The Neighborhood Cat: The Movie

I didn't speak to it for quite a while after that. When curiosity finally got the best of me I discovered the problem was basically only low hydraulic oil level, worn seals, a worn pump, a plugged line, high cholesterol and a vexed astrological sign. No problem. So now I had to become a hydraulics expert too.

Soon all was back together again and I started in on one more little earth-moving project in the backyard. The engine was running great, the paint smell was all but gone, and the blade actually went up and down. It felt like old times; dirt and rocks and molehills flying everywhere. I had just made a pass, was backing up, and suddenly there was a 'WHOOOSH!' as the entire contents of the hydraulic tank emptied out of a ruptured hose under high pressure! I can now guarantee that no part of my backyard, the side of my Cat, or any of my clothes will ever rust!

It is now winter in our part of the country. The Cat is well covered up in the backyard and peacefully resting. I have taken up knitting to calm my nerves, and the EPA tells me that portions of my backyard may be able to grow grass again within the decade. I am happy again, knowing that the Cat is slowly running out of things to go wrong.