Northern Illinois Jeep Alliance

[the_sheep]

Just wanted to enlighten everyone on the experience that I encountered last Sunday. I had a blast and thanks to everyone's support, I got a first hand experience on what it means to be a Jeeper. Not only do we enjoy wheelin' but the hospitality is unbeatable.

I was ecstatic to go to this particular event this year for several reasons. I have a special spot in my heart for Seaton's place because that's where my parents were married. (Aww!!) But this run was the first run that I had access to my own wheels!! Granted I don't technically own "my" Cherokee, but I am fortunate enough to drive it on a daily basis. I've driven several other jeeps before but never anything this close to being my own!!

When we arrived, I could hardly wait. At the same time I was a little apprehensive about taking "The Sheep" ('88 black Cherokee) out for the first time with ME behind the wheel!! After some reassuring words from Zeke, the true owner, I was ready!!

I followed Kyle out and after hitting the first couple of holes, I had the confidence to keep going!! Brent said, "You made that look easy," and, I’ll be honest here, my ego went through the roof!! Then someone said, "If she could make it through that then she could make it through this." So I followed. Now mind you I never got stuck, just broke, kinda!!

As I hit what turned out to be my last rut, I ended up wedging the fan into the radiator!! I was embarrassed and not sure how I managed such a wicked injury all at the same time. "But it wasn't my fault!" LOL In the midst of my big headedness I had completely put aside the fact that there was some trouble with the motor mounts. So as I came out of the bog, the motor ended up jumping up which resulted in NO cooling system!! I had a great run up until then but I had to be pulled back to the barn so I didn't risk over heating.

I was devastated, not to mention scared of how Zeke was going to react that I broke her. I was also not sure how I was going to fix her, let alone how was I going to get to work in the morning?!?

The inspiration for my story comes from a guy named Kevin ('91 white Cherokee). Right there on the spot he offered me parts from a Cherokee he had been using strictly for parts. It just so happened the parts I needed were still available and I was grateful!! He said I could have at anything he didn't need....for free! I didn't how else to thank him except with words, which do not justify how grateful I was and truly still am.

I thought this was a wonderful example of how Jeepers really come together to help others out, no strings attached. I also need to send a big thanks to Gary for hauling "The Sheep" back to the shop where my boyfriend Kyle did the repairs. Kyle and Zeke were the ones who put ALL the work into her after I had my fun. Thank you Jeremy for allowing “The Sheep” to mark her spot, once again in your house!!

Thank you so much guys!! Also thank you to everyone who was so supportive because without you I wouldn't have had such a memorable moment!! I still can't stop smiling about that day, I was so proud!!

[zeke]

hey lets do it again. my jeep is fixed again. 2 new front axles and a locker now in the front. oh yeh now its a true 3 wheel drive.

[TINY XJ 6]

So are you going on the 2 day fun run now that you got you feet muddy? It would be nice to have another XJ along. Oh and you could bring Kyle too, so you can show him how to drive!

[the_sheep]

LOL I think that's a great idea!! I'm glad you were paying attention to who knew what was going on!! (I'm kidding Kyle, you are a great driver...on pavement!!)

[Lil Jep]

Great write up and glad to hear she's all better now!!

Just to show Kyle got muddy too!

[the_sheep]

LOL I love that picture!! And thanks for the comment on my story!! I appreciate it and yes The Sheep is running better now than she was before I even took her out!! I have power steering!! (It's a luxury where I come from!!)