My Jeep's First Car Wash

Protecting Your Vehicle

Before acquiring my beloved Jeep, my previous car, had seen its fair share of neglect. Ketchup and chocolate stains, soda spills, bike handlebar scratches, and baseball dents had left their marks. Now, with my cherished Jeep in the picture, I was determined to ensure it received the care it deserved.

A Boy Scout Car Wash: A Well-Meaning Misstep

The decision to take my Jeep to a Boy Scout Car Wash might not have been the wisest, but it was a better alternative to an automatic car wash. Little did I know that Jeep soft tops require special attention.

Jeep Wrangler vs Car Wash 👉 Watch Here

Discovering the Delicacy of Jeep Soft Tops

Jeep soft tops are far more delicate than one might imagine. They demand the use of specific cleaning products, and using just any soap is out of the question.

The Solution

After conducting thorough research online, I invested in soft top cleaner, soft top protector, and vinyl window cleaner. With these products in hand, I embarked on a mission to pamper my Jeep Wrangler with a much-needed Jeep Spa treatment.

The process involved an array of special oils and cleaners. I could practically hear the collective gasps of awe as I massaged these products into my Jeep's soft top. In addition, I didn't forget to acquire zipper lube, a vital accessory for any Jeep owner.

 These products are straightforward to use and require minimal time and effort. BESTOP Cleaner is designed specifically for soft tops, as well as molded or soft accessories, and can be used on both exterior and interior vinyl. It excels in safely removing the toughest soils and stains.

Mopar Zipper Lubricant 👉 Buy Here

Bestop Vinyl Cleaner Pack 👉 Buy Here

Instant Gratification vs. Informed Decision-Making

For me, getting things done meant getting them done promptly. However, in the world of Jeep care, my impatience turned out to be a hindrance. The incident of having my Jeep washed at a Boy Scout Car Wash fundraiser without proper knowledge highlighted the importance of research and caution.

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My First Jeep

How My Jeep Changed My Life: A Journey of Transformation

2013 Jeep Wrangler Sahara

A Time of Transition

May 2013: I made a decision that would ultimately lead me down an unexpected and life-changing path. I traded in the family vehicle for my very first Jeep. I was facing a period of transition in my life, a "lifequake," as I would later come to realize.

Life was becoming increasingly challenging as my kids were growing older and becoming more independent, needing me less and less. I felt a sense of emptiness and was searching for something to fill the void.

The Serendipitous Moment

One day, as my family and I were on our way to a Boy Scout camping trip, a momentous event occurred. A fellow dad, who was carpooling several boys to the same camping event, was tinkering with the top of his Jeep. Without realizing the significance of this encounter, I asked if he needed help. I thought there was a problem with the Jeep, little did I know that this simple act would change the course of my life.

The Joy of Topless Jeep Adventures

Upon arriving at our campsite on the ocean beach, I discovered the true magic of Jeep ownership. The boys who had ridden in the topless Jeep were exuberant, sharing tales of wind in their hair, sun on their faces, and the excitement of exchanging Jeep waves with fellow drivers. I was instantly intrigued and inspired by their stories.

The Seed Is Planted

With my newfound curiosity and inspiration, I had a lot of time to contemplate during the camping trip. The boys took care of everything, from cooking to cleanup, leaving me with an abundance of free time. My thoughts continually circled back to the Jeep. The seed had been firmly planted in my mind.

Taking the Plunge 

The following weekend, after enduring countless hours of my excitement about owning a Jeep, my son decided to take action. He asked Siri to find the nearest Jeep dealer, and the next day, I found myself on a test drive with a brand-new Jeep Wrangler Sahara. I was instantly captivated by the experience know this Jeep talked to my soul. That very same day, I made the decision to become the proud owner of a black 2013 Jeep Wrangler Sahara.

A New Beginning

As I drove my brand-new Jeep off the dealership lot, I inquired about the Rubicon package but dismissed it when I learned it had an off-road package, thinking, "I will never go off-road." Little did I know that this moment marked the beginning of a remarkable journey with my Jeep, a journey that would change my life in ways I could never have anticipated.

My "lifequake" had begun, and the road ahead was filled with countless adventures, challenges, and personal growth. My Jeep had become more than just a vehicle; it was the catalyst for a transformation that would reshape my life in profound ways. 

The Butterfly Effect

Changing the Direction of My Life

The Butterfly Effect is a theory. In the works of fiction this Butterfly Effect involves points in time at which a story line diverges during a minor event resulting in a significantly different outcome than would have occurred without that small divergent in time.

Basically, it is something small that alters the path you are on in your life. It takes you in a whole other direction. Reflecting back on my life. I can start to pinpoint those minor events that have altered the course of my life. 

• The first moment in time was the moment I realized I have to have a Jeep. 
• The second moment in time that altered my path was the day my good friend and neighbor suggested I start a blog. 
• The third point in time was the day I found videos of a fellow jeepers wheelin' adventures on the Rubicon Trail. 

These moments at the time seemed irrelevant but these encounters changed my course. I am grateful for these moments and others in my life. They have led me to new friends, experiences and so much joy.