Monday 24 February 2014

My First Car

Hey everyone!

It’s been quite a while since I updated my personal blog! I just wanted to share something new—if you haven’t watched my latest vlog, that is! :)

I spent last weekend with Mark’s whole family. What I was looking forward to more than ever that time, was February 17—mine and Mark’s post-Valentine’s date at Bag of Beans in Tagaytay! Little did I know…something even bigger was going to happen.

IMG_0605

The car for me FOUND ME! You read that right! It found me! Not the other way around.

Car-hunting is not a walk in the park. It’s more tedious than I thought it would be. I remember last year, we spent a whole day with Mark’s dad, Tito Larrie driving around and hopping from one place to another just to look at cars. ONE WHOLE DAY. We ended up finding the best one during our last stop. But I had to postpone buying since it was too expensive for me.

It’s a whole different thing when you buy something for yourself. I don’t get to ask my parents for money anymore. Everything is from what I save up. It’s been tough commuting all these years for myself. And so I promised…and I really swore I’d get my own car by 2014-2015.

I don’t need a brand new car, that will come siguro later pa, perhaps when Mark and I get married! A brand new car is too expensive. I considered a lot of things before even thinking about getting a car.

First, there are bills to pay. Meralco, and life & health insurance. And tax too! I have budgets for all my projects and just can’t afford to spend big bucks all at once.

Handling your own finances is not as easy as you think. This definitely made me feel like I’m all grown up na talaga.

Going back to how the car found me…

I really wasn’t looking for cars anymore that weekend, but it was a coincidence that it was offered to us while Mark’s ninong was checking out another car.

Tito Larrie asked me if I was interested to take a look. I was really hesitant, because I kind of slashed it off my priorities already. The trip to Singapore was what I was getting ready for! But I thought, oh what the heck, why not…

So we went and checked it out.

I must admit, it wasn’t LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT, but it definitely made me feel like it was the car for me.

HONDA ACCORD 1996. Not brand new, but it looks pretty decent! Take a look at the interiors!

IMG_0589

I seriously, seriously think that it was meant to be… You know why? It fits all my “qualifications”:

  • must look neat and clean (both exterior and interior)
  • must be automatic (because I can’t imagine myself driving with a stick)
  • must be red OR black
  • must look decent, even for a second hand car
  • must cost lower than ____ pesos

I looked at Mark and I knew he could see the disbelief in my eyes. “Baka ito na hinahanap mo, bi!” / “Maybe this is it, baby!” he told me.

IMG_0590

Only a few repairs needed for the windows, and door handles. Everything is powered.

I had the whole night to think it over. I went over my savings. I was torn. Torn between buying and not buying. For the first time in my life, I felt scared of buying something.

Perhaps it was more of a fear of taking a huge step. And losing money, too.

I felt extremely overwhelmed and I sure am too lucky to have Mark help me decide. We weighed the pros and cons.

In the end, we decided to take the car. :)

I have Mark’s dad to thank for helping me with everything!!! Even Mark’s uncles and grandfather who helped check the car for defects and whatnots.

February 17 came and we didn’t go to Bag of Beans… we went to pick up the car instead!

I felt heartbroken that I had to part ways with my savings, but I also thought to myself, that this car would benefit me. A LOT.

And it has been… truly!

IMG_0610

First road trip!!!

IMG_0612

You can see my eyes smile… It felt wonderful. Although at this point it still hasn’t sunk in… I told Mark, “Perhaps when I see my saving accounts, it will sink in.” LOL!

IMG_0621

Thank goodness Mark is a professional driver! He drove us home! My baby boy had his first car wash at a local car wash station!

IMG_0624

It felt wonderful taking a huge step and making a big decision with somebody I trusted so much. Mark is seriously a keeper.

carwash

There he is!!! I still don’t know what to name him. He looks handsome, so it’s probably going to be “Ricardo”/”Antonio” lol, something that sounds Español. Any suggestions?

