As I type this, snowflakes are falling. We are expecting some accumulation on the grass but not on the streets. I am not ready for winter!
There is not much going on right now. It is the height of “leaf season” and I am cleaning parts of the lawn almost every day. Pam continues to cut back hostas and other plants as they reach the end of their life cycle.
The forecast has several below-freezing nights ahead which will kill off the remaining geraniums and still-green flower plants. I had hoped the fall would be mild and extended, but those hopes are now dashed.
Cold weather preparations are moving ahead. Pam put out a pair of heated water dishes and we set up the outside cat feeding station for the winter. I had been putting out cobs of corn for the last couple weeks and it may be time to set up the suet feeder as well. The large bird feeder is still in storage, however. I won’t be putting it up for a couple weeks yet.
Locally, most of the crops have been harvested. The crops are mostly corn and soybeans, with an oat field here and there. While a few fields remain unpicked, they are getting fewer and fewer. It is kind of sad to see them go as they replace once green vistas with dull brown acres.
The biggest excitement has been the decision to upgrade from the 2004 RAV-4 to something newer. A Kia Soul (used) may be in our future. Re-designed in 2020, we are looking for a 2020 or 2021 with a higher-level trim package that adds heated seats, remote entry, and some other comfort options. Our local used car dealer is checking the auction lots for something suitable and when the right unit comes along we will purchase it.
I had not considered this car before, but Pam was doing some research and found the reviews to be quite positive. Definitely not a luxury car, but much nicer than our RAV-4 and still utilitarian enough to haul groceries, cats, and dogs as the need arises. This is a “developing story” and I will provide updates as a purchase moves forward.
That’s it for now. Thanks for looking in!
Pam’s Penny
Pam does not have a comment this week, other than it is depressing to look out at the falling snow.
Happy trails.
Have you taken any Souls for test drives???
I picked a couple of them up from Car Actions and drove them back to Eau Claire and I didn’t like the way they felt, kinda boxy ,not good in the wind….The rest of the drivers never wanted to drive them back… Maybe the newer ones are better!!!!
Craig:
Thanks for the note. No, we did not test drive a Soul. However, beginning with the 2020 model year the car went through a significant upgrade. Here are a couple quotes from reviews:
Edmunds: After a full redesign last year, the third-generation 2021 Kia Soul returns with only minor changes. Along with the Mazda CX-30 and Hyundai Kona, it’s one of our higher-ranked extra-small SUVs. All of these represent strong choices that offer a lot for the money.
US News: The 2021 Kia Soul’s #2 ranking is based on its score within the 2021 Affordable Subcompact SUVs category. It is the winner of our 2021 Best Subcompact SUV for the Money award.
The only complaint I have seen is about wind and tire noise at freeway speeds. Given our limited driving range, I don’t think this will be a major issue. In any event, it would be a major upgrade from our 2004 Toyota RAV-4.
Thanks for checking in!
FYI
Kia’s number for this recall is SC209. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Soul, and 2021 Seltos vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which may result in engine damage.
Craig:
Thanks for the note about the recall. We will check on it if / when we get a car. If affected, KIA will replace the motor at no charge.
“Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the engine, free of charge. In addition, Kia will deploy Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software. The recall began June 11, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542.”
Good to know!