This end of season stuff is getting long. It always is. This however is the first year that Krl and the hound boys and girls have been here to experience it. Therein lies the problem. Some of the normal things that I do out here breaking camp, I have not been able to do. Like taking down our small fence and loading the large container that stores the dog food. Add to this our resolve not to hurry or force it and it is just not happening.

Our yesterday was consumed with payroll. Most of the guys said there was no rush, Rather than get a full killer check one week and a small check the following week they would wait until they got the "Mother" of all checks. Then they bother me all afternoon Monday and Tuesday morning wondering where there checks are! The hold-up is that the co-op can't read fuel pumps until either late Wednesday or sometime Thursday. So Krl was needing a few things and I asked (O.K., strongly suggested) her to ride into town when I express mailed the regular (but not final) payroll. She reluctantly agreed and we made our way to Garden City where I was told "Yes, we can do that but it won't get there until Thursday". I wanted to argue because Garden City to Abilene has only been one day delivery all season. They assured me that if I would go to Big Spring or Midland, delivery would be guaranteed. Since Big Spring was closer we set out on our way! When we arrived there I stood in line, filling out the label and listening to the clerks. I heard one conversation about express mail and didn't like what I heard. When it was my time at the window I was told "No guarantee, you need to go to Midland," I did a quick assessment and it was just as close to drive them to Roscoe and let payroll be dispersed from there since most of the people live around there. I did have a brain storm though and started trying to call the loudest squeaky wheel! I figured if we made contact he could meet me and cut our drive time in half. Didn't happen. We drove the wheels off my truck all the way to there, made the drop off and drove back. The only highlite was we got to pick something up for supper. Krl didn't appreciate the drive and clammed up and frowned all the way to and from there. I think one thing she sometimes forgets is that on occasion job managers have to do things we would not choose to do voluntarily, I did not leave the compound with the intent of going all the way to Roscoe, but the best laid plans of mice and men........

I have now revisited our decision not to hurry and I think it is time for the full court press! Press on!! As soon we have good light I am out of here and hooking up. Our temperature is currently thirty-four and by the time I get it all done it should be approaching the predicted high for the day. Should make for an uneventful trip to Abilene. I will take tomorrow to unload and store jobsite equipment and then Charles and I will return Friday to get the last two travel trailers.

FATHER, please bless this day and our efforts. Lead us to our home. I pray for all those needing YOUR healing, physically, spiritually, emotionally. I ask YOUR blessing on them all. To YOU be the glory, great things YOU have done!