The Acura is having some MAJOR work done.

I brought it in to get the transmission checked out. I haven't had any problems, but I've gotten three recall notices in the mail about getting the transmission (possible lock up at high speeds... THAT would suck...(Granted, there's been "only one confirmed instance of a transmission failure related to this defect", but still...)).

But this is big. I've got a whole bunch of other maintenance going on while it's in the shop (but they couldn't fix that damn dent in the hood...)

I really shouldn't complain. I haven't had to put much money into it. I've only had to pay for regular maintenance and a new set of tires done over the last 5 years (Well, that and car payments).

I don't have to pay for the transmission. It's covered under the recall. But there's still a good chunk of change going into it. And it's not like I had anything else expensive going on this month.

Another $55 to replace the air filter? No thanks. I can do that myself for $6.

I'm definitely keeping it until 200,000 miles now.

Pod People

I got an iPod as a gift recently. (Pretty kick-ass, huh?)

Now that I've had it for a week, I get the appeal. It's not about the technology... or the music... or even the fashion statement.

The iPod is for people with control issues. There are so many different ways it lets you hear exactly what you want to hear. It lets you feel like there is some kind of order to the universe. And that you have a say in it. You can spend hours organizing your music and actually feel like you're "getting something done."

All those people you see walking around with the white earbuds? They've got mental health issues.

I see the beauty...

less time for writing.
the blog has been neglected.
wedding is coming...

Pat's song of the week:

Palomar - "Albacore"

Project: Coffee Acquisition

Purpose: To obtain a delicious cup of coffee. Coffee may be hot or iced.

Budget: $2.

Due Date: May 5, 2005

Sponsor: Patrick Canole

How the deliverable was met: Dunkin' Donuts hazelnut iced coffee. Customer was satisfied. Project came in under budget.

Dear Yankees,

So sorry about your current troubles. I was really hoping you guys would get it together this year.

Sincerely,

Nobody.

These new knives rule!

Next week on '24' - Jack waterskis over a pool of sharks!

Pat's song of the week:

Fiona Apple - "A Better Version Of Me"

Looks like I'll be bringing in my coffee from home for a while...

Are you like me? Does your skin crawl after hearing the words "drinking water" and "fecal contamination" in the same sentence?

The town where I work has a "boil your water" warning going on right now. It could last into next week.

I'm going through bottled water and hand santizer by the gallon.

Am I better off washing my hands or not washing my hands after going to bathroom?

I hate having to ask myself questions like that.