Oil Change...

I like being "handy". The definition of Handy here can be debated if any one is interested. I'm sure a few of you would like to do that. If your buying, I may listen ; )

Today was a gorgeous day in Lincoln. 1 Day sub zero wind chill....2 days later, 50 to 60 degree weather. Awesome day. Windows down, and the radio up...

I have been way over due for an oil change, and I had myself dead set up doing it myself for the first time. So a few weeks ago I bought all the fixins to do it myself. Oil, filter. That's all you need right? Luckily for me, I have some good friends, and one also got me an oil catch and a filter wrench.

It was so nice out today I just couldn't go inside to "chill", so I decided now was the time I would change my oil. The only thing I needed was a 17mm socket, which was nicely loaned to me by Gwen's neighbor Kent. Thanks Kent by the way.

As it turns out, changing oil is very easy. If you have the right tools, and you jack up your car. So for fun, here were my steps.

1. Take jack out of trunk, and jack up car. Level grounds help, and the driveway here was pretty close.
2. Undo the oil cap on top of the engine block. Keep in a safe place so you don't loose it.
   
3. Get some cardboard and place it under the filter and oil pan. This will catch the any oil that doesn't make it to the oil catch.
4. Undo oil plug using the 17mm socket and socket wrench (this may vary per car model). Tips, once the plug gets loose, use your hand. You will get oil on your hand, but will save yourself getting oil all over your tools.
5. Let the oil drain completely. Perhaps now would be a good time for a beverage, smoke, or in my case, throw the ball for your ball happy companion Annie*(see side note at bottom)
6. Remove old oil filter. Usually the oil filter is not tighten extremely tight, but if you need an oil filter wrench, you would use it now. I was able to use my hand. Warning, oil will drip, so make sure that the oil catch pan is under that area. Cardboard?. came in handy here.
7. You're almost done. Wipe down and replace the oil plug. This again keeps oil off your tools.
8. Put new oil filter on. First, lube gasket with a bit of oil. Then hand tighten the oil filter on to your car. I was running out of light, so a flashlight was also needed.
9. Use oil funnel to refill the oil in your car in the hole on top of your engine block.
10. Screw cap back on, lower car down to ground, and clean up!
11. You'll have to properly dispose of all toxic waste. This can be done at you local service station or recycling center!

So now, you too can change your oil just like me, and consider yourself "handy".

Does anyone know how to build a shoe rack?

*Annie started with brand new baseball...at end of oil change, there was barely any cork left. I used the baseball cause I didn't have any other form of fun for her, and she was good on the ride and I owed her a throw. Last night was funny because I was throwing the snow. She'd chase it to where it was, then pounce on it, only to disintegrates it. Then she'd dig through the snow in that spot until I got another piece of snow to draw her back in!

Old Friend

Caught up with an old friend last night. Aaron was a friend of mine I've know since I was about 10 or 12 (or somewhere in between) from my soccer team. From the time we met we played in numerous soccer tournaments, countless games, and he definitely had my back more than once on and off the field.

I'm kicking myself because I didn't take any pictures with him while he was here last night, but I do have this old one that he often embarrasses me with, so right back at you buddy! It was good to see you!

New House

Pictured: Happy Kids by Pool, The family in the park, the front of the house.

This morning I woke very tired. I was up late with lots of things on my mind. So, at about 3am CST I finally fell asleep.

When I woke, I woke to a breakfast feast. Tony, my sisters fiance, does an awesome job making breakfast. At least he has every day I've been here. And it was wonderful....Ham, Pancakes, Egg Omelette's, breakfast potatoes, and of course coffee.

Last night I had my good friend Aaron over, and when he left, the ground was covered in snow. When I finally looked outside this am, there was almost no snow, and it was 60 degrees out. It was nice!

Then we headed to Gwen, Tony, Anthony, Sooki, and Tobias' new house. I will attach a few photos, but we took them there blindfolded, and then walked them into the house upstairs, and into the large living room where they took off their blind folds. Words would do injustice to their reaction and excitement. Shortly after they saw the living room and it was announced that this was their new home, they went out back to see the pool. Needless to say, more excitement ensued.

