I picked Fitzgerald’s because of the Irish name and because Jack looks so cosy on the advertisements. Jack’s pitch is that you don’t have to haggle because the cars are already priced to sell. Suits me Jack.

On the website, the cars are all listed below Kelley blue book price. Gretel and I identified a few that seemed to meet our needs and made an appointment for test drives.

Gretel is now driving around in a white 2009 Honda Accord with less than 10,000 miles on the odometer and I have a gently used 2010 Lexus with a hands free hook up for the phone, built in GPS and satellite radio.  The heated seat loves up my lumbar region when I drive. The whole experience feels secure, serene and endlessly smooth.

When Coconut Teddy comes back from rehab at Kent Boone Automotive we will be a three vehicle family. I will never take anyone anywhere ever again. I will buy gas only for my own car. It will be brilliant.

By coincidence, all the cars are white–well, mine is actually Starfire Pearl, but the unknowing might easily mistake it for white. Gretel does not believe I can keep mine pristine “You will jack it up in a week” she says. The handsome prince has been forbidden to eat or drink in her car.

Our second hand car salesman at Fitzgerald’s was a real joy. Bret was funny, approachable and not at all pushy or slimy. Something I feared would be an ordeal was actually a lot of fun. We hugged him when we left and we are thrilled with our rides. It is extremely likely I would recommend him and go back the next time we need a car. Seek him out at Hudson Street, Annapolis–he’s great