muddy one. We drove up north for the auction and sloshed and squished through a muddy field and stood there for about an hour before the auctioneer got to the Ghia. We knew there were a few other people there who were interested in the car, but we really didn't have a clue how much the thing would sell for. I had made my mind up prior to the sale what our budget was, but it was clear once the bidding started that it was shot. Unfortunately, auctions are tough because you make your mind to drive there, stand in the rain, and then you don't want to lose whatever it is you are there for. This is how the auctioneers and the sellers make good money. We were quickly past our budget and finally gave up around $1000 over the price I had set in my mind. Our son was inconsolable, since he was so excited about the car, he cried all the way back to the truck. To tell you the truth, I was pretty bummed myself and I could tell my husband was too.
So, we made up our minds to search the internet for Karmann Ghias for sale that afternoon and it wasn't long until we found a bright, shiny red Ghia on a site. The seller was asking only a few thousand more than we had wanted to buy the other Ghia for, plus it appeared to be in solid shape. The other car would have needed lots and lots of work to get it up and running! So, we text messaged the seller and began to ask questions about the car. All the usuals, "how does it drive?" "Is there any rust?" Etc. As it turned out, even though the car was located in Memphis, the seller had just moved up near us for work and could meet us to discuss the car in person the next day. So, we made arrangements to meet up for lunch.
The following day, we met up with the seller and looked at more detailed photos of the car. It looked great; other than needing a new interior and some trim pieces, the car was solid (no rust), running (just had the engine rebuilt), and had new paint. I have to say, I fell in love with it at first sight. I have never in my life owned a red car, and never really had the desire to do so, but this car was different. We made the decision right then and there to put a 10% deposit down on the car and drafted an intent to buy the car on a sheet of notebook paper. After we handed over the money and a handshake, the deal was done, we would get the car delivered the following Sunday evening. 
It was a hard week for all of us, especially our 4.5 year old son. He LOVES cars and could talk of nothing else the whole week! So, when Sunday finally rolled around he was unable to contain his excitement. Unfortunately, the seller was running late leaving Mephis and would not be at our house until the middle of the night! This was a disappointment for sure! But, we promised him that it would be like Christmas and when he woke up it would be there waiting. This was a help, and we finally got him to sleep.I fell asleep around nine (as usual) and then was woken up around 12:30am by my husband. The car arrived, literally, in the back of a Uhaul truck--it is that small! With some finagling the guys managed to get the car out safely and it was in it's new home--the garage! We signed the bill of sale and handed over the balance of the money and that was that. I didn't take much time to look at it since it was way past my bedtime.
But, sure enough around 6:30 in the morning here come our son, "Mommy, the Karmann Ghia is here!!" He was out there looking at the car for about 15 minutes, I had to yell at him to come inside to get ready for school. I practically had to pry him off the thing.
This evening, we really got to take a good look at the car, and I got to drive it a few feet (out of the garage). It looks fantastic on the outside, other than needing some trim installed. However, the interior is all original and needs a complete overhaul. I am actually glad about this. The original fabric on the seats was red and black checks or houndstooth, which is one of my most favorite patterns ever. The vinyl trim was a mix between grey and taupe. So, I have decided to restore it back to it's original look as best as we can. I don't have tons to spend to complete this job, but I want to do it right. With a little love (and some money) this car is going to be awesome. I already love it and I have only had it for one day. This is going to be a fun project; I am not sure how long it will take to get it how I want it, but I am sure it will be drivable soon! I can't wait!
