i heart my earth... i heart my cars

This past weekend proved wonderful for me. I had the opportunity to take a weekend away from the LBC and head up to the mountains for an escape. If you have ever paid attention to my ramblings, you’d remember that I see the mountains as one of the best vacations possible. This weekend proved the same, right on Big Bear Lake.

Our high school youth had a "Winter Retreat," and I say the word "winter" as you can see by the picture it felt refreshingly "Spring." This opportunity allowed the kiddies to meet youth from three other churches, hear other youth leaders speak on topics they are passionate about, and generally be refueled – Jesus style.

As part of this weekend, I had the chance to drive a 2007 Chevy Tahoe in order to transport our church’s youth. This was my first opportunity to drive, for more than a few miles here and there, a large SUV. I was greatly impressed with the comfort this vehicle provided the seven youth we packed into the vehicle. Further, I was impressed with the build quality that has been put into the vehicle. Previous SUV’s and their multi-platform designs (taking parts from existing vehicle and making them work on a “new” vehicle… AKA… Ford and Chevy for quite a few years) had made me less than impressed with SUV’s. This past weekend and this article gave me hope for the future – both as someone who would like the ability to transport large quantities of youth as I continue to volunteer in youth ministry, and as someone who would love to continue my environmental conservation.

Ultimately my thoughts bring me to ponder: Can I afford one right now? Ha, no. Could I look for a used version in the next few years? Yeah… but only if I could convert the engine to bio-diesel. Seriously, what youth group wouldn’t want a ride in a comfy SUV that has exhaust gasses smelling of French fries?