The Adventures of Julie and Bella 2025

Some days just test your patience, and today was definitely one of them.

I had to leave my car at the mechanic last night so they could work on it first thing this morning. I’ve had a check engine light on for a while, and since my inspection is due, I needed it fixed. At 8 AM, they called with the first round of bad news: an issue with my exhaust. I already knew it was running loud, but I hadn’t realized it would prevent me from passing inspection. I agreed to the repair and waited to hear what the check engine light was about.

Thankfully, I called my brother, who works for Napa, and mentioned the exhaust issue. Turns out, I had already replaced that part, and it was still under warranty! A quick call to the garage saved me over $150 because Napa was able to provide the necessary parts. Small win for the day, right?

Then came the next round of bad news. The check engine light was due to the secondary air intake sensors—both needed to be cleaned or replaced. This is a six-hour job, costing over $1,000. I had no choice but to authorize the repair, or my car wouldn’t pass inspection.

And yet, the bad news kept coming. There’s only one mechanic who can do this work, and he’s booked solid this week and on vacation next week. The earliest appointment? The first week of March. That means my inspection will expire before then. Frustrating doesn’t even begin to cover it! I need my car to last because a new one isn’t in the budget, but these repair costs are getting out of hand, and budget as well.

Despite the stress, I found some bright spots in my day. I did some crafting and made myself a new tumbler and a bookmark for my reading time. They turned out great, and that little creative break was much needed. Bella and I also went on some hiking adventures, even though the weather was brutally cold. The whiteouts were intense, and I’m hoping it clears up soon because I have an appointment tomorrow morning and need to get out!

For now, we’re staying warm under a cozy blanket, watching Netflix, and trying to unwind from the day. Hoping for smoother roads ahead—both literally and figuratively!