Rules of the Road

Discovered that a heavy-duty tow truck operator in Idaho bills as much an hour as a programmer who lives, well, everywhere.

We were minding our own business, driving the new RV up through the mountains of Idaho, on our way north to Wyoming. Heard a funny sound. Pulled off into a park in a small town called Soda Springs. We stopped. Upon inspection, found the back axle of the new RV (with less than 2000 miles on it) ready to break.

We are now on the outskirts of Salt Lake City. Roadside assistance sent a fellah named Sean and his big commercial flatbed truck up from Pocatello to schlepp the RV down to a Utah dealership that does warranty repair.

The new axle has been ordered. It will be delivered in a few days. And I am happy to say that we are still here. Got me thinking that this could have been a real disaster, one skirting the realm of "It's been nice knowing you, folks."

So today it is sunny and hot here, and I have been thinking about how things happen, about the rules of the road.

1) It usually takes three times longer to get to a place than expected.

2) A long, steady hike up a hill can promise a different view.

3) Sometimes you have to lose direction in order to find your way.

4) Most days there are no maps.

5) Driving the unpaved road teaches you when to slow down, when to speed up.

6) We all still have our learner's permit.

7) When you can, take the back roads to avoid the nonsense.

8) There is always some new place to go.

9) The destination is where you are right now.

10) Everything is as it should be.

Comments

[garrie]

You always make lemonade out of lemons. Enjoy the unexpected pit stop.

[Penny]

Mare, this is great. I'm going to share it with my coaching clients! I've also alerted the Georgetown coaches of it in case they wish to do the same.

Keep on bloggin' girl!

[John Lyons]

Must have gotten blue grease in the wrong place and caused a bearing to go. Just kidding and glad that you made it to safety without finding out how to fly down a canyon. Looks like a really nice rig.