The First Year

It's been just over a year since I got the fateful phone call from Texas. It was just around 9 pm MST on November 4, 2008. It went something like, "I know you were supposed to report to Texas on Friday but we've had to cancel or postpone all contracts until further notice. We'll get back with you."

I'm still waiting for them to call me. It would be easy to blame the incoming administration for this problem, but it's not their fault. BHO and his proposed cabinet told the American people what they would do if elected, and while the votes were still being counted, America reacted. It's still amazing to me that so many people bit into the socialist, environmental apple without looking at the consequences. So, it's the millions of people who voted the current administration that should shoulder the blame for the present economic situation.

Now to reality. Working in the oil and gas industry has been a rewarding experience. It has paid for my house, cars, trucks, toys, and all of my kids and grandkids needs, and sometimes wants. When ever the industry takes a dive, it hurts the entire economy. Everything we use, eat, own, buy, or look at is tied to the oil and gas industry. Even if the country were to go totally green with so called renewable energy, the country would still have an appetite for petroleum based products.

For those of us who have been put on the beach because of industry cutbacks, take heart. It will come back, but the road is rough. Since last November I've worked 16 weeks. WhooHoo! I've got resume's out all over the world and I am willing to travel almost anywhere to work. On my own dime, even. How's that for desperate?

Here's some of the things I've learned over the last year.