Conception of "The Minivan Plan"

Over the years, the two of us have shared some pretty unique (and some might say ridiculous) ideas. They are all coming together next summer in "The Minivan Plan".

Ever since Michelle started thinking about purchasing her own car, she's had mini-vans on the mind. Here is why:

1. They get much better gas mileage than SUVs but can hold the same amount (especially once you get rid of those pesky kids in the back)
2. For reasons that we have yet to fathom, they seem to have gone out of style and can thus be purchased at very low cost.
3. With total removal of the backseats, the possibilities for duel camper van/ triathlon equipment storage unit are endless.
4. The sliding doors make for a precision instrument of speed and aerodynamics that evoke feelings in others that they themselves don't understand (example: the swagger wagon)
   
5. The front seat setup is ideal for car trips.
6. Mini Vans always score top marks for safety :)

Alas, her car search ended with the purchase of a beautiful blue 99 Accord named Gladys. Now don't get me wrong, Gladys is a peach and we love her. She's perfect for cruising down PCH and even quick jaunts from LA to Boulder but our plans are bigger and let's face it, she's a middle aged woman. My '98 Volvo, Fred, is no young buck either and although I would like to think he has another 10,000 miles in him, I can't be certain.

Throughout the summer we had been discussing a road trip next summer that would go from Portland, Maine to Portland, Oregon and would allow us to check off many sites from our must see list (including, hopefully, Alaska). With that in mind, here is a recent Gchat conversation we had while not doing work at our respective offices:

Michelle: clearly backpacking needs to be our lifestyle.
next summer, we live from a tent (actually serious)

Katie: agreed
especially because I will have no money
and we will def know enough people to be able to go inside once in a while

Michelle: oh yeah, for sure!

Katie: and we could even buy a membership to scott carpenter* or something so we could shower there and swim whenever we want.

Michelle: yeah, good plan
okay so pros:
get skinny
see the stars every night
spend no money
show Paul** the love he deserves
develop deep appreciation for nature

Katie: learn to live on very few belongings

Michelle: maybe learn to hunt

Katie: YES

Michelle: cons:
become "that girl"

Katie: that could be a pro

Michelle: that's why we're friends

Katie: cons: probably decrease chances of finding a boyfriend
but increase chances of falling in love with a mountain man
or a bear.
we could definitely rent a storage unit to keep our bikes in and stuff
although if we had our van...
YES

Michelle: omg omg omgo mg
yes
minivan

Katie: this is happening, and it is happening with a new tricked out minivan

Michelle: omgomgoeruithpc23481*&#^&#

Katie: i know!
i am freaking otu


And THAT, is the story of the day The Minivan Plan was conceived. More on maps and details later.

* Scott Carpenter is a local outdoor pool in Boulder
**Paul is our hatchet