Some of you know I’ve been car hunting for a few months now. It’s the worst time to buy a car. Like, the worst. But it’s been the worst time to buy a car for a couple of years now and will likely still be the worst time to buy a car for a couple more years. And, mama’s 2009 Nissan Murano might not have that many trips to the mountains left in her.   The time had come…. As I went through this whole car-buying journey, Vinnie saw me searching day in/day out on various online platforms. He had a lot of opinions and requests - most (ok, all) of which I could not honor.   “No, V, we’re not getting a Tesla. Or a Porsche. Or a Lambo.” We are not fancy car people. We are very practical car people. Buy something that is a few years old and drive it for 10-12 years. I mean, we could not be more boring car people.  After months of searching, I found a fantastic Toyota Highlander Hybrid option down in Texas. We had it shipped up here via CarMax (CarMax is not a sponsor of this show, but they definitely should be. I am a huge fan.) When the car arrived, we all went to see it and test drive it. It was the perfect car for us. We decided to move forward with the purchase.  My husband sat in on the initial sales process to ask a couple of questions, but then headed home. Vinnie and I stayed at the dealer and completed the process. I didn’t plan for V to watch me buy a car, but I’m so glad he did.   He saw a woman make a major household decision and purchase. He saw me fill out the paperwork, manage the financing, ask questions, request clarity, negotiate terms, and CLOSE THE DEAL. Why does this matter?   It matters that our kids see us as powerful as possible. It matters that they see us manage the money, negotiate the terms, and sign the papers. It matters that they see us ask questions and require answers. It matters that they see us wield as much power as our partners.   This breaks down gender barriers and models equity in power and decision-making.   While I did not expect this car-buying experience to be a huge lesson in gender roles, it definitely turned into that. And I’m so grateful.   Where in your life are you actively breaking down gender stereotypes? Listen in to hear me break down different areas where we all might have some growth in this. Sponsor info and promo codes: Please find our sponsor information here: shamelessmom.com/sponsor/ Interested in becoming a sponsor of the Shameless Mom Academy? Email our sales team at sales@adalystmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices