Road Trippin' With The Terrible Two's

Many parents cannot imagine a scarier thought than going on a long road trip with their 2 or 3-year-olds. Even a short trip seems overly daunting for many of the parents we have met. At a recent meeting of the Albuquerque Twins Club, we spoke with a father who was frightened to take his twins on a mere four-hour drive to see their grandparents!Since when did parents become scared of their own children? This is America after all, the country founded by settlers who bore their children in wagons across wild lands that had never been graced by a McDonald's Play Place.When Jesus was a little one, an angel of the Lord told Joseph to take his family to Egypt because King Herod would come to kill the child if they stayed in Bethlehem. If this had taken place in 2006, I wonder if Joseph might have replied, "travel to Egypt with my kid? I'll take my chances with Herod!"But I say to you, Fear Not! Traveling with the Terrible Two's is certainly different, but it doesn't have to be hard, and certainly should not be scary. Two weeks ago, my wife Alison and I made the 12-hour drive from Albuquerque to Wichita with our 2-year-old twins, and the same 12-hour drive back three days later. You know what? It went pretty smoothly. And now I'm going to share our secrets with you:WHEN TO LEAVEFor a short trip, 4 hours or less, consider heading out around your child's bedtime. After a long hard day of playing, the car will put them to sleep in no time. When you arrive at your destination, just carry your little sleeper to their bed, and voila.For a moderate-sized trip of 4 to 8 hours, you can buy yourself a little time by heading out around naptime. Some children, but not all, will take a nice long nap in a moving vehicle with a stomach full from lunch.For a long trip of 8 hours or more (like our trip to Wichita), it is important to get an early start on the day. Get yourselves ready before the break of dawn, and quietly transport your sleeping child to their car seat, pajamas and all. The darkness outside will help them stay or go back to sleep, and provides a nice way for them to ease into the excitement of being in the car.HOW LONG IT WILL TAKEAs a general rule, add an extra 1/2 hour to every 2-3 hours of expected driving time to account for the run & play breaks your child will need to fight off the boredom and captivity of being in the car seat for extended periods of time.WHAT TO TAKE1. Inexpensive new toys that the kids have never seen before - Little men or dinosaurs in tubes that they can play with or just take in and out - Crayons and new coloring book or lined notebook - Small magnadoodle is always a favorite - Hot Wheels, My Little Pony, action figures - Put some small toys from home in a little backpack or resealable bag so that they can take them in and out again and again2. DVD Player or Laptop - Probably not needed for a trip less than 3 hours long, but it can still gain you some quiet time on those short trips. We all want our kids to enjoy the scenery and learn about the areas we are driving through, but that is not very realistic for a toddler. Some kids will sit happily for hours but most need something to keep their mind off the fact that they are strapped in their seat and have no idea when they will be able to escape. - Favorite movies for our girls include: Signing Time videos, Muzzy, My Baby Can Read, and many of the animal-based Disney movies.3. Snacks - This is very important. Do not worry too much about nutrition but do try to get some healthy food in them. It is not a myth that some children will get sick if they eat a lot of junk food and, even though they will probably only throw up once, it is not something you want to deal with. I have always found traveling to be hunger inducing and in my experience traveling with kids, it has the same effect on them. We bring along their favorites like organic cereal bars, Gerber fruit snacks, oranges, and letter cookies but