Forced to move into the modern age

Our minivan was a 2001, which we bought used in 2007.  For the last 6 years, it has been a reliable car, with tons of space for our growing family.  Unfortunately, this summer everything went to shit.  Over the last 3 months, we spent about $1,200 to keep it running (ugh).  But having it towed twice in one week pushed me over the edge.  I didn't even feel comfortable driving the damn thing anymore.   I was convinced that it was going to die somewhere, and I'd be stranded far from home with my 3 children. 

So, John and I decided to purchased a new (used) vehicle...

It is a 2012.  I LOVE the gray color.  It has a built in DVD player, a rear back-up camera, satellite radio, dual power sliding doors, etc.  In short, it is very fancy.  I feel all modern and shit.

We ended up going with another Grand Caravan, because the price was awesome.  We weren't intending to get a new car right now, so price was a big issue for us.  I actually feel a little sick to my stomach just thinking about the car payments.  I hate having debt.  I am hoping we can have it paid off in about a year and a half. 

Although I love my new van, I am sad that other projects we were going to start this fall are being put on hold.  We can no longer afford to start work on the 1/2 bath in the basement.  We were also going to have some dieing trees in our backyard cut down, but that is going to have to wait too.

In summary, I am excited about my new van, but sad about my new debt.