My Dorian Avoiding Adventure Continues

I left San Antonio yesterday with mixed thoughts. I thought Publix was a great grocery store but it pales compared to HEB.
  
I was glad to be driving again, I forget how I feel not-in-control when being a passenger, not bad but just a bit uncomfortable. Obviously, I am way too independent and self-reliant for my own good, sometimes. I had a wonderful time with Barbara; for more than 40 years (Damn!!!), we have been able to visit like we see each other every day regardless of how long our separations have been. I will own that FaceTime has made those times less frequent.

Her new house has become a home. It wraps you in her warmth and conviviality as you walk in the door, despite Oliver barking up a storm in his need to protect her. What a simple joy when he accepted me and licked my fingers as I sat on the couch.

Anyway, back to the adventure. I drove out of S.A. with the intent of visiting the yarn shop that had been closed Wednesday when we visited New Braunfels. It’s called Lucky Ewe and is delightful. Spent upwards of an hour there.

Driving on I-35 is not for the faint of heart: it reminds me of the beltway around DC or I-4 through Orlando - bumper to bumper at speed, unless there’s a crawling, exhaust breathing slow down. Both experiences are to be had going from San Antonio to Dallas. The only plus was I caught several great glimpses of the majesty of the Texas Capitol Building.

When I realized I had missed the turn off to head cross country through the back roads (construction and trying to avoid huge semis), I just sighed and waited for I-20 to appear. Just before the turn off, Mary Todd had trouble accelerating and her little engine warning symbol appeared. I pulled off at the first exit with multiple hotels and gas stations, figuring I would need both.

While registering at the Hampton Inn, I asked about garages. The man also registering, directed me to the Autoplex across the highway. I listened to him talking with the clerk and he was saying he and his wife and sons were here because their home had burned down the night before. (OMG!) He and his wife were at church preparing for an event, the sons were in the house sleeping. A guy driving by seeing the flames and the car parked in front, pounded on the door til the boys came out. All safe. He told me was glad to help me, I felt silly being even a little bit upset with Mary Todd. Moments like that remind me to be thankful.

At the Autoplex, I talked with Jacob, the Service Manager, who had stopped on his way home to ask what my car was parked in front of the bay doors. He took over my case, drove me to the hotel and assured me his people would get with me today. Gave me the contact info for his guy.

I am unhurt, in a great hotel, with a credit card, books and yarn. And a bathroom.

The adventure continues!