“So you get to travel for work?”
That’s what they often say
When they ask and find out
that I travel almost every day

“I bet you have fun!”
Always part of the discussions
But usually left out is this little tidbit:
The lack of sleep is causing convulsions

“What’s the best place you’ve stayed?” They usually ask
Thinking “Man, Matt must be rolling like Frampton.”
It was not by a pool in the sun I did bask
But rather a dated Wisconsin Hampton

The pillows too tall
The showers too cold
The wash cloths are small
And covered with mold

I’ve run out of toothpaste
I’ve run out of shampoo
And the stuff that’s “complementary”
Smells just like cow poo.

Look, I can’t complain, I’ve got a great job
But being away from my family those days
Is not the best or ideal situation
Especially when my morning is filled with delays

Extra work is required when you’re gone from home
Spending extra time on the phone
Catching up with those people for whom you care most
While knowing you’re missing a chance to be close

Eating out, gaining weight
That’s the fun of it too
Sitting around, sucking down a Jamba Juice or two
Not sure why the coffee cake at Starbucks taste better
When I’m stressed, tired and wearing a “slightly tight sweater”

I won’t go on and lament, what would be the point
‘Cuz I do get to dine at some pretty fine joints
I see lots of friends all over this nation
See the sights and listen to great local stations

I do miss my family, I do miss my friends
I wish that I could be more deliberate with them
And I hate the bright light coming in through the peep-hole
And I’d never use that rarely washed bedroll
That they place at the end, at the foot of the bed
Like I’d even come close to laying my head

So in closing I’ll say, yes I do travel for work
The best thing that comes from it? The great mileage perks!