New habits for fall

School started about three weeks ago, and the traffic and parking around Purdue returned to normal. This means driving is like negotiating a pinball machine, with students, faculty, administrators and vendors weaving in and around the hazards. If you want a decent parking place, you'd better be up at an ungodly hour and at your building before it's unlocked. If you're like me, you just park illegally and wait for the meter maid to assess you your fee.

After riding public transportation all around Europe, I decided to try it at home. So I've been riding the bus to work for three weeks. And I love it. It helps me discipline myself to get to work on time, and allows me to peoplewatch on a regular basis. And the best part? The Number 4B drops me in front of my office, and has helped me save more than $30 dollars in gas money. Per week. And did I mention that Purdue employees ride for free? Nothing to scoff at.

So I ride the bus, and watch my neighbors, and find little blessings as I go: the gorgeous, yellow lab service dog whose mistress works on campus; the church friend who chatted to me about her library job; the gentleman who proved chivalry is not dead, helping an older lady exit the bus. It's good to surround myself with the people in my community. I look up, and out, and away from my selfish worries.