These are a few pictures I took of Chimney Rock North Carolina.
Highway 64/74 junction North CarolinaHurricane Helene 2024Highway 64 Chimney Rock, NC
For the past month I have been working in Hendersonville North Carolina to aid in the cleanup from Hurricane Helene. I came up here on October 9th and we began to haul rock in to fix the damaged roads and the roads that were completely washed away. It is the most horrific scene I’ve ever witnessed in my life. The people of North Carolina have taken a hit so hard it will take years to clean up the aftermath of Helene. We are supposedly going to be here for a year but who knows. Thanksgiving is around the corner and will be going home for a week. There are about 20 drivers from Gainesville Georgia in my group that came up here to help. I want to give a shout out to all the DOT workers and the lineman and all the other people as well as my group who are aiding in this cleanup. There is a lot of devastation here and people who have lost everything. I’m not sure if everyone’s aware of how bad it is up here but just check out your social media and I will post some pictures to my platform here so you can get a better idea of what has happened here. I’ll give the people of North Carolina this, they are very resilient. It is very beautiful here and I’m proud to be helping to make it beautiful again. April Price
This comical sight is in Ozark Alabama at Our Place Diner. My husband and I stopped in here for a buffalo burger. It was pretty darn good.
If you’re a truck driver then you have more than likely been to a real truck stop, such as Love’s, Pilot, Flying J, and TA Truck Stops of America. Those are the main ones. Not to leave anyone out because we all have our little “Honey Hole” if you know what I mean.
One of my favorite truck stops is a “mom and pop” type truck stop. It is called” Kewanee One Stop”, located in Toombsuba, MS right off highway 20W at the state line of Alabama and Mississippi. They have the best BBQ I have ever had. They have old fashioned food like I grew up on. I am, what everyone is calling us, 70″s babies, GEN X, nowadays. I grew up on slaw dogs from The Dairy Mart in Oakwood GA where I was raised. Unfortunately it is no longer there. Kewanee has the same type of food, hamburger steak plates, fried shrimp plates, slaw burgers and chili dogs, slaw dogs and french fries. They will even make you a steak, baked potato, and a salad for “free” with a 200 gallon fuel purchase. The people are very nice and they have plenty of truck parking most anytime you go there. The only thing missing there is a shower. If you get diesel fuel there and you get 100 gallons you get a free dinner meal, if you get 200 gallons or more, they will fix you up that steak dinner with two sides, and a big glass of good old sweet tea. On my way to Texas, my husband and I would stop on the way in and again on the way out back to Georgia. Doug is the go to guy there. He is the owner. Tell him that a Peachstate Driver sent you!
Kewanee One Stop Toombsuba, MS
I have been to a big number of truck stops all the way to California and back to Georgia. I have seen some crazy stuff. Once I saw a man watering his circus elephants in the fuel line. I also saw the Idaho potato truck and had my picture taken and he gave me an Idaho potato pin for my shirt.
Me and the Idaho potatoCircus elephants at PilotWalmart parking lot in Locust Grove, Georgia This little guy is in Dallas, Georgia Red Bull AnyoneThis unique car was covered in pink ribbons supporting breast cancer awareness.
I have many more and some of you may have seen these places and odd occurrences yourself. As we all know being a truck driver never has a dull moment. Everyone be safe and take lots of pictures you’ll appreciate them one day.
You can visualize your dreams! This is my t-shirt!Most recent design
Get your very own personalized t-shirt made to order! If you can dream it I can probably make it. These shirts are made to order. They can be anything from you sailing on a boat or driving a Corvette or whatever your dream is I can create a design for your shirt for you. If you already know exactly what you want or you have a design, I can create the perfect personalized shirt you’ll be proud to wear. Below you’ll see some examples I made for my friends just to see how they liked them and some for Christmas gifts. These shirts start at $29.95 plus standard rate shipping each and they will be on my Printify store through woocommerce on this websit. Order yours today. It takes about 10 to 14(worst case scenario) days to actually receive your shirt after I have received the final approved copy of the design or when your design that I’ve created is approved by you.
