My blogging has died off because I have been spending all my free computer time trying to find a car. We have been a "one car family" for the last two weeks and that does not work very well when both spouses work. Luckily Kevin, works in the LBC so I have been able to drop him off at work, but it means I am always late for work and also driving a lot more. After much marital deliberation and research I think we have narrowed the options to the following choices:
The Honda Odyssey EX-L
The Volvo XC70
The Odyssey is a more practical choice, but also more boring. I am not sure I want to identify myself as a mini-van mom, but really, that is what I am and the Odyssey has everything I need. I am worried no one will recognize me and wave when I drive around in LBC if I am in a gray Odyssey. Also, my tween son will be even more embarrassed by me if I drive a mini-van. The Volvo is also a mom car, but seems to have a little more style and identity. After all it was imported from Sweden. Plus it is AWD for the snow trips and it has built in booster seats that Shelby loves. Greg Bozzani, our very nice Volvo/VW dealer will put in a rear flip seat so the wagon can drive 7 passengers. It gets slightly better gas mileage, which is a big bonus with current gas prices, but the difference is not really that much.
Either way we will hopefully have two cars again in the next two days and that will be a blessing!
13 comments:
Good luck on your choice!! Both are beautiful.
I have promised myself I will never be a minivan mom...so I have to say go with the volvo! Good luck with the big decision!
Are you getting rid of the VW or will Kevin drive that? I bet that Honda drives like a dream. Who cares about looks as long as it is safe and functional. I really do like the Volvo though. Very sporty.
Good luck choosing! I think the Odyssey doesn't look too mini-van-ish. But then again I haven't seen it in person...
We felt the same way about the Mini Van thing, but after I met the owner of Intense Cycles, and he was running Honda Odyssey I knew we made a good choice with the Mini Van... Honda's are cool, and that model has some cool bells and whistles... But I do think the Volvo is nice - I think I said you should look at the SUV volvo too, but that think is bank and Kelly would need to get a job to help pay for it.
Don't be afraid to be the mini van mommy. Plus when Kevin drives it, it will confirm his heterosexuality, as some people think that a Tri-athlete is someone who will try anything, and I mean anything...
Either choice is a nice one to make, I don't think you will loose with either car...
Melissa-if there is anything I have learned since being a mother it is that anything you say you or your children will NEVER do ends up being something you do. I see you driving a mini-van in the next ten years.
Rachel-Kevin will drive the EuroVan because we only have one car, so we can't get rid of it. I do more driving so I am going to drive whatever new car b/c it will definitely get better gas mileage.
Paterfamilias - thank you for the entertaining advice. I do like the Volvo SUV, but cannot afford it and cannot talk Kelly into working to help afford it. We miss you guys - maybe you guys can come to the LBC and check on your property holdings and we can all go to dinner. If not, give Kevin a call - he'd love to talk to you.
I think my vote is for the Honda! It actually looks great and is very functional for your family needs. And I hear it really drives nice and has lots of bells and whistles.
I wish I could find a mini van to seat 8. I'd be in it in a second...well, if I could get rid of the suburban...not too many buyers for those gas guzzlers these days. Oh, well! Good luck with the choice!
I think either or is great!! I do think the mini van is probably the more PRACTICAL thing to do!! But I am a car woman and I LOVE the volvo!! But like you said either one will be great for your fam!!!
kelly - the Honda vans do seat 8. The second row has two captain seats and then a middle seat that goes in and out easily. So check them out! They are a bit pricey - we are still trying to find a deal on one.
I understand your dilemma! I'm hoping they come up with a nicer looking van or a more functional SUV/Family car in the near future. For now functionality wins. We took a gander at some SUVs a while ago and they can't compare with a van for most family needs/versatility. They really need to come up with SOMETHING! Good luck.
You'll look sheik no matter what you drive!
I got the van - practical, but boring. I guess that is my new identity.
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