Getting Around

I’ve owned many automobiles. The United States is a big country, and living outside of a city means the transit system can only take you so far. It can be inconvenient getting around without personal transportation.

Americans have a love affair, or perhaps obsession with their cars.The auto becomes a personal form of expression, and extension of oneself. Manufacturers know this and tailor their models to entice us to buy and customize our cars.

My first car was a big Ford, a gas guzzler from the 70’s. I do enjoy the smooth ride of a big car. I owned a Lincoln, a monstrous Pontiac convertible, a big Chevy truck, but also sedans and Jeeps.

Over time I began to realize the reason I needed a car was to simply transport me places, and a reliable no frills automobile was what I required.

You might be surprised then that my favorite automobile was a pre-owned minivan. It was comfortable, handled well in snowy weather, and fit whatever cargo needed carrying. It had a reliable engine and was economical on gasoline. It was neither sporty or luxurious, fast or flashy, but was the most flexible form of transportation I ever owned.

I no longer own an automobile. A shorter commute, and the myriad options now in public transit, renting and car sharing make it more economical for me to use those services that to fund the costs of ownership.

I’m glad to recoup the time and money spent maintaining a car on more important things- like hiking boots!