I even came home with a copy of Classic Auto Trader, eager to join the fraternity. After all, why not? I had not been part of that cruising era. My first car was a Ford Escort. I knew of cruising only from watching American Graffiti. Going to Woodward Avenue today gave people of both my generation and my kids’ generation a history lesson, a back-in-time glimpse of what life used to be. We saw, not how much people love their cars, but how much they worship them. My kids even talked about coming back next year with a classic of our own to proudly show.
We were inspired to try the experience firsthand, hopping onto Woodward among the classics in our 2008 Ford Escape, windows down and moonroof open. We quickly learned that the car doesn’t matter, the spirit does, and we were partaking in a cherished pastime. Sure, I might indulge myself one day and get that Mustang convertible just to be able to share the same love with others that classic car owners did with us, but until then, I’m taking time once in a while to roll down the windows, get on the side roads, and force my kids to turn off the Game Boys. It’s us and the open road, the way driving was meant to be.
Article comments
1 - Joanne Huspek
I'm glad you enjoyed it. As a person who lives two doors down from Woodward, I have found it necessary to vacate the premises during Dream Cruise Week. This year I was lucky enough to have moved my daughter to college.
Don't get me wrong; I love old cars. I have owned old cars. I wish they would move the venue to somewhere farther away from my house, that's all.
2 - Alice Jester
Joanne - I've heard that complaint by many natives. Given the chaos I witnessed, I understand. There isn't a lot of parking, and cities like Royal Oak allowed parking on the side streets. That's where I parked. That's probably the first big problem right there. It's still so much fun, so hopefully the local communities can find a balance that brings in the business but still doesn't bother the residents too much.
3 - Joanne Huspek
Ha ha... so that was YOUR car in front of my house!? Boy, my husband was POed... :-)