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This is the season when we are meant to be giving out to the world, giving thought to spiritual matters and pondering the sweetness of sacrifice. Usually, I’m 100% behind those ideas, but this year, I bought myself a present:
This is not the greatest picture of my new baby, and she is not quite finished (there are bonnet stripes coming on the hood, and some subtle black and white Union Jack touches–please note such touches on the mirrors), but this is my new car. A Mini Cooper S, which means fast. If I tell you I have been driving a Kia Rio for ten years, you will understand when I tell you that I feel that I’ve been riding a really tired old pony and now I’m on a young, healthy thoroughbred who just wants to run. Which means for a couple of days, every time I turned a corner I felt I was in the Indy 500.
Maybe you imagine writers all live in mansions and drive Porsches, but many of us tend to be conservative because the money is really uneven. Like you think it’s challenging to get paid once a month? Try once every six months, or three months, or eight months, or who knows when. It’s a very erratic pay schedule, which doesn’t synch well with regular non-essential things like car payments. One prioritizes things like tuition and mortgages over cool cars.
I have, therefore, driven very conservative vehicles to this point. But I have fallen in love with Coopers. I have no idea why. Maybe it’s the British angle. Maybe it’s that low to the ground bulldog stance. Maybe it’s the cool dashboard or the sunroofs. I’m not sure. I’m not the kind of girl who falls in love with cars. I just don’t.
This time, I’m in love. I love her powerful engine. I love seeing another Cooper owner lifting her chin at me (and I suspect we would be friends; she might even be another writer/artist/creative person). I love the way she zips down the highway. I loved it when my mother in law said on a Skype call when we showed the car to her, “Oooh, very posh!”
Posh. Yes. She feels posh.
I love that she is British Racing Green. I love that nobody in town will have exactly THIS car. My Mini and I are just ourselves, eccentric and fast, throaty and cool, and she is worth every single penny. For the first time in my life, I feel that my car is a reflection of my inner self, and I love driving. Everywhere. Anywhere.
What car reflects your inner self? Are you a fan of Minis? (Here is a site that will let you customize one from tip to tail, including the new colors for 2013 (copper!!) Where Normal Can Never Be Amazing).PS I would like to add that the Kia Rio I drove for ten years might be much maligned but was one of the most dependable, reliable cars I’ve ever owned. Thanks, sweetheart. You got me through some challenging times.
67 Comments on “Merry Christmas to Me!”
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Sooooooooooooooooo CUTE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I think Mini Coopers are great (though I never rode/ridden in one). I forgot the title of that movie, but that bank heist movie using the Minis makes it look AWE-SOME.
I’m not sure if it is reflective of me, but I would LOVE to own a Beetle Bug. Sad that the old design is gone (for now, I hope) but I think it’s CUTE, ADORABLE, and can I say CUTE again? Especially if it was in my fave color?
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 2:49 am.
Thanks, ER!
I love bugs, too. I had two, long ago, in college. One was electric blue and it was so cute, but the heater didn’t work so I had to bring blankets in the winter.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 12:45 pm.
Two years ago while I was innocently watching White Collar Neil and Peter have to drive somewhere important, at least it was important to them and I saw it, my new love -the Taurus Sho. It has everything I need to make me a happy woman, especially one who has to spend a lot of time driving. If I would ever lose my natural mind and let one of our g-sons behind the wheel, I can even program it to stay below the speed limit. It has remote starting and universal garage door controls installed. In short I love it. So congratulations Barbara, know what the pure love of a vehicle feels like.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 3:56 am.
That is a very cool device, to program the speed limit in the car. I had to go look up the Sho. Very cute!
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 12:46 pm.
We have a KIA RIO right now. It is tropical red & goes like a pistol. Not in a hurry to get rid of it. It’s a great little car.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 4:45 am.
I know, Mary. It never gave me a single second of trouble, not in ten whole years. How amazing is that? Enjoy yours!
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 12:47 pm.
I wish that I could say that I am a Bugatti Veyron at heart, think all sleek lines, 1000 braking horse power, needs a mile to slow properly and when let open up properly she goes at 400mph but I suspect that I am an old school Volkswagen beetle or a Fiat.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 7:47 am.
Never surpress your inner Bugatti. It’s bad for digestion
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 8:01 am.
I fell in love with her when I watched one of the challenges on Top Gear. Jeremy had to see if he could beat the other two back to London with a truffle. Jeremy in the Bugatti while James and Hammond using other forms of transport.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 10:29 am.
Another one I had to go look up. Vroom vroom!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 12:47 pm.
