Driving

Probably not the most brilliant decision, but I decided to drive home for Christmas. Originally, I thought it would be cheaper, and mean I would have my car, setting my own agenda. Little did I count the expenses of the stupid turnpikes, or the fact that my sister's car was still available. Because I totally would have flown, instead of slogged through 13 hours in the car.

Admittedly, I managed to break up the drive over 2 days. Drove to Toledo yesterday, stayed with cousins, who were sweet, if slightly surprised to see me. But I got the stamp of approval from their two dogs.

The good = awesome mpg. rocking 40mpg! The bad = hours in the car, ending with the engine light on. But I got home with both me and the car in one piece.

But let me tell you what I think of the turnpikes, plural. Skyway to Indiana Turnpike to Ohio Turnpike to PA Turnpike. And while it's great to fly across flat highways, it's not great to drop crazy cash on the privilege. Also not great - food options. Unless you are addicted to McDonald's. And only need to pee or refuel in 53 mile increments. Ugh. I rather chafe at being told what to do, beit on the road or in life.

Driving also makes me pretty mercurial. I get pissed off easily (you should see the bruises I left on that air machine at the River North BP), but am easily tickled by little things. So it evens out, I guess.

So now I am beginning the holiday binge. Lots of baking going on upstairs (with my essential quality-control tastings), and now I am watching the Pillsbury Doughboy do a dance. I love TV sometimes.