The above pictures are just examples of what I can do
Get yours today. These shirts make great gifts or can be done for your bowling league, or fishing expedition, or anything you Want to show off to the world.
Show off your ride
**Subject to Printify Terms and conditions**
My website is brand new and if you are unable to order your T-shirt through Printify, you can send me an email and I can make it for you also, just shoot me what you want to realtruckersolutions@gmail.com
Be sure to include your name and your phone number please.
10% discount on your first t-shirt first if you mention that you saw this ad on realtrucker solutions.com
The topic on a lot of people’s minds this New Year’s Day is how they can organize and declutter their personal spaces and that goes for for the over the road truck drivers as well in their commercial trucks. It can and is a daunting task for home or truck but I hope the following information will help or at least get you thinking in the right direction to save time and money by being more organized!
I have compiled a checklist of sorts to help you declutter and organize your home or your truck. I made this list for myself first and thought that you all could probably use this list also to help get your new year started off right. I’m sure these are not the only tips, but some very useful ones. Happy cleaning and organizing!
You can do it! One space at a time.
Declutter Regularly
– Schedule monthly decluttering sessions. At the beginning of the month or pick a time to do this step but it is very important when you get started.
– Use the “one in, one out” rule: when you buy something new, get rid of something old. This is just a rule of thumb that could be very helpful if you have trouble parting with things. In a truck you have limited space anyway so plan carefully what you actually need in your truck. (below I will list some things specifically truck related)
Use available Storage methods
– Invest in bins, baskets, and shelves. (to suit your needs; if your storage space is viewable, you might want the more stylish baskets)
– Always label your baskets or bins, storage containers. Use clear containers when you can. It’s easy to determine what’s inside.(this will save time later when you need to find something in a hurry)
Create Activity Zones
– Designate certain areas for different activities (e.g., work, relaxation, hobbies, reading).
– Keep related items together. (creating these zones will keep your items somewhat separated)
Clean as you organize
Utilize all Closet Space
– Use vertical space with shelving (for things such as purses, shoes, hats that tend to end up on the floor or falling off hooks)
– Consider under-bed storage for seasonal items.(seasonal clothing, shorts, or winter attire. Or any items that you see fit)
Organize a Cleaning Routine
– Set a weekly cleaning schedule.(whether it be a housekeeper or your family)
Start today
– Involve the whole family to share responsibilities. (this way no one person is overwhelmed by chores)
Digital Organization
(In this modern tech world we live in, we now have this)
– Organize digital files and photos. (clean out any duplicates or files you don’t need anymore) – Use cloud storage for easy access and backup.
5 Tips for Organizing Your Truck
I know there are a million more but here are the 5 I thought most important or necessary.
Keep Essentials Accessible
– Store items you use the most in the glove compartment or center console, within a hands reach.
– Use seat covers with pockets for easy access to things such as your wallet, or sunglasses, chapstick, gum or mints, phone chargers, snacks, or a cooler for your drinks.
Use Organizers
– Put trunk organizers or cargo nets to keep items secure.
– Use small bins to separate your tools such as a hammer, screwdrivers, sockets and wrenches, and another bin for emergency supplies including a poncho and an umbrella, a flashlight and extra batteries just to name a few.
Routine Cleanouts
– Schedule regular cleanouts to remove unnecessary items like receipts or extra jackets and clothing or items purchased or dirty laundry.
– Dispose of trash and recyclables right away as a precaution against pests such as ants or flies.
Emergency Kit
– Keep an emergency kit with essentials (first aid items, flashlight, extra batteries, and water).
– Make sure it’s easily accessible but secure.
Maintain your Routine
– Be sure to keep good habits and clean each day
– Keep a checklist for items to replenish such as paper towels, hand sanitizer, sanitary wipes, or cleaning supplies.
Below I have included a basic checklist to help you keep your home and or truck in tip top organization. There are certainly other methods of creating a good environment to complete our day to day without it being a 3 ring circus to when we have to spring into action on the job or at home. You will thank yourself later when you can find everything and save yourself so much valuable time.
