2021 MISSION DECLUTTER and CLEAN

balabooberlies

Mrs S.D

the car OH and I have now is (can't remember how old) a Renault Kangoo.  Bought it because of the space......for £400.00

I gave the seller £100.00 deposit (friend of a friend) but had to wait until they found replacement.  Along the way he decided that there were too many problems with it and tried to sell me another car.  It was tiny.  I had 2 dogs and I needed the space so quietly stuck to my guns.  I just had a feeling and was really impressed with the torque.  (Only learnt that word because of this car, always used to call it the 'pull'). I immediately had it serviced including new battery to the tune of £500.00 (I can all hear you calling me mad) but I had a feeling.  About 6 months in, the power steering pump went.  Another £600.00.  Others would have scrapped it.

Her name is Daisy Diesel and she is a temperamental workhorse.  Right from the beginning, she will start when she feels like it.  I just give her at least 5 seconds between each try.  She likes to be treated gently.  Whilst driving she will randomly lock the doors, then unlock them.  Just a reminder to us that she is in charge...... .  So we have had a powerhouse car for almost 5 years that has never broken down, not on motorways or anywhere.  The power steering failed outside our house.  All for around £1500.00

My Mum recently needed clutch change etc.  Cost around £1000.00 (can't remember the other major thing).  Her car, like Gem-Gems has very low milleage and is about the same age, in great condition.  My sister-in-law immediately started searching for cars around the £5000.00 mark.  What ?  Why ?

I pointed out to my Mum that if she repaired the car she would be driving one that she knows has had a new clutch, new brake pads, new power steering (I think that was it) and is in great condition.  It would be sound.  She could spend money on a new second hand car but what hidden problems would it have.  She has started the process of repairs on a car that she knows and is comfortable with.  Well done Mum !

Now, the incredible gift from my Dad, is 9 years old.  That puts it in the young side of mature category.  It's a Fiat Fiorino and is one of those white vans (small) that the manufacturers put seating in for 5 people.  Good idea.  Smallest engine I have ever had (1248cc) but I am not a boy racer !

But the thing I really love...........it has roll down windows, by hand !

In my book, less electrics, less problems.

I now want to find one of those basic courses that teaches you about mechanical care and repair.  You know, changing spark plugs etc

I also want to (for the first time ever) customise this car in celebration of my father.  And in thanks.

Any ideas ?

bala

x

Floss

Bala, has the Fiat got a name? Maybe call him Father Fiat? 

Good thought re wind-down windows - I had one fail in the down position in a snowstorm. And I agree with the logic for your mum, whilst I have had a few things need fixing I know my car's history & it gets driven hard...my excuse is that Alfa Romeos were never designed to go slowly! 

balabooberlies

Floss said:

Bala, has the Fiat got a name? Maybe call him Father Fiat? 

Good thought re wind-down windows - I had one fail in the down position in a snowstorm. And I agree with the logic for your mum, whilst I have had a few things need fixing I know my car's history & it gets driven hard...my excuse is that Alfa Romeos were never designed to go slowly! 

You made me laugh !


Hmmmm.......a name.......

Blackberrycurved

I am very pleased to have my first 2 gold stars thank you Mrs SD. I go to bed having caught up with the thread to wake up to several posts written at 3am or 4am which is sneaky so I’m now catching up again. Maybe the same bird which woke me at 2.30am is outside your window. She is complaining about the rain I think. I need to put my new divan bed together but I can’t find the big clips that hold it together any ideas what I can use? Off for my jab feeling overwhelmed by Christmas chores and work atm x

GrannyKate

Just checking in after reading posts - not much to report on decluttering front but hoping to clean and sort through house this week.  Decluttered lots of money last week.

1629-30 Two bags of mixed recycling out

I had better get showered and dressed as its nearly 9.30!

Siebrie

It's my 50th birthday today!

For gifts I received (and spent) a weekend in Luxembourg (2hr drive) in a hotel with a pool and breakfast included, dinner at the hotel (do not recommend!) and a visit to Mudam, a modern art's museum. Husband, dds and I had a great time (apart from dinner...yuck), the weather was dry on Saturday, great for sightseeing/windowshopping. The Mudam was an eye-opener for husband and dds, who are only used to traditional art and had plenty to say about the modern art . (The hotel was a lastminute 1-night offer, the dinner we won't speak about, the museum had free entry for dds).

Today, I will receive a museumpass which gives me free entry to 200 Belgian museums for just €59 (I received a 10% discount). Best of all: nothing brought into the house and nothing to get rid of!

florianatwobob

Happy Birthday @Siebrie! A pity about the dinner but the rest sounds excellent 

balabooberlies

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SIEBRE !

(I had to shout because you are a long way away  )


big birthday kiss

X

Wednesday2000

Happy Birthday!:)

bit_by_bit

Happy birthday @Siebrie 50 is a great age to be. Glad you are enjoying your break.