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

I think they have fins, now :)

>
>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..

I agree, very good rules. Also, 4WD comes in handy quite often!