Joshua St. Claire

Amateur Professional Grease Monkey

I can’t believe you would waste your money taking your car into the shop for repairs. I have done all my own auto repair since I was 16 years old. Sometimes I just sit and think about the money I saved over all those years and smile. Of course, I had to invest in a few things to get started. First, I had to buy a good socket set, a few screwdrivers, and assorted hand tools. Then, I bought a battery charger, an air compressor, and a torque wrench. Next, I decided to buy a nice tool box. Soon after, I had to upgrade to an upright tool chest. I couldn’t stand not knowing what my check engine light meant, so I bought the computer system to pull the codes. My AC went out, so I bought a brand new Freon recovery machine and tank so I could perform the repairs in an environmentally friendly way. When you are handy like me, you start to accumulate tools. I was running out of room in my garage, so I decided to build. I figured, go big or go home, so I hired an Amish crew to build me a two-story, 3-bay detached garage. Then, I had a hydraulic lift installed so I could do my oil changes without having to stoop down or get under the cars. You know me, I am so thrifty and careful with my money. But, by all means, keep taking your car in for service instead of doing it yourself. It is your money, after all, and if you want to just throw it away by taking your car to a mechanic, be my guest!

jury-rigging
the Corinthian Leather Moon
with Scotch tape
          his way
          or the highway

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About the Author

Joshua St. Claire is an accountant who works as a finance executive in rural Pennsylvania. His work has been published in several journals, including contemporary haibun online, Mayfly, The Heron’s Nest, and hedgerow.

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