Adventures with Vehicles

It's been a LOVELY 24 hours here at Casa de la Sole Woman, y'all. Monday on the way to school the check engine light came on in the van. We called our mechanic right away, but because of a car show here in the Big O, he couldn't fit us in until Friday. So, since the car was just a bit "chuggy" but otherwise fine, we decided to drive it until our appointment. I will just admit to all of you here and now that that decision was COMPLETELY stupid. And I paid for it.

Yesterday on the way home from swimming lessons, with all three of the kids along for the ride, the van completely stalled out. I was thankful I was at least able to coast through the intersection to get to the side of the road. Unable to get it running again, I had to call AAA. Big kudos to them for their customer service. The lady I was talking to heard Sammy shouting in the background, "MOMMY! GO CAR! GO HOME! MAKE THE CAR MOVE!!!" and she sweetly asked if I had any children with me. I told her I was toting three grumpy boys, and she said she would put a rush on the tow order since she didn't want them to have to wait in the cold, and she moved us to the top of the list. So everybody-the next time you have to call for a tow truck do not instruct your children to be quiet while you use the phone. Have them create a big ruckus and they will feel sorry for you.

After towing it home, and a big rescue from the side of the road by my awesome parents, we are pretty sure the fuel pump is out, to the tune of about $630. Swell! Hopefully things are fixed by Friday.

The rotten thing was that my dad had surgery today and he really wanted to make it to the family rosary last night for some prayers and encouragement, and because of our dumb decision, he missed out on that. I felt like a total heel. I would have loved to handle the whole thing ourselves, but we can't fit the kids in Jeff's car since it won't hold carseats in the back, and we definitely can't fit all of us in at the same time. I can't wait to get rid of the "bachelor car" as I not so affectionately call it, but a new vehicle is just not in the cards right now.

Here's to making smarter car decisions in the future. I definitely learned a hard one this time. Being stuck with three kids on the side of a dark road is not something I want to repeat!