Last May, I bought a Camaro. I’ve written about that here before. Since it is the “fun” car, it sits in the garage most of the time. After a week of not driving it, I’ll go out, get in my optimal driving position, turn that big motor over, and go “hello baby, I’ve missed you.” Then we’ll proceed to drive fast to some places. DH calls it my therapy car. Because buying the car is better and cheaper than therapy.
I’m so happy for you. Having a car and a connection with a fast drive is a stress reliever, for me, at least. And a bit of an adrenaline rush. Those little cars look like they would be very fun to go around corners fast in. Enjoy!
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 8:10 am.
It corners like a dream, Amanda! Love that you have a Camaro. My mom had one for awhile in her fifties, and got a bunch of speeding tickets.
I didn’t really think it was in my nature to speed, but we were on the highway the other day with my new baby and CR said, conversationally, “So, how does 90 feel?” ====:0
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 12:49 pm.
I’m a Prius girl myself. I really like the new ones, especially the station wagon. Sadly, I can’t justify it, what with the 4 year old Prius in my driveway and all. I would probably like a mini cooper if it was more gas efficient. I’ve gotten really spoiled with the not needing much gas concept. I fill up about once a month.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 8:27 am.
I know, I had to really think about the Prius, because we do know gas is only going up. The Cooper is pretty efficient for a non-hybrid, though. Since I work at home, I don’t end up using a ton of gas, maybe fill up every couple of weeks or so.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 12:50 pm.
I adore Minis! If only I could have one it would be so appropriate, since my dog is named Cooper.
For now I am driving a big, white pickup with lots of chrome. It’s powerful and has a lovely, throaty growl when I step on the gas pedal, but filling it up at the gas station makes my heart skip a few beats. We need a utility vehicle like this in my family, though, and I was more than happy to get rid of my 10-year old mini van for a brand new steed.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 9:20 am.
Lol! You and Cooper could go joy riding in your Cooper!
I love trucks. There is no earthly reason for me to drive one now, but my ex was a contractor and always had trucks. Fun to have all that height and power.
But boy, yeah, the gas station is not a fun place to go with a truck that size, for sure.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 12:53 pm.
Cooper would insist on having the sunroof to let the extra air in, although all of that airflow would mean the upholstery would be instantly covered in Golden hair!
When my truck isn’t playing grocery-getter for me it is a tow vehicle for our big Jeep. My husband likes to play hard with the Jeep and it’s much more convenient to bring a broken Jeep home on a trailer than try to drive it anywhere.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 1:21 pm.
Congrats on the new car! She’s adorable.
I’ve always lusted after the car on Supernatural, which is a ’67 Chevy Impala. No idea why but every time that car zooms onto the screen I want it. I’d have to learn to drive it-never did learn how to drive stick-and the gas would be ridiculous but love never makes much sense.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 9:26 am.
Lori, my first car was a ’66 Chevy Impala, fire engine red. Great car.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 10:17 am.
Then you can teach me how to drive stick. Problem solved.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 10:21 am.
GREAT cars! I had one, too, Claudia. It wasn’t red, but it was fast and big and a gas hog like nobody’s business. Such a great car, though. They do not make them like that anymore.
My long time lust is a 1967 Mercedes, the ones with a little fin and wooden dash. Too much trouble at this point, but boy would it be fun.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 12:51 pm.
You’re new baby is gorgeous but your enthusiasm over her is THE BEST!
Last month, I too treated myself because I’m way to self indulgent. I upgraded to a convertible that rides like a dream. Now I just stare at the calendar and weather report until spring.
Happy Motoring, Barbara!
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 9:40 am.
A convertible! What fun! Maybe you’ll get a springlike day before winter is over, huh?
I really a pretty happy. Get to go drive this morning, yessirree!
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 12:54 pm.
She is beautiful!
I am excited because I will be getting a new vehicle this spring. I am excited because it will be new, but chances are I will be getting another mini van, not so exciting. We need the space, and they seem to offer the most space for our budget. Right now I am driving a Montana that is falling apart, and I am hoping that I can get it to the spring without having to put any money into it.
If I had the choice/budget, I would buy myself a black BMW X5M. It’s a top of the line SUV, and very very fast. Alas, she will only ever come to me in my dreams, or if I win the lotto.:)
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 9:46 am.
Amy, I went from a minivan to a Dodge Magnum. It’s not your mama’s station wagon! I drove it off the showroom floor in 06, it is finally paid off, and not only is there style to burn, it can fit a whole Scout troop or an entire 6 foot Christmas tree. Done it! Love my car!
