John,

>>Well, I can understand your POV. I suppose that anything in Minnesota without either tracks or pontoons must not be considered as a viable all-year vehicle.
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>You don't know how close to the truth you are!

I've been to Minnesota - during the summer though. The cows with the web feet really caught my attention... <g>


Actually, it was the summer of 1963 and I'll never forget just how much vanilla ice cream that $0.25 could buy! That cone went all the way to the sky and it sure was good.. <g>

>
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>>I learned to drive on a MGB GT fastback. What a blast..
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>I learned on a 1976 Dodge 3/4 ton custom pickup my Dad bought me when I was 12. The first thing he made me do was drive it down one of the local farm roads, it had been raining for a few days prior. A combination of fun and terror!

LOL

I'd bet that right then and there you gained a very healthy respect for driving carefully... Your dad was very smart. My cousin (who taught me to drive) took me out in the back roads of Orange County and to some big flat parking lots. Taught me how to get into and out of controlled & uncontrolled skids. IOW, how to handle the vehicle under duress and to learn the physics of braking, accelleration, off & on-camber turns and so forth. He taught me two things: 1)If you are alone and want to kill yourself, go ahead, but if you have passengers you're responsible for them and 2) drive as if everyone on the road is out to hit you. That is, remember to pay attention for them and for yourself. i.e. defensive driving.

Two very good rules IMO..