Tumbleweeds

The film opens with Mary Jo in a heated altercation with a man. The dispute signals her readiness to abandon her current life; she begins packing the car, and Ava prepares a suitcase as they prepare to depart.

They load the car with their belongings and set out on a journey away from their old life. Ava actively participates, packing a suitcase and bracing for the upheaval of frequent moves.

In Missouri they reunite with an old beau, but the encounter proves disappointing. Mary Jo agrees to Ava's wish to see the Pacific Ocean, deciding to head west in search of a better future.

As they drive toward the West, Mary Jo and Ava shed remnants of their old life by throwing former clothing from the car window. The symbolic gesture underscores their determination to reinvent themselves.

The two arrive in San Diego and begin to settle into a new routine. Mary Jo’s desire for independence remains, but she starts to consider how to create stability for Ava in a new city.

Long-distance trucker Jack Ranson re-enters their story after they have settled in San Diego, offering help and perhaps rekindling an old connection. His return adds a complicated dynamic to Mary Jo's pursuit of happiness.

Motivated by the chance for a fresh start, Mary Jo quits her office job, prioritizing immediate needs over financial security. The move frees her to focus on Ava and their evolving future.

Ava makes a friend in her class, and rival jealousy threatens their bond. She lands a starring role as Romeo in the class play, boosting her confidence and sense of belonging.

Ava also starts dating, and her boyfriend takes her to a movie, giving her a glimpse of a more typical teenage life. Meanwhile, Mary Jo contends with the complexities brought by Jack.

The outing at a fine dinner ends badly when Jack becomes verbally aggressive toward Mary Jo. The tension reveals his controlling and volatile nature.

After the confrontation, Mary Jo and Ava flee the restaurant and spend the night in a motel, a pattern they know too well from their past. The incident marks a turning point in their relationship and safety.

The next day, Mary Jo insists they leave town again, but Ava asserts she won't be moved this time. Their clash leads to a realization that changes are necessary, and Mary Jo begins acknowledging the consequences of their nomadic lifestyle.

They eventually stay at a house loaned by a friend, offering a stabilizing pause. Ava reconnects with her classmate and rekindles old friendships, signaling a healthier balance between mother and daughter.

Mary Jo finds employment at a plant nursery, marking a concrete step toward stability. Together, they start rebuilding their lives with a sense of permanence and routine.