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 1:54 pm.
A minivan is the right car for a certain time in your life, and really not to be dismissed. It’s luxury! What fun that you get to pick out a new one in the spring.
That BMW SUV really is sweet.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 2:16 pm.
Congratulations on your new baby Barbara. She is quite sleek and lovely.
What will you name her? Every car needs a name! We spend an inordinate amount of time thinking about the name. It must reflect the car and driver. DD1′s white Camry is called Sugar. Maybe you could do a blog to name your car!
I also drive a Camry XLE. Stark is red with much chrome so she is named after Ironman! It pretty much reflects my personality as I love red and expensive. The higher end model is quiet and powerful like every woman!
Our neighbors have a bright red Mini with two white stripes over the hood and bonnet. She is super cute.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 9:54 am.
She does need a name, Kez. I have been listening, letting her tell me. Something British, and obscure, an insider joke that will make CR laugh every time I say it.
That’s a good idea on a blog to name her!
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 2:17 pm.
I love the Mini Cooper!! It’s one of my dream cars. It’s cute, roomy, and cute. Have I mentioned cute? Big D would LOVE to get one—it’s one of the few cars available that can comfortably fit his lanky frame.
The problem? It doesn’t come in diesel. Big D will only drive diesel. Mini Coopers abound in Europe with a diesel powered engine, but not the United States. We bemoan this on a weekly basis. No lie.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 10:15 am.
Too bad about the diesel engine. It is too bad!
They really are surprisingly room inside. I thought I was going to have to fight to get the baby’s car seat in, but it was fine. And my giant son fit with no trouble. He was, actually, amazed.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 2:19 pm.
Green is my absolute favorite color, and I think she is gorgeous! I actually love Minis. I competed to win a trip to Vegas when the Italian Job film came out. We had a little obstacle course set up in a mall parking lot, and we had to get the best time. When we called in, they specifically asked if we knew how to drive a stick shift…apparently some of the other ladies did NOT. Poor little car was toast after 3 drivers drove it in the course twice. I was number 4.
There was a sweet guy there that let us drive his car through it, but only 1 time each–there were 3 of us left to compete, so they took the best time from each of the first three, which was TOTALLY unfair, IMHO, and we only had one try each. I was the first one to drive ‘his baby’ and I had the second fastest time, and didn’t strip the gears. The guy gave me a bear hug after I got out of the car and told me that he was so thankful I took good care of his baby. 
I came in second over all, but if they had taken her FIRST time, I smoked her. 
Right now, I have a Kia Sorento that I love. It has the tushie warmers in the front seats, and those are so nice on chilly mornings.
My dream car however, would probably be either a smaller Escalade or a Tahoe in that pretty pearly white color. I am in a lot of traffic with a lot of flaky and/or passive-aggressive drivers, so I like to sit up high to see around the car in front of me.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 10:17 am.
Love that story, Julie, and I agree: you were robbed!
Tush warmers are the BEST, and I drove a Sorrento when I kept thinking I was going to be sensible. Liked it a lot.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 2:20 pm.
When I bought my own mid-life crisis car a few years back, I drove both mini-coopers & the new Volvo C30s. Since I’d been driving a Volvo wagon for years, the MCs felt a little hollow to me, and the C30s are, um, a lot faster off the mark. So I got a C30, which I lovelovelovelovelove. Part of me wants a Shelby, but that part of me tries to remember that I’m not a teenager anymore.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 10:26 am.
My favorite car before this one was a Volvo sedan, Malea, so I get what you’re saying. (That car was totalled by a teen driver–going 70–who rearended me). Everybody walked away, which is saying a lot.
You are still a teenager inside.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 2:22 pm.
Oooh! Pretty color! I do like Mini’s–they’re fun, flashy and (I imagine)…fuel efficient! What a great Christmas gift!
I tend to channel the dependable, domestic SUV type. I currently drive a Ford Escape, and I really like it. I’ve had it for five years, and she’s a very good vehicle!
However boring my car choices tend to be….I do love flashy colors. Your racing green, or a red are awesome! Have a great time with your new toy!
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 10:27 am.
They are fuel efficient, Haley. And fun!
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 6:24 pm.
I am indeed a HUGE fan of minis and it will either be the 4 door club Mini or the 4 door jeep that will be my next car.
What makes me unique….well…right now my car is sporting antlers and a nose. Not really unique, but I still get a smile on my face when my little red car with the little red nose drives up.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 10:27 am.
