I think it is fairly accurate to say that most of us are "veteran" drivers and have never given much second thought(s) to the freedom and independence that comes with a valid drivers license. We can likely think back to our various memories of taking our first drivers test and the anticipation for that day. DL + wheels = freedom. I have become so accustomed to being my own keeper of time and destinations that I'm not sure how I'd manage if that flexible freedom was taken from me.
This brief reflection stems from my experience at the DMV today. Now, be forewarned that my driving post will not be nearly as animated as Katie's (for those that have yet to read it, let me encourage a little blog surfing), but nevertheless I think I can now be a dash more empathetic to the fear (associated with the larger world of driving) that she lived with, until recently.
I decided that today was the day to do the "responsible thing" and take time off work this morning to deal with all those things we never want to deal with (i.e. anything associated with the DMV, shots, fingerprinting, etc.). I hit the DMV first with slightly naive hope that I'd avoid massive lines. My hopeful ways paid off. Note to self: lines start to form after 9am (funny how most people were there about suspended licenses). Anyway, point being that lines weren't that horrendous.
So after being ping ponged from line inside to line outside (literally standing in a car "verification" line), and paying my fees for registration and license and whatever else seemed to fit into a we can charge you for that category, I thought I was in the clear. My old license (from high school days) was still in the system, so I can now be reacquainted with that familiar number, hopefully it comes with better driving karma this time around!
Post glamour shot, err... I mean my photo for my license, I was instructed to head over to the corner counter to take my driving test. PANIC! No one said anything about a test. AND this is the sixth DMV employee I have spoken with already, and no mention of test. I've been driving for quite some time so I gave myself a little impromptu pep talk, only to be countered by the what if I fail thoughts. (Maybe my pep talks aren't too effective?) Embarrassment of failure aside, what if they don't give me my license. Seriously.
Well, I'm happy to report that the emotional freak-out was in vain. I PASSED! Truth be told, I'm probably more excited about this one then the one a few (or more than a few) years back.
Freedom in tact, my victory at the DMV made the rest of the day tolerable. Well, I guess I can also give credit to 84 degree weather and the shuttling back and forth of unwanted errands that allowed me to drive with windows down and warm sun sneaking into my life.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Pagoda Blue
According to Colorstrology, my birthday color is pagoda blue, which represents: Wisdom. Truth. Vision.
The color for the month of December is Pagoda Blue. Deep and meditative, this color signifies wisdom, truth, and optimism. Pagoda Blue lends vision and trust to those who wear it. It is a great color to use while traveling or exploring. Wearing, meditating or surrounding yourself with Pagoda Blue can help promote tolerance and understanding. It is a useful aid in dealing with others who have alternative points of view.
December 19 - You are capable of achieving many of your aspirations through pure determination and will. Some of this strength comes from the challenges that you may have faced while growing up. Once you make up your mind to do something, you have the necessary stamina to accomplish your aims. You may end up being in the public eye. Your personal color reminds you to infuse your life with optimism and enthusiasm. Wearing, meditating or surrounding yourself with the color Lagoon (Regal, Expressive, Determined) helps you live life in a balanced and wondrous way.
Funny, because I got really excited when I learned that this was MY color (Don't worry Orange, I still love you.). It brought validation to me being overly obsessed with this dress that I tried on when I was at South Coast Plaza with Whitney. (She found that fantastic jacket at Ted Baker and I cried over this delicious dress that unfortunately was not made for my body type, but was in fact Pagoda Blue - which truth be told it was the color I loved more than anything). I never completely had closure as I have thought of it since.
The color for the month of December is Pagoda Blue. Deep and meditative, this color signifies wisdom, truth, and optimism. Pagoda Blue lends vision and trust to those who wear it. It is a great color to use while traveling or exploring. Wearing, meditating or surrounding yourself with Pagoda Blue can help promote tolerance and understanding. It is a useful aid in dealing with others who have alternative points of view.
December 19 - You are capable of achieving many of your aspirations through pure determination and will. Some of this strength comes from the challenges that you may have faced while growing up. Once you make up your mind to do something, you have the necessary stamina to accomplish your aims. You may end up being in the public eye. Your personal color reminds you to infuse your life with optimism and enthusiasm. Wearing, meditating or surrounding yourself with the color Lagoon (Regal, Expressive, Determined) helps you live life in a balanced and wondrous way.
Funny, because I got really excited when I learned that this was MY color (Don't worry Orange, I still love you.). It brought validation to me being overly obsessed with this dress that I tried on when I was at South Coast Plaza with Whitney. (She found that fantastic jacket at Ted Baker and I cried over this delicious dress that unfortunately was not made for my body type, but was in fact Pagoda Blue - which truth be told it was the color I loved more than anything). I never completely had closure as I have thought of it since.
Sunday, March 4, 2007
Sunday Shorts (Mar - 4)
If I had to pick one song that would be the only song on the soundtrack of my life as a movie (I realize this is a bit dramatic, but just go with it), it would be "Love theme" from St. Elmo's Fire - Instrumental. There are many reasons for this and like spiritual experiences the meaning is often only significant to the individual, but I will try to provide a bit of insight. Aside from the embarrassing car ride sing a longs to Like a Virgin or We Built This City, this is the first song that I associate with my early childhood. It was the warm up song that teacher Sandy would play at every ballet class (don't worry Mom, I won't tell the world the infamous nail in chin story here). :)
Anyway, although my career as a ballerina was short lived, and for many that know me I'm sure it's hard to imagine me attempting to be graceful or in a tutu, (but there are pictures somewhere to prove it!), this to me represents the beginning of learning. A time when I attempted something new, had to dedicate myself to attending regular practices, and witnessed the sacrifices my parents made (and not just financial) to encourage me to be challenged and to accomplish something. No, I was not this intuitive as a child, this is all in retrospect!
My life as a "tiny dancer" was somehow trumped by my short lived attempt at soccer coupled with my burgeoning life as a swimmer. Just think, had I pursued dancing I would have had completely different body image issues - b/c every 16 year old wants to be asked if they are 1) a swimmer or 2) a weight lifter. Yes, prom dress shopping was a thrill for my mother.
This thread of thought is the result of my first swim meet as a coach. This last Saturday the kids had their first "meet". It was unofficial an unofficial, dual meet. For many, this is the first time they have attempted competition. Some are not aware of the talent they have. Some are overinflated with a false sense of their abilities (don't worry, I'm humbling them quick). Some are in the panic attack phase of just being overwhelmed and are not yet to the point where they can use the blocks to dive into the pool. Regardless, of their phase of advancement, I am proud of them. I don't know if I will ever reach a point in my life where I can accurately describe in words what swimming (or sports in general) has prepared me for in life. If summarized in one word, I would likely pick "crutch": because it has been an enabler and helped to support my many weaknesses, allowing me to engage in whatever it is that I have set out to do.
On to fluffier comments:
BEWARE OF THE BURST! - While there may not be a wrong way to eat a Reese's (peanut butter cup), there is a correct way to eat Starburst. The correct way involves a pattern of yellow, red, orange, and finally pink. No need to argue, that's the right way.
GOOD DAY, SUNSHINE - a weekend of 77 degree weather, I don't want to rub it in, but man, warm feels good!
SELF INTERVENTION - I think I developed a mental allergy to candy, or at least I'm trying to convince myself that I did. It's out of control these days. In my moment, pre-intervention, I did experience an epiphany that I am an anxious eater. First stage is denial, and I'm past that ... we'll see how it goes. As Ben Lee says, "I've got a weakness, can I beat this."
Anyway, although my career as a ballerina was short lived, and for many that know me I'm sure it's hard to imagine me attempting to be graceful or in a tutu, (but there are pictures somewhere to prove it!), this to me represents the beginning of learning. A time when I attempted something new, had to dedicate myself to attending regular practices, and witnessed the sacrifices my parents made (and not just financial) to encourage me to be challenged and to accomplish something. No, I was not this intuitive as a child, this is all in retrospect!
My life as a "tiny dancer" was somehow trumped by my short lived attempt at soccer coupled with my burgeoning life as a swimmer. Just think, had I pursued dancing I would have had completely different body image issues - b/c every 16 year old wants to be asked if they are 1) a swimmer or 2) a weight lifter. Yes, prom dress shopping was a thrill for my mother.
This thread of thought is the result of my first swim meet as a coach. This last Saturday the kids had their first "meet". It was unofficial an unofficial, dual meet. For many, this is the first time they have attempted competition. Some are not aware of the talent they have. Some are overinflated with a false sense of their abilities (don't worry, I'm humbling them quick). Some are in the panic attack phase of just being overwhelmed and are not yet to the point where they can use the blocks to dive into the pool. Regardless, of their phase of advancement, I am proud of them. I don't know if I will ever reach a point in my life where I can accurately describe in words what swimming (or sports in general) has prepared me for in life. If summarized in one word, I would likely pick "crutch": because it has been an enabler and helped to support my many weaknesses, allowing me to engage in whatever it is that I have set out to do.
On to fluffier comments:
BEWARE OF THE BURST! - While there may not be a wrong way to eat a Reese's (peanut butter cup), there is a correct way to eat Starburst. The correct way involves a pattern of yellow, red, orange, and finally pink. No need to argue, that's the right way.
GOOD DAY, SUNSHINE - a weekend of 77 degree weather, I don't want to rub it in, but man, warm feels good!
SELF INTERVENTION - I think I developed a mental allergy to candy, or at least I'm trying to convince myself that I did. It's out of control these days. In my moment, pre-intervention, I did experience an epiphany that I am an anxious eater. First stage is denial, and I'm past that ... we'll see how it goes. As Ben Lee says, "I've got a weakness, can I beat this."
Friday, March 2, 2007
Dog gone Friday ...
A few years ago I found myself in a unique situation where I had the opportunity to interact with numerous people from various walks of life. During this time, I became very sensitive to life circumstances and the experiences which often can or can not be afforded due to one's "position". In my new introductions, I happened to become acquainted with a family and I have since reflected on a conversation I had with the patriarch of that family. A very intelligent man, I was intrigued by his thoughts and comments.
One night we were having a discussion and he said something about animals that has become a reoccurring thought for me. He shared that (dogs) "have one purpose: to love and be loved". Maybe that's why I am so fond of canine companions; they are relatively low maintenance and love unconditionally.
My friend at work is kind enough to allow me to schedule "play dates" with his gorgeous Malamute (Noosa - pictured). After a very long week, and an even longer Friday, she and I headed out for a terrifically cathartic run tonight. I could spend all of my nights with her, a clear sky, high 50's and a full moon.
The Carnitas might have added a little more unconditional love ... :)
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