we also bring some special (unhealthy) treats to get doled out once or twice a day like button candy. Make every effort to have a large supply of food they like on hand - Drinks. A sippie of water is good because as long as it does not get dirty, you can use it for a couple of days. If your kids will not drink water, bring along a case of 100% juice boxes. Milk boxes also travel well. Sometimes just having a special bottle they like will help them stay hydrated. For example, our girls love their child-size water bottles with the sport tops just like the ones mommy and daddy use.4. Books - Books can keep kids occupied for a good while. We always put away some of their favorite books a couple weeks before a trip so that they are excited to see them again when we bring them out in the car. If they have a new obsession, you can also get some inexpensive books relating to that for the drive.5. Taby Tray or other Lap Desk - If you take a trip over 3 hours in length, this is something you will not regret investing in. It gives the kids a surface to play on so that they can keep themselves occupied while you try to drive.6. Children's Music CDs7. Cleanup Supplies - plastic bags for dirty diapers or clothes - baby wipes and Purell for cleaning hands and faces after playing outside or eating - paper towels for accidents8. A Camera - Even if you don't think you will be going anywhere photo-worthy, take this just in case. You never know when your little ones are going to experience something you wish you had captured on film.HOW TO HANDLE SLEEPTake all the items you normally use for the nap & bedtime routines such as cds, pajamas, special blankets, special small toys, books to read, etc. Try to keep the routines as close as possible to how they are at home, even though you're on the road. This is very important for helping your child realize that it really is time to sleep.Also important is to put up a sheet between the passenger and driver seats so that your kids cannot see you. If they can see you, that is often enough by itself to keep them from falling asleep. For some strange reason, they find us entertaining.HOW TO DRIVEDole out the toys very slowly with other activities mixed in like cds, singing, rest stops, or dvds. You should not be out of toys when you are only a few hours into the drive.Pull over every 2-3 hours to allow the kids to run. A rest stop is good for this, or you can combine the break with a meal by searching out a McDonald's or Burger King with a Play Place (you will never find us at one of those establishments at home, but they are a blessing out on the road). Feed yourself while the kids play and then feed them in the car on their taby trays to buy yourself peaceful time on the road.And finally, expect to spend some small part of the trip sitting in the back seat with the kiddos. If you prefer to sit in the front, do not give in to going back there too easily or else your children will learn to expect it. They are old enough to entertain themselves for reasonable stretches of time with only minimal help from you, but you should still go back if you feel they have finally had more than they can handle and need some comforting to get them back on track.CONCLUSIONParents of small children should not feel as though they have been inextricably chained to their house. Traveling with small children is complicated, but it doesn't have to be difficult. And the earlier you get them used to the road, the easier it will be as they progress to the older stages of childhood. Enjoy your travels, and BE NOT AFRAID!-------------------------------Copyright, Paul Martin, Noss Galen Baby LLC 2006Paul and Alison Martin are the owners of Noss Galen Baby LLC, a small online business dedicated to offering innovative, hard-to-find products for babies and toddlers at affordable prices.To subscribe or to see previous issues of Paul's "Live and Learn" newsletter, please visit http://www.NossGalenBaby.com/newsletter.html.