I drove the 4 door, too. drove them all, honestly. Great day.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 6:25 pm.
After an hour and a half of windshield time this morning you would think that I would have a good answer for that question. But I don’t. I passed two mini’s and thought of you though! A car that reflects my inner self? Hmmm. I will have to go with a Cadillac CTS. They are tough enough to run with the pack yet feminine enough to look good with heels. (Not that I own a pair of heels!)
Someone else in the house is laughing because I am commonly referred to as a little redneck who drives a Toyota pickup truck! Working with plants though it’s almost a must. I love your new car! I can just see you zipping around in that. Good for you! You deserve it!
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 10:42 am.
My sister has that Cadillac, Kelly, and she LOVES it.
When I do my garden hauling now, I’ll have to borrow CR’s Subaru. The mini is just not going to have enough room. It will probably break his little heart to have to trade me for those days.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 2:32 pm.
We stuffed a 15 gallon tree (tree was 6′ tall) into a mini one time! It was quite the task I will say. We were all smiles when the lady drove out of the driveway! I would probably suggest you use CR’s vehicle.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 3:34 pm.
I am glad that you splurge on yourself, you deserve it.
I have 2 dream cars – one an Aston Martin – that way I can feel like I am a step closer to 007. The engine actually purrs, there is no other car out there that ever has held the sound of this dream car.
The second – a 1959 Cadillac Convertible, with the biggest fins ever made, chrome, I would love to have white leather interior and reflective black paint. My uncle owned this baby years ago, the moment I saw it, I fell for it. I came close to purchasing a 61 when I was getting my first car, unfortunately my family talked me out of it – being it still needs lead in the tank and if any problems occurred I would have to wait and spend a fortune. I regret not getting it, but I guess something better and my dream car might be right around the corner.
Oh, by picking the color Green, people that have green cars tend to be more intelligent – great choice
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 10:44 am.
This has to be the last one I answer until I get back from taking gifts around, but Carla, I am going to see a man this morning who owns an Aston Martin. It is the most amazingly gorgeous thing!
Oh, and that Cadillac really is a dream car.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 12:58 pm.
My husband got a Mini Cooper in May. HE LOVES IT! I’ve driven it a few times and it’s a fun drive. My kids are obsessed with Mini Coopers now as well. Every time we are out and they see one they scream “MINI COOPER” out. I find myself doing it even if they aren’t with me :blush: I am currently debating getting a new car myself but just can’t decide.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 10:56 am.
yay, Jen! Another mini person! It’s really fun to look out for all the Coopers on the road now.
I debated for almost a year over the models, colors, etc. The day I went to actually buy the car, there she sat, on the lot, ready for me. I purred. She purred. Off we went.
Maybe just go look around?
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 2:26 pm.
I love your car, Barbara! I love it. I like souped up cars. I like being able to punch it. I also like when they are completely paid for, so I tend to drive them for years.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 11:24 am.
I love that part, too, Julia–having them paid off and driving them for “free.”
The punching it part–whoa, is that every fun.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 2:24 pm.
Oh congratulations!! I am so excited for you! I love Minis and I love that yours is getting a look all its own.
I am not much of a car person. I am horrible with models, though a few like the Mini stand out… of course, I remember that part more than the actual models of the cars. I have my RAV4, affectionately known as the Blueberry, that is almost 11 years old. I love that car as it has been reliable for me.
I will keep it until my little Blueberry gives up the ghost… just like I did with the car before it. No idea what will replace it. A new RAV4? I wish they hadn’t made them bigger than the one I have now…. A Mini? Maybe.. I do love them and they have that model that’s just a tad bigger. I’d much rather something reliable, kind of cute, functional and perfect for me would show up in front of my house so I could skip the buying process. I’m fine paying for it, just don’t want to go through the drama of buying the silly thing.
Enjoy your new ride!!! It definitely suits you.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 11:32 am.
I’ll give you a ride, Sheridan. Soon.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 2:23 pm.
I don’t think I’m really a car person, but I loved my Volkswagen Cabriolet. We finally gave it up this year, but it was such a fun car to zip around in. My f-i-l has a classic Mercedes 450 SL that I keep saying loudly should be mine some day.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 12:13 pm.
That really was a very cute car, Christie. You looked exactly right in it, a California blonde, in her convertible.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 2:27 pm.
Barbara, your KEWL factor just went through the roof!! Your car is FABULOUS!! LOVE Mini Coopers!!
I drive a Chevy Aveo and Little Jose has been a great little car so far.
