On Sunday, February 22, 2009, I began my lengthy journey to Northern British Columbia. It quickly became one of the most memorable recruitment weeks of my short career. The decision to drive the extended distance was not among the greatest recruitment decisions ever made. However, the addition of a terrific side-kick and co-pilot, Melissa, a fellow recruiter, certainly salvaged the week.
Together we set off on the eleven hour journey to Dawson Creek, BC (and no, I did not see Pacey or Jen. You all must stop asking. It’s not funny anymore). Along the journey, Melissa and I enjoyed the rockin’ beats of our iPods, and bonded over Starbucks coffees, our love of recruiting and maybe a broken heart or two. The distance felt as though it was cut in half due to the terrific conversation and company.
The week began with great events in Dawson Creek and Fort St. John. Next we visited Hudson’s Hope, which is indeed a real place, not the fictional location of a night-time soap opera.
The adventures did not really begin until half way through the week. At the Chetwynd Subway, I had the unfortunate pleasure of forgetting my wallet. Three-hours later in Prince George, I finally realized my wallet was M.I.A. Not dedicated enough to make the six-hour return trip, I called Subway to see if it was still there. To my surprise and relief, it was! The staff was very helpful, agreeing to return it to me as soon as possible. Thank you to the Subway in Chetwynd for your help!
After a few more events in Tumbler Ridge, Prince George, Quesnel and McBride, Melissa and I began the journey home. Excited to make it back home, we both set off on Highway 1 toward Edmonton. Along the way we noticed a very troubling sign reading, “Please Check Fuel – 100 km to the next station”.
After checking our fuel gauge, and letting out a shriek of terror, I informed Melissa we were about a hair off the very bottom line. Adding to our pain was the lack of cell service driving through the beautiful, but problematic mountainous region of BC.
After some debate, we set off to see just how far a vehicle is able to travel on empty. To our shock, happiness and gratitude, our gas-guzzling SUV managed to roll into Jasper on fumes. The adventure was over, we had survived, and learned an important lesson all recruiters should already know (keep an eye on your freakin’ gas gauge). The tank of fuel lasted us the rest of the journey, allowing us to make it home safe and sound.
Overall, the trip was a lot of fun. We ate at some terrific restaurants, got to know a few other ELAA members we didn’t know very well. You’ll all be pleased to know my wallet was returned on Monday, with all my cards and cash still intact.
Take care,
Jason
No comments:
Post a Comment