Small Business Marketing: Are We There Yet?

Small business marketing is not like taking a family vacation.Did anybody take a family vacation this summer? Do you have children of your own, or do you remember what it was like when you were a kid taking a trip somewhere?I can still remember the family vacations as a youngster growing up. Our famous treks across America in the family station wagon or the rented RV, when the station wagon became impractical. Now with my own family we've taken some similar but generally smaller scale trips.It seems like one of the most asked questions from a child - "Are we there yet?" Or the other favorite is, "How much longer?" Even families that fly to their vacation destination I'm sure can relate.What does this have to do with marketing?I think sometimes (maybe many times) service business owners can become like that child in regards to their marketing. Are we there yet? How much longer?You work on a web site, or a brochure, or go to networking events and send out letters. Then you wonder when you're going to start getting results. When does the fun start? You know, the fun -- when prospects start calling and others refer and send business your way.And much like the family vacation, continual asking of are we there yet or how much longer often leads to unplanned stops or detours. You stop to work on other things because there is so much to do and it's sometimes hard to see how this marketing is going to work.Marketing shouldn't start and stop.Most people say they understand, even if their actions say differently, that marketing is an ongoing activity. Marketing isn't like a vacation where you have a final destination and then you stop traveling because you're there.Unfortunately, many small businesses get frustrated or burned out when they work on their marketing. They want to know, "how long this is going to take". Are we there yet?And far too many times, they abandon their marketing "campaign" because it wasn't getting them results and taking them where they wanted to go. But even worse than that, many times the "are we there yet" mentality didn't even let them finish planning or put the idea into action.Eventually they start planning, or maybe just take off on, another marketing trip. Once again, they start wondering how much longer it will be. Are we there yet?Marketing needs to be an ongoing, lifelong kind of journey for your business. It takes regular and consistent effort to keep your pipeline full of good, high-quality leads and to keep moving your prospects forward until they become paying clients. That means continuously marketing even when you have clients you're busy working with.Keep Moving On.The question "are we there yet?" needs to become "how do we keep going?" Yes, you do need to monitor results so you can assess how well things are working to get you where you want to go. When your measurements show you that something is working, keep doing it. In fact, do more of it.But you can also keep striving to reach new heights as well. How can you continuously improve even the things that are working to get even better, more consistent results?If you continue to ask the question, "Are we there yet?" you might just stall out on your journey. You see, eventually you'll discover some marketing strategies that will start to attract attention and generate the response you've been hoping for. It might seem like in fact, "you are there" and so you put the marketing on cruise control.How to keep moving forward.When you find yourself asking this most asked question, consider any or all of the following ideas to keep you continuously moving forward.Study up on marketing. There is no shortage of resources out there. You need to find them and begin consuming them. There are lots of books available on the subject. Look for the ones that offer proven, hands-on strategies and tactics. Remember, one or two good ideas now and then could make a significant difference to your business.Form or join a "think tank" or mastermind group. Find a group of people who care just as much about your success as you do, just as you'll care about their success. This is not a group of friends who will simply stroke your ego. Look for an honest group who will ask the tough questions and demand accountability from each other while supporting each others' efforts.Attend talks and workshops. If you go and participate fully, you'll often get just as much from the other participants as you will from the session itself.Get hands-on assistance. Working with a coach or marketing consultant who can help you focus, set goals, prioritize, create action plans and help hold you accountable could be an invaluable experience for your business.Support from outside resources like this can help you shift from a mindset of "are we there yet" to a mindset of "how can we keep going." They'll help you continue to see possibilities beyond where things currently stand in your business.(c) - Kevin Dervin, KPD Marketing

Top 10 Tips For European Tours

If you're traveling to Europe with a European tours company, there are a few tips you should know. European tours are highly recommended, as every 'i' is dotted and every 't' is crossed for you; all you have to do is show up and enjoy the trip. A European tours company will not only guide you every step of the way, but also give you free time to explore sites on your own-a true win-win situation.1. Pack with a plan - Know what to expect in terms of climate, and pack as lightly as possible. Wear outfits more than once to cut back on how many clothes you bring, and don't get carried away with additional items (i.e. books, electronics, toys, etc.).2. Be a selective shopper - It's easy to get carried away with shopping, especially on European tours where you visit multiple cities in one trip; however, keep in mind that whatever you purchase will have to come with you on the flight back home.3. Wear a 'fanny pack' - Although you may feel somewhat foolish sporting a fanny pack, it's a great way to keep your hands free and your belongings (i.e. wallet, water bottle and keys) safe throughout your European tours.4. Understand the culture & the language - Once you know the places you'll be visiting on your European tours trip, do your homework: Study the history, culture and language of each city/country. You'll have a better grasp of the people and a good point of reference.5. Diets and traveling don't mix - When you're on a European tours trip, all diets are off. This is a time not only to splurge and live a little, but also to experience cultural dishes and flavors from various regions. We're not telling you to fall off the wagon completely, but don't obsess about counting calories.6. Learn the secrets - Most European tours will allow you a free day here and there to do whatever you please. Ask around and discover the secrets of the land. From bakeries to hidden wine cellars, you'll enjoy uncovering undisclosed places.7. Treat jet lag early on - Let's face it: You will most likely feel fatigued once you've arrived at your European destination. The best thing you can do for jet lag is to address it immediately. Once you arrive, remain awake until an early local bedtime. (If you think you'll need a little assistance, ask your physician before your European tours trip for a sleep aid.)8. Don't drink too much - You might gasp when you read this, but try not to overindulge when it comes to alcohol. Not only will you have a hangover the following day, which can spoil a good time, but you might also run the risk of other not-so-pleasant things (i.e. blacking out, forgetting how to get back to your hotel and getting robbed). It's okay to enjoy the culture's signature libations, but moderation is key.9. Beware of tourist scams - Don't be too skeptical of strangers on your European tours trip, but be smart about your transactions. Research popular tourist scams, and think twice before buying ANYTHING!10. Know your budget beforehand - Figure out your budget before your European tours trip and stick with it. When you're in Europe, you'll see how easy it is to get carried away with spending. If you know your budget up front, you're less likely to blow it.

