by Kok Tung Wong

Created on: June 26, 2008

Gas price has hit another new high. It has been a while since we last said to change our lives. My pocket is heavily hit by this hike so it's time to take action.
I don't drive to shop anymore. Walking and making it part of my weekly routine. Nett benefit of walking to the shops is a reduction in driving, lessening impact on environment and to top them all I feel better now.

I'm amazed that a lot of my friends find it kind of weird that I do that. Okay, well not weird .I think walking short distances instead of driving will be a common practice soon.
I've also been carpooling a lot more lately. I can honestly say that I've made a conscious effort to do this. It boggles my mind when people would prefer to drive by themselves just because, for no good reason.
No more driving the car to the city when it's only me and my wife. We will take public train instead. We are chauffeured and enjoy a bit of ample time talking. No more stressful traffic and pain of looking for parking spot.
If I have to use the car, I will keep up with regular maintenance, my car will run more efficiently and burn less fuel. This includes regular oil changes, air filter replacement and properly inflated tires.
Avoid aggressive driving that leads to increased acceleration and braking that can use unnecessary gas. I maintain a steady speed for as long as possible and use the cruise control over long distances.
I eat a lot of fresh fruits and veggies, which are expensive, sure, but you are supposed to eat those whether you're vegan, vegetarian or a carnivore, so I don't count those as extra expenses. The real comparison is between meat, and the protein substitutes I use. Most of my protein comes from tofu, although I do eat beans and soy protein such as fake ground beef or soy burgers.
As takeaway food price has gone up to cover gas hike. I take the time to write up a grocery list and review the local grocery stores circulars. I wake up early to prepare with enough food to make quick lunch at work. Eat healthy and save big bucks!
Sports are a big entertainment for me. I cancel my subscription of cable TV. Too much TV watching is not good for health. I only watch sport on free channel though.
Rarely go to the movies. I used to go out to the movies at least once a week, and sometimes more. I slowly made it every other week, and now I don't even go once a month. Now we go to the park or out to do something more fun and creative. I figures this saves me at least $15 per week, although it's probably more

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