We are now a two-Jeep family – immediate family, that is. The white vehicle is a 2011 Jeep Compass that was purchased last fall as a new “leftover” that perfectly fit the bill for a family car. And that it is – a wonderful family car that is comfortable to ride in ad fun to drive. The new Wrangler is certainly more comfortable than the decade old “TJ” model but it is still a Wrangler (heh). However, it is a BLAST to drive. Our extended family also includes a couple other new Jeeps. By new, I mean within the last couple model years. And those family members also LOVE their Jeeps.

I suppose I should share the “shopping” saga – but most people don’t like the perceived unpleasantness of car shopping. I can sympathize and/or empathize. So I won’t go into many details – but may try to pick out some of the humorous aspects. Such as one dealer telling me they could no longer honor an “Internet discount” when I told them I qualified for a Chrysler (subsidized) affiliate discount through the Tread Lightly organization. Even though the “difference” was paid by the Chrysler Corporation they (the dealer would lose money) to honor the initial $500 discount. I certainly didn’t want them to lose money – so I bought elsewhere.

Even though I shed a tear (I really was attached to my old TJ) I was happy with the cool deal. My trade amounted to a huge down payment so I didn’t have haul out my checkbook to write any cool checks the day I got the keys. How cool is that?

BTW – that smile is still there…

So I found a few more…online…in a variety of places…

• I live. I ride. I am. Jeep. (current company slogan)
• It’s a Jeep thing.
• Only in a Jeep.
• It’s hip to be square.
• Just Empty Every Pocket.
• It’s not leaking – it’s marking its territory.
• Roads? Where we’re going, we don’t need roads.
• It’s fun to go topless.
• Yes, I have a Jeep.
• Toughest four letter word on wheels…
• Jeep Cherokee: A hero in every one.

Sorry – we’ll have to wait for “the rest of the story” – about just “why” I started at Sherwood of Salisbury and went (the next day) to I. G. Burton in Milford – but soon – in a post of its own…

But I did find the right one – just what I need for getting back to Jeep’n. 2001 Jeep Wrangler Sport – mostly plain-Jane but a few goodies – like premium sound, locking trunk and nearly new Uniroyal All-Season Cross Countries (x5). She’s got a few years but has always been garaged and always serviced at a Jeep dealer by the previous two owners. (Last owner just traded up to a 2012 Wrangler Unlimited.)

Oh, and “Mellow Yellow” (or should I call her “High Noon?”) is an all season model. By that I mean she has two tops. The photo above is showing off the winter top. The soft top, for the warmer seasons, is currently being stored in our hangar – and it looks like it has not been used more than once or twice. The plastic is as clean and wrinkle-free as the day it was “born.” (Only wish I could look so good. LOL) The engine compartment looks as good as the exterior and the upholstery and carpeting is pristine. Luv it.