For many reasons I prefer to do most of my shopping in small, local, independent businesses. In terms of groceries, there are no temptations to buy unhealthy, processed foods when the only items for sale are fresh fruits and vegetables, as is the case in many small local shops. Grocery stores, in contrast, typically have a single aisle of fresh produce and several aisles of packaged foods. I like knowing that my money is going to support a small local business rather than an extremely wealthy businessman. And then there is the personal aspect: the far greater chances for friendly encounters. Today I failed to take an umbrella with me; it began to pour as I was choosing my turnips and leafy greens. After I waited a while, the owner offered to loan me an umbrella. It was a small gesture that means a lot—not only allowing me to go home and get back to work, but also reinforcing my sense of community in the city. It is precisely those interactions, on foot, face-to-face, that make living in cities a pleasure.