Automobile Purchase

The car buying experience - this conjures up an image for nearly everyone I know beyond the age of 22 or so, some even younger. The image ranges from positive to intimidating to downright terrifying.

Hilarious? Not generally associated with the experience to my knowledge.

But that would be for the rest of you AMATEURS who DON'T have to purchase a vehicle in conjunction with my husband.

Here is the rundown:

First, we must spend a day claiming that we don't actually need a car. Well, duh. For the man who walks across the street to work and only has to drive a child to an event when he is told to and provided with a car, this is obvious. Of course!

Check.

Second, we must research every ridiculous car that exists. 1984 conversion van with electric blue interior, 1995 cargo van with 187,000 miles, amazing car with low mileage and price located in Oklahoma.

Check.

Next we must embark on the auto visits. The first stop must be friendly but panic inducing. It will require 30 minutes of follow up driving with mild bickering before another stop can be made.

Check.

This is followed up with a visit to a second dealership. If you are truly lucky, it could possibly be within the same day. Models will be admired, an interior may even be looked at. Perhaps a conversation with a salesperson will take place without foot pursuit. Nothing will come of it.

Check.

Much driving should follow, accompanied by yelling and screaming, induced by frustration - but inappropriate and unfruitful nonetheless. If you are really "in character", of course the kids will be along for this ride.

Check.

The final stop of the evening may be more promising, but will not yield more success. The yelling and screaming will yield more conversation , but it may not be more useful. You will assume your partner is more motivated and is liking some of the models you are looking at, sitting in, test driving (for God's sake). But the result will be the same. You will smile, shake the salesperson's hand and promise to seriously consider/mull over/chew on/etc the figures discussed about the car.

Check.

Ultimately, you may end up three days from the time you turn in your previous lease vehicle with a lot of internet searching but no real options. Yep, that's us! Our lease is due Monday, July 2oth and we have nothing to show but an awesome Credit Union preapproval and some ideas (which, of course, differ sligtly)

If you know of any newer, lower mileaged cars out there - I would be thrilled to consider them. Minivan pretty necessary - I do have 3 kids with very distinct and differerent interests and obligations.

Ah well, it is already Saturday and I am CONVINCED this is the day! We will find a car. Check back and see what it is!