Spent a good part of today cruising around one last time doing my shopping an errands with an old friend. Later in the day he hitched a ride to his new home in Pennsylvania. My friend has been with our family for a good 20 years. He was found in a barn in the Adirondacks, made his way to Rochester New York and over the years became a reality to ideas and a dream I had. He created excitement for my wife and kids. My grandchildren got to know him and affectionately called him "Mater" (must have been his coloring). He traveled with me to cruise nights and car shows. We made several trips to the Detroit Dream Cruise and he even got a cameo appearance on Goggle maps a few years ago. Wherever we went we had fun and he got me introduced to some great people. My friend was my 37 Chevy Custom built Kingcab pickup. His reincarnation started back in 1992 with some rough drawings and a re-work diecast model of what I had in mind. With the help and encouragement from family and friends we began a creative journey that lasted through family and work commitments, our children's college and several design changes. Even in the end to me he remained a work in progress. This past year after he gave his plates to his sister a Chopped 37 Chevy Sedan who returned home after 11 years, he spent more time sitting in the garage and only being driven when I would bring home the dealer plate. As much as I wanted to keep him I knew he needed to be on the road. Last week a gentleman from PA and I had a nice talk on the phone about "Mater" who I had listed on E-Bay. He must have liked what I said because with 6 seconds left in the auction he placed his only bid meeting my reserve and winning him the truck. Today when he came to pick up "Mater" he was extremely pleased with his purchase and is excited to provide "Mater" a new home. As hard as it was to finalize the deal, I really don't have regrets. "Mater" was a good friend. He helped me learn a lot, allowed me to be creative and when I was behind the wheel he provided me with years of enjoyment and pride.
Heart-warming story even though your letting it go to a new caretaker. I hope I see it down here in PA sometime.
The Jalopy Journal
