R.I.P trusty (rusty) friend!

In order to do a documentary/book on an iconic highway you need a car that can go the distance--literally and figuratively. Said car needs to be tough because, in the case of Highway 61 in Minnesota, it's a good 440 miles from the northern tip of Minnesota to its southern most point and if you multiply numerous trips, over six years, we're talking about an eye-popping (piston popping?) number of miles. 

It is with great sadness that I say "goodbye" to the car that took me on the road trip of a lifetime. I know she doesn't look great in this photo. I lost the left rear hubcap somewhere between Hastings and Winona in year five of  "The Project." I never did replace it. I think it gave the old car a kind of "road warrior" look. (Enhanced with the layer of salt/dirt/grime over her many dings and dents.)

She (and yes---I give cars gender specific designations) never once left me on the side of the road although she'd burn through a quart or two of oil during most our of forays. What the heck. The car was burning oil and I was leaking oil by the time we wrapped up the book and film. We forgave each other our foibles. 

So when the "check engine" light came on (and stayed on) and the diagnosis of a clogged catalytic converter and old age was made it became clear something had to be done. But, with 215,599 miles on her and a clutch that slipped just a little, it seemed silly to think that she could be traded in. Besides, a trade-in seemed beneath her somehow. 

Thankfully,  the 2002 Subaru with the missing hubcap, the leaky pistons and the nearly shot clutch ultimately found a home. She was donated to the Newgate School in Minneapolis to be used in their automotive training program. It is a great non-profit effort. With a little elbow grease, a few new parts and some TLC, she may end up being given to a family in need of reliable transportation. I hope so. She's still got a few good miles in her. Now, if I could say the same thing about myself...