All good things must end

It’s the end of an era. I’m gazing through the front window to the space where Sweetie the Wondervan has lived for the past five months, and I have an uninterrupted view of the white picket fence across the road. An hour ago, I watched Sweetie drive away with her new owner.

Bittersweet doesn’t even begin to describe how I feel. I never thought I would give her up for anything. She has been an absolute gem of a travel companion these last four years and four months, and I still had so many plans for the two of us. But remaining parked up on the roadside in a city suburb 95% of the time is not the right life for Sweetie. She loves the open road as much as I do; this city-dwelling phase of my life might be giving me all the things I need for my future career, but it’s doing nothing for her.

I couldn’t be happier with where she is heading next though. She is now in the safe hands of a mechanic with an eye for detail and a genuine belief in her value. He is going over her with a fine toothcomb; future-proofing her in readiness to pass on to his mum and dad. So the next phase of adventure on the open road will begin soon for Sweetie, and I sincerely wish both her and the new owners well.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve taken a few day trips with Sweetie to make the most of the joy, simplicity, relaxation and holiday lifestyle she’s embodied while she has been part of my life. I’m going to miss her. We’ve been to some wonderful places together.

And yet, I’m also looking forward to a car-less life in the city – the first time in more than 9 years I haven’t owned a vehicle – while I continue my studies and career development, get better acquainted with my bicycle, and enjoy the offerings of an urban lifestyle.

A new journey begins.