Driving Diary, Part 1

It all started this past weekend. I read the California Driver Handbook online and took the practice tests. My parents helped me study, and then my mom took me to the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) on Monday.

We walked up to the counter and were told that we would have a wait of one and a half to two hours. My mom looked to me, but as nervous as I was about learning how to drive, I was determined to take this important step that day if possible. So we waited.

About an hour later my number was called. I walked to window 14 and went through the steps of handing in my paperwork, paying the fee, getting my picture taken, etc. And then I was handed the test. I went over to the testing area and answered the 36 questions amidst the screams of a rambunctious little girl and the continuous activity at the various windows, then headed back to window 14.

The man ahead of me had a very interesting story, I must say! He was taking his vision test--but he only had one contact in. He went and got his glasses. However, to pass the vision test you have to read a line on the chart with both eyes, as well as with one eye covered, and then the other. The only problem was that the man could do two of the above with his glasses on, but because of his contact, he couldn't do all three.

I love the question the lady behind the desk asked: "How do you drive?"

Good question! ;)

He apparently had his reasons for only wearing one contact--thinking he only needed to take the written test, which would require close-up reading, not the vision test. He seemed to think that wearing only one contact is normal... Perhaps. Personally, I would hate only having one contact in, but I am really near-sighted, so who knows?

If any of you have ever worn just one contact by choice, let me know!

Anyway, when it was my turn, I handed my test in and waited, hoping I wouldn't miss more than 6 questions and have to take it again. As it was, I didn't miss any, and I now have my permit!!

My mom took me out to lunch to celebrate, and then we headed to a big empty parking lot across the street from a fairgrounds.

It was time.

With great patience and kindness, my mom showed me the controls and taught me how to back up, drive around the light poles in the parking lot, and park the car. It was both scary and exhilarating, and I can still hardly believe I was actually behind the wheel of a car! Thank goodness no one else was in the parking lot, though. ;) It was a jerky ride, but we made it out safe and sound.

I have a long way to go before I gain enough confidence to get on the road with other cars--and when that happens, I'll have to let ya'll know so you can stay off the sidewalks! ;) But in the meantime, God's in control and my parents are here to help me.

Let the adventure begin!