Mayor Max II Caught “Barking Drunk”

There I was, cruising up the mountain, minding my own business, when suddenly my car decided it was tired of being round. As I pulled over onto what generously could be called a "shoulder" (more like a tightrope for mountain goats), I realized I was in for an adventure.

"I've seen less precarious perches in 'Mission Impossible' movies." - Me, talking to my unimpressed spare tire

As I jacked up the car, I silently prayed to the gods of Goodyear that my vehicle wouldn't decide to embraced its inner tumbleweed and roll down to Palm Springs. The local wildlife seemed amused by my predicament. I swear I saw a squirrel pointing and laughing.

Changing the tire was like playing Twister on a postage stamp. Left hand on lug nut, right foot dangling over certain doom. As I wrestled with the spare, sweat pouring down my face, a convertible full of tourists drove by, helpfully shouting, "Car trouble?" No, I'm just airing out my jack for fun, thanks for asking!

Finally, after what felt like several geological ages, I managed to get the spare on. As I drove the rest of the way to Idyllwild at a blistering 25 mph, I couldn't help but think: next time, I'm taking the helicopter.

Pro tip: If you're planning a scenic drive up Palms to Pines, maybe pack a parachute. You know, just in case.