Dear Minivan,

     In honor of our recent one-year anniversary, I thought I should write you this letter.  I must admit, at first I was not too keen on the idea of becoming a minivan lady at age 27.  But alas, Dave my super-practical side came to the conclusion that you would offer us more bang for our buck as a family vehicle.  Also, we fancied ourselves as roadtrippers, and what better way is there to road trip than with you?

     (Well, for one thing, this way):

     I digress.

     At the dealership, I tried to convince Dave to buy the sleek, black van, because I was sure that it would make me feel a little bit cooler.  You know, a little bit more "Maybe there's a famous rap artist in there" and a little less "That's definitely a soccer mom wearing yoga pants."  But apparently it didn't make sense to spend an extra thousand dollars only for black paint.  Lame. 
    
     Minivan, the real breakthrough for us came when I finally reminded myself, "Katy, you aren't losing cool points by getting this minivan.  You really weren't that cool to begin with.  Get over yourself."  And with that, I stepped into my space ship and drove off into the abyss.  The abyss = Sugar Land, obviously.

     Minivan, I'm sorry I never named you, but it was only because our relationship wasn't love at first sight.  Now I finally realize what you mean to our family.  You have taken us to Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Mississippi to visit loved ones.  Hopefully, you'll take us to many more places (even though Dave is trying to avoid Disney World at all costs). 

(February 2013)

     The true reminder of my appreciation for you came recently when we had to send you to the shop for a few repairs.  (Don't worry, it wasn't your fault).  I was left to do my daily routine in the Escape, which is a lovely vehicle.  But, I have to admit that I cursed under my breath as I saw my child swing open the car door into a Cadillac in the mall parking lot.  There was suddenly an anxiety-ridden dialogue going on in my head: "Did it leave a mark?! I don't see a mark.  Should I leave a note? I really don't see a mark.  Hurry-- let's go!"  Did I mention, minivan, that those dad gum children can't even climb into an SUV on their own?  Grow a little taller, kids.  I mean, really.  Did you know, minivan, that other car doors don't close on their own?  You have to use your own hand to pull the handle!  What if I don't feel like using my hands that day?  The list goes on and on.

    
     Minivan, for all these reasons and more, I'll say it: I appreciate you.  I am glad that you take our family where we need to go.  And most of all, I am happy that in November, we won't have any problem finding a spot in your rows of ample seating for baby #3.  :)

All my love,

Katy

P.S. I promise never to shame you with a Rudolph nose and antlers.