"Mom, guess what? Dad just bought a Camaro."
Although my son could say many things that would have the power to leave me speechless, I never realized the impact this event would have on our lives. This particular guide to restoring old cars is for the spouse, partner or simply non-participating by stander.

1. Try to show enthusiasm when listening to how an original set of interior door emblems were found, restored and installed. This may seem like talking about cleaning the dryer vent, but to the restorer, it is a moment of all out glory.

2. Patiently listen to the story of the finding, restoring and installing of the door emblems to everyone you see until the next milestone of car restoration is completed.

3. You do not have to understand or participate in the restoration process, but feigning a bit of interest and at least looking at the progress can go a long way in showing your support.

This is a long process and at times can be frustrating and you may be baffled by the amount of time and money that can be invested in an "old bucket of bolts," but to the restorer, the end result is priceless.

Learn more about this author, Sharon MacGregor.
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