College is settled. We know where Alexander will be going and, like most first-year students in American schools, bringing a car is highly discouraged. We had anticipated this when I bought his car a few years back, which is why his car is practical enough to be mine when he leaves. I turned in the BMW yesterday. I loved it, but hardtop convertibles are quite naturally slow. I would love something faster, but I am not ready to give up having a convertible. I need a car to take me …
A New Kind of Car Shopping: Mazda CX-5
I am not a trailblazer. I’m a listener. I remember what people say and in what context. I listened intently when I visited the Mercedes Benz Driving School and a few weeks ago Jane began lessons with them. I like their philosophy and I’ve loved what I’ve seen put into practice. Some years ago my neighbor, who happens to be a veteran firefighter, was over and we were in car buying mode. When we asked him about buying a car he told us that in 25 years he’d never cut …
Porsche, Ferrari, Perceived Value and Nine Year Old Boys
Yesterday when Alexander and I were driving back from getting his contact lenses (lens really, he only wears one), he noticed a Porsche Cayenne. “Mom why would Porsche make an SUV? It’s like it brings down the value of the whole brand.” I just nodded and waited for him to continue. “It’s like Porsche isn’t special anymore, you don’t see Ferrari making pick up trucks.” “Well honey,” I said, “when I was about your age Ferrari did make some SUVs too. They were really boxy and looked a little like …
That’s So Jessica*
Last night as I was on my way to see Extract I stopped to fill my car up with gas. There was a young lady and her friend next to me filling her car up too. I recognized her voice and thought I might know her, so I took a closer look and realized it was Raven. After staring uncomfortably for a beat too long I said, “Oh shit, I know you because my kids watch you on TV.” And she sorta smiled at me. “Oh gawd”, I continued, “I …