Now that you're armed with travel tips, you can simply relax and have fun. European tours are outstanding ways to explore Europe and its splendor

Brendan Davidson, a freelance writer, goes on at least two European tours annually. "Traveling to Europe with a group of strangers is what I live for-I love exploring new territory and experiencing all sorts of adventures!" he says

Ford Econoline Van: In Production Since 1961

The rest of the world knows this line of vehicles from the Ford Motor Company as the Ford Econoline Van or the Ford E series. However, if you travel to the Philippines, you would then know that in this region and area, the Ford Econoline Van is marketed and known as the Ford Chateau Wagon. Take a closer look though and you would notice that the Ford Chateau Wagon is just a similar vehicle but has its differences with the Ford Econoline Van.1961 was the year that the production of the Ford Econoline Van started. It was manufactured to be a full size van and it was mounted and crafted using the FR VN platform. Competition for this van includes the Chevrolet Express, the GMC Savana, the Dodge Sprinter, the Mercedes Benz Sprinter, and the Freightliner Sprinter. This line of full size vans were made for both cargo and passenger transportation. Looking at Ford's line up for vehicles, the Ford Econoline Van and the whole Ford E series is very much related to the company's F series which is a line of pick up trucks.The Ford Econoline Van is already on its fourth generation of versions for this vehicle. The first generation was known for it became a success for utility companies that included the Bell Telephone System. It was then a cargo van and could take in eight passengers inside. As per the second generation of Ford Econoline Vans, the engine was now moved from the rear up to the front. In 1975, the third generation came about. It held more ergonomic controls as well as a full frame design. Come 1983, the logo of Ford that was a blue oval was now integrated into the front grille of the van. The fourth generation came in 1992 and this was a redesigned version. This time around, the Ford Econoline Van came with a vast choice of engines for patrons' various preferences and needs.Ford Parts and Ford Auto PartsFord Econoline Van parts and Ford accessories.----------Jason Moore, a 35 year old freelance writer from Austin, Texas. He also works as a marketing analyst for an established auto parts store in the country.

