Happiness is a Warm Truck

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I’m most happy behind the wheel of my car, the place where I get to decide on every aspect of my surroundings. And that’s not a power trip. It’s just the only time in my day where I get it my way.

The driver’s seat fits just right Plenty of room to stretch out, but still close enough to attack the steering wheel if someone cuts me off. The heat is set to 21°C plus the window is open a crack for enhanced ‘sonar driving’, to better hear approaching vehicles (driving a big-boy truck is serious responsibility). I can set the radio to 98.1 ‘Toronto’s Christmas Music Station‘ and sing along with the carols. There’s no shame behind these tinted windows. I’m the captain that determines the destination and I’m the navigator setting the course.

When I’m by myself, I go as fast as I dare and always take the ‘racing line’ on highway onramps. But driving isn’t always about speeding or racing, especially when I’ve got my family with me. It’s my job to keep them safe and comfortable. Sometimes we drive through the old neighborhood for a dose of nostalgia, or explore new parts of the city. But during this season, my favourite ‘family-fun‘ thing to do is checking out the Christmas lights displays.

There are a few streets in Toronto where the entire neighborhood is lit up, but I prefer the light show set up in the mall parking lot. The route is long, and nobody is in a rush. At the halfway point Santa Claus is waiting for you to hop out your ride and snap a picture with him.

That’s another thing I like about being in my own vehicle; just turning off the phone. Life’s bells and whistles can’t notify me about anything more important than moments with my princess and our progeny.

Not gonna lie. Driving a lifted GMC monster truck covered in Christmas lights draws a lot of attention, which I love. But when families with kids stop me to take pictures of my ‘seasonal Sierra’ it just feed my ego. Gosh, I just love being behind the wheel!

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