From TRIC to Ticket: How Mike. Gave Me the Feels and the State Trooper Gave Me a Citation

aka Monday’s crash course in consequences

Monday is here, and she came in hot — kind of like I did on the highway. Except now… she’s also here with a speeding ticket. And not just any ticket. Oh no, friends. A reckless driving ticket. Because apparently, North Carolina doesn’t mess around when you hit 15 over the limit. Court date Oct 8 2025. Anyone know of a traffic lawyer in NC? Hertford to be exact?

🎤 Let’s Talk About the Concert:

Mike. didn’t just put on a show — he led a spiritual revival. The kind where the bass hits just right, the lyrics expose every unhealed wound, and you’re scream-singing next to your best friends like it’s 2011 and nothing else matters.

I had a meet & greet pass (because duh), and yes, I blacked out slightly from excitement. Pretty sure I would have said something awkward, so ya girl was quiet as a mouse. Pretty sure he is polite enough to pretend I didn’t. Pretty sure I would have relived it in the shower for the next six months.

The energy? Immaculate. The crowd? Vibing. My heart? On the floor. My eyeliner? Fighting for its life.

At one point, I just stood there — surrounded by people, lights, and music — thinking: This. This is what I needed. A full-body, soul-scrubbing kind of night.

I will say though, I’m officially at the stage in life where if the headliner isn’t on by 7, I’m reconsidering my entire existence. By 9:30, I was physically present but spiritually horizontal. Day festivals? Yeah… those are lookin’ real appealing these days. Give me sun, snacks, music, and still making it to bed by 10 like the grown adult I pretend to be.

🐾 But Let’s Talk About Clyde for a Sec...

Because Sir Clyde also had a weekend, and unfortunately, some folks still don’t understand what a working service dog looks like — or more importantly, how to act like a decent human being when you see one.

Incident #1: McDrama at McDonald's.

We walk in, Clyde at my side doing his job, and some customer hits us with:

“Oh, what, do we allow dogs in here now?”

Not even a good insult. He then asks for a refund, gets all huffy, and storms out like we personally put the pickles on his burger. Spoiler: we didn’t. But if you stomp off mad while I’m trying to get my hash browns? That’s a you problem, sir.

Incident #2: VIP doesn’t mean Very Informed People.

After getting through normal security, venue staff, the crowd, the gate, all the way to the PIT, some big bald “security” jarhead with a forehead vein the size of my arm stops us like:

“What does he service?”

I calmly say:

“Per the ADA, I do not have to answer that.”

And then this grown man goes FULL Hulk mode with:

“YES YOU DO!”

Sir, I can assure you: the only thing I have to do is not pop off.But in that moment? I almost did.

So here’s my new answer going forward:"I'm insane." Yup. That’s what I’m going with.Clyde keeps me happy so I don’t tornado your ass into the VIP trash can.

It’s not the question that bothers me — it’s the way people ask. If you come up respectful, cool. But if you stomp over with a stink face and a tone? Clyde and I will match your energy like a mirror at full power. Don't start what you can’t finish.

🛍️ Wilmington = Wallet Graveyard

After that drama, you’d think I’d call it a day. Nope. Cue the shopping spree. I picked up some cute new pieces, more dog treats (because yes, they earned them), and then… merch from Mike. Even Clyde got a shirt & hat to rep.

🛣️ And Then the Ticket Came…

Somewhere on the drive home, still riding the emotional high from Mike., I may have been… slightly heavy-footed. Next thing I know? Blue lights. Sirens. Radar gun betrayal. A reckless driving ticket to end my magical weekend with a dose of government-sanctioned humility.

✨ Final Thoughts:

Between TRIC, the concert, emotional roller coasters, ADA violations, and Stitch acquisitions… this weekend was one for the books. Did I cry? Yes. Did I yell-sing in the pit and then get pulled over 24 hours later? Also yes.

But would I trade any of it?Not a damn chance.

What’s your concert cut-off time these days — are you still a night owl or has your bedtime betrayed you too?💤🎶