Life took an unexpected turn this week.  I took my car in to be checked out and got a long list of shit that needed to be done on it and, almost all of it needed it SOON.  The estimate $2700.00.  I was, needless to say, stressed, appalled, frustrated, confused and conflicted.  Upon reflection, I have been in the repair shop every few months spending hundreds of dollars.  Some of it very unexpected.  Some of it I cried about for several hours.  It's been a long, tumultuas relationship with my car for the last 3 years.  With nothing but more work on the horizon.  My care is only worth 3000.00.  So, it's essentially 'totalled' in just maintenance costs.  I saw no other way out.  After being stranded, alone, on the side of the road this past week with a blown out tire (total $200) with roadside assistance and a new tire.  Sooo,  the turning point I was avoiding had arrived....  Do I continue to pay for repairs to the tune of $400 or more p/month (that's WITHOUT any 'unexpected' cotastrophies) OR, I can get  -  *AAk!* - a new car with a $300 - $400.00 payment every month but, that I can rely on.   After much stressful debate in my heart (not wanting to go into dept again)...  AND not knowing if I even had the money.  I did my budget like 1200 times and found the money.  Time to pull the trigger.  *EEEK!*

I went, by myself, to a financial place specializing in 'fresh starts' after a BK.  Got the best interest rate possible at 14.2% (at this point).  I feel I got screwed on the price, they just kept drawing the loan out to make the payments what I wanted.  BUT, The good news is, I will refi after a year for a MUCh lower rate and my payments will reduce.  After 2 years I can trade in and upgrade with an even better interest rate!  Also, my credit score increases rapidly with a car loan paid on time.  The other good news is that I have free maintenance for 2 years and MPP warrantee with Gap insurance.  My car is covered to the 'nth degree!  I don't have to worry about an accident, a repair, a maintenance.  NOTHING!  It's all paid for, for 2 years.  I just pay my 400p/month and I'm done.  I get free towing, free roadside, free rental car ... Anything I need!  So, I feel SUPER safe and, best of all, its predictable, and it WILL reduce in 1 year!  YAY!

One thing I learned during this process is that God has always and WILL always provide for my needs.  1 week ago I would have NEVER thought I'd have had the money for a new car.  But, a raise at work, some money coming in from Sean and reducing some bills and I'm good to go!  God provided and I know he will continue to do so.  

My car is so beautiful!  It's a 2010 Taurus, all new body and style - grey, tinted windows, light interior and spectacular cockpit!  The look is classy and beautiful.  It will hold it's value nicely and I'm SO happy with it.  I NEVER expected to get this car for *around* my budget!  But, I learned a lot too and next time I will do even better!  

Life it truely suprising somtimes.  Just when you think there is absolutely no way, the waters part and the sun shines down, God blesses you and, in the end, it works out!  

Praise good for his blessings and protection for Jacob and I!  

TR