G and I bit the bullet and bought a car.

We test drove the Honda Fit and the Toyota Yaris, which were both very fun rides, but they were like being in a dixie cup and it felt like pieces were going to start flying off if we went above 60 mph. They ultimately just didn't feel very safe, especially for winter driving.

We also drove some Honda Civics, and I was surprised at how much I did not like them. I had been researching them online and was feeling pretty confident that we'd end up with one due to their great reputations, but I couldn't stand the design! The dashboards were these huge, endless expanses of plastic that totally bugged me, and ultimately I just wasn't very comfortable in them.

So, we decided on a safe, dependable, boring old 2004 Toyota Corolla LE. To sweeten the pot the dealer had it made a "certified used Toyota" which I guess is a big deal and usually costs extra. It's not like blasting around in a Fit, but I also don't feel like the doors are going to come off on the highway. That's a good feeling! Ultimately I'm very happy with the Corolla. We got a really good deal, and after the dealership cleaned it up and made it certified it looks like a brand new car.

It's so weird to have a car again! I haven't had one for seven years! I'm pretty timid on the road after not driving for so long, but that also has to do with not knowing this area at all. I'm going to do a test run to my new job tomorrow, just so I don't get lost Monday morning. I can't believe I'm already starting work. These two weeks off have been great! Now it's back to the grind. But the thought of a 20 minute commute as opposed to my hour commute...that brings a smile to my face!