OK, so I think I'll start looking for a cassette...I have a family member who works for a bike manufacturer and sometimes he can get me deals on parts. I like to support my LBS as much as possible but it's nice to get discounts on parts sometimes. And I'll lube this new chain every time I ride in the hopes that it makes it past 1,000.

I guess my other option for extending the life of all these parts would be to ride less. But that's not a good option at all!!!!