Mandy’s day of fun

Because of impending car repairs and the hassle of the dealership where I take my car, I ended up taking today off work to handle the insanity and spend some time hanging at the Cool Springs Galleria. I figured it was going to be a pretty sucky day. . . .you know, full of stress, a big car repair bill, and being stuck out at the mall for hours without a ride anywhere else.

That was what I thought would happen. And my pessimism was proven wrong! Theran at the dealership (Theran is his name!) was uber helpful and got my car into the shop rather quickly. He got Billy to drive me to the mall, with whom I got to discuss Wilson Phillips, NKOTB, and Pink. Yeah, weird, but oddly enjoyable. At the mall, I walked around with the elderly people who were there before the stores actually opened, too. I did get some coffee and a brownie at the Coffee Beanery, which isn’t my favorite, but it seemed to be the only place open. Finally, at 10 a.m. the stores opened, and I went off in search of some cardigans (short sleeved) and some shoes to go with the dress I want to wear on Easter. I found the cardigans early on, then went in search of the shoes. And I was having NO luck. I looked all over the place, debated buying some turquoise Chuck Taylors just because they were beautiful, and finally stopped into Payless. Where I found the perfect shoes, in the perfect color, and ON SALE! After that purchase, my phone rang and it was good ol’ Theran. He informed me my car was ready and started detailing the repairs. Of course, the oil change, they had replaced the burned out bulb on my front passenger’s side headlight, and the cause of the check engine light—a faulty catalytic converter. Which is under warranty for 8 years or 80,000 miles. Since I was under both, the repair was made at no cost to me! Leaving me with a bill of about $76. Which was so much less than the $300-500 I was expecting/dreading! I may have shouted “Praise God!” into the phone when Theran announced this! He sent Billy to pick me up and me and my car were on our way to an afternoon of freedom and fun.

A talk with Mindy left me with lunch plans. (I got to see Janice!) Then, in a moment of celebration, I decided to get a pedicure, especially since my new Easter shoes are peep-toe. That was relaxing and wonderful. I browsed in a bookstore, then headed to lunch with my friends.

After they had to head back to work (ha!), I headed out to McKay’s Used Bookstore. Where I found a large collection of records, CDs, books, and fun. I really shouldn’t be allowed in these types of stores! It was awesome. Finally tired, I headed home for some time hanging out in the big chair with Muffin the Wonder Poodle.

Life is good.