I have not posted anything for three days. So, I will post this image of the Coca-Cola truck parked just outside of Morgan Library on Colorado State University campus. I actually see this truck quite often which tells you they sell a lot of coke there. I honestly do not remember the last time I had a coke. Just not my thing. We are enjoying some Indian Summer weather. Mornings are in the high 30’s and low 40’s then reaching mid 70’s by afternoon.
The update on my car is not good news. The engine needs replacing and will cost far more than the vehicle is worth. So, at the moment I am without a car and I’m okay with that. She lasted me 15 years. It’s a strange and new situation for me to be without a car. I’ve not been without a car for the past 60 years. And, that may even be true for you. I have over the past few years wondered if I could manage without a car. A couple of reasons for that is the amount of traffic on the roads, crazy drivers, bigger vehicles, pollution and the cost of driving. It would require a major shift in my thinking and lifestyle. I have kept track of all my car expenses since January 2021. It costs me $309 a month to have that car. That includes insurance, gasoline, and maintenance ( tires, oil changes, brakes and repairs). I have averaged only 10,000 miles a year since I’ve owned it. Looks like I will get to find out what life is like without a car. Buying a new car is not something I want. However, I have tossed around the leasing idea. It would fit my budget and at my age makes sense to me. So, I will get to see what it’s like to live in this culture without a car. I have my bicycle, a good bus system, I still am able to walk and the money I will save on gas and insurance will buy a few Uber rides. I honestly really don’t drive that much. In fact I have only put 4,800 miles on the car since February. I will keep you informed. I hope you have had a wonderful weekend!
4 Comments
Earl
I don’t drink soft-drinks any more. An occasional southern sweet tea but it’s mostly coffee, water and occasionally green tea.
Where we live, it’s hard not to have a car. We don’t have decent public transportation locally or even bicycle-friendly riding lanes. Using Uber or Lyft, some delivery services and perhaps an occasional car rental might meet your needs without too much “pain.” Then, as you said, there are lease options. Doing without a car will take a little more upfront planning, and because of that, it might feel a little limiting, at least at first. A car provides some independence or, at the very least, a feeling of such. I hope you find the right solution that works for you.
We’re having a bit of Indian Summer weather here this week as well. Take care!
Monte Stevens
Living without a car takes a whole new mindset and lifestyle change. And, for some that would be impossible, and I may be one of them. My use of the car includes driving to locations for photography, groceries, meeting friends for breakfast, brunch or lunch, and driving when weather is not conducive to riding the bicycle, walking or the bus. As of now I am strongly leaning towards leasing. I hope you are having a good day!
Tom Dills
While it sounds like you certainly got your money’s worth out of that car, the ultimate replacement never comes at a good time. You are fortunate that you live in an area with a very robust transit system, you have options for rideshare and of course the trusty red steed. But as Earl said, losing the independence of having a car that we’ve come to rely on can be a difficult adjustment. Sure there are options for rentals, etc. for longer trips but they are not nearly as seamless as getting in your own car and driving off.
Monte Stevens
I am aware of how often I just jump into the car and driving off. There is something inside of me that just says that’s not the right way to live but I do. When the weather allows, I ride the bicycle. And that Coca-Cola truck was parked out there this morning.