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Car-less in Cambridge

My husband Peter and I bought our “sea-green,” but really sort of aqua, Toyota Prius in 2016.  It was an unusual color so whenever I saw its identical twin going in the other direction, I wanted to honk in recognition of the driver’s good taste.

But living and working in Cambridge, I didn’t drive it every day, which may be why it still looks pretty darn good. Using it even less now-a-days, I decided to offer it to my grandson Grady who is a sophomore in college, and, unsurprisingly, he decided to accept it.

He and his father flew to Boston to pick it up the other day.  Before turning it over, I had to remove a bunch of used masks from Covid, two umbrellas and some CD’s which have sat un-played in a pocket in the door for years.  I didn’t even try to remove the one noticeable dent on the driver’s side door which, in my view, is a mark of character.

I’ve never been car-less in Cambridge, but I’ll not miss the parking space search or the digging out in the snow. And there is always Uber and Lyft.  Still, it’s a bit of a loss…

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4 responses to “Car-less in Cambridge”

  1. Barb Avatar
    Barb

    I often think of giving up my car and imagine I will mourn the loss of freedom and convenience. What is your plan for grocery shopping? Seems I’m always driving to pick up something. Would love to hear how you will navigate your days.

    Reply
  2. Judith Oder Avatar
    Judith Oder

    Oh my. A car is a home too, filled with memories, voices of passengers, a sort of winged diary. Life changes in bits and pieces and sometimes a person’s world shrinks without a car. In your case, Judy, I just know that ain’t so. Judith

    Reply
  3. Becky in California Avatar
    Becky in California

    I donated my car a few years back, and for me, it was a good choice. I just didn’t use it that much, so I’m glad to be rid of the expense and having to go out a few times a week to move it for street sweeping or drive it to keep the battery functional. Have actually saved time and money having my groceries delivered – fewer impulse purchases!

    Reply
  4. Ellen Avatar
    Ellen

    It’s been nearly 14 years since I gave my car away. The first three months were a big adjustment, and after that – I felt liberated. Though initially I’d planned to use lyft and uber a lot. I am more likely to walk or take public transport. Also thought I’d rent cars more often, but it’s only been 1-2 times a year on vacation. I never have to deal with a vehicle inspection or repair, or dig a car out of a snow drift, and I am saving money. I LOVE being carless!

    Reply

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