Limp Mode Living
From mechanic troubles to middle-of-the-night moves, hope still found us.
Ruby enjoys a late night pup cup from the Weinerstand.
This past week has felt like living inside a storm — chaos swirling, plans unraveling, and Ruby and I doing our best just to stay afloat. “Crazy” doesn’t even begin to cover it. Maybe “survival mode” does.
With the van stuck in limp mode, we’ve been quietly migrating around the neighborhood at 5 mph, usually in the middle of the night when the world is asleep. One block here, another block there — just enough movement to avoid drawing attention for staying too long in one place. Thankfully, we’ve been close to a Target, which has become our go-to spot for groceries, supplies, and water. When you’re living this way, the simplest conveniences feel like lifelines.
Communication with the mechanic came to an abrupt halt this week. Not surprising, considering he was evicted by sheriff’s deputies just days ago. I don’t know where he is or what he plans to do next. What I do know is the van is still not fixed, I’m still stuck, and that uncertainty has weighed heavily on me.
But even in the hardest weeks, a little light still finds its way in.
A couple of good things happened — and honestly, they’ve meant more than I can express.
First, I was able to secure an appointment with a Ram dealer service center. They’re booked solid, but willing to take a look and diagnose the emissions issue once I can get the van there. The shop is about an hour north in Oceanside, which felt impossible… until someone stepped in.
After hearing what was going on, a close friend gifted us a AAA membership. I was stunned. I cried. With a short grace period before I can use it for a tow, we suddenly have a real chance to get the van to the dealership. I still don’t know how I’ll pay for whatever repairs are needed. That part remains a mystery — though maybe not as impossible as it felt just a week ago.
So for now, we wait. We hold on. And we hope.
One of the side streets we found was in a commercial zone. Over the weekend this was a good spot, week days were a bit crowded.
This Thanksgiving, Ruby and I are especially grateful for you — the people who continue to walk this road with us, cheer us on, and remind us we’re not as alone as it sometimes feels. The tunnel of despair has been long, exhausting, and honestly pretty dark. But for the first time in a while, I can see the faintest glow of light ahead.
Thank you for being here. Thank you for believing in us. And thank you for giving this journey meaning, even on the hardest days.
Here’s hoping the next update brings better news.
Venmo: venmo.com/u/briang97603
