After the final breakdown (breakup?) it just sat in my driveway, staring at my house, and scaring the neighbors. I decided to cut my losses, so I donated it to the local Fire Department to be used in their training program. I won't get my money back, but it makes me feel better to know that it will be set on fire and pried open with the Jaws of Life.

How's that for closure?

Now I'm buying a brand new car. No promises of savings or security could sway me to even think about buying a "slightly used" model. I'm in it for good this time - willing to make the steep monthly payment in exchange for a full warranty and routine oil changes (wink, wink).

I think I've learned from this that you can tell a lot about a person by the car he or she drives. Perhaps in personal ads people should just write about their cars.

ME: A 2001 Toyota Echo. Kinda weird looking, but cute on the inside. Relatively low maintenance. Fun and fast. Seeks same for possible 3 year commitment with option to buy.