It’s part of our job to review different kinds of cars. From fleet-spec models to rare supercars, these vehicles are lent to us for varying amounts of time so we can make the articles that our readers enjoy. We usually receive them on weekdays, but sometimes we get lucky with a weekend schedule that gives us more time with the car.

You think that we’d show these cars off to our family and friends, but that’s simply not always feasible. We’re all busy with work, and the pandemic just doesn’t make social interactions safe.

In my case, I’m excited to show the cars to my parents. But since they’re often exhausted by the time they get home, I just usually start a quick discussion of the rides’ redeeming features over dinner. If I’m lucky, I get to bring these wheels to my folks’ workplaces (which aren’t far) so they can have first impressions as passengers. But to be honest, I would really love to have my mom and dad experience the car for longer.

Needless to say, I was quite happy with how the stars aligned a couple of weeks ago. I had a BMW 520i Sport with me, and my family had nothing to do for most of the day. It was the perfect time to bring them out on a long drive (within the confines of the NCR+ bubble, of course) to scratch that traveling itch that they had developed in the past year.

I will no longer go into the details about the car; we have a dedicated review for that, if you’re curious. But what I can tell you is that the 5-Series is quite deceptive. Many people see it as an executive car. For me, however, it’s simply a solid luxury vehicle and an excellent one to drive.

For one, my family was thrilled not to be crammed into another sports car. There was a lot of room in the 520i, and it had some of the most comfortable car seats my parents had ever sat on. The ride was smooth and silent as the excellent suspension made cruising around rough tarmac a lot more enjoyable. Couple all that with three-zone climate control and rear sunshades, and the BMW is the equivalent of a “mobile staycation.”

My time with the 5-Series might’ve looked like “just” a leisurely drive. But to me, those few hours behind the wheel with my family meant a lot. Through all the car shows that they had brought me to, and all the hours they had put into work to send me to school, they’re the main reason that I’m even in this job right now. So, if there’s any opportunity where I can share the blessings I get from having this gig, I’d gladly take it.

It’s not every day that you get to spend time with your folks. If the opportunity does arise, take it. Sit down with them, have a meal with them, take them out (responsibly) for a short drive. They’re not going to be there forever, so cherish every second you’re able to experience with them. Life is short, after all.