Underestimated Dangers

I spent the first seventeen years of my life in Nebraska.  Over the years I experienced blizzards, icy roads, fog so thick you couldn’t see farther than a few feet in front of the car, tornado warnings, hail, and so on.  I thought I had experienced it all when I moved, however there was something that I had missed.  When I moved to Arizona I learned that I didn’t have to fear the blizzards, ice, or fog, but something much worse.  I had to watch out for Phoenicians driving during monsoon season. 

It amazes me how a little rain can cause so many problems!  During my first year of college one of my college professors announced that whenever it rained he would receive multiple emails from students stating that they couldn’t come to class because it was raining.  Raining!  Not hailing, snowing, but RAINING!  Apparently that wasn’t an appropriate excuse for staying home.  After driving home last night I beg to differ.

My normal commute is around 45 minutes.  I wasn’t even halfway home yesterday after 45 minutes.  I had driven about fifteen blocks when I encountered the first of many obstacles for the evening.  There was a three car accident which resulted in two of the three lanes being closed.  To add to the congestion, the traffic light right after the accident was not functional.  This would have been fine if people weren’t glued to the car in front of them, refusing to let anyone out of the two blocked lanes and into the open one.  God forbid that we be nice to each other!  Once I got past the light I encountered slightly flooded roads and more out-of-order traffic lights.  I understand that the traffic lights weren’t the drivers’ fault but seriously people, have you no concept of a four-way stop?!? 

Mr. Centner and I carpooled yesterday which really worked out in our favor.  We were enjoying making fun of other drivers together versus me talking to myself and yelling at other drivers alone in my car (this is actually a common occurrence).   Plus, life is always more fun when someone you love is by your side, even during the little things!   When we saw how backed up traffic was we decided to stop for dinner and wait it out.  We sat in Chili’s enjoying our delicious food while looking out the window and still making fun of the crazy drivers.   Honestly, it was more interesting than talking about our days!   Obviously we made it home safe and sound.  I’m crossing my fingers that today isn’t a repeat of yesterday.  Unfortunately for me I drove alone today so I’ll have to make fun of other drivers alone which just isn’t as much fun.

As a disclaimer, I know many Phoenicians who are wonderful drivers, even in the rain!  Unfortunately there aren’t enough of these people.   Although now that I think of it, I don’t think any of these people are actually from Phoenix…..except for Mr. Centner, but he’s the exception to a lot of rules!