"We're going to Utah for Christmas!" Dad said. "All of your aunt and uncles will be there and all of your cousins, too!" I was stoked. A Christmas break vacation and hanging out with all of my family? What's better? Well, I can tell you what is worse - driving to Utah. It is sixteen hours, people, and an entire forty-eight when your car breaks down. Road trippers know the struggles all too well. This story was inspired by my trip to Utah two years ago when we had to swerve out of the way of a deer, causing us to switch cars in the middle of nowhere. We stayed at a bed-and-breakfast, and spent the day in po-dunk Panguitch, Utah. Chaos then, but a wonderful, funny memory now.
1. When the information breaks
When you and your siblings overhear your parents talking about a getaway, it is party time!
2. The real information breaks
"Oh, and we are driving!" your parents admit. They pump you up, they hype up the sights along the way, and they promise, "We will make memories!" No matter their reassurance, anything over ten hours in the car equals "Oh... Wow."
3. Shotgun!
Similar to a dinner table seating arrangement, everyone in the family has their usual car seat. When your younger sibling tries to sit up front, you give them "the finger" saying "As if."
4. The passenger seat is the DJ booth
Maybe your younger siblings want to play the Frozen soundtrack, your grandma wants to listen to Elvis radio, or your parents want to play whatever they "grooved" to in high school, but all you want is to listen to your music. Forgot your headphones? Life. Over.
5. Car Issues
The last thing any road tripper wants to hear is anything about a car issue. Before taking off, there are prayers of "Please do not run out of gas; please do not blow a tire; please do not get pulled over; and, please do not let anything happen that will keep me in this prison for longer than I need to be!"
6. The backseat drivers
Ross studied Karate for a long time and informed his FRIENDS, "There is a concept called Unagi, a state of always being aware." As the passenger, you wish Unagi, or total focus, on the driver. However, when they hit the rumble strips, the back of the car pipes up. When wildlife is close to the road, it is as if the driver does not have sight and must be told about the obstacles. Everyone in the car demonstrates Unagi, especially those in the backseat.
7. 20 minutes left
You have had it! After so many hours in the car and no space from those with you, you ask for a peaceful last stretch. Much like Ross, you gesture for a little more silence.
8. Upon Arrival
Upon arrival of the destination, you acknowledge your love and fun you had. You hug the driver for getting you there safely, hug your siblings for keeping you company, and begin to enjoy your destination, together.
