So much craziness....so much fun

I officially bought my first car last night. I signed the papers for a 2004 charcoal gray Dodge Neon SXT. It's a cute little car that is a major step up from my lovely 1994 Ford Escort that I've had for the last 6 1/2 years. It is sort of bittersweet in that I almost feel guilty abandoning my current car, she has treated me so well, but has definitely seen better days. And spending 2 1/2 hours talking financing and loans and insurance and warranties made my stomach turn in knots. It was a little overwhelming to make such a big purchase. It was definitely a milestone in the "big decisions" I've made. I was thinking over those things I had checked off as being "big" or "adult" and here are some of the things I remember:

*Buying a cd player for my Escort the day after my dad bought her for me from my aunt Barb.

*Paying for my first trip without my parents - going to Florida for senior year Spring Break w/ Annie, Catie, Brooke, Lindsay and Ashley.

*Getting a tattoo the summer I turned 18. (I would have mentioned the belly button ring, but that was more rebellious than responsible :) )

*Choosing to transfer to Iowa and leave my sister, my high school friends, and basically step out on my own for the first time - a huge step of faith with the Lord as well.

*Going to China, basically trusting the Lord with making a decision to go in about 3-4 days. Going overseas for the first time and experiencing a new culture and loving and serving the Lord with my friends and learning from the hearts of Chinese college students and professionals.

*Buying a new car, taking out a loan and being responsible for all aspects for the first time in my life (my dad is desperatley trying to cut my ties to him....and by him I mean his wallet :) )