ModernMom: Embracing the Soccer Mom Within

It was bound to happen sooner or later. With two adults in the front seat and two car seats in the back, even our station wagon didn’t allow for an additional passenger. I tried cramming into the “way back” more than once (remember when station wagons had a real seat in the back?), and I always paid the price with a sore neck or shoulder afterwards.

So when our car broke down beyond repair, we decided it was time for the MINI-VAN. My friends who have yet to make this particular transition got a real laugh out of it. My neighbors flagged me down to either congratulate or ridicule me, depending on what they themselves drive. But you know what? I love it. I feel safe being so high up. I like that there are four temperature zones and I even appreciate the built-in sun shades in the back. We can comfortably fit seven people, and even have room for all of the strollers, books, snacks, extra clothes, and various other “necessities” that usually travel with us.

So when I pulled into the YMCA parking lot for my son’s first soccer game, I looked at the fleet of minivans through a different lens. I gave a knowing nod to the other parents. We may not be driving hip cars, but we are driving in style — family style.