When’s the right time to drive alone? The day I got my license, I was sure my mother would hand over her car keys and turn me loose on the road. Why wouldn’t she? I had passed state-mandated written and performance tests, and I had undoubtedly proven to her (and more importantly the state) that I could drive. (more…)

It’s bright and early on a Monday morning. My friends and I rush to get ready and leave the house. One of my roommates wakes up late, someone else decides to take a longer than average shower in the wrong bathroom, and I can’t find my house keys – it never fails. (more…)

With the biggest grin I’d ever mustered, and the millisecond long flash of the camera, my life had become complete. It was my 16th birthday, and at that point, the happiest day of my life. I had just received my graduated driver’s license. That little piece of plastic featuring my dime-sized photo was much more than permission to drive without my mother’s presence. To me, it was the beginning of what I thought would be a very liberating and exciting life. (more…)

The holidays are officially over. Luckily, I still have a few weeks to relax and try my hardest to do absolutely nothing at all. (more…)