It's not just cats ...

that Beau wants to eat! Unbeknown to us there was a hedgehog in my front garden that he tried to get to!

I had an email yesterday from the MINI dealership where I bought my last car from as they had been notified that I had asked for a finance settlement statement, and could they do anything to help. I've had to be honest with myself that as much as I love the style and kit the John Cooper Mini Works it's not a comfortable car for me to drive anymore. It's also not practical as it's 3 door which makes it extremely difficult for Beau, plus the boot is seriously tiny. I have mostly been driving Jo's car when we go out and she had a Golf Plus and it's a manual but the ergonomics mean it doesn't cause as much arthritis pain in my feet and hips. 

I was chatting to Jo over morning coffee and we said we'd go over and talk to them. I was pondering selling mine and offering to split running costs with her on her car as we are seldom both out in our cars at the same time. 

I knew I needed 5 doors and an auto box again. I was still drawn to the sporty models but I then spotted a hybrid, as did Jo but because she liked the colour and the look. Most importantly I liked the price! It's a plug in hybrid auto and although much less kit than my current car was so nice to drive. Jo was thrilled that she'd picked it and didn't want me to look at any others! She was right, and they "did me a very good deal because they look after their customers" (even though mine was not clean and had some dog hairs!). Apparently I came at the right time! I shall miss my sporty car but not the pain, and this is practical! I was also able to get extra protection for the exterior and interior (for Beau!), Plus an option that covers cosmetic damage to wheels and bodywork. And it's cheaper per month than my current car. Oh and with the roof bars it's Tentbox compatible!! We will go and collect it on Wednesday and a lot of credit to Jo today as she was there to sense check my decision, and I appreciated that. Also she knows she doesn't find driving as easy now and prefers to be driven.