The Inane Beer Inn Blather: March 2011

I've known the boys would have today off school for a number of weeks and in the back of my mind I kept hoping the weather would be beautiful so we could enjoy a day at the zoo. So this morning when I looked at the forecast I did a little mental jig. We can only usually handle about 2-hours at the zoo (when your 3 feet high that's a lot of walking). So I'm strategizing how we can drop the dog off at the groomer after 9 and be to the zoo by 10 and done by lunchtime. La-la-la everything is humming along perfectly.

About half way there, all of a sudden my car's dash starts beeping (read: ALARMING) at me saying oil pressure STOP car. I pulled to the shoulder of I-55. I immediately called Bri and told him I was going to call roadside assistance. He said okay, but try restarting to ensure it's not a computer glitch. Restart car, rev engine all seems okay, merge back on to freeway… just before being up to speed dash starts again demanding STOP with a picture of an oil can – just in case I can't read English I guess. So back on the phone to Bri and explain that I'm calling roadside assistance. Hang up, call roadside assistance. The number is on my windshield, which I had noticed lately, cause I was in need of a oil change. The woman asked for the ID number blah, blah, blah. "I'm sorry my records show that expired on 2/26. Wha-wha. So after another call to Bri, next plan is to call the dealers assistance. Speak with the serviceman. He asks me have I checked the cars oil with the dipstick, "Umm, no I am on the side of the freeway with two toddlers in the car, not in the position to do that." (Mentally thinking: could I have found the dipstick?) Serviceman gives third number for a tow truck driver. Finally get someone to agree to come get my broken car (that was not my loving husband).

After 20-30 minutes (or a sing along including row, row your boat; twinkle-twinkle little star; and old McDonald) Bri showed up. He did check the oil which was fine so that can he brought wasn't helpful. Just like a good knight, he let the boys and I pile into his what I will now be referring to as our Hooptie since it showcases a need of body work, smells of fast food and most importantly is paid in full. After all the excitement we opted to have an early lunch at McDonald's. Where the coke fountain machine sprayed all over Ben and I.

We finally made it to the zoo at 11:30. Spent two hours, saw all of the boys usual favorites and then came home with Shamrock Shakes from McDonald's, again.

So that is my tale of the Luck of the Irish. From now on please remember… that phase is said in irony.

Footnote: I can not explain what is wrong with my car as the serviceman only spoke "french" to Bri, but it is covered by our warranty. But luckily they found another recommended repair that was $200.