During our move we packed and unpacked a lot of gear. Sorting through it all provided a chance to do a little “spring cleaning” and clear out anything that’s no longer needed. I threw away old CDs, dust jackets from lost books, and a number of notebooks filled with notes from past meetings. I also came across a some keys to a couple of cars that I no longer own or drive.

It made me reflect back on how easy a transition its been over the last few years from an occational bike rider to someone who comfortably lives in a 1-car household.

It’s often assumed you have to be a bit crazy to ride a bike in the suburbs for transportation. Even some friends who ride their bicycle all over Portland can’t believe I can get away with not having a car most of the day (my wife uses it to get to her job out in a rural part of Oregon) in Tigard.

Honestly it’s not that hard.

Even today, with its stormy November weather, I was able to make a run to the grocery and liquor stores without needing any special rain gear. An old sweatshirt and a pair of jeans were my protection from the rain and, despite being a little damp I was never uncomfortable.