It happened again- technical difficulties. Our hotplate has been on its last legs, and one of the burners gave out a few days ago. Last night, we couldn't resist, so Brent jumped in and disassembled it to try and get the %(^&#$^@ knob to turn on the large burner. After about 20 min. with the help of his trusty Leatherman, he came to the conclusion that some simple lubricant was needed to revive it. Alas, we had not had the foresight to pack any WD-40 or 3-in-1 Oil, and there was no doubt that the local store would not have anything along those lines, let alone our being able to figure out how to say 'lubricant' in Russian!!! So Buffy had the brilliant idea of using Olive Oil, the only oil we did have, to solve the problem. We must report that, in a pinch, it works splendidly (though we are concerned... is it flammable? Mike, Kev?)Anyway, popcorn was our reward, and the ability to heat two pots at once reaffirmed our faith in the existence of civilization.
On the baby front, thanks Babushka Bollin for the info on the anti-fungal cream; it worked great, and Cam was much improved today (we are sure he thanks you too). It's a beautiful day here, and we got to spend some time outside, walking and visiting with the other adoptive families. One family was kind enough to lend us their DVD player (since we're without a laptop for the time being), so we're sure to watch something other than Who Wants to be a Millionaire? in Russian tonight.
We have the afternoon off, so we'll stroll the 20 blocks to the Tsum Store and noodle around; Buffy's glasses are a little tweaked, so we'll try to find an optometrist there. Maybe afterward, take a swing around the park. Stay tuned....
Relaxing with Mom so that breakfast digests and less spit-up happens.
4 comments:
yes olive oil is flammable ... if it reaches proper temp, it will flare, however even light motor oil(3m oil) is flammable, same issue!!
graphite best, comes in radio shack electronic lube, but good luck finding it; i don't think you'll be able to disassemble to lube... so suggest use minimum amt of olive oil, just as needed!
actually pretty creative solution! (for a girl, LOL)
p.s. buffy, please make sure B unplugs stuff before he tears into it!! makes me nervous just looking at this pic ... and don't want him electrocuted in kaz! wouldn't leave good impression with locals!
impressed to see you guys being so industrious and fixing everything! you will leave everything in better shape than you found it!
The Mantin's have returned from Florida. We are enjoying the daily journal and pictures. How wonderful to be able to share in your journey! What a cutie and a nice family picture. All our love and best wishes to you.
Natural oils just naturally break down and go rancid after oxidation and heat. They attract dirt and will eventually gum up, but ok for now.
Kevin
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