My first car was a ’66 Mustang and I LOVED that car! Had to sell it when I went off to college. Needed the money for tuition. Sold it to a woman who still lives in my Mom’s neighborhood and STILL has the car. She says she’s leaving it to me in her will. LOL
Now my dream car would be a bright red MG Midget. Cute, sporty and fast, fast, fast!
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 12:37 pm.
Thanks, Louisa. I can feel the kewlness glow even at the grocery store.
MG midgets are adorable. I knew a guy in college who had one.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 2:29 pm.
Mini Coopers, like Smart Cars, do not last long in the traffic and snow around here. However they are pretty especially in green. My inner self car is a Tesla sports car, preferably in red. We only drive hybrids or electric cars, so this would fit the bill and add some pizazz as well. Unfortunately, even at the $350,000 starting price, there is a wait list, so I will have to continue to dream.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 12:58 pm.
Gosh, only $350K? And a waiting list. gosh
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 2:30 pm.
Ooh, I love her, Barbara! I’ve always wanted a Mini Cooper, too. The heroine in my contemporary series drives one, even though her significant other has a massive and expensive car collection. She just thinks it’s cool. *g*
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 1:29 pm.
Your heroine drives one! That’s so fun.
It is cool.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 2:33 pm.
Minis are SO cute! I would love to drive one. Currently, I drive a silver CRV. I love the way it handles, the captain seats, etc. But my dream car would be a 1951 Studebaker Commander Starlight Coupe. I love it’s bullet nose, which is considered to be one of the most iconic American automotive designs. Really, I have a thing for classic cars – and trucks in particular. My paternal grandfather had 40s Ford truck that I just loved the shape of it. Growing up my dad drove a baby blue (original faded) 40s International truck that I LOVED. I think I was more upset than my mom when he traded it for a 70s Chevy truck. Of course, the old cars would have to get some modern saftey features. Fortunately, I know how to drive stick.
Personally, I think people who drive stick are better drivers because you have to think about what you’re doing (no one wants to stall their car – embarrassing, lol), and you have to listen to your car. We have a neighbor who will drive his Ferrari down the street in second gear, when the car should be in third. It drives me crazy!
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 2:25 pm.
You would think someone with a Ferrari would have better instincts, right?
That Studebaker is a beauty, Janae–you’re right about the silhouette.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 2:35 pm.
I don’t normally like sports cars, but I love the Aston Martin Rapide. I think its because I’ve never seen anyone drive it and most people haven’t even heard of it
My neighbor has the cutest checkered mini, however if I could get any car I’d go for a Mercedes or a Honda. A lot of people have eyelashes on their car headlights which makes me smile.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 2:51 pm.
I’ve seen the eyelashes. Cute, but maybe not me.
Right,mon the Aston Martin. So sexy to have insider knowledge.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 6:26 pm.
I haven’t owned a car in over five years. On occasion I drive the one that we got for my husband. It’s a Honda Element that I have a hard time seeing out of, so I’m not all that comfortable in the driver’s seat.
I am starting to itch to own a car again, simply for the convenience of being able to go where I want when I want without having to arrange it. When I think about this during the day my mind evokes images of Hondas and Toyotas. But…at night I have even been dreaming about having a car and it’s a Mini Cooper. The odd thing is that I didn’t know I wanted one. But it seems I really do. Yours looks totally fab.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 3:01 pm.
Gina, go drive one. I promise pull enjoy it!
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 6:27 pm.
wow, that is one nice Christmas gift. I don’t know if I am a fan of Minis, since I have never been in one.
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 8:00 pm.
I love my little Mazda 3 hatchback – it is definitely a zoom zoom car (like the commercials say). It’s the beautiful blue one that they always feature in the commercials, hard to miss in a parking lot.
I’ve been thinking of a Mini for my next car, I’m definitely going to test drive one when I’m ready to buy a new car. Congrats!
Posted on December 13, 2012 at 11:52 pm.
Oh my gosh, a Mini Coop is my dream car, too! I want to see a pic after you finish detailing it.
Posted on December 14, 2012 at 12:26 am.
Some people will think I’m silly, but, lately I’ve been thinking of the perfect traveling vehicle. I picture a truck because they’ll get better gas mileage than an RV. Maybe a toyota truck. With a camper shell. And inside the camper shell is a comfortable recliner because that is what I like to sleep in. And room for my gkids to sleep on air mattresses with sleeping bags. And room for a mini fridge and a cabinet. And room for…
Essentially a camper shell with Tardis technology; small outside, roomy inside.
Posted on December 15, 2012 at 12:00 am.