Tuesday, January 8, 2008

I drove my brother to National Airport yesterday and found that the slower pace of Virginia did not effect my ability to maneuver DC Streets with the skill an agility of a native. I wonder how I would do in NYC? I think people are a bit nicer there (it was voted the nicest city last year) and have more skill than DC drivers (who are rude and don't know how to drive) but I think they also expect everyone to be somewhat aggressive. I can be when I need be like in order to get over a lane when no one wants to let me over. The best part of driving in DC is making your own rules when the rules suck. I blew a no U-Turn sign because of a restroom emergency. I also found my way around really well. Despite all my skill and effort... a taxi cab pulling out of a spot didn't see me and ALMOST slammed into the side of my mom's 4-Runner. I honked. Had I not my mom would have been hit! I hate stupid other drivers.

On a lighter note, my brother is in Colorado for a week. I am so jealous. What did he do all day today? He snowboarded in powder-like snow that feels like a giant pillow when you fall on it. I haven't boarded in years but am itching to go. This 70 degree weather is not very inspiring though. My great idea for flat FLAT Indiana is to snowboard with Leia pulling me... I could call it dog-sled-boarding. I am sure Leia would love that. Perhaps if food is involved she will at least humor me for a few minutes. :)

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Clare, glad to hear of your driving skills! I have to warn you though, driving in Manhattan requires an entirely different "mode" of driving! DC drivers (cabbies, etc.) are really stupid. But NYC driving is something you almost have to be born with! Jason HATES when I drive in NYC. It's hold on for dear life for him. Not saying I'm a bad driver, just saying it's pretty intense. Not only are you watching out for pedestrians and cabbies, but you have to skillfully navigate potholes while simultaneously avoiding other cars and people. IT'S GREAT!!!!

Anonymous said...

PS - I have never had an accident! ;)

~Karen~ said...

DC was voted the nicest city?!?! That's strange! I would have thought a more southern city would have won... I remember a trip we took to Key West, FL one year--- people kept saying "hello" to me... strangers were complementing me on my clothes, smile, etc etc... It was very different, as most places people don't even look you in the eye (NYC!!!). Glad to hear you made it home from DC safely! ~K~

Clare said...

Bridget-I am sure driving in NYC is its own experience! I am not brave enough to try... but I am sure you could drive anywhere in the world after learning to drive there.

Karen- I was surprised too. I meant to say NYC instead of DC. I personally think Chicago is much nicer than NYC.