If I had to calculate the amount of money I spent on car services my whole life – I could probably retire. Almost everywhere I have gone in the last thirty-three years has been in the back of a cab – so much in fact – that everyone at Nostrand Car Service not only knows my name – but knows where I live. But I am proud to say that those days are finally over – because I now own a car of my own.

When I got the job at The Nassau Herald, I needed to get a car in order to do what was required of me, which includes getting to work everyday and attending meetings all over the Five Towns of Nassau County. So after shopping around for a little while, I came across a 1997 white Oldsmobile Cutlass, talked the owner down $200 – and bought the car all cash.

I have owned her for the last three weeks, and she is an absolute dream. I have named her my “Nasty Girl,” considering that those words were stenciled on the driver’s side passenger window, which I have since removed. But besides needing new brake pads, one rotor and one caliper – she purrs like a kitten.

I can’t tell you how good it feels to be able to drive myself around and not have to rely on other people’s kindness, on car services – or deal with the glorious public transportation system that this city has to offer. For the first time in my life, I am able to come and go as I please – without having to stand on a corner and wait for someone else to pick me up. Finally, I can insert my key into my car and drive around at my leisure. And now, thanks to my “Nasty Girl” – I am more independent than I have ever been before.

Even though I have not owned the car for very long, I already see a difference in how I live my life. For one thing, driving to and from work has been a breeze, as compared to the $16 a day it cost me to take the bus and the Long Island Rail Road to work. Second, traveling to places like my mom’s house, Applebee’s and various friend’s houses has been a joy. Also, I had to go to several meetings at work, which has not been a problem now that I can drive myself there. Before I owned a car, I never realized how much of a difference having one can make in my life. I only wish I didn’t wait so long to get one.

I have to say that owning this car would not have been possible without my mom’s assistance. Due to her help, I was able to buy the “Nasty Girl” and further my success and better my future. She really helped me at a time when I needed it the most, and there are no words that can express my gratitude for what she has done for me. If you are reading this – I love you mom. Thanks a lot.

So now that I am mobile, I plan to do more, see more, travel more – and live more. I will make it a point to go as many places as I can – and give my mom as well as those people who so kindly drove me around when I was without a car as many rides as I can. And most importantly – I look forward to the first time me and the “Nasty Girl” can pack our bags and go on our first road trip together.

I wonder how much those little tree-shaped air fresheners cost.