Car, that is.
We've been using only one car since Nick started his new job in July. Sometimes it's a pain but mostly, it's been great. I have been feeling lately that it's time for this decision.
Now, I average one cab ride per week - approximately $7 including tip. This compared to weekly gas costs, yearly insurance and maintenance on a second vehicle - major savings.
Meanwhile, I have become an expert hitch-hiker. My friends and family have been quite tolerant in taking me the short distances I need to go - mainly, home from work, or across the Grafton bridge for Town Hall meetings or choir practice.
I also have an incentive to walk more - when it's not -20 outside, of course. I love being out in the fresh air, and while I'm strolling I have time to listen to music, which never happens when I'm rushing to and fro in a car. The walk is my time. No cellphone, no messages and no hurry. No irritation at slow drivers!
My life has slowed down considerably and I am now more connected to my friends and family - because I need them. Being able to admit that one needs people's help is strange. Our society frowns on this, telling us all we need to "be strong" and "stand on our own two feet."
But I really value the little chats I have with people on the way here or there. How often nowadays are we in too big of a rush to enjoy a simple conversation? And how many bonds are strengthened because people see a need and agree to meet it? Is this not what friendship and kinship are all about?
Also, I struggle with saying "yes" to too many things. Now that I can't have a car all the time, I am forced to say "no" because it simply isn't possible to get to all the places I might go. So, my life is simpler and I have to choose carefully where I go and why. This is an enormous blessing.
I don't feel as rushed, I'm not as broke, I get to talk to people I enjoy, and I feel better when I get a good walk. In the spring, I'll replace the broken tube in my bike tire and get rolling a bit faster.
Win. Win. Win. Win. So long, second car.
***Also, this guy seems to feel the same. An entertaining read about Car Clowns.
