A Big Week: Car Doings Part 1

It's been a big week.  A new car was purchased.  And I sold my old car (Herman) after driving it for a little over 11 years and 212,000 miles.  Remember when I bought Herman?  A few memorable times we had were:

1. The fun naming process (and the interesting suggestions)
2. Driving to ND at least once (maybe twice)
3. Getting his first big dent from a giant cottonwood limb during a wind storm at Mom and Dad's when he was less than six months old.  I never had that one fixed - he left today with that first dent still there.
4. Driving to the Cheesy and Corny states countless times
5. Hitting a deer once (just a small flesh wound - only body work was needed)
6. Carrying 3 kayaks home from the store (not all at the same time)
7. Getting started on kayaking, including learning about roof racks and roof rack accessories
8. Trying to drive into the garage with Kermit on his roof.  That was the source of the other major roof dent that Herman left with today.
9. Getting stopped by the police in Illinois and refusing to be searched
10. Many hours of contemplation about emotions and life.  There were some good hours and some dark hours.  Like this.

Like Reggie, Herman was sold to a good home.  He's going to a single mom in her late 20's or early 30's who needs a "slightly" newer car than she has right now.  It would be cool if she could get him to 300,000 miles, but we'll see.  There were no tears for Herman's departure today.  When I cleaned him out on Sunday I did pause for a few moments to feel nostalgic.  It's easier when you know he's going to someone who needs him.  And, having a new car helps numb the pain.

Here's Herman a few hours before leaving today.  He aged fairly well, although as I gave him a car wash today I noticed how many paint chips he had and even *gasp* a couple small rusty spots.  Given how old he is, he still doesn't look too outdated.  I chose well if I do say so myself.

I was paid in cash.  I think this is the most cash I've ever held in my hand at one time.  All of this cash was less than half an inch thick.  Imagine how much money is in those bags full of money that you see in the movies!

Tomorrow or Friday I'll post a picture of my new ride once I remember to take a picture out in the sunlight and not in my cramped garage.