Today Karma went in for her annual service inspection ($145). Turns out she needs an oil change ($474), tightening the U-Joint ($80) that someone worked on last year, and replacing both steer axle air brake hoses that are dry aged and cracking ($411). Everything could not get done today, so I am camping in the parking lot overnight with a lot of other white vehicles. I am thinking of it as an “ultimate” $1,202 overnight “auto” stay. Noisy. But there are lots of restaurant delivery options, all the way until midnight.

Pye is out cold on the first hot day we’ve had on the bus since heading north. Last night when I got home from the pub where Kim and I watched the Rangers hockey playoff game, he was sitting outside the bus, in front of the door he pushed open enough to get out, but not enough to back in. I am soooo grateful no dog scared him away, no rabbit tempted him to run and play, and he forgave me for not giving him treats every time he begged for them. 

The spell to keep him on the bus that worked so well for more than two years obviously needs redoing.  

So this morning I was up just after 6, leaving before 7 to get the bus here by 8. I got a loaner car (with manual windows and door locks) and met Angie and Tammy (Gaia’s Green Girls) who drove all the way from Oakdale to take me to breakfast. (They are pictured with Day 700.) Then I met up with sisters and sat by the Connecticut River where I think I got a bit too much sun but not nearly enough conversation. 

I’m tired. And warm. I think I’m going to try sleeping in the hammock chair tonight. Plans to go to the beach Saturday evening for the almost-full moonrise are not looking promising, with wind, clouds, and an 80% chance of rain in the forecast. Spirit must have another plan for me.