I envy the car-free lifestyle. On vacation I never like to rent a car. Here in Denver, our public transportation system is not great and it’s not a very feasible option. Someday I’d like to live somewhere where everything is more walkable/bikeable.

I’m always shocked by people who come to the dog park with friends’ dogs they’re watching for a few days. I think a “this isn’t my dog, and I’m not certain how she’ll react, so please don’t pet her” policy makes a lot more sense — and I would prefer to encounter you on the sidewalk than them.

Congrats on being car-free! Do you ever hitch hike or plan rides from your neighbors? We have car-free people who live near us (and we don’t live near *any* town), and people gladly give them rides when needed. Also, hitching is pretty safe here – it’s always someone you know who picks you up!

I feel your pain about reactive dogs. My Nike is horrible, even after professional training. Before we even take her out into the yard to potty (let alone a walk somewhere other than our own property), we have to go out and case the neighborhood to make sure no one else is out with their dogs. She wouldn’t hurt a fly but the fact that she becomes so excited at the sight of another person or dog makes her really hard for me to handle. It’s a bit easier for my husband, but still a challenge.