For the Kids...

We traded in our 2002 Ford Explorer today for a 2005 Ford Expedition. Those of you who have not travelled long distances with one infant don't truly appreciate the need to upgrade - let me see if I can explain this: Manufactorers of baby items i.e. strollers, carseats, pack-n-plays, diaper bags, bottle warmers, etc. are "in league" with car manufactors. That is, in order to go on an overnight trip with one infant you have to pack a large number of necessities for that infant. You can travel with one child and all of that child's necessities with two parents and minimal packing comfortably in an Explorer. You add one more kid and two mid-sized dogs and you have outgrown one SUV. Our nearest family to visit is 5 hours away from us. We don't make short trips. We needed a car that could transport us up to 12 hours without someone dying because of close quarters. Besides that the monthly payments weren't that much more and we now have the coveted "Billy Graham Seat". Amen.

Also we will need to get Wilson a car to drive when he turns 16. The way I'm seeing it is that this is his 16th birthday present - we're just getting it paid off for him. We want to make sure his first car runs well before he gets in in a little under 13 years. I'm thinking we need to get him a personalized license plate "HAP-E 16". That way he knows we did it for him. Can't say we never bought him a new car.

I first suggested a mini-van. No, no mini-vans for us ever. It is a scientific proof if you are a 16 year old and your first car is a mini-van you will NEVER drive another mini-van. If a dealer offered us a free mini-van we would still pass. Chris and I both were 16 year olds with mini-vans. We've done our time with those. I don't even like to ride as a passenger in a mini-van. I hate them. So does Chris.

Besides, Wilson and Peanut are going to have to share this vehicle. There is plenty of room in this car for Wilson and Peanut to go on double dates - and there's still room in the car for them to take Chris and me along with. That will be fun.