For a looong time I’ve been thinking about how I should be using my car less because of its toll on the environment, the issue of obesity in America, political issues like offshore drilling, and simply because it’s just plain dumb for me to be driving to the places I’ve been driving to.  I have zero excuses for driving as much as I do.  It’s just become a bad habit.  I live in the heart of the city where many things I need are within a mile or less.

Sunday night, Mike and I were getting ready to pick up some dinner (around the corner). We jumped in my car and as it started moving forward we heard this painfully loud, terrible screeching noise like metal scraping metal.  My trusty car was sick for the first time and had to be taken in.

So this week, I’ve had to rely on walking and biking for everything I needed to do.  Yesterday, I walked over to Gilbert’s Meditteranean Cafe for their lunch specials.  I love this place.  They have one of the best weekday lunch deals ever and everything is crazy delicious.

Lovely open air dining area with a nice people watching view of Piedmont & 10th.

Cute decor in the friendly and cozy dining area.

Pick 3 combo for $8.99 - Caprese Salad, Babaganoush with Pita, Lemon Chicken Sandwich.

Later that afternoon, I walked to Trader Joe’s on Monroe & 8th to pick up groceries for dinner.  I broke a little sweat, but it was pretty painless!  Their recyclable bags make it easy for you to throw your purchases over your shoulder and carry home.  By the end of the day I felt really good about walking everywhere.  I think I’ll do this more often and pretend like I don’t have a car.  Too bad it took my car being screwed up for me to FINALLY start doing this.