So, last night (in between compiling drivers and reconfiguring X servers), I decided it was high time for Tobias to get an oil change. I contemplated going to the dealer to have it done, so called and asked about it. They're backed up for at least the next week, and besides, this is something I've sort of wanted to learn to do myself. (I think I would classify myself as worse than a dummy when it comes to auto mechanics.)

So, in attempt to leverage one of my stronger proficiencies to improve one of my weaker areas, I opened Mozilla and did some surfing. After reading the Oil Change HOWTO, I decided I was sufficiently ready to proceed. However, it was already quite dark, and I did not have the necessary supplies, so I decided to wait.

Tonight, I proceeded to execute the plan. And yes, I followed the instructions specified for my gender To The Letter. (Hah! But those who didn't follow that link will have no idea whatsoever.)

After work, went to the auto parts store, and must have hung around in there for at least a half hour, contemplating which brand of oil and filter to use. (And yes, I did RTFM before going in to purchase, which is why I knew I needed 10W-30 or 5W-30 oil, but preferably 5W-30 when one is going to be driving in cooler temperatures.)

After that too-long trip, I returned home, jacked up the front of the car, scrunched underneath, and pondered deeply the secrets of the universe.

I immediately drained the oil into a bucket, changed the filter, put in the new oil, dusted my hands off, and five minutes after having begun, said, "Whew, that was easy!" And not a drop of oil was spilled.

NOT.

Well, sometime after dark, with aching thumbs (they still hurt!), greasy palms, about a zillion soiled paper towels, five empty plastic quarts, and the rain beginning to fall, the task was complete. And oh, what a lovely mess I made in the driveway. But I did it, and I am proud to have done so.

On the way to the drivethru, Tobias purred happily in appreciation. I had actually planned to give Tobias a bath this evening as well (he certainly needs it), but since it was dark already, and the rain was pouring, I decided to save that for tomorrow.

And now, I see it is 2200, and my room is still a mess, Argo is still in a hideously under-configured state, the code on Bitscape's Lounge needs help, I need to sign up for my class(es), as well as address other New Year's resolutions, and here I sit, typing like there's no tomorrow. And I need some sleep, goddammit!

Peace, content vultures.