In addition to more living space, and room to grow, the kids will have a circle and a cold-a-sac where there is a city part a stones throw from their driveway. The city park has a bike path (Lincoln has really awesome bike paths), basketball court, sand volleyball court, tennis court, a play ground, and a few pavilions for picnicking. We walked down to the play area and enjoyed it.

In a few weeks they move in, and I know that they will really love and enjoy the new neighborhood, pool, and more space to run and play!

Christmas Day

Merry Christmas again everybody. I hope everyone was blessed with the things that meant the most to them this day.

Spent the day with my two siblings. Very fun. We played some more Wii, but sans kids. It was fun. My brother lasted about 1/4 of a game of bowling. He insisted on playing seated, and was adamant that the Wii was "not accurate." I on the other hand feel that the Wii was very accurate. When you look like your fishing, and your are attempting to bowl, strange things happen as your ball travels down the lane. I think my mom and dad will like the Wii.

I had a great chat with Robin via Skype and webcam. She looked gorgeous and it was good to see her. My sister made some sushi during our chat, so I brought her upstairs to say hello to all, and to see the baby. I then was able to see her whole family and wish them Merry Christmas. Technology is cool.

Currently Wendy's living room is undergoing a transformation, ala projector set up. The biggest wall is in the kitchen, so rearrangement is in order (or so Matt thinks). At least there was no need to take down a ceiling fan, or buy shower curtains as our "movie" screen. Purhaps my last reference to those things now make sense to some of you.

Until Later, Merry Christmas! Ho! Ho! HO!!!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas Everybody!

Robin, Grandpa, Mom, and Dad....Merry Christmas to all, and to all a goodnight...

I think I hear Santa on the roof with his reindeer!

Matt Update...

Since now it's funny....we were getting a little worried...Matt is safely in Lincoln.

Read the other post about Matt, and you'll understand.

Just got done watching the X-Files movie. A little disappointed in it, but what are you going to do.

Matt...

For the few of you who know my brother, you can appreciate this story. For those of you that don't, I hope that I can do this justice.

Lots and lots of flights have been getting delayed and canceled throughout the country. Matt was flying to Lincoln, NE from Chicago this morning, arriving here at 10am. We last spoke to him at 8:30 at night, where he was concerned about what electronic equipment to bring, and the affects that a Monster Energy drink would have on him. At 9:30, no word from Matt as to whether he made it to the airport, or flight status. So we checked. Canceled. No word from Matt. All day long, calls to his numerous cell phone numbers, checking in with the airline, and even trying his skype account. No luck. So now we are on to where he could be.

Some of our theories include: Paris, that's just how random he is. Another is that he is in a Uhaul singing Christmas carols ala Home Alone, and will arrive here unannounced at 1am or so. Of course we've also theorized that he might be in Kansas, by passing through the KC airport, through Denver, and leaving from Houston to arrive in Lincoln tomorrow AM. And of course, another fun theory is that he has met some one at the airport who he is now giving his business card to, and most likely scheduling a photo shoot. Or even better yet, he is doing photo shoots for all those stranded passengers. I think the last one is my favorite. Put the hat out Matt! (and you can check out his work here, I believe there is a picture of me up there.)

At any rate. One way or another, Matt will get here. It will be great to see him, and the "excitement" he brings to the Christmas season. Even if it means sacrificing a few ceiling fans, and buying some shower curtains....

Sushi

Just had the best dinner here! My sister, from Korea, makes sushi and my favorite spring rolls when I come.

It was sooooo good I forgot to take pictures, and wanted to quickly write about how happy I am with the meal I had.

Yummy! Thanks Wendy!

PS Miss you Robin!

An interesting fact about me...

Entering Illinois, also get a shot of me in the daylight. I do have a video of me doing a little dance when Baby Got Back came on the radio, but unfortunately you can't see me in that video because it was too dark...I know I know, lots of dissappointed people out there...

Wild and Wonderful

Here is one of the first videos I took...There were 2 or 3 previous videos, but they need editing. There is a one second clip of me exclaiming "Wild and Wonderful"...and that is the slogan.

Thanks to B5 for the suggestion. It is also his fault I missed the Kentucky sign.

Ginger Bread House and Afternoon

I'm being harassed to finish this ginerbread house. But finally got my computer connected and wanted to upload a picture. Not from trip, but from building gingerbread house....

And, I really do want to go finish the ginger bread house.

PS. Got schooled in Wii bowling by my first grade niece. She's picture here with her brother who also schooled me...

