As many of you know from previous blogs, I’m involved with “Trucker Buddy” International.” This year my second grade class is located in Manheim, PA. I’ve been communicating throughout the year with the teacher and students to provide information about life on the road. Also, I send brochures, maps, post cards and various other materials from places I’ve been. The kids have sent me letters, pictures and ask questions about my home life and the trucking business. The teacher provides and plans learning lessons surrounding my location and activities. If my schedule allows, I try to stop and make a visit in person.
Each year, I enjoy getting to know the students from the new class which has been assigned to me from the Trucker Buddy Organization. It’s great to get home from the road and open the package awaiting me from the children. The pictures display each child’s view of our world. They always ask me lots of questions and I make sure to answer each one. A question can be as simple as “what is my favorite color?” to “what is your favorite state?”
Last week when I arrived home, another package was sitting on the kitchen counter from the class. As I opened the large envelope, I was surprised to receive hand-made Christmas cards from each student in the class. Each one was different and included all the holiday spirit they could muster in a card. Honestly, it warmed my heart to the core. It was so nice of them to think of me during the Christmas season. I also received a video of the class singing Christmas Carols. This was definitely a highlight to my week. These kids are very special and I appreciate their thinking of me.
I’m glad to be involved in the Trucker Buddy program and would recommend it to any driver out there who enjoys communicating with children. For me, the rewards far outweigh the time I’ve invested. For more information on the program you can visit http://truckerbuddy.org/