Background: I'm a train commuter, which is awesome except for the fact that the train only runs during rush hour. I have a colleague who recently "gave up" on the train because she wanted (not needed, just wanted) a more flexible schedule, so instead of paying $105/month for the train like I do, she pays $240/month for parking (!!!), plus gas, car wear & tear etc.
Yesterday I got an emergency call from daycare to pick up my daughter (she's ok). My retired mom is often available for these kind of things, but I couldn't reach her, and the train wasn't running so I had to suck it up and take a $50 cab ride to daycare. It's the first time in 3+ years of being a working parent that this has happened.
My colleague was like OMG! That's so expensive! I'm so glad I drive!!
I just didn't even know what to say. Even if I had to do this 3 times per month, I'd still be coming out ahead of her in transportation expenses.