A frustrating day ends less so...

Worked all day long on Slvr's car today. We started off to work on the master cylinder but she mentioned electrical problems which means you get to chase all sorts of rabbits to finally nail the problem down. We made numerous trips to the autoparts store but the car wouldn't start. Just to give you an idea:

• Change out left tail-light lamp. Busted. Assembly is holding water.
• Unplug drain from light assembly.
• Light works, yeah!
• Pulled battery. Cleaned posts, cables, and box.
• Put battery back in, car won't turn over.
• Shut hood, alarm goes off.
• Disconnect cables.
• Replace the terminal heads on the battery cables. Purchased the wrong ones first, another trip to get the right ones. Still have to modify.
• Pull Starter Relay and check five autoparts stores. No one has it in stock. Will be Monday before they can order it.
• Get to the dealer, no relay in stock but suggested I try the ignition switch instead since relays seldom if ever go out.
• Search for ignition switch after removing underdash to make sure ignition swith won't require special tools. Nope, easily accessible.
• Get to parts store, look at universal switch. Only three wires. Bright light goes off in my thick skull... especially after conversation with sales clerk.
• Get connection splices to reconnect the auto alarm system that I cut to keep the horn from going off. Duh... auto kill switch to the starter!
• Fix splice.
• Try several methods to reset alarm system. None work.
• Slvr looks all over her car and finds a manual to the alarm system.
• Reset the system.
• Car runs perfect. A day has passed.
• Kids want to go to the drive in theatre.
• Take kids to the drive in.
• Watch Happy Feet and Flushed Away. Both excellent.
• Return home to do laundry and wash dishes.
• Ready to go to bed.

This was the first time the kids had ever been to a drive-in movie. They enjoyed the experience! Sort of a dull day, but at least Slvr's car is up and running again. I only feel partially stupid...