Soon the one sided conversation turned into "What about me!?", and the small token she now expects of me to cough up is a new SUV for her.
After every possible argument as to why her SUV is in fine shape, and still has a few more miles in it before it bites the dust, she finally wears me down and I reluctantly admit defeat.
With my tail between my legs and plane keys in my hand, we head to the airport to purchase the worlds most expensive Rueben sandwich. After the most depressing flight in history, we land in Nashua New Hampshire where my good friend is waiting to whisk us off to his huge car dealership.
In short order, the brides new chariot is chosen, the check is written, and while she rides home smelling fresh leather, I fly to Hampton Field for lunch.
Hampton Field is a beautiful grass strip right out of National Geographic with a thriving diner and flight school that teaches mainly in J-3 Cubs. I taxi the Maule up to the parking area where many plane enthusiasts sit and watch, especially on the weekends.
Unfortunately I had to pass by the 'Geezer's Judging Tent' where the many retired airline types spend their days passing out advice on each landing.
After passing their muster I asked them why they didn't have large printed numbers so that they could hold them up to grade each landing. They informed me that they used to have a full set but someone kept stealing them and now they only have one left.
"We only have a 9, but if we hold it upside down, we can give a 6"
I make my way to the Diner and sit in the sun awaiting my Rueben.
After a great sandwich washed down with sweetened iced tea, I was wandering around the hanger area to admire the many fine aircraft based at Hampton when I bumped into this beauty.
Unfortunately, this M7-235 was part of the Lycoming crankshaft AD which requires opening up the engine and replacing the defective crankshaft. The mechanic said the owner opted to replace the entire engine with a zero time factory reman to kill two birds with one stone.
Feeling a little better (although lighter in the wallet), I departed Hampton for the very short hop back to my hanger at Pease, and then home to greet the bride as she arrives home in her new car.
Thanks for reading!....................Rob
Sorry, wasn't thinking that through very well was I? 
