If you know me well, you know that, as I’ve gotten older, I no longer like to drive.

It didn’t help that four years ago, I shattered my right wrist and was told that I couldn’t drive until it was fully healed.  Gradually I resumed driving, but it was very weak and it hurt after gripping the wheel.  After two years, I had the 16 plates and screws removed because they conducted cold and heat and made it difficult to do things like washing my hands or dishes, and going the pool was totally impossible.

After the titanium pieces were removed, my wrist was weak (honey combed, they called it).  Again for several months, driving was impossible.  I got out of the habit. John always did the driving so no problem.

But this past year starting about November, 2017, I ended up having to do all the driving for John and me. He was too weak and he voluntarily turned it all over to me.

I hated being behind the wheel, but I knew there was no choice, so I drove.  Probably on average, I drove to Tampa two or three times a week.  I got more comfortable but never really enjoyed driving.

Now I’m here in Florida and enjoy riding in my golf cart, but there are times when going by cart isn’t possible.  I’ve lost my confidence completely so I’ve been avoiding the car.  But recently I’ve decided to turn over a new leaf. I want to re-gain that freedom.

Yesterday I drove to Riverview (Sam’s Club).  I white-knuckled it all the way but I felt a sense of accomplishment.  Today I drove to my new volunteer position with the Emergency Squad, filled the car up with gas and went to the grocery store.  I have promised myself that I’ll use the car a couple times a week.  Afterall, when Kelly comes to visit, I want to take her to Busch Gardens and show her a good time.  It’ll take venturing out regularly in order to become confident. 

Tuesday, Thursday or Friday of this week, I’d like to drive to Busch Gardens where I can straighten out my season admission and collect a free a lunch. (An offer that’s only good in September.) If I miss it, I am only out $10 and I also need to “practice” my driving.