Eleven days to go and horse is lame

So we took the van into town today. Just had to do a few errands. We needed to make copies of the van key, get the full-size spare mounted and placed underneath the van, and visit the health club to suspend the membership. All in all, probably 3 miles - 5 tops.

The first stop was the car shop. They were awesome and got me right in to try the spare out and make sure it fit with the new rim, pull it off, and get it snugged underneath the van. Then off we went and got the key copied. So far really, really dull and boring. Just like I like it!

But no....

Then off to the health club - in and out of there in under five minutes. On the way out, we decided to go back to the shop and pick up the mechanic and let him listen to the funny noise the van had been making for the past couple of weeks. He hopped in and looked at me like I was a car repair junky and he was my supplier. Honestly, it kinda felt that way, too...

Anyway, one block to the stop sign, one block to the stop light. Man, the car in front of us is smoking! Take a left (insert groan I was hoping he would hear) and one block to next stop light. Car Repair Man then says something along the lines of "ya, that's a problem". While sitting at the light, we notice that the aforementioned 'car in front of us' was still smoking like a house on fire, but it was no longer in front of us. As a matter of fact, there was no one in front of us. I think it was the burning sensation in my eyes that made me wonder if maybe the source wasn't a bit closer.

So, three blocks later and we were back at the shop. We parked in the same spot, which was now sporting a bright green puddle. After looking under the hood, Car Repair Man diagnosed my van with a broken a/c hose. He disconnected everything and we were thankfully able to drive home. He was even kind enough to wash all the gook off the engine so we wouldn't asphyxiate on the way home.

So probably next week after the long holiday weekend we will get the a/c repaired and hooked back up. Six days before we hit the trail. Does that make me nervous? Why, noooo. (YEEEESSSS!)

I wonder what last-minute thing drove Grandma crazy just a few days before they planned to leave? It definitely wasn't the air conditioner. I wonder if they were even able to sell their house and property, or if they just had to leave it. I really am blessed to live in this era. I'm certain beyond doubt I'm not as tough as Grandma was. Complaining about air conditioning issues seems like complaining that the gold is too heavy. Perspective is a wonderful thing.