Living in New York these past few years has left me immune to certain things, such as driving. I have never owned a car, nor have I had occassion to drive in recent times. The last time I drove before coming to San Jose was at the Falcon Ridge folk festival two years ago (or was it three?). Even then I drove for approximately 20 minutes. So imagine my surprise when the responsibility of transport was thrust upon me during this trip. Now, keep in mind that I enjoy driving. However, I never drove on the highway because my father forbid me to take his car onto it. So when I got into that blue Toyota Corolla and got on I-280 yesterday, it was my first time on the highway. I drove into San Fransisco alone, even making an exit to refuel, and I drove back from SF while very tired. The freeway at night is devoid of streetlamps or any sort of lighting excepting the reflection of your headlights in the shiny strips on the road.

Needless to say, I was terrified. I am glad I did it, as I am a much better driver than I used to be, but it was still something I was not used to at all.

While on this trip I have also feasted quite handily. I think I have gained some weight. I’ve definitely got more color on my skin. All the sun has been pretty good for me.

In other news, Joey and I went to the Winchester Mystery House today. It was expensive, and our first guide was a little robotic - she was new. There were around 20 people on that tour. However, the second tour we took was less interesting fact wise, but our tour guide was this really cute girl named Mandy. Joey and I both thought she was really cute, and I enjoyed flirting with her without her realizing it. It was Mandy’s last tour before she left for college, and as a result she told us many funny things. She was spunky, cute, a little tired, and there were only four of us on the tour, so she told us about how when there were bad people on the tour, she’d lie to them, and all kinds of silly things. So that was pretty enjoyable, even if we were leches.

Best of all, I got to spend yesterday with my dear friend Cassie. I met Cassie when I was 16, so it was many a year ago when we were both spry and youthful, compared to the tired working hags we are now. We spent the day traipsing around SF, the waterfront and the Castro. I really missed her. I’d also never been to the Castro before. I think I like it better than Christopher and Chelsea, because it had better gender parity. Everyone was really friendly, too. I don’t know if i’d fit in here in San Francisco, I’d have to change my whole desposition. I don’t realize sometimes what New York reactions I have to things. I mean, I love it, but it can be offputting, I know. For example, today at Outback Steakhouse, I kept saying “can I get” to the waitress, and others who were not from new york would say “Can I please have,” or “I’d like”. I don’t view “Can I get” as rude, but clearly others do. It’s just the way we order in the city. It’s ingrained into me. I kind of like it. Adds character. Lets the waiters know who they’re dealing with.

So in conclusion: I love it.
I hate it.
I love it.