I'm in love with my cars

My cars and I have a special relationship. I know a lot of people who love their new car. Many adore that "new to me" vehicle, that second owner relationship. But when you and your car reach a 15 year milestone, it's beyond a normal bond. It's love.

I am the proud owner of a 1993 Dodge Caravan. Purchased when every suburban housewife obtained a mini-van to drive around their 2.1 children and family pet, it's hauled soccer gear, musical instruments, camping equipment, girl scout cookies, Christmas trees, neighborhood food cupboard donations and carpool-sized loads of children. It's taken family vacations, trips to Grandma's, an excursion to Florida and back as well as a few wrong turns (adventures). It had one run in with a deer and two with the basketball pole in our driveway - by two different teen drivers. Every one of my three children learned to drive with the Big Blue Tank. It was built for safety, not beauty, sports or speed.

And Big Blue keeps on going. Ok, it has a little wear and tear. Only one hubcap will stay on. The Man of the House rescued another from the side of the local interstate, which our son had watched roll away the week before via the rearview mirror. It now rides around inside the van to ensure it won't get lost again. The "metal" detailing is peeling away, revealing white plastic beneath the neoprene "metal". The weatherstripping is pulling away from the back window. The driver's side door looks like an animal chewed away the lower edge, thanks to the salt spray of upstate New York winters.

But, oh, that engine. Like an old general, she just keeps on going, heading into daily battle on the road, thanks to Steve and Dan. Yes, Big Blue owes its life to S&D. We knock on wood with each visit. They always remind me they will let me know when it's time for the DNR order, but somehow they always pull her through, replacing pumps, belts, lines, tanks, you name it. Perhaps Big Blue continues to enjoy life on the road because she has more new parts than old.

Last fall, faced with 5 drivers in the household, we decided we needed to add to the family fleet. Dear Son became the alpha driver of Big Blue, ensuring his safe travels to the local community college and work. I promptly went out and bought a new car for myself.

I am the proud owner of a 1993 Honda Accord. What can I say? It was a very good year.