyous spirit. That is something that I deal with continually and I hope the attitude of forgiveness doesn't revert back. Daily stress can be a hindrance to the process, even a distraction from forgiveness. But if we focus on the things that are most important (such as creating a joyous atmosphere around us), it develops into something that becomes "second nature" to us.

So if anyone has become bothered by anything that I have posted here, I do sincerely - and deeply - apologize. This blog is not meant to offend, belittle, nor derate anybody, but rather (and I hope this goal is reached) to bring awareness - hopefully an awakening - to things I have observed within the world as we know it. Should I offend you at any time, I encourage you to let me know, either on this blog (I always publish legitimate comments, but delete the spam), or via email (some of you have my phone number, so that's ok, as well). You will always receive a prompt, professional response.

May you all be blessed!!

Year 2, Day 252 (Music Is Not What It Used To Be)

Recently, while talking about music, my wife mentioned that I need to get "up to date." When on the road, I tend to listen to a lot of 70's rock, and 80's New Wave, with a few tunes mixed in from the 90's and 00's, mainly because they were songs that stood out for me. I've always maintained a couple key positions that I have come to learn about music and people. The first being that the style of music you listened to the most while you were in high school is the style that will stick with you for the rest of your life. For me, that was New Wave/Alternative (which is now referred to as "Classic Alternative"). The other position I've held is the the music industry has gone down hill over the past couple decades, with no sign of recovery. I have tried to get "up to date", but, honestly, what's out there doesn't cut the mustard. However reluctant I may be, I decided to take Tikvah's advice... perhaps music has changed.

In the past few days, I've been listening to the satellite radio stream playing the current hits, and there are a few out there that have caused me to sit up and take notice... not many, but a few. One such song actually became popular by way of a YouTube video (isn't that the way it's going nowadays?), and at first listen, I noticed (as with most "music" out there now) that it's nothing more than synth programming looped in repetition. After hearing this song a couple more times, I realized that it's underlying rhythms are infectious... about as infectious as "Party Rock Anthem" (and, actually, the two would blend great together). That song is "Gangnam Style" by an artist from Korea who goes by the name PSY:

Another song to note is one that Tikvah shared with me on Facebook of "Too Close" by British up-and-comer, Alex Clare (who's music for this song was recently used in a commercial for Microsoft Internet Explorer). Musically, it does use some current technology, but it's not overwhelming, and even adds to the lyrics, which, themselves, actually have substance and content (the video is pretty cool, too).

After listening to "the hits" (a term which, I feel, is being used loosely), I've come to realize a few things. One is that the music industry is putting music out there not entirely geared for radio airplay, but for the club scene. I say that, because those that are considered the latest hit, all seem to have the same steady kick rhythm (for the non-drummer, that refers to the bass drum) and all seem to be just a few BPM (beats per minute, a term common among D.J.'s) off from a perfect sync. After all, they have to make easy for the D.J., right? I was what you would call an "old school" D.J. The difference nowadays is that D.J.'s perform their gigs on computers. Not to take away from the technology, but the trouble there is it takes the fun out. All they have to do is pick out the songs they want to play, in the order they want them played in, and the program will do the beat-mixing for them. Back when I was spinning, we used turntables and vinyl records. We actually had to know the music (i.e. what songs have a similar tempo, what could blend well, etc.). With the turntables, there was a lever for adjusting pitch. If your incoming song was too fast or too slow, you could make the adjustment before you fade it in. We also did something known as "beat mixing" which was the art of mixing from one song to another without losing the dance beat... and was always fun, yet challenging.

For the most part, my theory is still intact... music today is not the same quality; there's no content, no structure, and more importantly, nobody is being groomed for longevity... the industry just wants what they can make into the "next big hit." I don't care for "Pound The Alarm" by Nicki Minaj, I can't stand "Whistle" by Flo Rida, and if we can get rid of Autotune, we might even get rid of a few no talent hacks in the process. Autotune is ok - if used sparingly, but when it's used throughout an entire song (Owl City does this), it gets old... QUICKLY.


Before I forget, one other good song (one of the few) is the recent offering by Train, called "50 Ways To Say Goodbye". I've never really been a big fan of theirs, but this song is catchy. It has the same steady kick beat to it (as most do, which I just mentioned), but it also underlies it with a Mariachi flavor, which gives it a unique feel. One more thing about that song (and Tikvah pointed this out... I must be rubbing off on her), try singing along to it, but instead of Train's lyrics, use the lyrics from "The Phantom Of The Opera" (yes the musical).

Go ahead... I dare you.


Shabbat Shalom!

