A story from Julia Pauley



This edition welcomes the debut of “Moments” by freelance writer Paulette Ballard. The Lincolnton resident has had a long career in the medical industry and is the author of Unforgettable Moments. Her column explores life’s simple pleasures and quirks.

One sultry, summer evening several years ago, I was at my boyfriend’s house when a summer thunderstorm occurred. The rain was very heavy and the weather forecast was calling for the storm to be quite bad in our area. This happened about 12:30 at night and my boyfriend suggested I should go home before the storm worsened.

On my way home, a tree fell on top of my car. This scared me badly and I thought I was trapped inside my car. I used my cell phone and called 911. I advised the dispatcher that I was trapped in my car and needed help.

I then placed a call to my father and told him what had happened. My father said, “Julia, can’t you get out through the other door?” I said, “Oh, yes, I guess I can.” I crawled over to the passenger side of the car and let myself out.

I looked up and saw fire trucks, police cars and the Jaws of Life coming toward me. I told them I was sorry to trouble them, but I forgot I had a two-door car. (Yes, I really am a blonde!) They all looked at me and began laughing.

A few minutes later, my parents arrived and my dad said as soon as he saw all the lights flashing, he knew what I had done.

The firemen cut the tree off my car and to my surprise there wasn’t a mark on it. This story showed me that I can now get out of a car by more than one door.

Paulette Ballard collects moving, funny or interesting everyday stories from people in the area. If you have a story you would like to submit something for  the “Moments ... Everyone has a story” column, email pballardnc1029@yahoo.com. Include your name and telephone number.