When I came to Alaska 20 years ago I sold my car, figuring that if I'm going to live in a town I would use buses, taxis and friends. Which I have done, and do.

So I'm on buses a lot, and one of the niceties about bus travel that bemuses me is that most of us - passengers - thank the driver upon disembarking. Why is that, do you suppose? The driver is being paid to do it and we have not put him or her out in any way. But somehow it just feels right- and the drivers always respond, You're welcome. Have a good day.