The wheels on the bus go round and round

Well it's official. According to my local news source gas prices will stay at 4$ and above for the next year... starting no later than August. I always said that I thought that gas should be expensive, seeing as how it's not a renewable resource. Be careful what you preach, you may just get to be right.

In any case, I'm taking advantage of the high gas prices, and allowing someone else to do the driving. Sure I occasionally have to avoid a mysterious puddle on a seat (please tell me I didn't sit in urine...), and sometimes folks look at me as suspiciously as I'm probably looking at them.
But generally, the bus is great and I encourage everyone I know to replace half of their driving with bus riding.

Here are five fantastic reasons to ride the bus. If you've been commuting to work in a car during rush hour, you may really want to pay attention here.

1. More time to get random stuff done.
That's right, you can knit that pair of mittens you've always dreamed of knitting. If you're a student you might be able to get some homework done. You can make your lists of things to do when you get back to your car (yes I still use my car to run errands), and since you've got time... make lists of lists to make! You can read, watch video podcasts (I'm partial to cartoons myself), and if you're able to take a nap without missing your bus stop, well you can do that too.

2. You'll stay more relaxed in general
Removing road rage from the road is fabulous in my book. Studies show that by riding the bus and taking the stress out of your morning commute, you're adding at least 15 minutes a day back on to the end of your life. Ok, I made that up. Forgive me? Look here's what I can tell you, by taking the stress of driving away I stay in a noticeably better mood for my entire day. My commute is pretty much the same amount of time too, which is fabulous. If I drive, it takes me 15 minutes to get to work, and 30 minutes to get home. The bus gets me to work in 20 minutes, and gets me home in 25. Longer to get to work, but faster to get home... that's great! I've also been challenging myself to walk out the door earlier, and keep on walking anywhere from 4 to 10 extra bus stops before getting on. Exercise will reduce stress, and you'll sleep better at night.

3. I'm saving cash
Ok... you already knew this one. Where I live a bus pass costs 10 bucks. That's right, I can ride the bus as much as I want for 30 days, and it only costs 10 bucks. Ask yourself, how far does 10 bucks get you in your car?

4. You can make new friends!
You have to be brave enough to talk to strangers for this one to work for you. I can't say it's really worked for me just yet because I just like to listen to my ipod and stare out the window in contemplation.

5. Something interesting might happen...
I've seen a wild-eyed fellow try to start a sing along with his guitar once. I also saw a man ask a girl for her leftover food, which she gave to him, and then he ate. I was intrigued...but I'm a people watcher. One time when I was riding the bus, someone jumped on and just started free style rapping , and everyone on the bus joined in with rhythm and chorus. It was amazing!

Obviously there are more reasons to ride than these three. Make a list of your own. I made mine while I was on the bus.

Why do pegged pants feel so darn good?

Yesterday I decided it was high time I pop my collar peg my pants and sandal up... sail-boat style. Who can say why, but dressing as a preppy from days long gone made me feel on top of the world! Perhaps it is the simple act of mastering a fashion... even if it's out of style.