As we mark our four-year anniversary of ditching car ownership, we're reminded of the thousands of dollars we've saved by breaking free from the shackles of personal motorized mobility.
It's a liberating feeling, one that's allowed us to redefine our relationship with convenience, spontaneity, and the world around us.
A Smaller World, A Simpler Existence
In a car-centric society, quitting driving changes everything. Our world has indeed shrunk, but we've come to realize that smaller doesn't necessarily mean worse.
Without the constant need to be on the move, we've grown content with a more modest existence.
Planning Over Spontaneity
Gone are the days of impulsive road trips or last-minute errands. Without a car, every outing requires a plan, and we've grown to appreciate the gentle rhythm of a more intentional life.
We're no longer bound by the need for speed, and our days are richer for it.
A Support Network
We're fortunate to have friends who kindly pick up our bulk grocery orders every few weeks, allowing us to stock up and streamline our lives.
For smaller trips, my bicycle is trusty steed, carrying me into town for essentials or a dose of community.
Alternative Transportation
When two wheels won't suffice, we rely on a local non-profit transportation company, which provides everything from cars to wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
It's a thoughtful, inclusive solution that's helped us navigate life's necessities with ease.
The Joy of Stillness
Most days, we're happy to simply be, surrounded by the beauty of our rural rental and the tranquility of our acre-and-a-half haven.
We've discovered that not needing to be somewhere is a freedom in and of itself.
The Greatest Luxury
What we cherish most about this life is the absence of busyness and expense that comes with vehicle ownership.
It's a savings of not just money, but time – a whole area of life that no longer requires our attention.
And that, perhaps, is the greatest luxury of all.
I don't even have a driver's licence. Will never get it, 61 years old now. I know in The Netherlands, especially large cities it's easier to live without a car, and almost unaffordable because of parking costs, but I am a minority to not even be driving. So far I don't feel I miss anything. There's always a way to go places. Transport for big stuff can be hired. Groceries daily by bicycle. If I need extra loads for some reason a double trip no problem.
ReplyDeleteI am thinking of giving up my licence this winter when it will need to be renewed. I love my bicycle. No licence required.
Delete- Gregg
We are a 1-car family because of business needs, but in town (we live in a community of about 42,000, I pretty much walk everywhere (and we bundle errands when we do drive; the grocery stores are NOT within walking distance...hmmn, who planned that????). The library is under a mile away; my dad's new apartment is under a mile away. Dad lived farther away on a country road with no safe way to walk the last mile, so the move is a huge plus for that reason too; I have seen him more frequently in the last 2 months than the last 2 years. I was banned from riding a bicycle 20 years ago by my oncologist (for good reason; not a rash pronouncement) so that is not an option. (Sigh.)
ReplyDeleteI love walking. Always have, always will! But the number of looks I get because I am clearly walking with errands in mind as opposed to "exercising" continues to floor me!
Walking is where it is at. Very few people do it any more, so kudos to you for carrying on hoofing it. Nice that your dad is closer.
Delete- Gregg