On the Road Again
Yesterday, blog day, my two-week road trip began after an inauspicious beginning. It began on Saturday, with my car being towed because of an engine coolant warning, and ended with my car being declared unsafe for any more trips. At only 155,000 km, I was gobsmacked. However, on second thought, my well-loved Toyota RAV4 had safely transported me and my family and friends for 18 years. The short story was the inevitable and problematic rust.
Now what? Cancel the well-planned trip or rent a car? The latter was the only option.
So, here I am in Hampton, New Brunswick, thanks to CAA, Toyota service, my daughter (Meghan) and son-in-law (Graeme), and my wonderful cousins who welcomed us with good food, love and laughter. Oh yes, Enterprise Car Rentals and all the other drivers who stayed in their lanes. Meghan and Graeme did all the driving yesterday and will fly back to Ottawa, and I will leave tomorrow for PEI and places beyond.
This is just a little update to stay in touch from the road.
Next week I will be a little late or a little early also. And you will hear from me.
I hope this note finds you well, and may you have some beautiful moments staring at the gorgeous moon. I love knowing that we all get to see the same moon, no matter where we live.
Notes
1) Today I experienced the irony of my car headed for the dustbin and having the time of my life as a passenger in my cousin’s self-driving car. It was “awesome.” (This word annoys me, but I need to use it here) Honestly, I enjoyed it so much, I was like a kid. I thoroughly loved this amazing test drive. Thanks, Di.
2) You know by now how much I appreciate your company, but I always want to thank you. Warmest wishes, Trudy
Quite the adventure to say the least. I’ve only owned Toyotas since I started driving and feel that they are very reliable. With only 155,000 km I would have to admit that’s very low for a Toyota!
However, due to the rust on my 2000 4runner it is time for me to look for something new and it’s taking me a lot of time to try to leave the Toyota family. It has just over 450,000 km and it’s never given me a problem. I just do the regular maintenance and always an extra set of tires, winter and seasonal.
I want a plug-in hybrid 4Runner but they just haven’t made one yet. Not sure if I can wait. A Toyota engine sure out performs the body, unfortunately.
Thank God, you also have family close by and helping you.
Hi Angie: Thank you for your note. I too love Toyota’s and like you always did my services but was only thinking about mileage and not all the salt and urban only driving that I mostly do. I would never hesitate to get another Toyota, and I am very lucky to have a wonderful family close by. You are right! It is thoughtful of you to get in touch and I enjoyed reading about your vehicle experience. Warmly appreciative, Trudy
Sorry to hear about your dear old Toyota Trudy, but 18 years is impressive and I’m glad you were able to rent something for your well deserved special trip. I went out to see the moon last night and am hoping for the eclipse tonight but given the wild rainstorms today, it may not be in the cards. Safe travels my dear. xoxoxo
Thank you dear Janice. It has been a wonderful trip and I am having a break from driving this weekend. I hope Sept has been beautiful in Ottawa thus far. Big hugs, Trudy
Enjoy your holiday Trudy. I sat out on my back yard for almost two hours watching that magnificent eclipse. What a gift. Weather was perfect for a Calgary evening as you know we cool down at night. I wrapped all up and felt the most peace I have felt this year after losing my daughter to that darn cancer almost s year ago. Joy on my heart.
Thank you dear Jean. You have experienced crushing blows. I am happy to hear that some peace and joy are breaking through. So many good wishes. As always, Trudy