I'm not new but
@Tall Steve asked so I will oblige... I am late 30's, lived in Iowa for 20+ years, originally from Puerto Rico. I'm in software engineering, leadership at this point in my career. I've been a car fan since I can remember. First time I saw a red Ferrari, just stuck with me.
To this point I've had 23+ cars and made a few bad decisions to follow this car passion, but ultimately has been worth it. The worst part of cold weather living is having to consider winter into my car choices.
I've had all kinds of cars, from Jeep JK's, JT, WKs, 3 different MX-5's, BMW's, 2 Corvettes, one RAM truck, 350z, 2 Mustangs, including Shelby GT350. My first car was a 2003 CTS MANUAL I found used with low miles at a local dealer. Of all the cars I've had I think the one I kept the longest was my 2017 ATS-V (went to the Cadillac school then). I would have probably kept it longer, but it was an auto.
Back then, I wanted a CTS-V but I could never find one or it was too pricey at the time. When I found out about Blackwings, I knew I wanted one badly. I looked into it a bit but seemed next to impossible so ended up buying a C8 I found in stock nearby when they were really hard to find. Kept thinking about it and after meeting the GM from another nearby Cadillac dealership, decided to try and order a 5BW. Ended up trading in my C8 for the 4BW auto they had in stock (wishing every day it would magically turn into a manual) and ordered my 5BW right then. Now I just try to live my life and fail at not thinking about the 5BW, rowing my gears and hearing/feeling that sweet engine and ride. I'm a little obsessive with these transactions so it's been super hard to remain patient. One of the ways I've gotten some success in life is being persistent, so it's hard not to try to be when it's outside of my control. Every day I try to find new ways to solve problems at work, so it's hard to turn that off and not try to find a way to solve this current "problem" I have with not getting my built car delivered. It's been nice to read about all of your experiences. So, thank you for putting up with my complaining and questioning and for taking the time to share what you know and learn.