As the list of necessary repairs on the 14 year-old car grew, we knew that the time to replace the Volvo was drawing near. We had hoped that it would last long enough for Peter to learn how to drive in it, as he was a mere several days old when we bought it.

In fact, I have vivid memories of sitting in the driver’s seat at the dealership nursing my brand new baby as Jim closed the deal on the car! Sadly, the cost of the looming repairs was far more than the car was worth, so we made the decision to replace it.

As I think back, I do get a little sad thinking about all the good memories we had related to that vehicle. Within a year of bringing it home, we went on a road trip to Colorado, including driving through the Moab desert in Utah.

The kids fit so well in the way back at that time,

and Peter was content in his infant seat.

So long, Volvo. Thanks for being such a reliable workhorse!