I misjudged the entrance to the library so when I turned into the driveway I hit the curb and drove over it. No big deal, I figured. The car still ran fine so I thought nothing of it.  That afternoon, I went to a friend’s house and he saw a bulge in my right front tire.  He was concerned it might soon blow and cause an accident, so I called AAA for roadside assistance to put on my spare tire.

I figured I’d need a new tire since the sidewall had been damaged. I’d just gotten it nine months earlier.

The warranty was good for a year and I hadn’t driven too far. So I knew it’d still be good, but would likely be pro-rated and I’d have to pay 75% of the cost of a new tire, plus labor for mounting and balancing. I estimated the cost at about $100. A lot of money, but I had no choice if I was to be safe on the road. I found my warranty and tucked it in my purse.

The next day I drove to the nearest auto repair garage, Killian’s Auto Repair, less than five miles from my home. I’d been there several times before and the owner knows me by name.

I walked in and when Steve saw me he smiled and asked what he could do for me. I told him about the mishap I’d had the day before and gave him a copy of my warranty.  He said he’d have his guy take a look at it.

I took a seat, grabbed a cup of coffee, and watched the presidential inauguration with him. After about 45 minutes the car had a new tire and was ready to go. Steve handed me the keys.  I pulled out my checkbook and asked him how much I owed him.  He shook his head and waved his hand.

“Nothing.”

“Really?”

“Nope.”

I thought it would cost $100 and it was free! What a treat. Sometimes it’s good to be wrong.  It made me smile that day, thankful for an unexpected blessing.

What surprises have you had that made you smile? Share it with us in the comments section.