What do I do for a living?

Besides aggravate the crap out of my wife (and children, too), I am a Detention Officer for the Maricopa County (AZ) Sheriff's Office. That's the job that takes care of my health insurance and retirement. My other job is a motorcoach operator (bus driver) for American Explorer Motorcoach. I used to drive tour buses as a full-time profession, but realized that I couldn't support my family very well and would have to do it til I died to make any money. I saw some pretty wonderful things over the road (Canada, Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, all of New Mexico). However, all those things lost meaning because I was all alone. I was in Canada the day of one of my anniversaries (sorry, honey, can't remember which one). While the place I stayed and the area we were in was absolutely the most beautiful place I had ever seen, it stunk because I couldn't share it with the love of my life. I once spent a week in Northern California in a Motel 6 by myself doing absolutely nothing while the Church group I brought to a camp, well, camped. Such is the life of a motorcoach operator.

As a Detention Officer, I also drive buses. The clientele don't tip as well, and their stories are a little less uplifting than most. I have been with the County four years in February. I got my application for the job while driving a tour for the Sun City RV Club to Tent City, followed by a private meeting with Sheriff Joe. It took about two months to go through the hiring process, and here I am. Living the dream.

Well, I leave it at that for now.