Morning and Tobias

Morning is here...actually almost 11 EST, and I still feel like I could sleep for another few hours. Got a great welcome from Anthony and Sooki...I'll post some picture later...still not online with my computer. Tobias was a little more shy than I thought he would be, but like a good uncle does, I'll be patient. He does laugh at me, but who doesn't. He also has a full head of hair! I guess he is 8 months old, but wow. And he's a crawler

The ground is covered with snow, and I was careful driving. Must be my age, no more careless speeding in the snow. Reminds me of a drive home from HS one time.

Hopefully I'll post next from my computer with videos and pictures.

Arrived...

Well, the two McD's I went to either didn't know what WiFi was, or didn't have the internet. Then the Panara I went to in downtown St. Louis wouldn't connect with my laptop. Felt a little disconnected, but now I just need some sleep.

Itinery changed a little due to day light and my energy level. Actually only slept about 2 hours total.

Thanks to all for the concern. My brother was the funniest of all. Waiting permission to share some of his thoughts. Very thoughtful, but humorous too.

Only bad weather was from Nebraska City to Lincoln. Very tired...Enjoying my Niece and nephews. All were very happy to see me, and I them.

More tomorrow with some random videos and maybe I can work it into a movie.

Hit the Road

Well, I'm gonna "Hit the road." When I have some time, and I promise it won't be while I'm driving, I'm going to find out where that phrase came from. It seems a little bit along the lines of telling some one to break a leg.

Car is packed. I have everything on my list. At least I hope. I'm guessing that some where alone the lines when my brain starts wandering, I'll suddenly think to myself, shoot (or something like that)*, and realize I have forgotten something. At least at this point I hope it's toothpaste or something stupid like that.

Things that would be very misfortunate to forget:
Allergy Medicine, Anyones gifts, a certain particle of clothing, glasses, wallet, cell phone, and of course my beef jerky.

Well, I'm going to let the 4 tires of my car roll on top of the road....

See you at the next stop, where ever that is.

*This astericks was placed here because my New Years Resolution is to cut back on my 4 lettered vocabulary.

I'm a Jerk...

Ok, so there are times that I'm a jerk, but this time it ain't me....

I got a Jerky Making kit for Christmas from my baby Robin, and I'm putting it to use as some food for driving. Snacks. So I made Hickory Turkey Jerky and some Mandrian Teriyaki Beef Jerkey. Who would have thought beef jerky was so easy to make! And delioucious. And, good for you too....Turkey is 99% fat free, and the meat 93%...

I'd offer you all some, but I think it won't make it past the next 24 hours...

The List....

I have to make lists, or I forget things. Inevitably, I'll still forget something. But, it still helps to have a list...right?

Clothes (won't break that down here, hopefully I remember the essentials)
Ok, going to skip the obvious stuff, not that I am thinking about all the personal items I have to bring...
Snowboard/Boots/Gloves - hoping for snow, and I've heard it 4 degrees there.
Jacket(s)
Shoes - boots, sneaks, and ugz...so comfy
Matt's Gift...
Buy Mom and Dad's gift
Annie's bed/food/leash/treats
All things computer related - powercord, cameras, mic, external HD....
Snacks....
Caffine...
Annie...
hmmm....doesn't seem like such a long list
Cell Phone and Charger

ok...all for now. My list doesn't seem very christmasy...so I'll add... Eggnog, Christmas CD, and Santa Hat to the list...

Man, Dog, and the Road...

Well, here we go. It's Friday. After saying goodbye for the year to friends and co-workers, I prepare for my holiday road trip. I guess it would be unfair to claim this roadtrip as my own. Robin will be headed on her own trip in the spring, and I thought the idea would be fun.

I will update as I travel on the road. Assumingly paying McD's for the WiFi ($1/hr, doubt I'll need more than that) for my time online, and of course a grilled chicken sandwich value meal. If only the fact I opted for chicken offset those delicious french fries.

So for now. The plan is to leave at midnightish on Sunday, well Monday morning. Making it to the Daniel Boone National Park in KY by morning to hike to the Natural bridge there. I must say that I am a little sad to be missing the Blue Ridge Mountains, but who knows, I may hit them up on the way back, and it might be to cloudy here in VA anyways.

Till my next post.....