Ike Update

Here in Austin, all we have is clouds and wind. Quite pleasant, actually, even though we really needed the rain. I know it's all my fault that we didn't get any rain, since I bought batteries and cat food. Yes, once again, my preparedness has saved the city.

Got a call from Mr. Pegasus--a friend of ours in Houston (who also sells shirts and such) had a huge tree fall on his house. And of course it landed on the library/computer room--it couldn't land on the room where they were storing t-shirts! He thinks he's lost at least half of his book collection (a lot of signed firsts), and most of his electronics. The City of Houston came by and told them the house was unsound and they have to leave--and there are no hotel rooms available within a 100 miles of Houston (and I have no room for 2 folks + cats, darn it).

If there is anyone in South Texas who can take in 3 nice people plus their pets, let me know ASAP and I'll pass it along, OK?

Now, I have to take apart my dryer. I really hope the problem is just the belt. If not, I'll need another dryer.

Dryer Success!

I replaced the dyer belt, even though the one on it wasn't broken (couldn't return the belt, and the belt was old...), vacuumed the motor* (covered in dryer lint), reset the pulleys, and re-attached the dryer vent. Sweated and swore a lot. Got the dryer wrestled back into place. Plugged it back in. It works! (We'll see for how long.)

I guess I'll start saving/looking for replacements. These are older models, given to me by friends close to 6 years ago. They're at least 15 years old, probably older.

*Scared the crap out of Ripley the Cat, who was outside at the time. OMG! Teh Terrible Hose Monster Has Chased me Outside! I found her hiding under the couch when I took the vacuum inside.

Taking the plants outside now, which will really guarantee that we won't get rain. I may even seal our fate by getting the lovebugs washed off the car.