25 January 2004
Stranded in Ukiah
I love my Subaru Forester. It slogs through mud and snow, hauls massive loads, and has never given me a moment's trouble--until today.
Northbound on 101, the Forester started making noises. I turned off the radio and listened, hoping the noises would just stop. But then the Oil light started flickering and the engine began losing its verve. Soon the Check Engine light was flashing, but I was still in the mountains. I kept nudging my unhappy Forester northward, hoping to make it to Hopland. But no. The engine quit huffily, and I pulled over.
Opening the hood, I found oil spattered everywhere and little wisps of smoke rising out of the engine. From the smell alone, I knew my beloved semi-SUV was dead.
Oh well. It was a pleasant day at least, so I walked the two miles to Hopland, called a towtruck, and settled into the Hopland Farms cafe with some hot tea and a paper. Four hours later, I was checking into a chain hotel in Ukiah.
Tune in tomorrow, when we'll find out...
- Will Smarty's faithful Forester survive?
- How will Smarty get back to San Francisco?
- Is this hotel's "complimentary breakfast" edible?
- What unholy noises will the cat make to express his displeasure at Smarty's extended absence?
Also, there will be pictures.