These days we’re on a mission to downsize, save money, and live within our means (here’s something funny: when I was typing “live within our means” I accidentally typed “liver.” I love typos.)
Anyhow, since I quit my job and all, we’re trying to be very adult about the finances. I have to say, it’s getting really old. BUT we’re doing pretty well… we regularly eat at home, avoid shopping like the plague, and we even went down to one car! So I’m feeling pretty smug about our progress.
Which is why I was LESS than delighted when my mother-in-law suggested that we really should replace our remaining car with something practical and more representative of our very middle-class status, like a MINIVAN. Ugh. Did I hear that correctly? Does she REALLY think that we would ever buy a minivan. Alright, so I admit that I did just quit my job. And yes, I realize that minivans are very PRACTICAL, ECONOMICAL, efficient, blah blah blah (yawn). But have you looked at a minivan lately?? here, I’ll refresh your memory:
Let’s compare the very un-sexy but practical minivan with my current car, a sporty, sassy little BMW 330i.
Much better, I’m sure you agree. But yes, definitely not so practical for a family.
Which is why we’re planning to eventually replace it with a gently used and more family-friendly version. I’m picturing a Volvo Cross-country, BMW X3, or maybe the Audi wagon. Yes, I could definitely see myself in one of those.
Of course, I really have to ask myself why it really matters. After all, if you sort of squint when you look at them, they’re not that different. Four doors, four wheels, some glass, some chrome, some paint… why do I have such a burning need to own the EXACTLY RIGHT car? I guess that is the question of the day.
So many issues, so little time.
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By the way, don’t forget to check out my latest post in the Seattle P.I.!
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xo Jen
March 8, 2007 at 7:42 pm
You know, once you give in to the minivan its not really so bad. While there is part of me that would rather be driving something with more bling, or less Soccer Mom Stigma, being able to open the sliding doors across the parking lot loaded down with kids and groceries ROCKS!
March 8, 2007 at 7:54 pm
I’m with you, I can’t breakdown and get “the minivan”.
When we had our daughter we bought a Mini Cooper – we showed “the man” we don’t need no ugly minivan! :)
March 9, 2007 at 5:00 pm
Yep….we went shopping for a minivan and came home with a 7 seater Chrysler Pacifica….we just couldn’t do it.
Even with two kids and a dog.
And it is great..we went camping with it and it holds loads of people and stuff and WE STILL LOOK COOL!!!
March 9, 2007 at 5:30 pm
A mini, now that is brave!
I’ll have to check out the Pacifica!