Year 2, Day 248 (A Peaceful Day To Start Off A New Year)

I arrived just at midnight here in Clarksville, AR, though my delivery isn't until tomorrow. It turns out for the better, as today is Rosh HaShanah, the Jewish New Year. Unlike the Gregorian (or "civil") calendar that we commonly follow - which tell us it is the year 2012 - the Hebrew (or Lunar) calendar follows a different system of marking the years. According to Jewish tradition, the Lunar calendar dates back to when the ancient scribes and sages believe was the beginning of mankind. Therefore, the year we have just entered into is 5773... makes a little bit of a difference. There are still a few more weeks until the Torah study cycle begins again.

Anybody want to take up the challenge and join me in the weekly study portions? If so, let me know, and I'll be more that happy to share with you the weekly portions (especially if you are unfamiliar with them).

Year 2, Day 246 (Heading In The Wrong Direction)

I unloaded yesterday morning in Englewood, CO (in the Denver area) and just parked at the customer's facility in order to get a re-start on my logbook. This morning, I left out from there, had the trailer washed out (it was due, since I had just delivered a load of bagged rocks, and peat moss before that), then went just a few miles further to Henderson to get this load. I'm not too fond of this load for several reasons: a) it doesn't deliver until Tuesday afternoon (though I will be there tomorrow night), and, b) it's - in my opinion - heading to Arkansas, which is the wrong direction... but that's my personal preference.

It's been very nice being up in this region, and that's not just referring to the weather, though that has been quite pleasant as well. I've always enjoyed the peace and serenity that comes with traveling the western/northwestern areas. I find solace driving through the mountains and along the open roads... plus the traffic is much less of a headache to deal with. I'm especially looking forward to winter in the northwest. The snow just adds to the solitude... though my wife may disagree. Sure, there's more of a challenge driving a truck along snow ridden highways, but as long as you don't get too confident, everything will be just fine. I have had drivers pass me on snow-covered roads because I was going "too slow" for them. Yet, 15 - 20 miles down the road, I would see them stuck on the median, mainly because they were in so much of a rush, they lost control when they hit a slick spot.

Perhaps my return in this region will be soon... it makes for some pretty good posts.

... Ya think?

I hope you've had a pleasant and peaceful Sabbath.

I have (except for leaving the mountains behind).

Year 2, Day 245 (I Really Enjoy This Weather)

While in Casper, WY the other day, I decided (since I didn't pick up my load until the next morning) to pull the bike out and go for a ride. This ride really kicked my butt, with several factors in play. First, my previous rides and been on hilly terrain (where I live), so I rode up the hills in low gear and coasted down the other side. In Casper, however, it was much more level, which meant I was constantly pedaling. There were other things against me. I had done some "self-maintanence" on my brakes some time earlier, only to find that I had adjusted the front brakes too much, and with sunset approaching, I didn't want to lose the available light... besides, I thought it would give me more of a workout. I got more than I bargained for. My route was just under 5 miles, which was a little short from my previous rides. Fortunately, the weather then - as today - was pretty mild and cool.

Upon a little research, I was fascinated about the origin of this particular trail I took. It is part of the Rails-To-Trails Conservancy, which has converted old railroad branches to bike and walking paths (you can find out more about them at the above link), and have "rail-trails" in many states.

The Flying J truck stop (where my truck was parked) was just a short distance away from the mid point of the trail. I took Wyoming Ave north, to just the other side of I-25, where I entered the trail. At that point, the trail was still a dirt path, but once I headed west to Walsh Dr., was where it became a paved trail. I continued west on that and turned around between Lincoln and Grant streets. Needless to say, it was a harsh - but fulfilling - workout.

May your Sabbath be blessed with much joy and peace...

Shabbat Shalom!

Year 2, Day 239 (This Is My Kind Of Weather)

When I arrived in Tulsa on Wednesday, just before midnight, it was in the upper 70's/lower 80's; but when I shut down in Colby, KS early yesterday morning, it was in the mid-60's. The temperatures became gradually cooler from there, being in the low 50's in Sheridan, WY, where I parked early this morning. It's plain to see I had been able to make some progress yesterday, but was slightly delayed from the afternoon traffic in the Denver area. I'm running a bit tight on time, but I think I'll still be able to make my delivery on time Monday morning.

I've never been up to Edmonton, AB before, but after speaking with a driver that had, chances are my next load will come out of Alberta and deliver later next week in Denver. Either way, I will have to squeeze in a 34 hour re-start sometime soon.

This, so far, has been a lovely Sabbath, even though I am having to work. When I was in Minnesota earlier in the week, I had purchased one of the Banana Walnut breads from the store that stocks Amish goods, and have been snacking on it periodically.

It's pretty good, and it washes down well with milk.

Oh yeah... I also had Starbucks.

