Ford vs. Chevy

The time was finally right for us to purchase a new vehicle. Jonny and I have been convinced for a while that all of our cars have been running on tithing blessings. Jonny's car although 18 years old is still running strong although the paint and upholstery is deteriorating. Our trusty blue van has lasted us 8 years but the time between small repairs seems to be growing shorter and more plentiful. The leg room is shrinking as our kids are growing.

We spent a month studying vehicles and assessing our needs and wants. At Grandma Johnson's funeral, we test-drove our cousins' van (a Chevy) out in the parking lot. Jonny checked out the Ford dealership not wanting to betray his allegiance to the Ford Motor Company. He spotted an E350 Econoline 12-passenger van and he liked the rugged looks and the leg room. Christi spotted a Chevy Express 12-passenger van at a smaller dealership, liked the less-rugged look, and also the leg room. We test drove both and weighed the options. The two dealerships each cajoled, wheeled, dealed, and counter-offered.

Ultimately, Jonny promised Christi the final decision as it would most often be driven by her. He made no secret of his Ford preference. In an attempt to influence her, he explained and compared every detail even down to the ratio of torque, RPMs and horsepower curves. In the end, we chose the Chevy Express 3500 and Jonny has been very affable and accepting. He just hopes it will never break down because he only surfs through Ford Internet forums for repair information.

Inside we have the baby bench, Britton's bench, and then the big kids' bench. The space is wonderful. Christi was most worried about the length and parking but has discovered that it's mostly the width that matters and it seems doable. After all, if Grandma Melody can drive one so can she.

Jonny is preparing (napping) to travel to San Diego today for a week-long work conference. He was released from assisting with the 11-yr old scouts and has been asked to join the Elder's quorum presidency. The new Elders quorum presidency with their wives ate a delicious Italian meal made literally from scratch by the Elder's quorum President (even the pasta). The ambience was comlete with chargers, tiers of plates, full range of silverware, and cloth napkins. They beat Olive Garden hands down. This Elders Quorum presidency seems to be starting on the right foot with the fire of testimony and commitment to follow through. Their goals are to improve from 40% Home Teaching to 100% and to do more "exhorting" to our ward families.