How to turn back time to 16 years old

You know, when I was 16 years old I never really thought much about it — none of us really do.  We just are getting through high school and, of course, learning to drive.  That’s the rite of passage for all childern in America.

But today I had the great fortune to turn back the hands of time and feel like I did when I was 16 years old.  I got to go to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in Virginia and take the driving tests all over again.  See, it seems that if you let your lisence expire for more than a year, then you have to re-take all the tests: vision, knowledge and the dreading driving exam.

Nothing made me feel young again then walking into the DMV with a knot in my stomach wondering if I’d pass the tests.  I mean, things have changed… there is nothing written to do; the test is all touch-screen computer.  There aren’t as many questions as I remember (only 35) and there are great little pictures to help you out.  But, like any time one is being tested, the seed of doubt constantly grows.  Is this the right answer?  What if I get too many wrong.  I’ll fail and be embarrassed and have to come back tomorrow.  (Just a matter of fact: I only missed ONE question, so I think that’s pretty good).

After the computer test is over, then you have to sit with someone in your car and take them on a trip.  My lady today was VERY nice, but when she came out to the car, she was wearing a special jacket that was neon green — this made me wonder if we needed to be seen by the world as road workers have to be seen.  She ran me through a battery of instructions (checking all the lights and dials — and, since it was not my car, I didn’t know where all the buttons and dials were!) and then we were off.  Driving. I haven’t driven in about 6 years.  Sad, but true.  So, I was sweating all over the place and driving very very very slowly and carefully.  I remember feeling the same way I did when I was 16.  Every moment you are wondering if you are ‘scanning the road’ in the correct way, did I forget to check the mirror at the right time?  Did I miss a speed limit change sign?  Why is she taking notes NOW?  Did I do something good or bad?  *SIGH*

I’m so glad it’s over. I passed with flying colors.  BUT, while most people would like to go back to 16 years old, I think I’ll pass.  It just made my stomach hurt.