A quick calculation verified that I was getting almost 30 miles per gallon
at a very loosely estimated speed of 70 miles per hour. I checked the oil
and topped up for the last time - I used about 1/2 of a quart for the 800
miles. Life was starting to get good and I zipped onto I 80 on the final
stretch. By now the scratches on my hand from changing gear with my 2 inch
nub (oops that does not sound right) were really starting to hurt but I did
not care. I had no gloves and had forgotten to buy any.... The thump from
the overdrive was sweet and the big trucks did not seem so big anymore.
By the time I hit Gary, Indiana I was almost euphoric. That's the first
time in history anyone has been euphoric about getting to Gary. I even
began weaving in and out - overtaking with gay abandon. More grins and
thumbs up - particularly from a couple of Miata owners.
By the time I reached Plainfield I was VERY HAPPY. Those 800 miles taught
me a lot about the car and a lot about myself. My last meal had been the
McDonalds at yesterday lunch. I was exhausted and keyed up. None of that
stopped me from taking the kids and half the neighborhood out for rides. I
did not eat until Kim dragged us out to Portillo's for dinner. A great
ending to a great 2 days. Now I know why you guys do what you do and am
looking forward to being more a part of it. Thanks again Fred - and thanks
to all of you who make this list what it is.....
regards,
Wayne
|