Self-Reliant Vehicle Repair

My current van is once again needing repairs.  Last year, we replaced gaskets and head gaskets ourselves, saving us several thousand dollars.  However, that's not all.  With constant leaking problems, windows not sealed properly, broken windshield wiper blades, replacing of the horn, replacing of the electric unit that controls the movement of the driver's seat, and many other repairs  -  all repairs completed without hiring someone.

We'd be in a pickle if my husband did not have the knowledge of repairing our vehicles vs. hiring someone. It is very important to learn how to make repairs and continue to be self-reliant.  I plan to spend more time learning about changing the oil and other repairs.

Many times in the past our vehicle repairs required the help of family and friends.  In return, we help them when they need help.  Just the pioneers did with wagon repairs, family needs, or farm help, we help each other.

Last night we needed the help of several people.  One with a truck and equipment to tow the van from a town 10 miles away, then tow it to another family member's house, and then back home.  The part replaced was easily found at the parts store, so the only cost to us was time, the cost of the part, and seeking help from friends and family.

Although I keep telling my husband a horse would come in handy, he keeps reminding me that they need maintenance also.  Either way, I'm voting for the good ol' horse and buggy.  It seems like owning a vehicle robs people of their money on a constant basis.  Add up the cost of mandatory insurance, tags, plates, gas, oil, coolant, parts, and everything else, and you have enough to send one or two kids to college.

Things are not made like they used to be.

Back in the Groove

I am feeling much better now, and even took time to write 2 rough draft articles yesterday.  I watched the sunrise this morning also.

Although I woke up to a cold wood burning stove, I am getting the temperature slowly back up.  I am getting laundry on the racks and outside on the line.  The sun is shining very bright today, and makes the day more pleasant.  The cats must be enjoying the sun too.  They are bee-bopping from window to window watching everything this morning.  The dogs are fighting over the sun spots that are shining into the living room.

My husband surprised me for Valentine's Day, by cleaning the bathroom the night before.  He not only cleaned it, but removed everything that was on the floor to mop it (trash can, basket etc).  That was a real treat, considering I had not felt up to cleaning it while I was sick.

One of my daughter's also surprised me with a handmade card. She slipped it into my bathroom before she left for school, and it was a wonderful way to start the morning.

Thanks to my mother, sending me a text, I was able to take a few gorgeous pictures of a recent sunset.  I cannot wait to have a better camera, but this one is pretty good.

I love the colors in this sunset.  If I had not gone out right after my mother texted me, I would have missed it.  Shortly after I took the photos, the colors disappeared for the night.