We get so dependent on our vehicles don't we? These past few weeks have been taxing on the finances, as my car, AGAIN, is in for repairs. Just over two weeks ago, my engine was getting over heated as evidenced by the temperature gauge..and that little visit cost me $98.00 or so, and then just a week and a half later, I was leaking antifreeze, which was unusual because I had just replaced the radiator early in the year. So, they told me I needed a new water pump. That will cost $680 plus tax. They couldn't do anything till yesterday, so I just added water each time I got in the car and started it. I thought I would have had my vehicle by now, but I don't. Apparently, as they were trying to remove the old water pump, a bolt broke and it took them an hour to drill it out. By the time I finish paying for this repair, I would have put almost as much into it that I paid for. Then my car would be worth $10,000.00.
Now if it were just me, I wouldn't be too stressed about it, but I have an exchange student living with me for the next 6 weeks and I have been concerned as to how to get her to her work at the Y. So, this morning, I had to pay for a taxi so she could get there. The co-ordinator, Eric, just said to introduce her to the transit system..and that was not an option as I didn't get home till late last night from my other work.
If the City of Lethbridge would just amend the bylaws to reflect that if we had a good size yard, as I do, then we could have horses as our mode of transportation. I have enough grass to feed it, and I could put it in the garage for shelter. You could 'double' on the horse and it would probably much cheaper than the rising cost of fuel. You wouldn't have to pay for repairs.. maybe only getting it's hoofs trimmed occasionally. It would be therapeutic to go riding in the evening..bonding with your horse and nature. It certainly would be an option I would seriously consider.
