I did it!

My trusty GPS got me all the way to Arlington and back again today, and I could not be more thrilled. The very day I received the invitation in the mail for young Michael's (formerly known as Mikey) confirmation celebration, I printed off the driving directions. My worst fears were not realized----somehow thinking I had to go through downtown to get there. Nope, it was I-295, known exits, and then some curving around once off the main drags. The very well versed GPS could have put me in their garage if it wasn't full of tables and chairs!

My cell phone served as the GPS, so contrary to what some people think, making mock of these smart phones, I can't imagine how people got to their destinations without them. It was after I had a rough time trying to get a carload of ladies to Fran's house for a Christmas party one year that caused Justin to absolutely freak out. We ladies in unfamiliar territory, not knowing where we were....The very next opportunity we had, he spirited me to a Sprint store to get an upgraded phone with the GPS built into it so THAT would never happen again! 

I did have one shaky moment when getting onto I-295 (now called the east beltway, used to be 9A....whatever it is!) from St. Johns Bluff on the way home. I had to get over, coming up the ramp, and a car somewhat behind me was not willing to allow me to get over. We were close to each other, WAY too close for my liking, before I finally eased into the lane, halfway on the shoulder to do so. 

When Justin was learning to drive, I would stress to him the importance of not being cocky on the road, expect people to be less than kind, and to be the most kind. I needed that driver to me more kind and gracious, and not put our cars and lives at risk. Thanks be to God for sparing us from a collision and possible injury (besides jarred nerves!). I also have added compassion for this family in Arlington, making the long trip to GS at least once a week, sometimes more than once!

Before I headed that direction, I stopped at CVS Pharmacy to pick up a confirmation card for Michael. Nothing like waiting until the last minute! Well, the racks are full of cards for every occasion, including birthday cards for pets, dance recital acknowledgement, and even a bar mitzvah card, but no confirmation cards. I got a very nice "Thinking of You" card and wrote my own message in it for him. I am no Hallmark writer but think I did okay. 

I was the first guest at the party, except for Fran, who was busy in the kitchen. Soon, others arrived, including my friend, Judy, who was so surprised to see that I drove all by myself. She had picked up Gretchen, and had the two Mike's with her as well. Cliff and Carol were there, and some others from church, as well as classmates of Michael's from his school, neighbors, and friends. The actual confirmation rite is tomorrow, on Pentecost, and I am confident that he will do great during the examination portion and the service. He attends a Lutheran grade school now which really helps with understanding and grasp of the material. He is really a sweet kid, with an enormous passion for Nascar! 

When I got home from the party, Justin informed me that he was going with his friends to a new restaurant/brewery place, and was concerned that I wouldn't have anything to eat. At that point I could not even consider dinner, but I assured him I would be just fine. He went in search of stuff in the kitchen which could make suitable dinner food. It was then he suggested some frozen soups I have and the idea of chili really appealed to me. Justin paid me the compliment that I make good chili, and few other things which are good. I can stand it!  

There was no Jeopardy! for me to watch while I ate tonight as some sporting event was being aired from Everbank Field, non-American 'futbol'. I guess I shouldn't say non-American, because it is a team from the USA playing against one from Nigeria. It's just NOT football, is my point. The man who owns the Jaguars also owns a 'futbol' team so those games can be held here as well. People are determined to get the USA to accept this sport and it seems great headway is being made that direction. My bro-in-law, in the sport paraphernalia business, says futbol is a very large portion of their market. That, and Nascar, imagine that!