Saying goodbye to a beloved lens

I've owned my Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 AF-S VR since 2003. It was my first modern (AF-S, VR) pro lens that I bought brand new, at the exhorbitant cost (to me) of $1750. I have had zero regrets on spending all that money, as it has been my go-to lens for events and sports. The lens did have to go in for repair (intermittent AF issue, a "feature" of this generation of the 70-200mm), thankfully under warranty.

The 70-200VR replaced a Nikon 80-200mm f/2.8 AF-D one touch lens that was a good intro to the world of fast, pro lenses. No comparison between the two as the newer lens has better IQ, faster AF (even on a D2H with the stronger AF motor), and VR. Coupled with the TC-14EII, I used this lens for parades, street fairs, performances, surfing, and drifting. This lens has taken the majority of the thousands of photos that I've taken. I don't think I can think of any other lens that would come close in terms of usage.

So goodbye, old favorite. You have a lot of life in you yet, and I hope your new owner enjoys you as much as I did.