Year 2, Day 238 (Still Some Ground To Cover)

I left from Tulsa around 1900, a bit later than I had hoped, but I still got underway. I hoped to make it at least to Limon, CO, but only made it as far as Colby, KS. The upside to that is I'll be able to leave from here with a cup of Starbucks. I'm in the process of pre-scheduling a few extra posts since I'll be in Canada for a few days, this way TRS keeps its daily posting format. The weather in Colby is quite different than that of Tulsa. The other night Tulsa was in the upper 70's/lower 80's, but here it's in the mid 60's... so I know i'm going to enjoy the further travels up north.

Sabbath has come upon us once again, unfortunately I won't have the luxury of shutting down, since this load is due in Edmonton, AB on Monday morning. As my Rabbi once told me, to violate the Sabbath in the service of providing for my family is acceptable... it falls under the "sanctity of life". Either way, I will be looking forward to the peace that comes with the Sabbath, even though I am unable to rest in it. May your Sabbath be full of joy!

Shabbat Shalom!!

Year 2, Day 232 (I've Decided To Get A Re-Start)

I arrived in Clarksville, AR at 0045 this morning, shutting down at the truck stop just across the street from Walmart. I've enjoyed the peace that comes with the Sabbath, and the time I spend in this week's Torah portion. Tomorrow, though, I'll take off and head to Rogers, AR to pick up the load that will next take me to Tomah, WI for Monday afternoon. I'll try to cover as much ground as possible tomorrow, so Monday's work won't be as bad.

Tomorrow's post will be one of a foodie style. I'm in the process of making a smoked beef brisket with vegetables, and, so far, the results are looking quite nice.

The weather has been back to the typical humidity that Arkansas is known for. Fortunately I have an a/c unit that works quite nice. It's not the heat I have a problem with, it's the humidity of this region. If I want to be in a sticky atmosphere, I'll go into a sauna, that that's not likely to happen any time soon.

Where ever you may be, stay cool!

Year 2, Day 231 (What A Night)

My appointment to deliver this morning was for 0800. When I left from Pacific, MO at a little after 1900 last night I still had about 600 miles to go. I made it... and I was also able to make a stop at a Starbucks in the process. I arrived here at 0508 this morning, then napped until 0750. The running itself wasn't bad, it's having to do it through the night that takes a toll on you. What I'll be doing next is unknown, and really, at this point, I'm not too concerned. After all, I won't be able to drive again until 1508. The good thing about this whole ordeal is that Sabbath is - quite literally - around the corner. After these past few days, a day of rest is not only in order, but also will be well received.

May your Sabbath (if you observe) be blessed and full of joy! With Rosh HaShanah drawing near, may it be as sweet as the honey covered apples that usher in the New Year!

Year 2, Day 236 (This Week Is Nearly Over)

Today, being the Sabbath, is a much welcomed day, not only for its benefit of rest, but because it marks the end of this past week... which I do not care to repeat. Ever. I have found that when I spend time in the Scriptures daily, and try diligently to do no work on the Sabbath, but focus more upon G-d, the week I have just completed seems like a burden lifted, and the week to come is less stressful. This past week, though it was an anomaly, I view as more of a test. As servants of HaShem (God), and believers in Yeshua HaMashiach (Jesus the Messiah), we get spiritual tests in order to strengthen our faith and refine our character.

Though this past week was low on the productivity scale, HaShem gave me a peace and joy regardless of the sitting I had been doing, or the sudden hurdles that arose. Just so I'm not misunderstood, serving HaShem is a joy, not a burden... and He is certainly NOT a "quick fix" for all your problems. It takes devotion, study, and perseverance. Anything of a spiritual nature that can be fixed right away, won't last for very long. When we stay devoted to our studies, and keep our hearts focused on The Holy One, Blessed is He, then over time we can reflect upon our lives and attitudes and see what positive changes had transpired... we can see how our lives have been - and continue to be - transformed, by seeking His guidance, and studying His Scriptures for a deeper understanding of who He is. By doing so we also gain a deeper understanding of His Commandments (there's more than just 10).

If you have questions, feel free to drop me a line. I may not be a Torah scholar, but I will try to seek an answer, and send you in the direction that will give you your own deeper understanding of The Scriptures and their meaning.

Year 2, Day 233 (The Repairs Are Being Done)

This morning repairs began on the trailer in order to get me back on the road. The technicians that were working on it did so for a little over an hour, then left again, presumably to get other parts... though it's not exactly clear, as they didn't express so prior to leaving. When they did leave, I went to the back of the trailer to check the progress to find they still had some work ahead of them. It is all still in the hands of HaShem, my G-d (for those who may be unfamiliar with this Name, it is one of the Hebrew Names of G-d... one of the many Names. HaShem literally translates to The Name, implying that His Name - written in Hebrew as יהוה - is so sacred within Judaism, that we don't read it as it is written, but rather shorten it to HaShem).

