54 International: 2010

Why 54 International?

Why "54 International"?

I actually own a 1954 International pickup truck like this one. My dad bought it in 1956 after the seed corn company who bought it new went out of business and was selling their fleet of sales/delivery trucks. For years you could see "Cornhusker Hybrids" on the side boards of the truck.

In 1987, after graduating from college, I drug the truck out of my Dad's granary on the farm in Nebraska, went through it with a mechanic friend, put new brakes, tires, and some other mechanical stuff, then drove it from Nebraska to Oregon with my wife following in our car. That truck has followed me all around except to BC. Currently it is parked in a farmers shed in Saskatchewan, waiting for me to bring her "home".

I called this blog 54 International, why? I wanted something that reflects me, or who I try to be - and this old truck does. Simple, pretty reliable, does its best to get the job done. Will never be a classic, but will always be a good friend. Never going to win a show for good looks. Not too complicated.

Thursday, June 24, 2010

New Era

Just so you all know - my son John Erik graduated from High School this month. 20 days ago, actually. We're entering into a new phase of life. He somehow seems older. Maybe it's just the suit. Maybe it is because he is older (turned 17 four days before graduation). Maybe it's because I feel old having a high school graduate. Maybe it's because life is marching on a little fast these days.

He's heading to Saskatchewan for 6 weeks. To work for my friend, Dale, the farmer. Then what? Hmmm. He'll figure it out. He's gonna be fine.