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Recently, after owning the same van for 92 years, we caved to commercialism and purchased a new one. Well, a new one to us, that is. The last one, we purchased brand, spanking new, and of course, when you're going to own a van for - - 92 years...well, we came out way ahead on that one. This one, however, we figure we'll only own for a few years, what with Princess in Waiting going off to college in two more years (sigh...) and Teen in Line following two years later. Therefore, we decided to go with used this time around.

And so it goes, on this continuing journey with another "I never thought I'd own a minivan" purchase, that I come to you today with yet another tale of woe as the sad owner (once again...) of a minivan.

You know, people judge you. They look at you differently when you drive a minivan. Owners of SUV's have that - -I don't know - - false sense of bravado. Many of you reading this may, and probably do, own an SUV, and I don't fault you for that. I really don't.

Initially, we too, thought we might purchase one of those fancy new-fangled crossovers OR perhaps, a mid-sized SUV. Then again, upon closer evaluation, we determined that they really weren't for us.  They just didn't make economical or environmental sense for our family. We couldn't bring ourselves to buy one. Big gas guzzlers, far more expensive pricetag, and frankly, not as comfortable of a ride, with less legroom in the front and back (we're tall...). Plus, they don't hold as much luggage. We just couldn't justify either one for our family. So, what were left with?

The dreaded - - minivan.

I say "dreaded minivan" because - you know, the overall style of the minivan has not really changed for...let's face it. 92 years. And in 92 years...suffice it to say that a lot of other things have happened. The invention, for example, of:

• Electricity (OK, I know that was a little longer ago, but still...)
• Birth Control Pills
• Antibiotics
• Computers
• The VCR
• The Internet!
• Late Night Televison
• DVD Players

Many, many other things. And lest I get off on philosophical tangent we'll just stop that list right there.

But the minivan, aside from the metamorphosis from the hideous "milk carton on wheels" to the current look, has really undergone very few changes overall. (At least we never owned a "Dustbuster Style Minivan"). Having said all of this (and yes, I would like a little cheese with that whine...), I have to say, they are so comfortable and so handy for a trip. Plus, our new one has a huge moonroof, heated leather seats and that cool recessed trunk, so the groceries don't go sliding everywhere. I do so love my new heated leather seats. Especially during this wickedly long Midwestern winter we are having. And yes, I admit it. I'm glad we purchased another minivan.

It's just a hit to my ego.

For more minivan tales, visit my other blog on Family.com, Van Diaries or my other posts on this topic:

Minivan Blues

Or, my posts at White Trash Mom on this subject