IMG_0644

Mark concentrating :)

IMG_0659

I want to cry whenever I think about all the things I went through to be able to save up for this, and many more things…

See? Goals can be reached! Just don’t let anybody stop you…

This is just the beginning of many many many beautiful journeys.

And I am happy to share this with everyone :)

Keep chasing your goals!!! You’re closer than you think.

113 comments:

  1. Congrats on the new investment slash baby, Say! :) I've been looking at cars lately, too, but nothing set in stone that I'll get one (faaaaar too expensive for me right now especially I'm not really earning consistently).. I'm starting to consider secondhand cars more and more. Like you, it doesn't have to be the latest and greatest. If it works/functions well and second most important is that it's clean and well managed by the first owner, and justifiable ang price then pwede na. Oh and automatic over manual, too, haha! Driving a stickshift is too much torture.

    Drive safely :D

    Anna (so-stellar.org)

    ReplyDelete
  2. Happy for you Say!i must give you a friendly reminder though..since its Accord, maintenance and parts are pricier than regular cars..so save up and enjoy!!!it really feels good to have one's major investment :)

    ReplyDelete
  3. Happy for you Say!i must give you a friendly reminder though..since its Accord, maintenance and parts are pricier than regular cars..so save up and enjoy!!!it really feels good to have one's major investment :)

    ReplyDelete
  4. Hi Say! Congratulations on purchasing your first car! Keep it up! I hope you post more Youtube videos because I like watching your reviews.

    http://ediblecravings.net/

    ReplyDelete
  5. Congrats Ms. Say.! You are truly an inspiration! Love you!

    PS. Mark is so good! I wish I can find a guy like him! You are so lucky!

    ReplyDelete
  6. Congrats!! so happy and proud of you!

    ReplyDelete
  7. You want to cry? Ako nga eh, nanaiyak sa mga dream-come-true moments mo! For someone who doesn't know you personally, I am so proud of you! Yes! Dreams to come true. It might not be what we envisioned, exactly, but when you keep na open mind --- you will see the beauty of everything!

    ReplyDelete
  8. sana nag toyota vios ka nalang.. wala lang.. tipid sa gas.. we have a honda before too.. lakas sa gas.. the girl from the top said its an Accord. Maintenance is soooooo expensive. 2.0 so expect the oil price pag papafulltank ka :) change oil, suspension, d-breaks and other stuff. madugo maintenance ng Honda.. it seems you're earning naman kaya mukhang kaya mo naman. before i want a honda but i settled sa vios to be my first car :) keri ang maintenance :)

    ReplyDelete
  9. Congrats on having your first car. Im planning of having a car of my own. But Im planning to buy a brand new car maybe later this year or next year. Yung maliit lang na car for starter. Kagaya nung Kia Picanto.
    Most of my friends discourage me from buying a second hand car. Saying mura nga at first but in the long run, marami ka ring ma gagastos when it comes to repair.
    But im happy for you on having your new car. Hope mine will come too.
    OT: hope you come visit my site also at http://realestateindavao.com/

    ReplyDelete
  10. congrats on your first car say :) love watching your vlogs! keep up the good work! :)

    ReplyDelete
  11. I remember the time when I got my first car. It was a Toyota VIOS which I financed with my own money. I was very happy to drive it around and even got car insurance for it. Unfortunately, I experienced some bumps and accidents along the way. Nothing serious though. Anyway, have fun with your new “baby”! And of course, drive safely!


    - Amanda

    ReplyDelete
  12. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  13. Nice car, Say! I’ve been stuck driving my dad’s old Ford. This year, I’m applying for car loan and with car insurance of course. Any recommendation and advice where to get the best local car insurance in Manila? My boyfriend’s insurance provider is Mapfre Insular. I think they are good naman, since they cover the repair when my boyfriend had a car accident in Cavite.

