Sparkling Escapades Abroad with the Fairy Bra Mother

My Memorial Day wasn’t quite what I had in mind… but it sure was memorable.

I woke up late, thanks to a rough night of pain and tossing around like a rotisserie chicken. Crawled out of bed, aching, but determined. I had pheasant chicks to pick up, and that’s one of my favorite parts of country life.

I hopped in the trusty ol’ caravan (aka our pretend truck), and right away I could tell something was off. I tried passing a slow-moving car and the pedal went to the floor like I was in NASCAR… but the van? She said, “Nah, I’m tired too.” Honestly, I felt it in my soul.

I texted my husband to ask if he’d noticed anything weird—he said it seemed a little sluggish last night on the way to church, but not too bad. So I kept going, stopped for gas about 25 minutes out, and noticed the smell of fuel was strong. Still, the van had a bit more oomph, so I rolled on.

Then the oil light popped on around some curves and disappeared just as fast. Something told me to pull over. So I did. I checked the oil—and the dipstick was bone dry. Not even a glimmer.

Thankfully, my hubby had stashed a quart behind the seat. I poured it in, checked again… and there was barely a trace. So I went back to the gas station and bought three more quarts (because when in doubt, overprepare). After two more went in, I was back on the road—again.

That’s when Sean called and said he was heading out to meet me. Smart man. When I pulled in behind him, we saw oil pouring out from underneath the van like a crime scene. Clearly, something wasn’t sealed up right during the last oil change. So… vehicle #2 it was!

Fueled up again, took a deep breath, and hit the road—because I love that drive. Winding through the countryside to pick up chicks (literally!), soaking in the familiar views. I’ve done it 4–5 times a year and it never gets old. I finally made it home around 6, exhausted, head pounding—but thankful I made it.


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What’s the moral? Life doesn’t always go smoothly. Sometimes it sputters, leaks, or throws a curveball your way. But if you keep moving forward, ask for help when you need it, and find joy in the journey… you’ll still get where you’re meant to be.

Not the day I planned—but still a day worth remembering.

How was your Memorial Day?

#sonyasjoys