Buying a New Car

One thing I did this summer was buy a new car. Those who know me know that I have not bought a new car since 1984, or even a used one since 1991, so this was a big deal. Like millions of others, I bought a Honda Civic. Decent, reliable transportation at a decent price. Very fuel efficient, I am averaging about 34 MPG in mostly city driving.

Like millions, I also hated the car buying experience. 4.5 hours, for what shold have been a 30 minute transaction. I paid cash, knew the option I wanted (note: singular), was flexible on colour. But they insisted on adding in things I didn't want, and telling me I had to pay. When I asked how could I tell if the invisible etching was done, the sales guy didn't understand...it's invisible...how do I know you did it? Duh!

Afterwards, I came across this video on You Tube, and it makes sense. I wish I had walked away more often.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPor5b7JLLE

Summer Break Over

And what a good summer it was. Got lots done around the house, had a nice vacation in the Crow's Nest Pass area of southern Alberta, even survived a couple of family visits.