    ReplyDelete
  14. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  15. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  16. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  17. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  18. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  19. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  20. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  21. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  22. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  23. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Excellently written article, if only all blogger offered the same level of content as you, the internet would be a much better place. Please keep it up!.Great tips, I would like to join your blog anyway.Waiting for some more review.Thank you
    car removal brisbane
    cash for old cars
    places to scrap a car

    ReplyDelete
  25. This is a very useful post, thank you! I agree that innovations are the most important thing for most businesses because with today’s fast-changing world we need to stay on top of the changes if we want to survive.


    highest cash for junk cars in vancouver | auto junk car removal vancouver

    ReplyDelete
  26. Nice combination of the words and the images you used in this blog. keep going. Get cash for honda cars in wellington

    ReplyDelete
  27. Most of the people likes the car, Here is the best option for the people who live neat the NJ can find the best Used Cars for Sale on route 46

    ReplyDelete
  28. Deciding on used car loans may be the best option to get the money you need to buy here pay here used cars. They generate the best option when it comes to money. When a person visits various dealerships one has an idea of ​​a range of loan programs and, in addition, a used car loan offers.

    ReplyDelete
  29. Nice post. Thanks for sharing! I want people to know just how good this information is in your article. It’s interesting content and Great work.
    sell scrap cars

    ReplyDelete
  30. Mercedes service Dubai
    Mercedes is one of the luxury car worldwide, when we give our car for repair we have to be very careful on choosing the best Mercedes service Dubai . Don't worry Munich Motor Works is here we offer best Mercedes Car service.We are one of the best car service center in Dubai with high expert staff. https://munichmotorworks.ae

    ReplyDelete
  31. Mercedes service Dubai
    Mercedes is one of the luxury car worldwide, when we give our car for repair we have to be very careful on choosing the best Mercedes service Dubai . Don't worry Munich Motor Works is here we offer best Mercedes Car service.We are one of the best car service center in Dubai with high expert staff.
    Mercedes service Dubai

    ReplyDelete
  32. Mercedes service Dubai
    Mercedes is one of the luxury car worldwide, when we give our car for repair we have to be very careful on choosing the best Mercedes service Dubai . Don't worry Munich Motor Works is here we offer best Mercedes Car service.We are one of the best car service center in Dubai with high expert staff.
    Mercedes service Dubai

    ReplyDelete
  33. Thank you for sharing information. Wonderful blog & good post.Its really helpful for me, waiting for a more new post. Keep Blogging!
    cash for old cars

    ReplyDelete
  34. Hello
    I Read your article. Thanks for sharing such beautiful information, and I hope you will share some more info about Used Cars Dealers. You wrote really very well, I really like your blog and information provided by you. I appreciate your work.
    Thanks

    ReplyDelete
  35. Thanks for sharing, nice post! Post really provice useful information!

    An Thái Sơn với website anthaison.vn chuyên sản phẩm máy đưa võng hay máy đưa võng tự động tốt cho bé là địa chỉ bán máy đưa võng giá rẻ tại TP.HCM và giúp bạn tìm máy đưa võng loại nào tốt nhất hiện nay.

    ReplyDelete
  36. That is cool. Your article is really interesting to read. Your content is very informative for me. I am glad to see your post here. Thank you so much for sharing. nedcars.nl

    ReplyDelete
  37. It is a good article thanks for sharing this blog it gives lots of information

    Cash For Cars
    Junk Car Removal
    Auto Wreckers

    ReplyDelete
  38. This is really touching that people are finding happiness even in used cars it's all about happiness in mind.

    cash for cars in coquitlam

    ReplyDelete
  39. Africa-marketplace.online offers a free online marketplace where you can find a range of new & used cars, spares, furniture, property, jobs, and more for sale in South Africa. To know more details, visit africa-marketplace.online

    ReplyDelete
  40. Wonderful blog post. This is absolute magic from you! I have never seen a more wonderful post than this one. You've really made my day today with this. I hope you keep this up!
    Car disposals Brisbane

    ReplyDelete
  41. We are car wreckers in Melbourne. We will give the best amount in return of your junk cars. We accepts all types of cars, vans, trucks and Utes.