Upholding Volvo Standards

A full-size station wagon, the Volvo V70 of the Volvo Car Group is originally a development of the 850 station wagon and sedan series. A trivia for this car company is that it has a naming strategy that completely depends on the vehicles' size and body style. The car manufacturer, Volvo, in the station wagon segment adopted V (which means Versatility), S (which stands for Sedan), and C (which refers to the new Coupe and Convertible). The Volvo V70 upholds the Volvo body style which means artless riffs on the right angle, bearing utility and beauty all in one vehicle. This vehicle has a styling that is restrained and elegant yet at the same time crisp and uplifting. It has been made available with different packages. One of these is the sport leather package that offers fine-grained hides on the steering wheel and gear-selector boot. The security package, meanwhile, features all-important mass movement and level sensors, security laminated windows, and an air-quality system. Also, the cold weather package did not fail to offer traction and stability control, heated seats, and head lamp washers and wipers. As an addition, options also included a Dolby Pro Logic in-dash four-CD audio system along with nine speakers. This audio system also comes with an astounding clarity and stereo imaging. In its interior, the Volvo V70 holds 60/40 split rear seats that are easy to use, and also provides an impressive 71.5 cubic feet of cargo volume. The rear seats also sport two seatback-angle settings that are in a fully upright position for increased cargo space. As per safety, which is one of Volvo's main values that should not be excluded in the manufacture of their vehicles, the Volvo V70 has dual stage airbags, whiplash protection seats and ISOFIX attachment points for rear child safety seats. The ISOFIX hooks guarantee that the child buckets do not move up the side windows in case of accidents. Overall, the Volvo V70 exudes an aura of civility, responsibility and parental role modeling. It also provides the driver a feel of traveling faster. Also, this vehicle had options laid out in reference to its engines. There is the 2.4 liter engine; the 2.4 T engine that could produce 197 horsepower, and the 2.4 T engine XC with an all wheel drive. The five-cylinder engine is able to provide a smooth performance along with a nice power from its torque production. Volvo definitely considered comfort in the construction of the Volvo V70. The seats have been specially designed so as to provide a maximum level of support and comfort. Climate control is found on most of the models in the line up, along with high technology audio equipment with Dolby pro logic and subwoofers made available. The leather seats have become standard along with extra soft luxury leather seats as well. Volvo Parts and Used Volvo Parts has a product line up for Volvo V70 parts that includes accessories, brakes, cooling system parts, suspension, steering, fuel injection parts, and more.

A Family MPV That Is Practical And Stylish

At last we have a practical family MPV that serves its purpose as a practical family car... and that doesn't look like a big unattractive space wagon like many of its competitors in the market!So many 'family MPVs' are designed to accommodate growing families - which is what they should do. But in the attempt to offer as much space as physically possible the exterior often looks like a bulky space wagon - which doesn't exactly make it aesthetically pleasing. Many families then find themselves having to sacrifice looks to buy something that offers them 'space' and practicality.Combining stylish looks with family-practicality in a family MPV seems to be unheard of so far. You usually have to decide between a chunky wagon or a generic 7-seater - which all basically look the same. The C4 Picasso offers something new...Citroen have finally designed something that satisfies all your families' needs! The C4 Picasso is surprisingly attractive with its sleek, curvaceous lines and (almost) never-ending windscreen which gives you great all-round visibility. It is definitely one of the more advanced MPVs on the market. The interior is comfortable too - which is often a high priority on your 'must-do' list when searching for a family-friendly vehicle. Many other MPVs sacrifice the quality of the interior fixtures and fittings to focus solely on space. The new C4 Picasso will provide you with plenty of space, so you and your family can travel in comfort and the fixtures and fittings are pleasantly good too. The interior has lots of compartments for you to store all your personal bits and the boot is spacious enough to cater for your busy weekends and weekly shopping trips. The third row of seats also fold down so you can maximise your boot space. There are two petrol and two diesel engines to choose from which promise to deliver 'low-ish' carbon emissions and a good fuel economy. The C4 Picasso has also achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating which compared to other MPVs is impressive and allows you to relax in the knowledge that you and your family are travelling in a safe cabin. The C4 Picasso has sold extremely well since its introduction to the market which is testament to its innovative design and family practicality. So, finally you don't have to compromise on looks to accommodate your family's needs - you can buy a Citroen MPV that is stylish and practical.



