I wish I had her back. She was a beauty for sure. Well, truthfully, she could use a little shine here and there, but she was mine and because of that, she was beautiful. A Rustoleum gray, 1979 GMC pickup, three on the tree and more miles to count. Oh, I miss that truck.
It was the truck I learned to drive a stick on, and subsequently how expensive it is to replace a clutch. I learned how to unjam gears, the importance of a working gas meter, thermostat and radiator, and that water only goes so far to prevent overheating. I learned how to change brakes and shocks and why the right tools make everything better. I learned the importance of proper braking techniques while driving in the snow and without a lot of weight in the back, a rear wheel drive truck isn't all that great in the winter. I also made friends with Verne, our local mechanic. Come to think of it, when I was 17, I couldn't wait to get rid of that truck!