Opening gifts on my birthday this year reminded me of my 16th birthday. On my 16th birthday my parents surprised me with the gift of a bright yellow 1983 Chevrolet S-10 Blazer!  The car had been my mom’s for some time and it was now being passed on to me for my 16th birthday.  I remember being so excited to drive the car, but I had to get my license first.  Later that day, I passed the drivers test and was able to take off for the first time in my very own car…what freedom!

This year, my husband surprised me with the gift of a Blizzard Pearl 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid! This time I had my license, but I had to wait for the car.  He had hoped to get it to me ON my birthday, but it was still in the Port of Portland so I had to wait.  Luckily, it was only one day and we went to pick up my brand new car.  I felt like I was 16 all over again! 

I have wanted to get a new car for some time, but we were waiting for a good time financially.  I wanted a safe family car, needed the room of an SUV, but also wanted to make the right choice for the environment.  And, with gas prices continually going up it couldn’t hurt to get great gas mileage!  It has all the bells and whistles…navigation, back up camera, MP3 compatability, Bluetooth, heated seats, etc.  I have only had it 10 days, but so far I am thrilled with my new car!