    ReplyDelete
  42. tow truck dublinTow Truck Dublin - 24/7 Car Towing & Tow Service. Car Recovery Dublin. ,Call us now 0876003684.
    Quick response time, From €50, Car Towing.

    ReplyDelete
  43. “Thank you so much for sharing. I have found it extremely helpful…I’m off to modify some books!” Checkout this article for Best Bluetooth Speaker For Car Music

    ReplyDelete
  44. Salisbury Car Removal Wreckers have been providing services of car removal Brisbane to Brisbane and other encompassing areas. Our car removal service is absolutely free, and we do not charge for that at all.


    cash for cars brisbane

    ReplyDelete
  45. We pay our customers instant cash up to $9,999 without any waiting time. It is our policy to not let customers wait for their money. We also provide free towing services, so customers save even more money when dealing with us. This strategy has been a great success with our customers in Queensland. Through this, we gained a lot of goodwill from our customers.

    cash for cars removal ipswich

    ReplyDelete
  46. A1 Wreckers is reliable cash for car business in the Brisbane area. We believe that customers' time should be spent doing things they want, not spending time thinking of ways to get top cash for their car on the market.


    cash for unwanted cars logan

    ReplyDelete
  47. Canberra Cash 4 Cars was started to fulfill the gap in the market for cash for scrap car services. End-of-life vehicles were piling up in the area with only a few places for them to be sold.


    Car Valuation Canberra

    ReplyDelete
  48. We buy your car, van, truck, Ute, 4×4, or SUV and pay you cash on the same day on the spot. We offer same-day free car removal without any hassle. Our service is absolutely free.

    cash for car removal gold coast

    ReplyDelete
  49. Enjoyed reading the article above, really explains everything in detail, the article is very interesting and effective. cash for cars brisbane or cash for cars brisbane northside on rent while traveling worth considering.Thank you and good luck with the upcoming articles.

    ReplyDelete
  50. You have shared great information, everything is in detail. New honda cars for sale. I hope you will share more articles about latest honda models.

    ReplyDelete
  51. Usually I never comment on blogs but your article is so convincing that I never stop myself to say something about it. You’re doing a great job Man,Keep it up.For more information visit
    Best Car Charger for Samsung Galaxy S7

    ReplyDelete
  52. Thank you for discussing this very useful article. I heard something new from you. Keep blogging. Japanese Used Vehicles

    ReplyDelete
  53. If you are Looking for Honda Car Parts, like Honda Spare Parts, Honda Car Spare Parts, FRONT BUMPER WITH FOG HOLE, REAR BUMPER, FRONT BUMPER WITH FOG LAMP HOLE at Spare Mart we selling a huge range of Honda after maket replacement market Car Parts and Car Accessories that you need. We are suppliers of Honda car parts.

    ReplyDelete
  54. I read your Blog & Trust me it is really very nice Content Buy Car Accessories online at reasonable prices in Singapore at the best online shopping store with wide range of car accessories on Auto Bacs

    ReplyDelete
  55. Ezy cash for cars would be the best choice if you are looking for cash for cars near me we are known for fast and efficient service. We always look for customer convenience and our highly qualified staff would tow away in minutes.

    ReplyDelete
  56. Narmada motors offer wide range of heavy-duty truck spare parts for brands like TATA 3718, Truck, Leyland U spare parts suppliers in Bangladesh and UAE.

