@CANDC, no worries the chimney is clear. I can see the sun shining down it. I believe some kind of critter got in the chimney the other night. Should have seen me when I opened the flue the next day. I was half expecting some critter to come tumbling out.
I don't think replacing the cap will be a big deal. I could probably do it myself. I don't get on the roof anymore. After a lifetime of doing things for myself I've reached an age and level of tiredness I'm willing to let someone else do some things.