Monday, June 16, 2008

Things are never simple

It’s a week from the due date. Everything we need has been purchased, assembled, washed and tucked away in cubby holes, baskets and drawers. The apartment is more or less straightened up. The hospital bag is packed and waiting to be grabbed at the last minute. Everything is great and ready to go…..

...Almost….

Just when we think life is pretty good and exciting, it get’s even more ‘exciting’.

Jeremy’s beloved car has basically turned into a pile of metal scrap. Just this last week the engine light turned on while a clicking nose began. After taking it to the dealer, they gave him the sad news that there was a major issue with the engine and the parts and labor would cost close to $10,000…..more than the car is even worth.

This was not the news we wanted to hear days before our impending bundle of joy enters the world. This really hit Jeremy hard. This car was his pride and joy, a piece of machinery he worked hard to get and loved to drive over the years. This was going to be our ‘family car’ and we looked forward to many more years of its use.

Not anymore.

I really have to look at this as just one of those things that unfortunately happens in life (although Jeremy’s having a harder time coming to that point of view). I think what makes it difficult, is not only that we had both cars paid off for and didn’t have to worry about another expense, but the fact that the timing is unbelievable. We shouldn’t be stressing about finding a new car when we should be getting excited about the baby coming.

Needless to say, the excitement and happiness of baby has been undercut by worry and stress in this household.

What’s funny is, I’m usually the pessimist when it comes to life in general, but in this situation, I feel like I’ve stepped into the optimistic role. Perhaps it’s simply not to set my worry and stress gears into overdrive like I normally do (although, if that speeds up labor…). God has blessed us with so much in our lives, and I think we need to focus back on that. Our theme since high school has always been His timing for everything in our lives, and this is just one of those things we need to remember that we will get through and overcome. Focus on the solution and not dwell on the negative. Easier said than done, as always.

So, here we are, quickly researching and test driving new cars, in crazy summer heat, and me ready to pop. I loved watching all the sales people's reaction when they asked when I was due. You’d be glad to know I didn’t complain about waddling in the heat and maneuvering in and out of endless cars…..too much.

We’ve narrowed it down to a couple of cars, so hopefully in the next day or so, we’ll have a new car to welcome the baby in. What a spoiled baby this kid will be!

Gotta love how life keeps you on your toes!

2 comments:

Amber said...

Life without drama would be boring! Although some would say a new baby is drama enough...

I'm sure the looks on the sales people's faces when they heard your due date was priceless! A good about car shopping while you're pregnant is that if the car is comfy for you now, it's bound to be super comfy after the baby comes!

Are you guys still leaning toward the Honda? What ones are your faves so far?

I know how Jeremy feels about his car. I felt similarly about my Escape, and then when my mom wrecked it... gah. Needless to say, I an empathize with his feelings of loss.

Thankfully, you are in a position to be able to handle this setback without too much stress, a luxury many young couples with a baby on the way couldn't. And good for you both for not rushing out to buy on your first trip. I think that's the biggest mistake people make when purchasing a new car.

Can't wait to hear what car you decide on!!!

Katie said...

oh lord that stinks Elly. i'm so sorry. But hey at least the baby will be able to come home in style right????