As I rounded the off-ramp (going 50 as I always do) with its "25 mph" recommendation, I thought "hmm, there was a thunderstorm that just passed through, I wonder if I'm going too fast."
The car sliding left while I willed it to go right was my answer.
In that split second several thoughts crossed my mind:
1-I'm going to damage my beautiful new car
2-How stupid will I look if I can't get back on the off-ramp?
3-Someone, somewhere, will say "I told you so"
But then, the German engineering kicked in. First, my brake pedal pushed back at me to keep me from pushing so hard. Second, power distributed to the front tires and reduced to the back. Third, I regained control and continued on my way, safe and sound.
In fact, the sliding was kind of fun...
I know I talk about my car and my bike as "toys" but let's be clear about a few things:
1-I saved up money for several years, denying myself many things, to be able to afford them
2-I researched the car for years and waited until just the right design features were in place (like all-wheel drive)
3-I bought a reasonably priced bike that is aimed at entry-level triathletes, not the fancy, expensive titanium ones they sell that I drooled over
4-the car has made me very, very happy. Almost disturbingly so...
5-the bike has helped me be healthier and happier than I've ever been
So while I do enjoy stares of envy, it is important to understand that these are not toys. They are well thought out, adult items that add value to my life.
Plus they are so very, very much fun...
See you didn't buy that car just for fun; you knew it would keep you safe. You are better than me. I would buy a nice car/bike just because I wanted it (if I could afford it). You worked hard, and you did your research. You deserve the car and bike.
So I guess that makes me the "I told you so" - LOL.
I think what pisses me off most about the "silly toy" crowd are the ones that take your purchase to mean that they deserve one too. Like the unemployed middle-America losers who watch TV and use it as a benchmark for their standard of living. I know what it cost, and dammit, if you've been having kids or buying a big TV, then you've already spent your quota. Back of the line, and stop your whining.
(And to the friendly parents here: it's okay, you can have your toy *someday* - you just have to raise your little guys to be geniuses so they can buy it for you when they make their first mill - LOL.)