The 1964 Mercury Comet is the first family car I remember from childhood. The back glass had a shelf just big enough for me to lie on while we traveled down the highway (before seatbelt protection). Baby blue in color, the car came with an AM radio and a large, folded map in the glove box. In the '60s, the map was our Global Positioning System. With Dad in the driver’s seat, Mom became quite the expert at reading the map and navigating us to our destination. Our destination was usually to visit other family members who lived far away.
I learned to appreciate the beauty of the open road from my view through the back glass. The winding roads that led us to new destinations were more than just a means of travel—they were a gateway to family reunions and summer fun. Each journey blended excitement, anticipation and the joy of seeing our extended family. Regardless of where we traveled, we were welcomed with warm hugs and good food.