i spent most of my afternoon today helping my dad clear leaves out of the yard. it doesn't sound exciting - in fact it sounds rather tedious - but i actually enjoyed myself. it was beautiful out, especially compared to the cold of the past few days and it was great to be out in the sun. and it was rather satisfying to see the beds free of leaves. the previous owners of the house i don't think had cleared out the beds since maybe the early fall. arms are a bit sore from raking but it's a good feeling.

car shopping tomorrow. should be interesting. anyone have any tips?