Miscellaneous

Yesterday was either a bad day or a good day, depending on one?s point of view.

Bad:I start my car to go to work, the engine just barely turned over. Uh-oh, sounds like the battery is about to die. Even worse, I have a dental appointment in the afternoon. How will I get there if my car won?t start, or if it?s in the shop getting a new battery?

Good: The repair shop is on the way to work, and about six blocks from my office. And unusual for July, the humidity is low; it?s a lovely morning for a little walk. And if they?re still working on my car when it?s time to go to the dentist, I?ll just grab a cab.

Bad: The new battery ended up costing $126.33, including the electrical-system test (to make sure the problem was the battery and not the alternator or other part), the battery itself, and labor. Good: At least I didn?t get stranded somewhere with a dead battery.

Good: My car was ready in time to drive it to the dentist?s office. I made it there in plenty of time.

Bad: I was in the chair for about 4½ hours. Two teeth needed work. Some video of the procedure below.

Good: The dentist didn?t say ?yee-hah!? And 4½ hours inhaling nitrous oxide.

Bad: Final tab $1,260. Most of that for a porcelain onlay. (Apparently silver-colored fillings are passé.)

Good: I have a Blue Cross/Blue Shield dental plan.