Anyone who knows me, knows that I have no problem driving. Alone, with a group, major city...I'll do it all. Until now. "Hmmm....drive on the left side, on the right side of the car....and you want me to shift too? That road will allow 2 cars at once, let alone a motorcycle or pedestrian? What's a round-a-bout...is an island the same thing? The light goes to yellow..then green?! You drive Matt....I have a headache...must have been that strong cuppa...." Wow. Yes...that is me now. Worried, nervous....and out of my element. A train or bus will take me where I need to go....well...skip the bus if you're on a schedule.
Don't get me wrong, I have driven a few times. Just ask my husband....or maybe not....he may get that look of terror again....and a small bead of sweat may roll off his cheek...or is that a tear..?? Never mind....
I have the ok to drive for up to a year on my US license without test. At least, they say that. I actually should have a nice big red L in my window to do it right. Honestly. They are everywhere here....(and no it doesn't stand for Loser...unless you are behind me while I am driving...) It means learner...and in Wales, a D...(for Dysgwr....yes, it really is a word....could be dumb or dork...but it means learner...so they say...) After your test, you are supposed to remove the L and use a P......(make up your own...but it SUPPOSEDLY means probation) Takes you back to the days of the Scarlett Letter doesn't it..? Frightening...) Plus...you must learn on a manual transmission...or it really doesn't count for much. Motorcycles are just as trying....or complicated dare I say. In actuality, I imagine that it does make them better drivers somehow....I have yet to see it most days.....(you think the Cabbies are bad in the states....hahaha....small beans..) I think perhaps being a pedestrian should have proper training...wear the big P or letter of choice or color....(hmm...maybe that would just make you an easier target...not sure on that one...)
No worries of getting stopped by a cop for any random reason....much less a good one. They are a rarity in these parts, unless on foot. They have decided to use speed cameras instead. Think of the money we could save in the USA....I won't go there. The cars are quite small in many cases...with "petrol" being at the equivalent of $8.00 a gallon....it's no wonder. No mindless "cruising" here....plus squeezing down a one-lane road with cars parked on both sides might be fun and challenging to some....not this kid. Like I said....I'll just take the train. Sit next to the crew going to the local "football" match and drink a beer on the ride....(yes..that is allowed too sports fans...)
Being the stubborn sort that I am....I will master this driving "thing" as well as I can. To the heavy sigh of relief of my other half....parking lots (if ever empty) and lonely college campuses will have to do for now... So next time you see my hubby and he looks a bit weathered and worn....you'll be clued in. Bless....
