Accidents are part of life — sometimes terrifying, sometimes painful, and sometimes just plain embarrassing. Over the years I’ve had my fair share of “oops” moments… and so has my husband, Michael. Luckily, most ended with more laughter than tears (and in one case, a very unusual nickname). Welcome to this month’s Tell Us About blogging challenge! Each month, a small group of us from around the world come together to write about a shared theme — interpreting it however we fancy. It’s always fascinating to see how differently (or similarly!) we all approach the same word. Lats month we talked about Supernatural (a theme chosen by me). And this month, as mentioned, we’re talking about accidents.
The Early Days Scare — Car Crash in Faro
Back when Michael and I were still in the early days of our relationship, he’d often borrow his stepmother’s car. One day we were driving towards Faro when the car in front of us suddenly turned — no warning, no signal, just bam. We crashed into them.
I still remember it in slow motion: the moment of impact, glass flying into the air, that stomach-dropping rush of fear. Once we came to a stop, Michael got out to check the damage. My clearest memory, though, is of two absolutely lovely gay guys who came rushing over from a nearby café. They helped me out of the car, checked I was okay, and fussed over us like we were old friends. In that frightening moment, their kindness was everything.
Bertha’s Big Spin
Fast forward a few years, and I was driving my old Mercedes jeep — affectionately known as Bertha (pictured above) because she was, well, huge. Michael was away on a motorbike track day, and I was heading into town.
As I drove over the motorway bridge and around the bend, I hit a slippery patch and Bertha decided to show off her dance skills — a full 360 spin. In that split second I had visions of us skidding off the bridge and onto the motorway below. I screamed, of course.
Miraculously, I came to a stop on the other side of the road, and there was nothing coming towards me. When Michael got home, he promptly took Bertha in for new tyres. Turns out the old ones were well past their prime. Lesson learned: old tyres and wet roads are a bad combination.
Buster Gonad Makes His Entrance
Then there’s the infamous motorbike accident. Michael was out riding near Monchique when a Spanish car pulled out of a road it really shouldn’t have. Michael hit them side-on, was thrown up, came back down, and ended up off the bike entirely.
The Spanish family (kids in the car!) were mortified and so apologetic. Thankfully, Michael was okay — battered, bruised… and with an injury in a particularly delicate location. Let’s just say he spent a while with the affectionate nickname “Buster Gonad”. I’m just grateful it was Michael ringing to tell me, and not someone else delivering worse news.
The Circular Saw Incident
Michael, being the practical, DIY-loving man he is, was cutting something on the circular saw one day. He knew — knew — he shouldn’t do something a certain way. And of course, he did it anyway. The result? Nearly slicing the end of his finger off.
I’m very glad I didn’t witness it, but I did see the aftermath: blood all over the new terrace. He refused stitches (typical man) and wrapped it up himself. The thing healed beautifully and quickly — I like to think someone up there was looking out for him, though they did try to warn him beforehand.
My Own Accidents and Mishaps
I’ve been fortunate enough to avoid any serious accidents myself — but I’ve had plenty of minor ones that left me bruised (and occasionally humbled).
There was the summer I stubbed my little toe so badly three times in one month, I’m convinced I broke it each time. And the day I decided to test out my brand-new waterproof boots before a trip to Canada — stepped out of the car in Monchique, slipped on wet tiles, and landed with a right thud on my bum.
Oh, and let’s not forget the time in Oporto when I slipped on a zebra crossing in front of a crowd of people. No real harm done, except to my ego.
Looking Back at My Accidents
Accidents can be scary, painful, humbling, or hilarious. I’ve learned to be grateful for the ones that end well and to always look for the little blessings — whether that’s kind strangers, an empty road, or a fast-healing finger.
Life’s full of unexpected moments, so you might as well keep a sense of humour… and maybe a good first aid kit.
And, to give you a laugh, here are some of the funnier images AI cooked up for me this month LOL!!
Don’t forget to check out my fellow Tell Us About co-hosts:
One of Debbie’s defining posts is all about an accident when she was 17 and on a school excursion overseas. This tragic accident has impacted her life ever since. Debbie – Deb’s World
Luckily, Marsha hasn’t been in many accidents. But, there was this one that changed her life forever. Marsha — Marsha In The Middle
Sue from Women Living Well After 50 discovers some paths can’t be planned—they’re discovered in the wandering. How sometimes accidental twists can be a good thing. Sue – Women Living Well After 50
Rosie has chosen 5 things that she came across by accident. Rosie – Rosie Amber
MK is taking a hiatus from the blog at the moment. Mary Katherine – MK’s Adventures in Style
If you would like to join the group, please send a message/comment to one of us so we can include you in future emails! We’d love to have you!
