1998 Subaru Forester Thermostat

It was overheating, changed thermostate, radiator cap, top radiator hose blew-changed that. Seemed to run fine but not overheating, but not really heating much. Ran fine coming home about 60 miles. Next morning, would not start. No fluid in radiator and no oil. Has since started. But, no steam coming out of exhaust coming home because someone was following us to make sure we got home. No fluid went into oil when checked before we left. No apparent oil or fluid on ground under car.
Now, that it has started. Can we take the thermostat out completely to keep it running. No sound from water pump and fan not loose but do not know where water pump is to check. This is a has been a good car that needs to be retired but needs to run long enough for us to find one. We live in rural Vermont. Any suggestions welcomed. No money for donation right now but will be back with one once we can.