It's been 10 years to the day and 83,000 miles since I got my Jetta. There I am with it on one of it's first days. I've been a lot of places in this car!
It was quite a hunt to obtain this car. Many treks to and from the Volkswagen dealer in Huntsville, as well as some trips to Tupelo, Memphis, and Atlanta, were involved. Finally on October 25th a purchase was made. (The only reason I remember the date is it is the same date as twin neighbor's birthday).
Although I was appreciative at the time, I think I am way more appreciative of this car now than I was ten years ago. I am so thankful that my parents provided me with a car at 16 that is still functional and running ten years later. I haven't had to spend the money to get a new one and don't have to worry about a car payment.
The Jetta still is in very good shape, although it does have its share of battle scars- 4 very minor incidents that each left it with more character than it had before- although I'm sure a car guy would not see it that way.
The Jetta and I have conquered many things together and some memories involve the car. Here are ten - one for each year-
1. Decatur High softball field after school (although I probably could have walked)
2. Samford (I still remember the drive to Birmingham on move-in day)
3. Out to the middle of no where to measure a trailer for the Homecoming float
4. When I drove JP and I on our second date to Purple Onion and he left his leftovers in my car
5. Driving a bunch of girls to a sorority retreat and realizing we were at a dead end just in time
6. Driving to Dallas (and driving back from Dallas with a car full of stuff). Longest drive this little car has ever made.
7. I drove so many places during my internship so I went all over the city. My favorite memory- unintentionally drive through the toll booth on the on ramp and freaking out about it. Then stopping at the next toll booth and being told that you are aloud to run 3 tolls a month.
8. When I was pulled over in Dallas when I was trying to find my way to the hospital the day before my internship started. I pulled onto a one way street the wrong way. There was no traffic as it was Sunday but I realized it as soon as I did it and pulled in a parking lot to turn around. A cop pulled in right behind me. I informed him I was from Alabama and it was my first time to drive downtown. He let me go with no ticket.
9. Driving to the Atlanta Braves playoff game and FINALLY finding a parking spot
10. All the trips I made in a packed Jetta from the apartment to this house
The Jetta has been a very good car, but is needy in the oil category. The Jetta likes its oil and has kept me on my toes- frequently having to check to make sure it isn't low. Other than nothing but maintenance- like a timing belt which the purchase of was the first time I felt like an adult (having to spend money on something not fun).
I have been very pleased with my Jetta!
Happy Tenth Birthday Jetta!
