I was a D.O.D. Police division and trainer. My rule of thumb that I always told the Probie's. " four wheel drive is designed to get you out." However use common sense if you are alone in a swampy area, four wheel can definitely get you in but is not always there to get you out in an emergency situation. Personally I prefer 4WD in the pastures, mud, etc. Ron in your situation you have made the correct decision based on your history. Ed