P.S.I am currently decluttering my own things, my car for one, my closet and my outdoor building so there will probably be part 2!
Cheers to your organization journey in 2025, Happy New You!
2025 Organization checklist
CHECKLIST:
1. Assess Your Current Space
[ ] Evaluate each room for clutter.
[ ] Sort items into:
[ ] Keep
[ ] Donate
[ ] Trash
[ ] Identify problem areas that need attention.
Create a Systematic Organization Plan
[ ] Choose a room to start with.
[ ] Make a checklist of tasks for that room.
[ ] Designate specific zones for different activities.
3. Utilize Smart Storage Solutions
April
[ ] Identify furniture with built-in storage.
[ ] Install wall-mounted shelves or hooks.
[ ] Purchase clear containers for easy visibility.
Being Prepared can eliminate the tax season stress.
Oh no I got a 1099 what do I do? I didn’t save any money!
If you’re a truck driver working as an independent contractor and receiving a 1099 instead of a W-2, tax season can feel a little overwhelming. Being informed and being prepared makes a big difference. Don’t worry you’re not alone. Unlike employees, who have taxes withheld from their paychecks, independent contractors are responsible for managing their own taxes. This means staying organized, estimating and paying taxes quarterly, and making sure you’re prepared before tax deadlines.
If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a 1099 form and wondering what to do next, this guide is for you.
What Does It Mean to Be on a 1099 Instead of a W-2?
When you’re on a W-2, you’re considered an employee, and your employer takes care of withholding income taxes, Social Security, and Medicare payments from your paycheck. They also match a portion of your Social Security and Medicare taxes.
However, when you’re on a 1099, you are classified as an independent contractor. This means that NO TAXES ARE WITHHELD FROM YOUR PAY!
– You are responsible for paying both the employee portion and the employer portions of Social Security and Medicare taxes known as the “self-employment tax”.
– You are responsible for making “quarterly estimated tax payments” to the IRS for yourself.
Steps to Take Control of Your Taxes as a 1099 Truck Driver
1. Understand the Self-Employment Tax:
As a 1099 worker, you will owe the self-employment tax, which is currently 15.3% of your net earnings, which is what is left out of your check besides your deductions. The 12.4% for Social Security and 2.9% for Medicare and this is in addition to your regular income tax.
For example, if you earned $80,000 as a truck driver and had $20,000 in business-related expenses, your taxable income would be $60,000. You would still owe self-employment tax on that $60,000, plus income tax based on your tax bracket.
You could get with your professional income tax preparer and they should be able to tell you what tax bracket you are in and help you with any other questions you might have.
2. Track All Your Income and Expenses
Keeping detailed records is essential for anyone on a 1099. This will help you calculate your net income and identify deductions that can reduce your taxable income. Keep everything because you never know what you’re going to need. It would be a smart thing to get yourself some type of receipt holder like a pouch with several dividers or just a shoe box will work or whatever you can do to keep these things in order. If you don’t need them at the end then throw them away but at least you have them. Stay up to date on the tax laws and the rules if you can. You can save yourself a lot of money if you do these things.
Income:
– Save all your 1099 forms (you will receive one from each company you’ve worked with if you earned $600 or more).
– Keep a record of any additional income, even if it wasn’t reported on a 1099.(such as sales of items on social platforms or services you perform for cash money
Expenses:
As an independent contractor, you can deduct many business-related expenses. Common deductions for truck drivers include but are not limited to:
– Fuel costs
– Maintenance and repairs
– Truck lease payments
– Insurance premiums
– Lodging and meals while on the road (subject to per diem limits)
– Licensing fees
– GPS and other trucking tools
– Cell phone and internet costs (if used for work)
Make sure to keep receipts, invoices, and other documentation for all your expenses. If you plan to do your taxes yourself, do your homework so that you don’t make simple mistakes. If you are hiring a professional they will tell you what deductions you can use.
