Texas is in a drought as are many other states. When I first moved to Central Texas 12 years ago, it rained often. Someone once commented, a 20% chance of rain meant it would rain at least 20% of the afternoon. And it did rain most afternoons; a light pleasant shower.
Now when rain falls, we cheer. Rain in Austin often comes in heavy, concentrated downpours that are a deluge and cause flooding. But we welcome any rain with glee.
Last week, we had rain in Austin, Texas. Rain fell hard and fast and it was wonderful. I love the rain and smiled happily, as it poured.
Austin drivers are more courteous than I have experienced in other large cities. There is a sense of camaraderie rarely found in commuter traffic. But, drivers in Austin don’t just forget how to drive in the rain, they become ridiculous risk takers. I wonder if the rain is so miraculous that it makes them feel invincible.
Last week, we were driving to work, rain pounding, and visibility a quarter of a mile. The dry ponds along the highway were teeming with the brackish rain water. As we drove through an intersection in heavy commuter traffic, a small dark car entered the flow from the left. The car shot across four lanes to access the McDonalds parking lot on the far right. I hope the Egg McMuffin was worth jeopardizing themselves and dozens of other cars!
Remarkably, everyone survived and I heard no metal on metal screeching. Inching forward we moved toward the next traffic light which was green. Suddenly, the Super Shuttle van in front of us pumped the brakes and came to a full stop at the green light. Expecting the driver to look up and move forward, we waited unable to change lanes. We assumed he would wake soon. Nope! The light turned red while we were still waiting.
I could just imagine the driver, looking back at the passengers and calling, “Don’t make me come back there!” Followed by, “I’m not moving until you settle down!” The light changed back to green and the van made an illegal left turn from the center lane. “Ah,” I thought. “Missed his turn.”
As we move into 2015 I hope the drought comes to an end. Perhaps if it does, Austin drivers will remember that when it rains you should exercise caution.
Nana's Apron Strings 