The weekend arrives and I couldn't be happier. Not that it was a terrible week, but still it feels like a relief.

On my way home I stopped by the Blanchard's in Jamaica Plain and there was a booze girl giving away free shots of Famous Grouse, and T-shirts. (Her line was "It's the best-selling scotch in Scotland." Great, babe. Budweiser is the best-selling beer in the US, what does that tell you?) However, I like the stuff, so I bought a bottle, telling her "I drank a lot of this when I was in London." She asked when I was in London, I said 2001, and she paused, saying eventually, "Not too long ago..." Then I realized she was probably in middle school in 2001.

Then to the Auto Shop where I've been bringing my car every other week since October, with a check engine light that just won't stay off. They've replaced all the parts related to the code, including the engine pipe which they replaced twice. Now I suspect they'll replace the sensor which is telling the check engine light to go on, or maybe just take the bulb out of the check engine light. I'd just ignore the damn thing but it's time for my emissions inspection.

I bought a whole mess of winter clothes at REI, the only place I will go to buy clothes. It doesn't give me a panic attack or make me sleepy like all other places to buy clothes do. I got longies, glittens, and an xmas party sweater (it's not really an xmas party sweater--that would be red with a big snowflake or a leaping deer on it, or white cable, it's a 100% synthetic pullover that makes me look like a jerk who hangs around a ski lodge). Thanks to Alex for being my shopping buddy. I also got a mini-pod for Alexis and a spork for myself.

Tonight is the neighbor's bday party--they're nice folks and it's an easy walk up the stairs to get home. Then tomorrow night--assuming I get my car back-my friend Nicole is having her annual xmas party/new apartment housewarming, with lots of babies. I'm not drinking at that one, so I think it'll be a short visit. Being sober in a room full of kids and xmas decorations and music is not something I'll enter into lightly. It's proof that I like Nicole very much. Then next week the Children's Zoo is having a holiday party on the zoo grounds. I have no idea what to expect. But that xmas party sweater will get a work out.

After the neighbor's party, we're going to watch Zardoz. I'm looking forward to it. I may have to watch it several times.



On this day in 365 Urban Species: Brant.