We remember the car problems.
The hours-long delay in Sonora for a new thermostat. The wait for triple-A after getting stuck in mud and sand (more than once!). The overnight stay in the tiny Owens Valley town of Olancha waiting for a part to come by bus up from Los Angeles. (George the mechanic knew the perfect motel. The motel owner recommended the perfect restaurant. George’s wife served perfect ice-cold watermelon under the blazing sun.)
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As Mike headed north on Highway 14 in his spiffy Celica 5-speed he noticed rain clouds off to the west, unusual for that part of the desert. Of course, as it was meant to happen, he looked for the next offramp so he could take a snap of the clouds. And of course, as it was equally meant to happen, as he pulled off the road his car hit mud and slid sideways.
After a walk back to the freeway's call box and a tow from triple-A Mike regrouped at the local airport, where ducks were enjoying the rare desert rain.
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The perfect trips have long been forgotten; car problems are what we remember.
Photos: Ducks, Airport—Mojave, 1998; Celica in Mud—Mojave, 1998
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