Tony Hill is an online marketer and researcher who is currently researching new Citroen cars

Donner Party Cookbook: A Guide to Survival on the Hastings Cutoff

January 8 2004--You probably know something about The Donner Party, the wagon train that became snowbound in the mountains on the way to California? You know.... when the food ran out, they resorted to eating their dearly departed?The tale of the 1846-1847 Donner Party is one of those fascinating episodes of American history where there is a wealth of awareness but not much knowledge. And our awareness is likely to be exclusively about the cannibalism.Terry Del Bene, Ph.D. an archeologists and historian, tells us much more in his history of the ill-fated train and its people. In his book we learn that the wagon train was made up of a group of ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances, mostly of their own making.From its inception in what is now Wyoming, on July 20, 1846, the leaders of the Donner Party made fateful decisions that doomed the wagon train from successfully completing its journey to California. An early winter in the high Serria-Nevada Mountains and record snowfalls isolated the Donner Party just short of making it through the pass. By the time of their rescue in the spring, more than half of the people were dead and those who were alive survived by consuming the frozen flesh of their traveling companions.But, this is more than a history of this unfortunate episode in American history, the author lightens the mood with many delicious recipes that the westward travelers used before the food ran out. The book contains dozens of recipes, which are authentic to the mid-nineteenth century. There are instructions as to how to cook outdoors, in the cold, in the wind, at high altitudes and even how to use buffalo chips for fuel. Recipes include such mid-nineteenth century favorites as buffalo tongue, brain stew, gruel, lumpy dicks, journey cakes and various soups, breads, cakes, and puddings.The author admits that the book contains an element of dark humor, but at the same time he hopes to presents the human side of this compelling tale of survival. The mix between dark humor, well research history and interesting recipes and tid-bits concerning nineteenth-century cooking makes this book and extremely enjoyable read.

Outdoor Activities For Kids - Wooden Swing Sets Are a Great Option

When the warm weather hits you're children will want to escape to the great outdoors. However, sometimes it can be a challenge to keep them entertained and happy during the long summer days. Kids get bored pretty easily, but the following wide range of activities, including wooden swing sets, will keep them occupied for many days to come.Wooden swing sets are one of the best summer play toys on the market. They have so many fun activities included on them and there are a wide variety of games kids can play on them when they use their imagination. If your kids are into action sports and adventure, you can purchase wooden swing sets that have rock climbing walls or mountain climbing walls on them. If your children like to pretend they are pirates or ship captains, then you can purchase accessories like steering wheels, telescopes, and periscopes to attach to the wooden swing sets. Your little ones will have a blast with these great accessories. Sandboxes are also another great feature some units have. If your son or daughter loves slides some units have enough room for two, a wave slide and a tube slide. Wooden Swing Sets are sure to provide lots of all day fun!Another great option to keep your kids occupied outside are Radio Flyer Wagons. These classic bright red toys have been loved for many generations and your child will love having one of their own. They can pile up their dolls and stuffed animals in them and pull them around the driveway. If they have friends over, they can take turns pulling each other around in their Radio Flyer Wagons. Mom and dad can also have fun with them by pulling them around or taking them for a walk in their Radio Flyer Wagons. With a little imagination, Radio Flyer Wagons can be turned into racecars or traveling lemonade stands in the neighborhood. This is a great toy and it's iconic status makes it something every kid should own.Another fun option for summer fun is tricycles. These fun bikes are great for younger kids who don't have that great of balance but want to ride around like the big kids. With its' three wheel design, tricycles are safe for younger ones. Some even have seatbelts to ensure kids don't fall off of them! Others have optional pole handles that can go in the back so mom or dad can push their child around on their tricycles while making it seem like the kids are riding all on their own. The optional bells and horns that can be purchased and added onto the tricycles make the bikes a blast for kids to cruise around on.Another fun activity is driveway chalk. Kids will love writing out their names or drawing artistic masterpieces all over the sidewalk. They can also play games like tic tac toe, snail, or hop scotch. They could even draw a circular track with lanes and ride their tricycles or Radio Flyer Wagons around the pavement in circles like race car drivers. The possibilities for fun in June, July, and August are endless with just a few play pieces and a lot of imagination.

Jennifer Boris is a freelance copywriter. For more information on Wooden Swing Sets, visit Best Price Toys.

