I have some money set aside for my car repair. I think I am going to use it to pay down two of my small credit card balances. I will then use my credit card with the largest balance for the repairs. This will consolidate everything. I don't know if this is a a good idea, but it will make things more managable.

I replaced my cassette and chain last night. After I installed the chain, I had to adjust the limit screws, but then it wouldn't shift onto the low gears. I noticed that the cable was very loose. I pulled the slack out of the deraillure and it worked like a charm. I was very impressed with my maintenance skills. Let's hope that my brake job goes as well.