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Our 1969 Le mans sits peacefully in our neighbors garage. We enjoy that old car. We have driven her around town with the top down and enjoy the head turns and aaah's of the passersby.

At first I balked at the idea of even getting the car. What is the world is that old thing going to do for us? At the time she was stored in a friends barn. The friend had continued working on her and she looked pretty good. The question was asked if we would like to buy her. I saw the twinkle in my husband's eye. He took took to that car like an old pal. It was all he talked about that day with the friend and soon a payment was made. She was ours.

I personally didn't think she was worth the time and effort. I was skeptical. Now as I look back at how this hobby has caused an excitement for my husband, I'm glad I said yes. I even do a bit of helping and hanging around the garage and listen. I choose to take part in the experience. She has been a good thing for our marital relationship.

It takes time to restore the old girl. Finances can sometimes be a hindrance, but because she's our hobby we set aside the funds and eventually we get the jobs done. We still don't have the desire to sell her because we have too many happy moments on the road with the wind in our hair. We just realize this...restoring takes time for us. It takes lots of time. This is OK. Enjoyment is in the process. If you're feeling stressed out even thinking about getting an old car and the costs of restoration, then maybe you need to think twice before handing over the cash.

We have found several places on the Internet that help us with parts and the how to. We just type in antique cars and other information about our particular car and we find a wealth of information to help like http://www.popularmechanics.co m/automotive/reader_rides/1271 211.html, and http://www.secondchancegarage. com/. There are many stores on line to buy parts. Two sites are http://www.classiccarpartsgian t.com/ and http://www.classicindustries.c om/. We also have friends in the community who give great advice. You never know where help is going to come from: The guy at the barbershop talks about his restoring experiences. We've got a good subject to talk about instead of just the weather. He's been restoring cars for years. His wisdom is priceless.

Restoration takes time, money, patience, ability to learn, and follow through. We make the work a joy. It's how you look at it that makes the difference in your attitude. Soon you'll be driving your old beautiful car down the road. You are noticed by many, many people. This showing off the car is a wonderful feeling, especially when going to a car show. It is the cherry on the cake.

Learn more about this author, Mary Beth.
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