3. Estimate Your Quarterly Taxes
The IRS requires independent contractors to pay taxes quarterly. This helps them avoid penalties for underpayment at the end of the year. Quarterly taxes are due on the following dates:
– April 15 (for January–March income)
– June 15 (for April–May income)
– September 15 (for June–August income)
– January 15 of the following year (for September–December income)
Set reminders on your calendar or a sticky note on your desk. Whatever it takes to remind you so that you don’t get into trouble. I am currently going through a Tax Court case myself right now. Staying on top of these things will make sure they won’t come back to bite you in the rear later.
To estimate your quarterly taxes:
1. Calculate your expected annual income.
2. Subtract your deductible expenses to determine your taxable income.
3. Use the IRS tax brackets and self-employment tax rate to estimate how much you’ll owe for the year.
4. Divide that number by four to determine your quarterly payments.
The IRS provides Form 1040-ES to help you calculate and submit your quarterly payments.
4. Set Aside Money for Taxes
A good rule of thumb is to set aside 25-30% of your gross income, which is the amount you made before anyone took out anything, to cover federal and state taxes. You could open a separate savings account for your tax payments so you’re not caught off guard when quarterly deadlines roll around.
5. Take Advantage of Deductions and Credits:
Deductions can significantly lower your taxable income. In addition to the expenses mentioned earlier, don’t forget about:
– Depreciation: If you own your truck, you can deduct its depreciation over time.
– Health Insurance Premiums: If you pay for your own health insurance as an independent contractor, you may be able to deduct these costs.
– Retirement Contributions: Contributions to a SEP IRA, SIMPLE IRA, or solo 401(k) can reduce your taxable income.
6. Use Tax Software or Hire a Professional:
Even with the best intentions, taxes can get complicated. Consider using tax software designed for self-employed individuals, like TurboTax Self-Employed or QuickBooks. These tools can help you track deductions, calculate quarterly payments, and file your taxes.
Alternatively, hiring a tax professional who specializes in trucking or self-employment taxes can save you time and ensure you’re maximizing your deductions.
7. Don’t Forget State Taxes:
In addition to federal taxes, you may owe state income taxes. Some states also have specific rules for independent contractors, so be sure to research the requirements in your state.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay Quarterly Taxes?:
Failing to pay quarterly taxes can result in penalties and interest from the IRS. These penalties can add up quickly, so it’s essential to stay on top of deadlines. If you’ve already missed a payment, make it as soon as possible to minimize penalties.
Final Thoughts:
Handling taxes as a 1099 truck driver may seem daunting at first, but with pre-planning and organization, it is manageable. By tracking your income and expenses, setting aside money for taxes, and making quarterly payments, you can avoid surprises during tax season.
If you’re feeling unsure or overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to a tax professional. They can help you navigate the process and ensure you’re staying compliant with IRS regulations.
Remember, tax season is just around the corner—so take the time now to get your finances in order. Your future self will thank you!
I hope all my readers are enjoying the content I write for these blogs and posts on my site. If there is a topic you would like me to research, just shoot me an email because I don’t really have my website ready to leave comments or ask questions yet! I will get there. It is just me managing this site so bear with me and stay tuned for more helpful tips and current events.
Are you one of those people who gets frazzled at the end of your “Christmas to do list”, and can’t get it wrapped up?
Well I’m here to help! I have created a checklist to be sure you get all your gifts and no one is left out, and all your other Christmas errands and chores get done before Christmas Eve.
1.Gifts:
[ ] Finalize your gift list.
[ ] Purchase any remaining gifts.
[ ] Wrap gifts also check supplies,
Tape, bows
Wrapping paper
Tags
[ ] Write gift tags or finish cards and make sure if you are mailing them, get them done and in the mail. (Christmas is the busiest time for mail).
Tied up with ribbons and bows…
[ ] Make sure your gifts are labeled and organized
2. Decorations
[ ] Check Christmas lights for burnt-out bulbs
[ ] Set up Christmas tree and decorate
[ ] Hang stockings.
Don’t forget stocking stuffers
(Don’t forget your four legged friends)
[ ] Arrange other decorations (wreaths, candles, garlands, outdoor decorations).
