Commercial Driver's License in progress...

 

Getting the Storage Unit emptied and Trailer Loaded Again.

I have made it to Phoenix and have begun the process of getting my Commercial Driver's License for the job in Alaska.  I have passed my background check, physical, drug screen, and had my first try at passing the CDL test at DMV.  Scored only 72% after one day of studying.  Need an 80% to pass.  Had the first day of classes/orientation with staff from Alaska, got to ride on the bus (40' long) and meet others in the training class.  Needless to say, I am getting excited about the prospect of spending the summer in Alaska.

 



New Ladder Rack on Outside of Trailer (bef and aft)

(note the patch in front of the top of ladder... where I rammed a branch through the side of the trailer)

 



I have just $40 left in the bank (cost $25 for the CDL, $10 for the Passenger endorsement, and $10 to get SD drivers license replaced with AZ drivers license and nearly $100 in gas from Quartzsite and learning my way around Phoenix).  Nine more days until I have more money - good to have food and water on board.

 

Whoops!!!  That nose of the kayak was suppose to fit in that shelf.  I had to cut a notch out of the lower shelf, in order to get the kayak into the trailer. Then I had to prop up the back end.  (but wait, I think I put it in backwards... turned around, I think it will fit????  When I catch up with the trailer again (left it in Quartzsite), I'll try that!)  (Yes, sometimes I'm slow!)

 

Finally, everything I own is once again sitting on wheels.

 

I'm going to study hard and hope to retest on Tuesday and then begin working on the sketching commissions that I've received.  I sure could use some more art commissions.  See samples of my work at  http://swankiewheels.blogspot.com/2011/09/recent-art-work-sketches-for-gasoline.html .

I have been asked to do a sketch of my rig with me in the sketch.  I will be creating that after I catch up on earlier commissions received.  Then I will be having numbered reproductions made, limited number of 100.  Number 3 has already been sold.  These will be sent to anyone donating a minimum of $20 to the Alaska Ferry Fund.

Thank you all for your continued encouragement and support.