Living The Single Car Life

b and I have one (old) car between us. I would like to say this is completely because of environmental concerns but truthfully it is also helpful financially. On most days b rides his bike to work and I walk to the university. However there are a number of variables that can affect our transportation needs. While b rides in the rain and the cold, when its really icy (or really hot) or when its just been too many days of bad weather, he may want to drive to work. Likewise if I have too many books or boxes to fit in my backpack, I may need a vehicle to get me to my office. Working late is also a consideration for both of us, although more so for me, as I don't think it wise to walk home in the dark after an evening class. For me there is the added deterrent of parking on campus--both the expense and the difficulty--that keeps me from wanting to drive to work.

However the gym is a little too far for me to comfortably walk (and actually have time to do a workout), so this has added a bit of a wrench in our transportation plans. To successfully live with only one car we have to remain in constant communication about our daily plans, problem-solve, and compromise. I offer up this morning as a prime example.

b was set to ride into work and I was getting ready to drive to they gym. b discovered he had a flat and no repair kit, so we had to put his bike on the roof-rack and drive him to his job. After dropping him off I headed over to the gym, worked out and showered. After the gym I had to drive home, strap on my backpack and walk to work. He has already fixed his flat at work (where there are repair kits) and will ride home this evening. After making dinner, he will head over the university to pick me up when my class lets out at 9 pm.

It ain't pretty but we make it work.