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April 8, 2006

The Move from Hell

As Kevin and I were driving UHaul's largest available truck to Michigan last weekend, my family was busily catching several viruses with interesting effects. ("Hey, Eric, come look at this" is not something you want to hear your pediatrician say to another pediatrician, I can assure you.) While the family has mostly still been sick — all but me and one child, who has recovered — we began driving from Dallas to Detroit Friday. Mid-day Saturday, our van transformed itself into industrial art in the middle of nowhere on I-55 between St. Louis and Springfield, IL. How "middle of nowhere"? In the 3 hours I was by the side of the road, not one police cruiser of any kind came by. And you cannot rent a car or get a shuttle to the airport until Monday.

But I am stunned senseless by the kindness of strangers here in Stuanton, IL, from the man who took my family to a nearby Diary Queen, then waited with me for the tow truck; to the man who came into his service station on a day off and then brought me cat food and litter so I wouldn't have to walk back to the trailer for them; to the lady who offered to loan me her van to run errands. (See Steph's post for details.) I am stunned, and humbled, and deeply grateful for the actions of Paul and Jim and Lynn, who turned an expensive, stressful and difficult situation into something much easier, much nicer and much more bearable. Thanks, guys.

Posted by jeff at April 8, 2006 10:00 PM

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Comments

"Hey, Eric, come look at this" is not something you want to hear your pediatrician say to another pediatrician, I can assure you.
Ranks right up there with “Oops”.

Jeff, if you'd've called i'd've been there with a van.

Posted by: Dave Schuler [TypeKey Profile Page] at April 9, 2006 4:05 PM

Dave, that's a great and generous offer, and I deeply appreciate it. My Dad is coming up (will be here shortly) to help me tow the trailer off the highway, and we'll get a rental tomorrow to make it the rest of the way. We've got a hotel, with a good internet connection, food and clothes and stuff to care for the kids and cats. We're good. (But I still really appreciate the offer.)

Meanwhile, if you know anyone who wants a 1998 Toyota Sienna in great condition, except for the engine, we have one for sale, apparently.

Posted by: Jeff Medcalf [TypeKey Profile Page] at April 9, 2006 4:50 PM