today is….

Car Free Day in Washington, DC.

I signed the pledge to go car free today, as well as every day this week.

Of course, I don’t usually drive my car if I walk, ride my bike or use public transit to get where I need to be. Living in a city has shown me how simple it is to live without a car, and we really own one because we make occasional trips beyond the reach of a reasonable ride, a form of mass transit, or a practical walk. But most of the time, our car is parked.

And what do I have to show for it?

Since I’ve been riding my bike as my primary mode of transport, I’ve lost over 30 pounds. I’ve also found myself craving more healthy snacks, have arrived at work more alert and ready to start my day, and have seen an overall improvement of my health.

I’ve also noticed a lot of the beauty of the neighborhoods of DC and its surrounding environs. I see birds and other wildlife. I see people smile, and I smile back at them.

And life is good.

So if you can, wherever you live, try getting out of the car and using another method of getting to work or running your errands. You may find that you like it.