Good question; since I could never drive, I would always live near a trolley and/or bus line. When I bought a house in 1978, I measured the walk to be eight minutes; my first criteria in purchasing.
The two large grocery stores have closed down and I have replaced them with local stores within walking distance or near the trolley.
Three years ago I met another gardener and he takes me shopping once every two weeks. I could go every week with him, but I take the "rain check" every other week.
I have a Costco card and I share it with the aforementioned gardener and another neighbor.
More recently my Chinese neighbors will pick up food for me any time I want, as they have access to harvest my entire garden, I help their daughter with her studies, and I help the parents with their financial documents. English, in other words, had been a asset needed by my neighbors.
Lastly, I have a special route on an aqueduct that I take to Whole Foods; I avoid the noise of the cars and trucks for most of my walk.
I do wear out shoes faster than most people, but that is better than having a car expense.
I help people with the gas expense when I get a ride.
400 miles round trip; you must have a complete shopping list for that foray into the city!
Eddie