Years ago (possibly even this time last year) I would have been fraught with frustration at such a delay because it detracts from my making money. What's happened now? I've been trying to be more focused and diligent in my involvement of Torah study. On the road I'm trying to become more disciplined in waking up at least 1 1/2 hours before I need to start driving for the day. During that time, I am going through that day's section of the weekly Torah portion (reading the commentaries of the various Sages, as well) and following it up with the Daily Dose of Torah section for that day. Trust me, this is not an easy path to navigate as I wasn't raised in Judaism, nor do I have a Rabbi or Torah scholar whom I can study under (where I live in Arkansas, the local idea of going to a deli is in making a trip to Walmart).

Though I have been here since early Sunday morning, I am still at peace. I can't change the circumstances. Besides, why would I even want to change them? Each day we are presented with a variety of decisions to make and paths to choose... we should also be willing to accept the consequences for those paths & decisions that we make, should they prove to be the wrong ones. Today it's become all to common that people do NOT want to take responsibility for their actions (a case in point is this news from 3 months ago, or this blog from yesterday - which includes a 4 minute video worth watching).

Every day is a learning experience. The question is... will you choose to learn from it, or blame somebody else that it happened?

You choose.

Year 2, Day 231 (Blessed Beyond Belief)

Yes, as the parenthetical title implies, I am blessed beyond belief. One would think that something spectacular has happened - it hasn't. In fact, I am still sitting here in Oak Creek, WI, waiting for the repair shop to get the parts needed to fix the brakes on the trailer (apparently, disc brakes on a 53' trailer are still considered uncommon), and the load going to New Jersey had been taken off of me. How much longer will it take to get the parts is unknown, as is what my next load will be... but one thing is certain, I am here for a reason, a purpose. In fact, we ALL have a purpose, not just to wander through life aimlessly or "try to be a good person."

I wasn't raised in Jewish traditions, in fact, quite the opposite. However, I have been try to live my life as if I had, which means I've been trying to catch up for the past several years. This past year I have been diligently trying to really get involved in studying the Torah, by taking each weekly portion and breaking it up unto daily readings, and accompanying it with that day's section of Daily Dose Of Torah. There have been several times where I fell behind, but I have made every effort to try to recoup. The point of all this is that, even though I'm sitting here waiting for the aforementioned part (or parts), then I'll have no real idea what my next load will consist of, or where I will head to, I am still blessed. HaShem blessed me with another day of life... He has blessed me with an awesome wife and four wonderful sons... I have a place to call home. These are things that all of us take for granted daily, yet very seldom are we thankful, TRULY thankful. I had been one. For some reason it's as if my heart has been overwhelmed with gratitude and joy.

HaShem, my G-d, is truly an awesome G-d!

Year 2, Day 229 (Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, New Jersey)

I waited a few hours after getting unloaded yesterday before I received my next run. Although about an hour earlier I received a message to head to the Tyson (UGH!) in Storm Lake, IA. I knew how to get to Storm Lake, but since there were no directions nor phone number that I could refer to, I stayed in Mason City until I could get such things. This load only goes to Ottawa, IL, then my next run doesn't pick up until Monday in Green Bay. That load I am NOT looking forward to, since it goes to New Jersey. I have come to loathe the east, from New Jersey to Georgia, and the states west of there (Louisiana, Mississippi, the Carolinas, etc.). I have been trying to get a load to the northwest for a couple months now, especially as of recently, since I have my bike on the truck with me. There are several reasons why I desire to go up to that area. One is the bike path in Woodinville, WA. Another is the bike same in the same, so I can get my bike looked at and tuned up. Since I am acquainted with the manager there, I trust them (plus I can get a few pointers on maintenance/tune ups), plus my brakes are feeling a little weak - since I've never worked on disc brakes, I'll leave it to somebody that knows what they're doing... and I don't trust basically any business in Arkansas, let alone just the bike shops (as few as they may be).

For some reason over the past few months, the CSR's at the company I drive for like keeping me in the east. I have driven the east so much in the past several years that I can't stand going out there anymore. Screw it! I'm so frustrated right now... I give up!

This being the Sabbath, I am trying very hard to leave it to HaShem's control... He knows better than I do anyway. People often wonder why I consider so few people as "friends". The reason being I just don't trust people in general. Very few I do trust, and that is the result of either a very long - and trustworthy - relationship, or being tied in together through adverse circumstances... sometimes a combination of both, which has culminated to form a strong bond between us. So, yeah, my list of "friends" is short. The years have taught me who I can fully trust.

Who do YOU trust?