New arrival

There has been a break in service. Largely due to the arrival of baby number two - Aiden - who came into being on Sunday April 1st. Now the Chimaera's test really begins. Will it be my saviour or will it be neglected and the struggle to manage two under three takes over. To be honest, it played no part in the birth at all. Didn't ferry to the hospital. Didn't bring bAby home. That was. Job performed admirably by the Touareg. I looked at it as I walked in with the baby in my arms and wondered if this was the beginning of the end of a short relationship. The answer to that question appears to be no. Far more than I ever imagined this car has been my escape. It's wonderful to have a new baby. And a baby boy to that matter - having already nurtured a girl for two years. And my daughter is real value for money at the moment. True fun. But 12 hrs of feeds, nappies, bathing, playing and shopping leave you somewhat drained. Rejuvenation is required to prepare for the long night and day ahead. I have found nothing better for this than a blast in the Chim. It's performing better than ever. Solid thumping oil pressure; steady temperature; starts first time; pulls like a train; electrical working nicely. When it's hard work and there is a break in proceedings this car has come to my rescue. It's strange though - when I leave the house I'm still immediately drawn to the Touareg. Must be the paternal instinct for safety. But I force myself to take the Chim and am never disappointed. This morning was a prime example. Clear Easter Sundays roads and empty car parks mixed with greasy surfaces led to a half hour of bliss as I let the back wheels spin for the first time since I bought the car (uprated suspension means grip in the dry is immense). I loved it. I found the car to be very controllable in the wet. Not scary, not challenging. Just fun. I dread to think what the 500 does on these conditions. Must be a hell of a hand ful. This mornings drifting fun confirmed a couple of important facts. First - that having this car before the birth is a good idea. It is my release and I can't think of anything more enjoyable to play that role. Second - that not only is is possible to have one of these cars with a young family, it is a very sensible decision. Those without a release would go bonker. What would young family life be like if you had to drive around in a Mondea or 3 series when you wanted a break? And finally that your average man needs nothing more than a 400. Leave the 450 and the 500 to those who want to try their luck and dance with the devil. You can't use them safely on a road and I won't have time for a track. Next post will be about the really thrilling subject of seat belts.....