The Sunshine Bus and Beyond..

For the past 8 years I have watched these mini buses sail down US 1 picking up a variety of clientele with backpacks, bikes, and other paraphernalia. And this past Tuesday was my day for a ride. For a nominal fee of $1 per ride, or $2 day pass, I was getting a ride. Should I had to take UBER or LYFT this transport would surely have depleted my wallet by at least $60. How I miss NYC mass transit.

My car of 132,000 miles was once again ill, and the car repair spot was 15 miles away. Left at 7 am and deposited the car at the helpful hands of A1A Auto Center on the “island,” and just missed the bus. While usually in NYC if you run behind the bus and wave your arms, the bus stops, this guy did not. Looking over the internet info I thought another bus was due in a half hour but after 45 minutes called the dispatcher and found either I read the website wrong or it wasn’t updated. While the Trolley for the St. Aug tourist attraction passed every 15 minutes one needs a ticket for the venue to board, thus I was declined transport. It was a frosty morning being beach side so glad I wore the winter coat with gloves and hat stashed in the jacket pocket to warm the hands and head.

A bit after 10 the bus arrived and I received a bus schedule with correct information from the driver. Then was transported to the Depot, which is an area with 4 buses next to a side walk in front of a strip mall. As the driver did not announce the Depot I stayed on the bus till told to get off. Never quite saw a Depot like this. Then when I attempted to board my connecting bus the female driver pitched an attitude telling me to get off as this was her 20 minute break. Another lesson learned in Sunshine Bus etiquette. Wish they had a booklet of instructions..

From here on to the Main Street Library, my favorite go to spot in St. Aug., besides the post office and Georgie’s Diner, (great Greek place with Reubens to die for). Arrived at the library at 11:30 am ate my bag lunch in the park next to the library, then spent several hours reading, and checking emails at the library. At 3:45 pm caught my now favorite and only mass transit in St. Aug and back to A1A Auto Center.

Had very friendly driver, Richard, on the return ride. Mr. Richard was retired military, and knowledgeable about getting me to my destination as the bridge had drawn closed and little opportunity to make my Depot connection. Hats off to Richard who also explained the funding source for this vital transport. Apparently, it is a combined effort with City, County, State, and Federal government. Glad to see my tax dollars being used well, and government working together..

With the return Depot connection made I arrived on time to the repair shop. While Gary got Heddy Lamarr* running it was time for her to be laid to rest. However, Gary, the knowledgeable mechanic who attempted this resuscitation informed me she was not long for the road though he could not predict her dod (date of death). He told me to purchase a Toyota. Had gotten that last tid bit after Heddy’s last illness but upon visiting the Toyota dealership they only showed me cars $40,000. and up. Guess they weren’t trying to “WOW!” me, St. Aug joke with this dealership, so I decided to give Heddy a few more miles as I didn’t want to put out that much cash.

After paying $303. for the repair the car began to die badly on the ride home. Knew it was her time and headed directly to the Toyota dealership to see if perhaps they would “WOW!” me now. Here I met the wonderful young Trey, who came through with a car and deal beyond compare even giving me $700. for Heddy. And because Heddy was packed to capacity Mr. Trey even assisted with transfer of goods to the new vehicle. His mom trained him right and what a lucky lady to have him!

Here’s my new babe. Have to name her, any thoughts?

When I told my daughter of the purchase she asked if this one was free as it is the fifth punch on my rewards card. Sadly, had to tell her had to use her inheritance for this one.

For Sale

And while I’m at it I’ll do a plug to sell the condo. $200,000. monthly fee $265, taxes $600., monthly electric $40, ( I unplug all my electrical cords when not in use), water $40 month – one person used sparingly, has a pool, washer and dryer in the second bedroom with custom cabinetry with adequate space for a twin bed and dresser, beautiful gardens, large storage closet and large closet off the master bedroom with another good sized closet off the smaller bedroom, one bathroom. Some pictures.