Life in the Truck Driver's Seat: Tony's Story

He isn't what most people would consider the stereotypical truck driver. Sure, he listens to country music and enjoys being out on the open road, but that's pretty much where the stereotype ends.

A former bodybuilder and self-described gym rat, Tony was looking for a career that would allow him to increase his earning potential while still being able to enjoy time with his 5, yes, FIVE boys. His goal was to eventually go from working for a company to become an owner-operator, which is what he does now. He doesn't recommend getting into it right away, though. More on that later.

So how did a bodybuilder get into trucking? Well, much like Brian, it became somewhat of a family business. Tony's older brother was already a professional truck driver, and the lifestyle appealed to him. He had previously been working in sales, but did not like the uncertainty of his paycheck, since it was totally based off commission earned. Since he has five children, he felt much more comfortable knowing how much (or at least the minimum) he would be bringing in each month.

Holidays on the Road: 5 Holiday Tips for Truckers and their Families

Many people work during the holiday season but, unlike truckers, most of these people have a negligible commute. For truckers, their job IS their commute. Truck drivers often have to travel far distances, which creates the very real possibility that they will be unable to make it home in time for a holiday celebration. While this isn't and ideal situation for any family, there are definitely ways to make the most of the time you do have with your trucking loved one, and create special memories and traditions that are all your own. Here are a few tips to get through the holidays when you're a part of the trucker tribe:

How OTR Truckers Successfully Maintain Relationships Long Distance

If you are a trucker (or a trucker's loved one), you know the sting of having to spend a holiday apart. While a holiday like the 4th of July may not be as tough to get through as Christmas, it still isn't easy to mark off those dates alone. If you're creative, however, you can still find ways to feel connected over holidays, as well as any regular day, enough to where you feel as though you are right there with your favorite people. Thanks to modern technology, we are fortunate enough to have many different options for keeping in touch with those who matter.

Top Blogs and Forums that Truckers Love

Being a trucker is a unique but often lone-wolf occupation. Some days you may feel like Rambo, trying to navigate your way through your route, defeating all the obstacles that come up along the way. Believe it or not, there are lots of people just like you who can relate, and a few of them are sharing their stories along the way. There are also forums available that allow fellow truckers to ask each other questions, rant about traffic, and rave about restaurants or truck stops on their routes. We have scoured the internet and found some of the great forums and blogs that we think you'll find entertaining and useful. So next time you're stuck waiting on a load, you won't lack for something to do.