What Did We Learn Today? Facing an Old Fear

Okay, so I know that we are on Spring Break, but hey! Everyday is an opportunity to learn right? Today, it was Mom's turn and I had to face a major fear. Just take a gander:

Yes, my friends! I got the opportunity to learn how to drive a stick shift!! Now, I know that many of you would say, "What's the big deal?" To that I say, HAH!! You have never seen my try.

 The last time I tried to drive a stick shift, I was 16 and sitting in my Dad's old truck. He had switched seats with me and was trying to show me how to drive it. I had beginner's luck at first but it quickly went downhill until, finally, I had stalled so many times in the road and waved so many cars around us that I gave up. I waved the white flag and allowed my father to take over the driver's chair. Ever since, I had quickly passed on any opportunity of a repeat performance... until TODAY!

My hubby took me out in his new (old) jeep. He decided that it was time to face my fear and try. He was going to be with me all the way. teehehehe His seat belt made sure of that. ;) I found that you could place an SAT comprehensive test in front of me and I will have very little nerve issues. Place me in the driver's seat of a stick shift and I am almost ready to start biting my nails again!

There is just so much to remember! I have become so lazy in that I have always trusted my vehicles to know when to shift and how to do it. Push this! Pull that! Don't let up too fast! That was too fast! This was the voice from the passenger's seat that didn't change octaves too many times during the drive. I am happy to report that we did make it home safe and soundly although we hopped out of the gas station like a bunny rabbit on steroids. :P I was dying from laughter just imagining the looks on peoples' faces. I had to be the subject of many table conversations tonight. Thank you, thank you very much.

Anyhoo, we survived and I learned something about myself. I tend to avoid things that I don't do well. If it doesn't come easily, I simply find something else to do. But, by not applying myself in something that I might fear because of inexperience, I am actually short changing myself. My hubby and I raced down dirt roads with the wind in our hair and laughter on our lips. I was so excited when I had finally done something right and my best friend in the world looked over at me with an excited smile. This, my friends, is priceless! I wouldn't trade the memory for anything in this world and believe it or not, I am ready to make a few more memories before we head home from Spring Break. Have a fantastic evening everyone! Tomorrow, I will be sharing a review on a fantastic piano software. See you then!