Via the net, we talk and see relatives in towns hundreds of miles away, and do it every day if we wish (Those little eyes attached to the computer are really something!).
Being old and decrepit, we don't get to the stores unless a daughter comes in from her ranch, so shop for books, cds, clothing and 'dry goods' (anyone know that term any more?), etc. online (LL Bean, a great store, also Amazon, Crotchet, Europadisc, bookstores all over).

And we use gasoline only when shopping at the supermarket or going out for dinner.
The Net is environmentally friendly!