Thanks guys. I have pretty much accepted that I have no idea what I'm in for. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" /> But not knowing is part of the fun and I should be able to figure it out as I go along, hopefully without breaking the baby. I'm told they are fairly pliable though. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" />

We did some test fitting of the car seat into our vehicles and that brought just a small moment of reality to it all. The Saturn is gonna have to be sold, because I'm going to need something with 4 doors for a daily. I mean the car seat is doable in there but somewhat of a PITA, and an adult cannot sit in the front seat with the car seat behind it. Not getting rid of the 4runner or Miata, so the Satty is the odd car out. I'm undecided if I want a sedan or something with a little more room like a Forester. I won't have to haul the kid in my vehicle for a few months yet since the wife will be on maternity leave, but Imma hafta start shopping.

Hmmmmmm Anybody know of a nice cheap rig that has room for the whole family and will go anywhere?



<cough>MONTERO<cough>

Ohhh, man...The Forester XT (with turbo) is sweet! We almost bought one when I came back from Japan but decided on the Element because of its utility value for us. I still kinda wished we bought that thing...

Good luck!

Congratulations Scott! Awesome news <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" /> Mine are 12, 14 and 15. All girls <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/zombie.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" /> I'm going to name my house 'Tampon Lodge' <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" /> Got a nice ring to it, don't you think?!

One thing I've noticed about being a parent over the years is that most of your experiences are not often helpful for the future <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" /> This is mainly because all kids are different and your parenting must constantly change to keep up with their progress. It think that's one of the things that makes parenting so entertaining <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" /> It's the best thing ever! Those experiences just mean that you can say things like 'Haha (sigh), I remember those days' in a patronizing way to friends with younger children than yours <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" />

Words I associate with being a Dad (in no particular order);

Love, pride, laughter, excitement, thrilling, happy, wonder, relaxing, funny, respect, guide, teach, advise, comfort, friendship. The list could go on...

then there's...

exhaustion, frustration, exasperation, disrespect, un-bloody-believable!, 'whatever', rolling-eyes, menstruation, worry, annoying friends, even more annoying parents of annoying friends <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" />

<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" /> Seriously, it's a trip and you'll love it <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

congrats on the new one on the way. As everyone has said here parenting is both fun and frustrating at times but the one thing i think everyone will agree on is that after having children I havent ever wished I didnt have them. They are more precious than anything else you will ever have. My 3 keep me busy all day long, then its time for work at night ....but I love EVERY minute of it. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />