One of the great things about specialized hauling is that it quite often takes me off the interstates and onto secondary highways, country roads, and sometimes even dirt roads. I don't make pick ups or deliveries at the large distribution centers but rather go to military bases, airports, farm implement dealers, and construction sites.
Today I delivered part of my current load to a small factory in Savanna, IL. They are having some construction work done and I delivered some aluminum cable trays to the electrical contractor there. They're basically supports for wiring. As Savanna is somewhat out in the country in North West Illinois, right on the Mississippi river, there is no interstate going there.
I ran across US52 to get to Savanna. It was a beautiful ride through the country. I saw the farms, small town, and country homes that make up real America. I also saw a number of prarie dogs crossing the road in various spots. Many seemed to be intentionally trying to get themselves killed by passing vehicles. One ran out in front of my rig and I cringed as I passed over it. It somehow managed to dodge all 18 wheels and kept going.
Today I saw more prairie dogs crossing the roads than I have ever seen in a single day before in my life. And they all seemed bent on suicide. Must suck to be a prairie dog I guess.
Anyway, I am settled in at the truckstop on the WI/IL line and will head out again Monday morning to deliver the balance of my load at the Children's Hospital in Milwaukee. Until then I get to rest a while.