Hi! As you all know, my beloved car: The Little Red Love Machine AKA LRLM has recently taken a rapid downward spiral. My heart is genuinely broken because my sweet Mazda2 hatchback has been my baby for the past thirteen years. The LRLM was my first car, my honey, and my pride and joy and for over a decade, no one could tell me NOTHIN when I was behind the wheel. As sad as it is, all good things must come to an end and after another massive repair, Johnny and I had to make a difficult decision. We chose to get her fixed up one more time so Johnny could take her for his short drive to and from work and I would get a new (used) car.

Although it was a massive buzzkill, it was the right call to make as I drive a lot for work and reliable transportation is a must. It made me happy that the LRLM could stay in the family for a bit longer and even though the wind was knocked fully out of my sails, I had to begin the dreaded task of car shopping. I knew exactly where to start and that was with all things Mini Cooper! The Mini Cooper has always been my dream car and if I needed a new one anyways, that’s what I was going to get. The problem was finding one!

After a week of fruitless searches for a Mini Cooper, I was feeling really defeated. Nothing was noteworthy at nearby dealerships, every option that looked good on Carvana was no longer available, and I was close to scrapping the Mini Cooper idea for another model. Then, in one final attempt, I expanded my search and struck gold. This past Saturday, I found an absolutely perfect orange red 2019 Mini in Pittsburgh with low mileage and a more than reasonable price. I knew that this was the one and if I couldn’t get it, then my Mini Cooper dreams were done for. Blessedly, that was not the case!!! Take a look at my pretty new baby (These pics are from the car’s listing but I’ll have way better ones when I pick her up!):

The day after Labor Day, I called MINI of Pittsburgh as soon as they opened and declared my love for this little car and the process started immediately. Even from a state away, the wonderful staff made this the easiest car buying experience possible and by two in the afternoon, I placed a down payment. The car was mine!!! Not only were the staff accommodating, courteous, and beyond helpful, but they also agreed to meet me and my dad halfway between Akron and Pittsburgh to pick her up. We will be driving to Youngstown for the trade off and I am already chomping at the bit to take her home!

It always sucks having to make a big purchase and I am definitely a little stressed out. On the bright side, my new used car is the best consolation prize I could ever ask for! My blogging bestie has lovingly called my Mini Cooper “Junior” in honor of the LRLM and I just adore that. Junior, your Mini Mama is waiting for you! ❤

What was your first car? What is your dream car? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah