Geek Habitat

As the Fates would have it, just as I became sick a bunch of tasks that require getting in the car and braving the cold weather, wind and traffic, presented themselves. I think in the past three days, I’ve spent more time behind the wheel of my car than behind my computer — that’s a little scary, unless we’re on a road trip to a photography locale! Scary in a good way, though — busy is a good thing, and I’m not complaining! Well… I am complaining about the being sick part, but not the rest of it!
All this road travel has reminded me how much I love my Garmin StreetPilot III. I’m one of those people who are innately “directionally-challenged”. Oh, I know my right from my left of course, and I can read a map and do amazingly well if I’m out hiking. But put me behind the wheel of a vehicle and ask me what roads parallel the one I’m currently on, or what’s East of my present location in a city I’ve lived in for 26 years, and you’ve lost me. Same thing for asking me which major highway arteries run in which directions or how to get to shopping locales I’ve visited for years — but never drive to myself. Perpetual road construction doesn’t help, of course.

So, with all the time behind the wheel, I at least have answers to some of these questions. That is, until I forget and have to re-learn it all over again on the next trip!

Misplaced Mini-Rant: San Antonio drivers — what is with you guys? Aren’t the lanes painted wide enough for you? Unless you’re driving an H1 (the real HUMMER) or a double-trailer big rig, why can’t you keep your stinkin’ vehicle in your OWN lane!? Some days I wonder if the color red my car is painted attracts certain drivers and they subconsciously veer toward my car. It’s about the only sane explanation, other than people being just pathetic drivers, that is.

PS: As we all wind up (or unravel) for the holidays, I just have to say — AMEN, Noah!