It’s time to start physically pushing ourselves…
April’s tax hikes gave me yet another incentive to push myself to find additional ways to save. I’ve cut most of my budgets as much as possible but there was one I could scrimp a little on…
gasoline
I am fortunate to live near the center of a beautiful city and most of my errands are within 4 – 6 miles of my front door. I drive the shortest route and use as little gas as possible.
This weekend, I tried something new. I tried… biking my errands.
I felt a little silly biking all over town with a giant backpack filled with library books to return, a deposit for the bank, and a Walmart bag filled with ingredients for dinner. Can I even explain how ridiculous I felt standing with a helmet, padded bike shorts (dear heavens… I hope no one thought my butt was actually that large), and a sweaty tank top in line at my bank?!?
I’m fairly certain those unhappy grumblings from other bank patrons were intended for me.
Sorry.
I took some time to bike through the flower fields on my way home. Spring has hit full swing here and the air is filled with the unbelievably fragrant smell of nature. Based on the unfortunate turn of events this week, it was what I needed.
I put 18 miles on my bike and 0 on my car this weekend. AND, I spent less. I not only looked at the price, I had to consider the weight.
My goal this week? Put more miles on my bike than my car.
It’s time to burn more calories than gasoline. My checkbook (and my doctor) will thank me for it.
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Posted: April 7th, 2009 under Debt Reduction, Life in General, health.
Comments: 7
Comments
Comment from Michelle
Time: April 7, 2009, 5:14 am
Good for you! Way to reduce your carbon footprint and your out-of-pocket expenses in one shot.
The idea of biking in my city scares the crap out of me (really bad motorists) but there is a walking path that goes to the heart of downtown. Last summer I took one evening and hoofed it to the library. It reminded me that a) I was out of shape and b) it can be done with the right mindset. 
Comment from John
Time: April 7, 2009, 6:59 am
I used to take the bike almost every time until I moved to a place that was too hot and the distances too far. It really does save a lot money in the long run.
Comment from pretty cheap jewelry
Time: April 7, 2009, 11:44 am
‘Walk or bike to ANYTHING within a mile’ is the PCJ motto. It gets broken on occasion such as the time the guinea pig was picked up from a babysitting neighbor 3 blocks away (with large cage).
And yes, includes grocery shopping. There is a major market at 1 mile away and if the trip is separate from other errands, it’s a brisk walk/bike away, complete with helmet.
And no, I don’t feel or look stupid in the gear. Of course not. Of course, I am shameless!
Comment from Dan
Time: April 7, 2009, 12:41 pm
I have a bike I use for errands with a mile crate on the back. Very useful, when you don’t have enough for a backpack.
I bike in regular shorts and t-shirt–saving the bike shorts for the road rides…
Comment from Nicole
Time: April 7, 2009, 4:38 pm
More exercise, just what I like to hear:) I’m glad the “pinch” has helped you become more active, that’s awesome!!! Way to save.
Comment from Jay Gatsby
Time: April 7, 2009, 5:01 pm
Great way to reduce your carbon footprint…and your butt.
Comment from Lizzie
Time: April 16, 2009, 1:50 pm
I wish I could bike more, but with a family of six, can you imagine how many grocery bags I would have ? Not to mention, it might be tricky getting to the store with the wee little ones !
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