Monday, April 20, 2009

Designated Driver

Casey and I have a little quirk to our relationship that does not fall in line with the majority of couples. Actually, I'm sure we have more than just one quirk, but this one is specifically that I always drive when both of us ride in the same car. Even now that we have Ethan. And when we're all in the car together, Casey tends to Ethan (if necessary) and I tend to the road. It's just what we do. But it wasn't always that way. Here's how it came about:

When we first started dating, Casey was driving his 1967 Mustang, which was very fun for us to ride in all around Abilene. And of course, Casey drove. But we soon discovered that if we were going out on a date that involved more than just pulling up at Sonic, we might not want to smell like gasoline when we got to the restaurant/movie theater/etc. And that was a trademark of the Mustang...smelling like gasoline. Enter my car. We started using it only part of the time and then ended up using it all of the time. And still, Casey drove.

And then...the turning point. After my graduation and our marriage a mere three weeks later, we moved to the metropolitan area in which I grew up. And naturally, between the two of us, I was the expert in navigating the streets I knew so well. So I began driving the two of us instead of giving directions from the passenger seat, which is not my best talent.

Here we are 6 years later and I drive all the time. Sometimes I wonder how I became the designated driver and sometimes I acknowledge the fact that I actually like to drive. The really great thing is that Casey is the best passenger. So much better than me. He hardly ever tells me what to do when I'm driving. So, this arrangement works for us and I dont' see it changing in the future. We're weird like that and just fine with it.

4 comments:

Lynn Leaming said...

I prefer to drive too. And whenever things are going to be hectic Steve would rather me drive. I especially like driving on trips because I can enjoy the scenery and drive, but Steve misses things because he is a very intense "watch the road" driver. I am not a good passenger either because I tend to second guess the best way to go :)

Mary said...

Maybe we should adopt this, cause I tend to harp on driving skills and directions. But, I am not usually a fan of driving either...maybe I will just have to learn to be quiet! (Plus, after multiple pregnancies, I have developed horrible night vision. I think everyone has their brights on, and I can't see!) =0)

Lindsay said...

Not only is Jake my DD but if I have friends like Steph or Dara (even if it is my car) - I make them drive as well. I do not like to drive especially in the Dallas area. I guess I was supposed to live in the country but my husband and friends bail me out. :)

Pam said...

I have been the DD for many years now...in town and on trips...I think there are some of us female DD's in every generation. :)

I DO admit that I LOVE to drive though, and Stennis loves to read and sleep, so it works for us. (I have to admit that I am not a great passenger either.) I drive nearly everywhere...except to church. It's funny that, for some reason, Stennis drives to and from church, and I drive everywhere else...don't know how that came to be, but that's the way it is. :)

(I love your blog and check in every couple of weeks to catch up. Your photos are wonderful!!)