RUNNING I-80 BETWEEN CA & UT
BY DRIVER & POET TREVOR HARDWICK
This month’s poem, which is actually called “Poetry - in Motion” describes a stretch of highway that many of us know very well – Interstate 80, between San Francisco, California and Salt Lake City, Utah. This is the time of year when I don’t really envy anyone who has to run that route, especially when you’re pressed for time. I do, however, have fond memories of running that way a few years ago on a regular basis. This month, I dedicate this article (which just so happens to also be called “Poetry in Motion”) to those of you who are cuttin’ a path across this particular trail this winter. Keep it safe out there and try to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery around you. God Bless you all and Happy New Year!
POETRY - IN MOTION
By Trevor Hardwick
Cheaper fuel and parking spaces,
Teardrops fall on children’s faces.
Time and money, running races,
‘Round and ‘round and ‘round.
All the miles stacked up behind me,
They are gone, but they remind me.
If you need me, you will find me,
Headed out of town.
Grab a gear, and I start flyin’,
All the yardstick signs are lyin’.
Keep on truckin’, keep on tryin’,
Won’t be home tonight.
Drivin’ rain and wind is blowin’,
Cold enough it could start snowin’.
Can’t waste time, I must be goin’,
Beat the morning light.
Donner Pass and I’ll be chainin’,
Reno/Sparks and I’ll be gainin’.
Winnemucca - it starts rainin’,
Now I’m makin’ time.
Call the wife, she sounds worried,
Weather calls for snow and flurries.
80’s closed, I’m in a hurry,
Charge it like a bull!
Wells, Nevada - getting colder,
Wendover - I hit the shoulder.
Keep on going, can’t pull over,
Parking lot is full!
Salt Lake City - two more hours,
Park the truck and take a shower.
Food for thought, fuel for power,
Then I’ll shut ’er down.
Catch a nap - sleep like a baby,
Breakfast biscuits soaked in gravy.
Joanne’s Truck Stop, south of 80,
Just southwest of town.
Need a shot of strong caffeine,
Coffee tastes like kerosene.
Grab a 10-4 Magazine,
And head on out the door.
Flip to “Poetry-in-Motion,”
Unload, reload, over-grossin’.
Point my rig back toward the ocean,
Do it all once more!