During the second week of October I had gotten a phone call from my mother. The instant I answered I heard the sadness in her voice. She had called to inform me that my grandmother had died earlier that day and that the funeral would be on Friday of that same week. At first I didn't think there was any possible way I'd be able to make it, seeing as I would need to purchase a plane ticket for myself and my wife at essentially the last minute and driving wouldn't be possible since my wife doesn't have her license. Thankfully, one of my friends volunteered his time to help with the cause and we drove the 2000+ miles from Phoenix to get to Derry in Westmoreland County in time for the service. Unfortunately, the whole drive was done on tires that were almost completely bald because I had almost zero time to prepare and that fact weighed heavy on my mind as I was scheduling our return home.
Now, during an epic, cross-country road trip the traveling party tries to cram in as much excitement as possible regardless of how sad the circumstances that brought about the trip in the first place were. Nobody wanted to spend any time NOT doing exciting or necessary things, including changing dangerously worn tires so when a time slot was finally made available it was on a Saturday afternoon.
At first I wasn't sure that any place would be available to change out my tires so late on a Saturday, but my mom suggested we drive past Miller's just in case. The guys were outside so I asked if they were still on the clock. When they answered in the affirmative I let out a heavy, blissful sigh to help clear away the worry and tension that had been building in my chest since I had left Phoenix more than a week prior. I entered the office and started inquiring about the size of tire I would need based on my vehicle. It was obvious everyone behind the counter knew a thing or two thousand about their tire selection as they almost immediately started offering suggestions. I eventually selected a mid-range set of Cooper brand tires that came with a rebate after recommendations and approval from everyone present, including my mother. The guys in the shop flew into action and had me back on the road in under an hour, confident in my vehicle and ready to conquer the country on the long drive back to Phoenix. Thanks for being open, guys. read more
