Sad News?

Charlottesville

September 16, 2026

Yikes. I have not posted in nearly three months. I’ve missed sharing my experiences, my thoughts, feelings and reactions. And my photos. While I believe I have visited my last Paris, my wanderabout is not over, especially in terms of my reflections on what I experienced and learned. I’m not who I was in 2019. Good riddance to that person — or at least aspects of him.

In 2019 as I planned for my wanderabout, I debated whether I needed a new vehicle. My 2004 Toyota Sequoia, while I good shape, had roughly 250,000 miles on it. Did I need something newer to minimize the risk of breaking down somewhere in the US? My son had the answer. “Come on Dad, drive the Sequoia until it breaks down — that’s part of the adventure!” He was right; one of the driving forces for my wander about was to live outside my comfort zone and driving an old SUV around the country fit that description. Plus I could avoid laying out big bucks for a new SUV.

During the trip, I made some repairs to Hi Ho Silver. A radiator repair in Utah, a brake job in California. New tires in Phoenix and somewhere in western Nebraska, a couple of new timing belts. But my home on wheels got me everywhere I wanted to go.

Earlier this month, I took Hi Ho Silver to Bob’s Wheel Alignment here in Charlottesville. They have taken care of my friend since I moved here in 2015 (and got the truck back from my son). I had a feeling there might be a problem — and there was. The Sequoia failed its annual state inspection due to a rusted out frame. Bob’s suggested I take the vehicle to Kevin’s Restoration and see if they can help me. I have a ballpark idea that repairing the rust will cost approximately $5,000. That’s more than I could sell the vehicle for (after repairs). Note, I did not say it’s not worth $5,000 because to me there’s a lot of worth left in Hi Ho Silver. In addition, I suspect there’s another $5,000 of work including the front suspension and CV joints. Big decision coming up.

I’ll take Hi Ho to Kevin’s soon so I can get their professional opinion. Part of me is procrastinating and doesn’t want to face that this might be the end. Hi Ho took me on a helluva adventure — we are a team. And always will be!

Wish me luck.