So, some life updates.

My beloved Aspire recently started having some issues with valvetrain noise. It would occationally make a loud tick every once in a while, but it went away when I turned it off and re-started the engine. Figured the hydraulic lash adjusters were shot, so I changed them out. Turns out, the threads that hold the rocker assemblies were stripped. I tried repairing the threads, but didn't do a very good job. The exhaust side assembly came loose on me while driving to work, which made me an hour late. I did get it running again, but knowing it needed more money into it than I had, and the fact that the torsion beam bushings I needed are out of production, it was time to invest in something else. Took some time looking at financing options at a local Kia dealership that had some specials, but none of the cars really interested me. But, in usual salesman fashion, they kept hounding me. I decided if I was going to make payments, I'd get something I actually wanted, and bought a 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage from another dealership. Worked out nicely, since I got $1000 in trade-in value for my Aspire (more than what I paid for it 3 and a half years ago), plus a $1000 instant rebate, and I'm out the door with a new car with payments at $270 a month. Wasn't the color I originally wanted, but it works. :)

In the relationship department, I'm over my ex for the most part, although I still have relapses. I do miss her, but I miss how she used to be, not who she became. I miss the companionship we had. But, in the end, the relationship was no longer as fulfilling as it used to be. Kat just wasn't the sweet girl I fell in love with anymore. The girl I fell in love with shortly after we got married reminded me of how Kat was when we first got together. I know that people change with time, and the butterflies don't last forever, but I just couldn't stay knowing my heart wasn't fully into the marriage anymore. I had hoped some time and distance would have let us rediscover why we got married, but we all know how well that plan went. >.> Still pissed off about that.

I'm still single, by choice. I could easily jump into a new relationship right now if I wanted to, since I do have someone wanting to be with me, but I won't be like my ex and jump on the first body to show interest. I'm taking the time to get myself sorted out, so that when I do decide to have a relationship, it will be much more meaningful. Yes, the empty bed really fucking sucks, but it's what I've gotta do. Besides, now I've got the chance to enjoy single life. I'll settle down when I'm actually ready, not when I think I am. :3