    Visit here:- truck spare parts in bangladesh

    ReplyDelete
  57. Great information. Keep blogging.
    Car Blogs

    ReplyDelete
  58. Thank you for the great blog. Connect with me by clicking here: Shubham singh

    ReplyDelete

  59. Awesome blog , keep blogging .
    Want to know more about car - Car Reviews

    ReplyDelete
  60. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  61. Wow! Great article I learn it and realize that article is very informative.Thanks for this article.
    When you call, we'll give you a fast quotation over the phone once you've answered a few simple questions such as:

    Make
    Model
    Year
    Condition
    best junk car removal calgary

    ReplyDelete
  62. Very nice post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wished to
    say that I’ve truly enjoyed browsing your blog posts. After all I’ll be subscribing to your rss feed and I hope you write again very soon!
    https://royaltaxi.pk/
    Cheap Car Rentals in Islamabad

    ReplyDelete
  63. thanks for sharing informative blog! Gurukart.pk

    ReplyDelete
  64. We rented a car from RideAlike for one week in Toronto. And had a great time! It was far less expensive than renting from any other rental company. And the entire pickup and drop-off process was quite simple.

    ReplyDelete
  65. It's fantastic to learn about the importance of using a car-sharing service. I need to rent a car for a vacation a few months from now. A friend recommended RideAlike Car Rental to me.

    ReplyDelete
  66. Very nice post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wished to
    say that I’ve truly enjoyed browsing your blog posts. After all I’ll be subscribing to your rss feed and I hope you write again very soon!
    https://wawreckers.com.au/recycling/
    cash for cars perth

    ReplyDelete
  67. At Ram Country Del Rio buy new and used cars , jeeps, trucks ,search inventory by model. Take test Drive today in Del Rio, Texas with great deals on Ram pickups, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, & Fiat.

    ReplyDelete
  68. Your post is very informative. I have read all your posts and all are very informative. Thanks for sharing
    isuzu 4x4 truck

    ReplyDelete
  69. I really appreciate the efforts you put in this article, this is very informative and helpful. I really enjoyed reading this blog. Keep sharing and give us updates.

    Singapore car rental

    ReplyDelete
  70. We at Aonecarremoval providing the best Old car removal in Australia. We offer same day service for all scrap and unwanted car removal across Adelaide. We provide faster response for Old car removal of any make or condition. Contact us for more info - 0451 214 280.

    ReplyDelete
  71. Thank you for sharing very helpful and informative article. we provide office shifting service, house shifting service furniture shifting service etc. If you know more details please visit:
    Ac Installation Service Islamabad

    ReplyDelete
  72. Such a great article i have read... this is a amazing blog... thank you for sharing this blog with us.Car Removal

    ReplyDelete
  73. Nice article!! on the experience of a first car. Are you looking for the best classified sites in australia? You can visit ADSCT here you will search through thousands of listings to find the perfect match for your need.

    ReplyDelete
  74. i am for the first time here. I found this board and I in finding It truly helpful & it helped me out a lot. I hope to present something back and help others such as you helped me.
    Royal Car Rental Rawalpindi

    ReplyDelete
  75. I am heartily impressed by your blog and learned more from your article. Thank you so much for sharing with us. I find another blog like it. If you want to look, visit here Types of Car Jacks , It’s also more informative.

    ReplyDelete
  76. Very nice article sir thanks for sharing your thoughts towing company Calgary

    ReplyDelete
  77. Get Cash Up To $10,000 For Unwanted Cars From Auckland's Best Car Wreckers. To Sell Your Car, Contact Us Today. scrap car removal auckland

    ReplyDelete
  78. Keep sharing such info, make sure you also check my site which tells in detail about cash for cars sunshine coast and i hope you can benefit from it.

    ReplyDelete
  79. nice very informational post for us keep it thanks. To get more info, you may visit this webpage too- best value auto parts

    ReplyDelete
  80. Nice post! This is a very nice blog that I will definitively come back to to read more content in this site! Thanks for informative post. As you share the image of your new car, we know the time will came may be a 10 to 15 years, that this car became a piece of junk, and placed in your garrage. on that time you can earn
    Regards: cash for cars, yes that peice of metal can give you a good amount of cash.