[ ] Create a festive atmosphere for your guests (candles, scents mistletoe).
3. Food & Beverages
[ ] Plan the Christmas menu (breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert).
[ ] Prepare or order any special dishes in advance or thaw meats like your turkey or ham. Prep any items you can do ahead like chopping onions slicing or dicing etc.
4. Holiday Cards
[ ] Write and address holiday cards.
[ ] Mail your cards to friends and family to be sure they are received before Christmas.
[ ] Keep track of who received cards.
5. Activities & Events
[ ] Confirm your family get togethers for Christmas, church or events, and answer R.S.V.P’s.
[ ] Schedule any last-minute activities (movies, games, Caroling).
[ ] Prepare any necessary supplies for activities (games, crafts).
6. Stocking Stuffers
[ ] Buy small gifts for stockings.
[ ] Fill stockings and arrange them.
7. Personal Preparation
[ ] Plan your holiday outfit (for gatherings) take any clothing or linens to the dry cleaner and schedule their pickup in time for your holiday festivities
[ ] Schedule time for self-care (hair appointment, nails done, unwind).
[ ] Set aside time for family activities or traditions like caroling or exchanging gifts with people besides your immediate family.
8. Final Touches
[ ] Double-check the gift list to ensure everyone is covered.
[ ] Be sure all decorations are in place and packages placed under the tree and the mistletoe is hung
[ ] Prepare a clean-up plan for after the celebrations.
9. Relax & Enjoy
[ ] Take a moment to breathe and reflect on the season and the positive aspects of the year and year to come I’ll.
[ ] Enjoy time with family and friends from near and far left!
I hope this helps you stay on top of things this year so it won’t be stressful and chaotic but instead a happy, memorable time. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone.
I just wanted to pop in and say I hope everyone is enjoying this Christmas holiday season. This year has flown by. A lot of action packed days this year. I’ll have to admit the first couple of months of 2024 were scary for me. I had to scrounge for money due to the bad weather in December and January. It determines my work. This December however, is looking good. I have had steady work all year. I’m on my way home to bake cookies and make fudge and some buckeyes, my brother’s favorite. I’m still undecided about what to take to the Christmas cook out at work. I’m thinking dessert but I want to impress everyone with the best! Anyway I have lots of fun and Interesting articles I’ve been working on all week. I hope to publish all 4 tonight! Happy holidays everyone.
I have found that lately I complain more than I am grateful or thankful. I didn’t realize this until me and my bestie got together and all I did was gab on and on about this situation and that situation and I don’t like this and I don’t like that. I have so much to be thankful and grateful for so I made a conscious effort not to complain about traffic, having to got to work early, getting off late, working on Saturdays, its cold out, its raining out, my darn old car, my little paycheck, my messy house, my big fat body! You get the idea, I changed it up, Thank God I am getting to work all week and on Saturdays. That means it was better than last winter already because we are half way through winter and we are still plugging away! I am thankful that my older car is still getting me to and fro and back home again. I am thankful that I got to drive my truck to North Carolina and help those people up there. You go up there complaining to yourself about stuff that don’t really matter and look around at what they could be complaining about but they aren’t, they are just working and working to get back that little bit of normalcy they once had before the hurricane. My life is grand and the things I have to be thankful for far outweigh the things I complain about! BE THANKFUL AND GRATEFUL FOR RIGHT NOW. Everyone have a great week out there on the road or wherever you are this week.
Read carefully and take notes if you need to. This article will guide you in the right direction.
Obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a required step for anyone looking to pursue a career being a truck driver. This guide will take you step by step through the process of getting your CDL, from understanding the requirements to passing the necessary tests.
