RIP

"It was more then a car, it was family. This is how our 1996 Ford Escort will be remembered," said Andrea Raich as she woefully came to grips with the stark reality that it was time to turn a new leaf and end the needless suffering of the car that has become known as the little car that could. "I learned to drive on the wrong side of the road with it. I will miss it, that's for sure," said Jeffrey Raich, who, through a series of mishaps (none of them his fault), never really was able to drive legally. "Oh, Dear," were the words uttered by the littlest Raich as she thought about trading in her car seat for a buggy, but was quickly pacified by watching a little tele.

The car was a trusted member of the family, but they felt that the time had come to end its suffering. Sure it looks great parked at the end of the road. Sure it was the envy of the block. But it was hurting and it was clear to the Raich family what needed to be done.

"Plans are starting to be made to find the little car that could a new home, a better home where it will be able to bring others happiness," said Andrea. "I just hope others don't judge us by this. I truly think that euthanizing it is the best thing to do. We love it and wish there was another way, but there just isn't."

"Oh, Dear," where the words uttered again by Mia. She was quickly pacified once again, but this time it was by making honey cookies.

"We're just thankful that the little car that could agreed to be a parts donor. I remember discussing this with it. There was a lot of conversation about this...," said Jeffrey, "things like was it right, was there another way, how scared it was about being taken apart... those sorts of things. But in the end, we all knew that it was the right thing to do. I mean, if a catalytic converter could bring another family joy and hope, then how could we deny them that."

This was clearly a moment in this family's life that will take some time to accept. It is entirely too obvious that this car was loved and cared for (maybe not ever cleaned or washed, but cared for none the less). All the best to the little car that could, may you rest in peace.

"Oh, Dear!"