October 30, 2005
The saga ends
Last week we traveled down the interstate to Roanoke, where we picked up a 2002 Ford Escape from the same people who've sold us our last two vehicles. The Gulf hurricanes changed the used car market, so we couldn't afford (even with our good settlement) to buy a similar truck to replace what we'd lost.
That changed our search parameters, and we were able to get another really good deal, this time on the Escape. It gives me high clearance like the truck, plus it carries people more comfortably, and it has a roof rack so I can still tote a kayak or canoe. Fold the back seat down, and it holds a lot inside. I worked it this weekend carrying a large helium tank, loads of tools, a little lumber, and some plants.
Gas mileage is better, too.
Unlike the truck, this has power everything, including cruise control, which we've not been able to afford in the past. In fact, this SUV has just about everything I wanted--such as V6 engine, keyless entry, privacy windows, a cargo cover, a nice subtle paint job, and new tires.
It's really fun to drive; it accelerates quickly, rides smooth, and turns more like a car than a truck.
The Lord's timing was, not surprisingly, just right. Our insurance check came the day before we went to pick up the Escape, which was just the right one for us.
Related:
Our Protector
The saga begins
The saga continues, part 1
The saga continues, part 2