Electric Gremlins

Your second problem is probably that the battery wasn't fully recharged during a short drive. If it turns out to be a worn-out starter, I suggest buying a gear-drive mini-starter which is much stronger than any stocker, and lighter/easier to install. The vendors sell these with instructions for installation, and as there's two possible 351C starters, buying from a discount store risks getting one that has no instructions or won't fit the Panteras flywheel. Also, check your alternator & voltager regulator, as it may have been these just not keeping up with electrical demands. FWIW, I expect to only get 3 yrs out of a given battery- it may pay to have it tested, too.

...you'll have more fun with your car next time; if you use a 'ground cable'(at the battery) Disconnect Switch. It will shut-off all drains on the battery while it sits. As well as other divices such as electric clocks and sound system memories; Some alternators are still 'ON' while the key is off! Test It!! If you have everything OFF! and you reconnect your battery, and you get any kind of a 'Spark', this proves there is current flowing to a component, usually the Alternator. Just disconnect the battery (also adds a level of theft protection! I use Mine everytime!). Second the best thing an owner can do is go buy a brand-new battery. I buy the highest CCA (Cold Cranking Amps)(the largest Battery), that I can stuff into a "Dropped" battery box. I agree with Jack D. I only expect any battery to give me 3 Years of reliable service...

Listen to the "Jacks". I purchased a 74L last year and had the same problem. I did a load test on the battery to make sure I had no "seepage" to the alternator. My battery could not hold a charge. It WAS charging when running, but in the end, it was too far gone to hold the charge. I ended up putting in an Optima Red Top battery, a new grounding cable and the battery post quick disconnect. I picked up my battery at Sears ($130). Haven't had a problem since.