Understanding CDL Classifications
Commercial Driver’s Licenses are divided into three main classes:
Class A CDL
Allows operation of combination vehicles
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) over 26,000 pounds
Typical vehicles: Tractor-trailers, truck and trailer combinations
Class B CDL
Allows operation of single or combination vehicles
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) over 26,000 pounds
Typical vehicles: Straight trucks, large buses, segmented buses
Class C CDL
Used for smaller commercial vehicles
Designed for vehicles transporting hazardous materials
Typical vehicles: Passenger vans, small buses, vehicles with hazmat placards
Minimum Requirements
Before applying for a CDL, you must:
Be at least 18 years old (21 for interstate ((out of state)) driving)
Hold a valid standard driver’s license
Be able to read and speak English sufficiently to communicate with law enforcement
Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination
Pass a drug screening
Step-by-Step CDL Acquisition Process
Your Pre-Trip Inspection is key in passing your CDL tests.
1. Go pick up a CDL Manual from DMV (there is a link at the bottom of this article where you can download the manual without having to go into the office)
Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT)
Passenger Transport
Tank Vehicles
Double/Triple Trailers
School Bus
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Website
State DMV Websites
Professional Truck Driver Associations
Get the official CDL manual from your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
Study the manual thoroughly, covering:
Traffic laws
Safe driving techniques
Vehicle inspection procedures (Pre-Trip)
Cargo handling
Special endorsements (such as Tanker endorsement, passenger endorsement, for driving a bus, doubles, triples and hazardous materials)
2. Prepare for Written Knowledge Tests (STUDY, MEMORIZE)
Key areas of study include: General knowledge, coupling, and air brakes. The test is broken down into three very important parts. Memorize, take practice tests online.
Basic control skills
Vehicle inspection(PRE TRIP INSPECTION)**
Safe driving practices
Transportation regulations
Cargo handling and securing
Specialized endorsements (if applicable)
3. Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
Pass the written knowledge tests
Pay required fees
Hold the CLP for a minimum period (typically 14 days) before skills test
Must be accompanied by a licensed CDL holder during practice driving
4. Additional Endorsements
Depending on your career goals, consider these specialized endorsements:
5. Skills Test Preparation
Practice driving with a licensed CDL holder
Take professional driving lessons or attend a truck driving school (Required in Georgia) you can no longer just study yourself and go take the test, you must attend a school.
Know the vehicle inspection procedures (learn the jargon)
Practice backing up, turning, and maneuvering large vehicles
6. Pass the CDL Skills Test
The test typically includes three components:
Vehicle Inspection Test (Pre-Trip)
Basic Control Skills Test
Road Test
7. Final Steps
Pay all required fees
Submit necessary documentation
Receive your CDL
Maintain a clean driving record
Estimated Costs
CDL Training Program: $3,000 – $10,000
Written Test Fee: $10 – $50
Skills Test Fee: $50 – $200
License Issuance Fee: $20 – $100
Tips for Success
Start preparing early(read and memorize the DMV book) Only the sections you need.
Consider professional truck driving schools (Grants may be available)
Practice consistently
Stay physically and mentally prepared
Maintain a clean driving record
The real truth:
Obtaining a CDL requires dedication, preparation, and commitment. By following these steps and investing time in study and practice, you can successfully launch a rewarding career as a truck driver.
My thoughts and input:
I got my CDL at the age of 50. I went to my local department of Labor and I was a displaced worker because of covid. I was then eligible for a grant to go to school and there were many options you could pick. My husband and I had been over the road truckers, I didn’t drive though, for almost 11 years before he passed away. I had gotten my learner’s permit literally six times counting renewing it. I still did not know how to drive the truck really. I could drive an automatic down the road with my learner’s permit when he was tired but that’s not how you’re supposed to do it. Because of my husband’s heavy workload, he was unable to teach me how to drive. When I got the grant it took a year with all the hoops you have to jump through and hurdles to actually start school. Finally it all came together. I’ll give you a piece of advice that helped me the most is studying the book and taking practice tests online. Be sure that you’re taking practice tests on the official department of motor vehicles website because the others could give you wrong information. I have included a link to get the latest information from the DDS official study guide. It is downloadable and printable. Mind you I am not an expert or an official on any of this information, I was just sharing my experiences and that’s all I can go by. I’m sure there are other websites that you can go to and find more information, don’t stop here. There are so many resources out there and avenues you can take other than this probably but this is a good starting point.
