Thanksgiving

Since my last post, we've celebrated Thanksgiving and purchased a new car. Yes, in just two short weeks. We went up to Greg's parents house for Thanksgiving. I am happy to report that the drive up and back wasn't too terrible - about 6 hours each way (from Greg's office in MD). James did pretty well but the last hour or so of each trip just about lost it - we've decided that when it gets dark outside he just loses it. So that wasn't pleasant. The last hour or so north I got to "entertain" from the front seat (the Lexus doesn't allow the car seat in the middle with the side seat belts - I am paranoid and will NOT sit in a car without seat belts) in traffic. It was so torturous because we were SO close to Greg's parents town. Argh. Luckily we got there in time for James to run around like crazy and eat dinner. Yet he was up until 9 p.m. each night - totally off schedule and driving me nuts. We all slept in the same room which was also tough - James could hear us so he woke up each night and joined us in bed. So in that respect we were happy to be home in our own beds. Otherwise, we had a great visit - lots of relaxing, visiting, enjoying the fire, etc. Greg's dad got his new Corvette so that was very exciting for everyone. Greg took me for a ride in it - I am definitely OLD because I was freaked out at how fast it was going!
So we got home and Greg really decided his car was poisoning him. Was driving to work all wrapped up in a scarf, hat, gloves, and coat because he was positive the car was emitting fumes when he turned the heat on. Not sure if I believe that, but, I did take him seriously that we needed to consider getting a new car. Namely, a minivan. Now, I have nothing against minivans - frankly, I love them. But getting a brand new car has NEVER been in my vocabulary. I've always driven hand me downs or used cars (even my Lexus, which I ADORE, was a used car). So, Greg did TONS of research (and I just prayed and will continue to pray we can afford to pay for it) and we went out yesterday to the Toyota place. We were going to check out Toyotas and Dodges (Toyota Siennas and Dodge Grand Caravans). In the end, we ended up staying at the Toyota place and getting a 2008 Sienna - metallic blue. It's gorgeous. I love it. It drives beautifully. And it has an automatic side door (my one and only requirement). We traded in Greg's old car (good bye SUV) and Greg will now start driving the Lexus (he's quite excited). I think Greg will miss not having a stick shift car, but honestly, I'm glad that we've got two easy automatic cars - now either of us can hop in the car in the driveway and take off. Well, depending if James is with us or not, that is. Still just the one car seat, now in the minivan. I guess we did move to the suburbs - we may as well go for it totally. The next thing Greg will want is a DOG. NNNNOOOOOOO. :) Nothing against pooches, but I have a hard enough time corralling the males I live with (that includes Monty the cat). Miss Jones (the other cat) and I need some quiet time around here. :) I'll try to post photos soon. Need to download a ton.