Taking the high road.

It wasn't an easy decision, but after months of research, test drives, comparisons and more test drives, we traded in the Xterra this weekend for a new SUV. And the winner is (drum roll, here) the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.


While we like the looks of the car from the outside and find the interior comfortable and roomy enough for the dogs (who will now enjoy the view from the rear window only), the feature we like most about our new wheels is the gas mileage. This SUV is supposed to average 27 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. And because we'll spend a little less time filling up at the pump, we'll have more time to watch the little monitor in the dash showing whether we're using the gas or electric engine. It's mesmerizing, and I'm pretty sure it'll be the cause for the first accident.
We're thrilled with our decision and the fact that the whole process is finally over, but it was bittersweet, too. We had to say goodbye to the car that we really enjoyed for eight years, the car that brought Zoe home from Houston and Luka home from the Humane Society. Luckily, the dogs were willing to pose for one last photo.

Carrie