Suzuki XL-7 SUV 2005: The Weekly Driver Review

Traveling east from Sacramento on either Interstate 80 or 50, the capital of California extends into ever-expanding suburbs. Sierra Nevada foothill communities soon follow and then respectively the well-known gambling and recreation meccas of Reno, Nev., and Lake Tahoe, Calif.Busier freeways exist, but both Northern California thoroughfares have their share of hectic commuter traffic and every other conceivable transportation concern.Both freeways therefore provide perfect arenas for vehicle testing, particularly the consistent, steady ascents into the foothills and toward ski resort elevations. There's nothing too steep, but the steady grades can abruptly help showcase a vehicle's power strengths or weaknesses.In my recent test drive of the 2005 Suzuki XL-7, the new midsize SUV offered by the Japanese manufacturer, the latter applied.The XL-7 has its share of attractive features, including a good price point and plenty of impressive standard features. But acceleration and overall engine performance is not the vehicle's strong suit.On out-of-town journeys on both Interstate 50 and 80, the XL-7 was noticeable sluggish on the steady climbs out of the flatlands. The XL-7 has a 5-speed automatic transmission and 2.7-liter, 24-valve, 185-horsepower, V6 engine. Yet, even on solo treks into moderat elevation locales, in highway passing situations, or in other needed acceleration scenarios, a foot-to-the-floor effort was required.The XL-7, however, should not be dismissed It's been introduced as an extended version of Suzuki's compact Grand Vitara, with a 2.9-inch longer wheelbase, 22.9 inches of added length and the aforementioned larger engine.Nearly a dozen model options are available, from base model, 2WD, LX-4-door wagon with manual transmission ($19,499) to the 4-WD EX wagon with automatic transmission and third-row seat ($26,899). My test vehicle was the 4-WD EX-wagon with automatic transmission. With standard features including heated front seats, leather front and rear seats, 6-disc CD and AM/FM audio system with seven speakers, 16-alloy wheels, power-tilted sun and moonroof and Suzuki's 7-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, the $26,394.00 price point is appealing.So, too, are the XL-7's controls and materials, and the vehicle's cargo space is generous, if not less-than simply designed and orchestrated via confusing levers.Like other Suzuki models, the XL 7's instrumentation is simple and nicely designed. Large control dials offer ease of use and the console materials are attractive, even the faux wood trim. Likewise, Suzuki has some innovative ideas for storage cubicles and the cargo areas for groceries, sports equipment and the like is on par with the available other vehicles in its category. Seating is comfortable, and from driver's perspective vision is good and without blind spots.As a 4-WD drive vehicle, Suzuki offers a push-button, part-time system. It's convenient and has a low-gear ratio. Unlike other manufacturers, however, the Suzuki 4-WD option should not be left engaged in dry pavement.The XL-7 is Suzuki's offering against the Ford Explorer, GMC Envoy and Toyota Highlander. All are higher priced and have established niches in the resale market. The Suzuki doesn't have any history yet. The XL-7 doesn't get high marks in ride quality, and it certainly isn't quiet on the road, either. The manufacturer claims 17 mpg gallon in city driving, but the Consumer Guide testers documented a city average between 13.6 and 15.4 mpg.There's nothing wrong with a manufacturer having pride its brand name, either. But the "S" insignia on the front grill is particularly large, and it can't help remind one of the Superman "S." In short, it's just too large.Beyond cosmetics, however, the XL-7 has offer a good supply of standard features for its price. But it's not the best choice in its class and won't be until it at least gets more horsepower.Safety features Driver and front-seat passenger front and side airbags, Antilock brakes; 24-hour roadside assistance.Fuel Mileage (manufacturer estimates) 17 mpg (city), 22 mpg (highway).Warranty Bumper to bumper, 3 years/36,000 miles; Powertrain 7 years/100,000 miles; Corrosion, 3 years/unlimited miles.Base price range $19,499-26,899.James Raia is journalist, author and publisher in Sacramento, Calif. To read more car reviews or other examples of his work, visit his web site: ByJamesRaia.com