Mechanical failure

When I returned to my car at the end of the work day, I could hear this unusual sound coming from inside.  It was a rapid staccato clicking sound.  (Kind of like the sound of a bomb in cartoons).  I emptied the glove box, not there; emptied the console, not there; went around to the passenger door looking under the car & seat, not there.  Shortly after I started the car and started to drive the sound stopped.  Each time I parked the car and then returned, I heard the same clicking sound.  I called my brother for advice, his thought was something electrical and perhaps I should be concerned about the battery going dead.  I am thinking, electrical fire!  At 6:45 I pulled into the car place down the street from me (it closes at 7).  I went in to try to describe the problem, sound demonstration included.  Of course, they were puzzled.  The young man who came out to the car immediately guessed it was the "blend door" on the heater but he could not understand why it made noise when the car was not running and even when the heat/air conditioner was shut off.  He did think it should eventually shut off and thus actually start in the morning.  I have to bring it back for repair--of course, they have no idea how long that will take or how involved it will be, but no less than 4 hours is the estimate.  I truly think these mechanics see me coming every time!!  (If it starts tomorrow, I am going to call for estimates at least I won't have to demonstrate the sound now that I have a diagnosis).

Getting in Shape

One day at work I was telling my co-workers that I can't read on the treadmill anymore and I hate to have the TV up so loud the neighbors can hear it--thus I just didn't use the treadmill.  One of my co-workers told me about wireless headphones, allowing one to listen to the TV and walk on the treadmill.  No more excuses, I bought the things and started an exercise program.  Oh my, I am so out of shape.  I get so winded, I have to  use the treadmill in intervals...and not at the pace I once used.  I actually prefer working late than watching Judge Judy from the treadmill!  The other day my co-worker asked me why I was limping--shin splints!  I may never get back into shape.

Stay-cation

Last Christmas I insisted that my family not get me any gifts, since I was on a financial diet.   My niece was so thoughtful.  She made me a gift of "monthly activities".  For November I am to spend a weekend doing only the things I like to do.  So, it is a "staycation" weekend for me.  Rented movies, picked up beer & pizza, put on my sweats and now ready to have a ME weekend.  The last time I tried to use the VCR, I was less than successful....hopefully tonight will be different or it could turn out to be a stressful start to the weekend!  (or I could improvise and watch the 7" portable DVD player--just not the same!)

Do over

A few weeks ago, my brother once again took the chain saw to my apple tree.  He was kind enough to leave one long branch to hang my swing, but the rest of the branches were trimmed beyond recognition.  The appearance of the tree is actually laughable but at the time, I did not want it completely gone.   However, after raking up and hauling pounds and pounds of crab apples, I have decided it really does have to go!   Still considering a new location for my hanging swing!

Fashion

Recently, I have tried to brighten up my fall wardrobe with a few colorful tops.  I even purchased a "loop" scarf this week hoping for that "in" look.  My friend, Aimee, was unable to change  my saggy into sassy....I do still believe in miracles!

November

I have noticed that many of my Facebook friends are sharing daily what they are grateful for.  It is after all November--Thanksgiving month.  I find that I am grateful for so many things; but I don't necessarily share my thoughts.   For me November is fall cleaning month, Christmas baking and decorating month as well as winter preparation month!  This year winter arrived in October and certainly continues into November.   So I am considering skipping November all together and simply hibernating.    Which means my Christmas tree may very well be the lighted palm tree I didn't get to use in the beer garden this summer.  (a whole new holiday experience).