The More Things Change The More They Stay The Same

I have become an official member of the minivan set. Oh I know it's not so shameful. It's almost a requirement these days to own one. But I remember a day long ago when I told my best friend "If I ever buy a minivan just kill me and put me out of my misery."

Go ahead and shoot me now because not only do I pick up the new (to us) minivan today, I'm actually looking forward to it.

This is how I imagine a conversation between a couple from our parents' generation upon buying the old tried and true family car.

(All names have been changed to protect the guilty. Any resemblance to actual persons or events is purely coincidentally on purpose.)

"You know honey, that wood paneling on the side looks like real wood if you don't look too closely."

"And the vinyl seats! What a dream. So easy to clean. And the kids won't need to go outside to get a nice tan. They can nicely brown the backs of their legs on the seats!"

"And oh look honey! Ashtrays in all the doors. And a big one in the backseat everyone can reach! Now we can take Grandpap or Aunt Agnes along with us without having to open the windows so she can flick her ashes."

"And kids! Those ashtrays are for cigarettes! Do not put your gum or candy wrappers in them. They are not garbage cans. This car cost your Dad and I THREE THOUSAND DOLLARS! It's just ridiculous what everything costs these days. And gas is up to 57 cents a gallon. I just hope we can afford to run this car!"

"Ok everyone pile in the new station wagon! Yes you can all sit in the back behind the seat. Billy! Do not sit on top of your brother! It's dangerous."