Directly behind my condo complex is a Travelodge motel. I often walk through the motel parking lot, using it as a shortcut. Today I was surprised to spot several antique automobiles parked there, including a 1911 Stanley Steamer. It was the first time I'd seen a steam-powered car on the road as prior exposures had been in museums. Ah, but the best was yet to come. I dashed home to grab the Nikon and after a brief conversation with the owner, Vern Welburn, was asked if I'd like to go for a ride. Would I? What a thrill! A steamer is quite unlike a normal car as no gears are required, though the driver must be adept with the throttle lever and various other controls needed to maintain power. The brakes were better than expected and one of the delights was the chuffing sound of the engine, rather like a steam locomotive. At idle there was no sound whatsoever. This Stanley Steamer was bought new by the City of Vancouver and at one time was owned by Vern's father, Gerry. Original except for the boiler and tires (and an extra water tank) it cruises at 35 and has a range of 40 miles. That's Vern posing with his Stanley but what you can't see is the mile-wide smile on my face.