back in the driver's seat

ah, to drive again. aside from the pleasant feeling of being behind the wheel, it was also comforting knowing that in california, traffic rules once again actually matter. for as long as i can remember, i experience intense nervousness and paranoia whenever i ride with crazy drivers. however, after just two months in nyc, i can now focus on a point far in the distance, ignoring how miniscule the defensive driving safety zone is, or how we are not staying the dmv-recommended number of car-lengths behind the car in front of us.

another thing i had missed about driving in california is listening to npr. with a one-hour commute each way to my previous job, i was a public radio/audiobook junkie. my favorite show during the week was fresh air, while on the weekends it would be a treat when i caught either car talk or wait wait -- don't tell me. both of these show are not only very funny, but informative as well. a great way to learn something new about cars, or catch up on the past week's current events.

most of my time in la was spent hanging out with family and friends. as an early birthday present my mom bought me a new pair of running shoes from run with us, which my sister believes is the only running store in pasadena. i had wanted new shoes for a long time, but was unable to find a running store in nyc. in sf, there's gotta be at least 8-10 different stores that are solely dedicated to running/cycling. i also got a runner's fanny pack, so i can finally go on long-distance runs without having to worry about where the next hygenic water fountain was.

in addition to receiving an early birthday gift, my visit also coincided with chinese new year. it had been a while since i last received a red envelope, as i have not been back for the occasion in years, but i reaped the rewards of being home this time.

the one thing i didn't do in los angeles was get in-and-out. the truth is, i missed the nyc shwarmas a lot more. maybe yatagan tonight?