From Jim's Anaconda Chronicles, his latest email:
I apologize for not writing to you sooner; several factors contributed to the delay. As some of you know my flight from Denver was rescheduled giving me an extra six days with my family. Those six days were heavenly; no commitments, no plans, just time with my family. I arrived back at Anaconda on Christmas Eve and was back to work on Christmas Day. That night we had a thunder storm and lightening took out some of the equipment hooking us to the internet, so it was several days before I was back online.
It has also been extremely busy here. Several people are on R&R so we are spread thin. In fact, I am working a 14 hour shift everyday for the next few weeks; makes for a long day. The overtime is good since those extra six days at home were without pay.
I am currently working on the day shift, but volunteered to go back to nights. I like the slower pace and being on the same schedule as Beth so we can chat. They are also looking to hire a night supervisor and I have been encouraged to apply for that. I interviewed for a managers position in another department, but I don’t think I had the experience they wanted. The interview went well, just not a fit for me.
My friend, Daron, did not return from R&R. He decided not to return while he was home. I have packed up his belongings and will take everything to the post office to be mailed to him next week. Sometime soon someone will move into his room; hopefully someone quiet and considerate. Most everyone here is, so I don’t anticipate any problems.
Beth and the boys are doing fine. They spent a few days in Iowa with her parents for Christmas. Now they are back home and Beth said the boys were bored and anxious for school to start up again. Jackie has moved in to another apartment with a friend in Denver. She has been working everyday during her semester break; I told her “welcome to the working world.” She has registered for next semester at CU in Denver and begins classes around the 19th.
Everything is fine here, no complaints. 98 days until I return for my 2d R&R!! I hope this finds you all well and I wish you a Blessed 2005!
-jim