A couple days ago we got our new minivan. A Sienna SE. I was deathly against it at first, but I came around. The SE is the “sport” edition of the Sienna, if there is such a thing as a sporty minivan, so this was our compromise. And after crunching the numbers we decided to lease it, just in case I no longer want to be a minivan mommy after three years.
It’s not a luxury car by any means– I actually feel like it’s a slight downgrade from my fully loaded CRV EX-L with Navi (we opted out of the Toyota Nav), and it’s going to take a whole lot of getting used to driving the thing. For example, getting in and out of the garage will now be a carefully orchestrated ordeal. The few times I’ve done it so far I’ve had to jump out of the car numerous times to see exactly where I am. I’m sure with time I will better be able to gauge the distances, but it’s probably never going to be zippy. I am also now sized out of some smaller parking spaces. With infant carseat carriers in tow, I better just resign myself to finding those faraway spots without any cars next to them.
Husband is losing his BMW. Two years ago, when Toddler was not yet one and there were no plans for another anytime soon, we made the decision to lease a nice car for him to drive to work. Since his commute was so long, I figured he might as well enjoy it as much as he could. Well, lo and behold, we now have twins. And since the CRV is paid for, we will be early-terminating our lease (anyone want a 335i with M Sport and Nav?) probably at a loss. Husband will now be driving the CRV. He told me I better loooooove this minivan.
The kids do love it (at least, I know the one who can talk does). Today, Toddler’s first time riding in the new car, she clapped her hands and exclaimed that she could see a whole bunch more. I guess the visibility is better from the back because of all the windows? And the space! Oh my, it is so spacious. No need for her to climb over this and that to get out through the front passenger door. The first thing I did was take out one of the bucket seats, so there’s plenty of room in there to even do a little jig.
The things we do for our children, and gladly. I’m sure this is just a small example of the sacrifices we as parents, especially parents of multiples, are making for our kids daily. Other than the obvious sleep, time, money, what are some sacrifices that you’ve made?
lunchldyd is mom to an almost 3 yr old daughter and 4 month old b/g twins. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, 3 children, and a new minivan.