The circa-2000 Windstar minivan we got so much use and pleasure out of.... died April 6, 2015, with upwards of 190,000 miles-- many of those on the highway-- instead of getting me partway to Ohio and THEN failing. She died right on the mechanic's lot.

I didn't mind the rust.

It was fine that the ventilation windows for sleeping stopped opening entirely and then, after I got rid of the custom-cut screening, decided to work fine.

The rear doors on each side were SO appreciated, even when the one side only unlocked by hand half the time.

I gave up needing new seats after my surgery, and finally noticed my musculature had adjusted to enjoy long drives in 'er-- just as she was.

The cleanout took several trips, as she was so full of stuff we used all the time.

Her 84" cot had, long since, ended up at our Camp Ridgebury property where a plywood base now makes it rated well over the 350lb limit it came with; a good bed for a visiting child or very tall adult. A good place to set and pick a bit, too, since the kids' guest room is also the jam room and the dvd room.

The small recliner that succeeded the cot--after a nursing-home stay taught ne to appreciate sleeping on my back-- also came to Camp and is in that same room, where I can always nap or sleep all night, when we have a full house. I slept in it, last, when my dear DIL drove me halfway home to PA, after my Fall '14 trip to Ohio ended with weeks of illness. (I actually slept while someone else DROVE. )

She was the perfect thing when it was just what I needed. Now that I can sleep well on a couch.... I guess I don't need 'er no more.

~S~