    ReplyDelete
  81. Great topic. The post was easier to read than most that I have seen recently. I had some fun reading it. Hats off to the writer! Thank you for sharing! The Best Auto Dismantler In Brisbane Offers Free Towing Or Removals Along With Car Wreckers Aspley<

    ReplyDelete
  82. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  83. Really I am very impressed with this post. Just awesome... I haven’t any word to appreciate this post.

    auto body repair Fort Myers FL

    ReplyDelete
  84. Great post, If you need a car repair service? we are happy to fulfil every request in order to exceed your expectations.

    ReplyDelete
  85. Mahindra Parts India is an online platform that offers a wide range of genuine Mahindra Spare Parts for all types of Mahindra vehicles. With a user-friendly interface and detailed product information, customers can easily search and select the right spare parts for their vehicle. The platform ensures the authenticity and quality of the products, providing customers with peace of mind. By choosing Mahindra spare parts from Mahindra Parts India, customers can ensure the best performance and longevity of their Mahindra vehicles.

    ReplyDelete
  86. One of the standout features of Cash for Cars Maroochydore is their commitment to providing fair and competitive prices for vehicles. Their team of experienced professionals evaluates each vehicle based on factors such as its condition, age, mileage, market demand, and salvageable parts. This thorough assessment ensures that sellers receive an accurate and competitive offer, allowing them to get the best value for their cars.

    ReplyDelete
  87. Hats off to the author for their engaging blog on getting their first car. Their experience resonates with many. I offer rental cars Jaipur, making travel accessible and convenient.

    ReplyDelete
  88. See me! If you state your opinion, this is also a comment,...centraline aggiuntive benzina

    ReplyDelete
  89. Ogonn Technology offers self-drive car on rent in Lucknow. If you're trying to find a car rental in Lucknow Ogonn Technology is that the best choice to form your trip memorable. Ogonn Technology is the car rental company in Lucknow that provides a good range of four-wheelers on rent. we have a car for all types of riders and everyone sort of riders, Where riders can prefer to ride on an hourly, daily, weekly, or monthly basis at the foremost affordable price.
    car on rent in lucknow
    car on rent in Dehradun
    Car rental


    ReplyDelete
  90. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  91. Wonderful article! Thanks for sharing such insightful information.
    Car Disposal Auckland

    ReplyDelete
  92. This article provides a wealth of valuable information. Thanks for sharing!
    Car Removals Melbourne

    ReplyDelete
  93. Thanks for sharing such amazing content which is very helpful for us. Please keep sharing like this.
    Cash for Cars Melbourne

    ReplyDelete
  94. Elevate your brand with North IT Solutions, Houston's premier IT and business solutions company. Our branding services blend strategic precision and creative excellence, crafting a visual language that captivates your audience. With a customer-centric focus and measurable impact, we redefine what branding services mean for your business success. Partner with us for a transformative journey in building and enhancing your brand.

    ReplyDelete
  95. Discover horror-themed delight with Pop's Horror Shoppe mugs, where every sip is a thrilling experience. Elevate your coffee routine with our unique mugs that blend spooky aesthetics with quality craftsmanship. Unleash your inner horror enthusiast – embrace the dark side, one mug at a time.

    ReplyDelete
  96. Transform your brand on the move with ProSignsHouston, Houston's premier signage expert. Our Vehicle Wraps services redefine mobile advertising, turning your vehicles into captivating, rolling billboards. Elevate your brand visibility and make a lasting impression with our expertly crafted and attention-grabbing vehicle wraps.

    ReplyDelete
  97. At GoldNDiamond, we stand as the foremost Diamond Buyers Houston texas offering unrivaled expertise and fair evaluations. Entrust your precious stones to us, where we seamlessly blend a legacy of trust with top-tier service. Experience excellence with GoldNDiamond – your premier destination for diamond buyers in Houston, Texas.

    ReplyDelete