Another Long day, but a very enjoyable and productive one. Karen and I got up around 09:00; Tyler was asleep in the spare bedroom and JD was on the couch. We let JD sleep until about 11:00 before we got him up, and Tyler got to sleep until 13:00 or so. After everyone was fed and coffee'd the boys and I got set to replace the brake wheel cylinders on the truck. It wound up being easier than I'd expected, we didn't have to remove the springs and shoes, but just had to do some mechanical manipulations. We tackled replacing the guts of the hydraulic clutch next; it proved to be more of a problem, but we eventually conquered that too. So, my truck is ready for the next 100K miles... I've completely replaced the brakes, tires, water pump, alternator, starter and... well, I can't remember what else, but most of the important parts, anyway. Unfortunately, it will rust away before that 100K is up... it's looking pretty bad, as mechanically sound as it is.... O'yeah, today is ************* Karen's Birthday!************* Happy birthday, Babe! I love you! Wish her a happy birthday So we took her out to my favorite eatery, the New China Inn... what, we're supposed to go to *her* favorite place? Hm... what an idea! We actually asked her to pick the place, but she demurred, thinking that we'd fix something here, but I would have none Tyler and I went out and got her flowers, we got five really pretty bouquets for her. She enjoyed the flowers and the attention, I think. Andy brought her a card, and Kim and Patrick and Lacee showed up after we got home from eating with their usual bunch of presents and cards... And then the boys and I kinda blew the evening, hangin' and BSing, having a good old time, leaving poor Karen sitting in the living room watching TV. Don't worry, I will make it up to her! When the boys are gone, of course. Tyler has gone to Lawrence for the evening, JD decided to pass on that and sleep instead... he'll be going to shows (season to risk) in KC Saturday and Sunday nights, he needs to get his rest in tonight. And so do I, it's damned near 23:30! Today's pictures are of one of Karen's presents from Kim & grandkids. In the Mail: On the shelf:
of that.