Caution Student Driver

I have a student driver living under my roof these days. Yes, P got his learner's permit. The other day I put my life and the car keys in his hands. We began with a quick run down of the panel and the various components. Then I went over the hand position on the wheel and the use of only the right foot to operate both gas and break. He casually said, "Mom.... I know how to drive" ummmm okay. He put the car into gear and began going forward only to realize he'd not readjusted the seat for his long legs and as he was looking down for the gas pedal, he almost hit the front porch. I'm sure you could hear my "Break, breaaaaakkkk!!!!" at least a mile away.

We got out of the driveway and he accelerated to the point creating a loud shrieking screech.... He managed to stop at the stop sign, again burned rubber and made it to the parking lot without loss of life or limb. ... note to self, have tire treads checked prior to snowfall....

In the parking lot, I had him drive around, park in parking lines and practice breaking. I felt confident after 15 mins to allow him back on the road. Along the back roads of town, we almost took out 5 mail boxes, 1 old lady and a squirrel. I was a wreck and do believe additional gray hairs sprouted during that ride! By the time he'd driven a mile down the street, my hand was cramped from clenching it, my shoulders had become a new part of my ears and I felt in need of some Valium!.......... He wants to go back out tomorrow.

On a lighter note.... ME! This past Labor Day weekend, we spent time down at the beach with good friends. The kids enjoyed digging in the sand while we adults rooted our feet into the sand and didn't move.....ahhhh relaxation! Yes, I chose some unhealthy foods during the weekend but upon returning home and to my routine, I found I'd lost another 2 lbs making my total 36lbs lost and only 15 more to go. I got in some early morning walks in while away and while I didn't get to walk most of this week, I got out Friday before school, this morning and will be walking tomorrow. The best reward of all though was my trip to Dress Barn last night. I bought 2 pair of pants (size 14) and a pair of shorts in a 12, thinking I'd eventually get into the shorts. I got home and decided to see how tight the shorts were and was thrilled to find they fit me perfectly! The pants were to baggy and so they were returned and exchanged for 12s today! Life is Good!!