Digest-like entry (life/teaching/school)

You know how some of your favorite sites offer a great digest format of their information. You can get the highlights when you have a time crunch and can't really look at everything. Well, for the past few days, things have been a little crazy and I am going to give an update on my life, in the convenient digest format.

How long does it take to drive from NYC to DC? 21 hours (apx.)
I left my school around 3:30 Friday afternoon, was stuck with millions of others on this horrid parkway that runs between Brooklyn and Queens for 2 hours, and almost fell asleep on the NJ Turnpike. After, I took one of my famous 30 min. rest-stop rests, I decided that I could not drive any more. So, I found a conveniently located hotel and slept from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 the next morning. I rolled into my friend's house (in VA) around 1 on Saturday afternoon.

What does nostalgia do to a person? lots
I had a great weekend with all of my DC friends. I got to know a new dog. I saw a new home. I forgot my friendliness could be misinterpreted by those who do not know me. And, I had some good drink made of that Pom juice. Lots of antioxidants. I drove through my old neighborhood and realized how much had changed. Everyone lives in a new place. The old neighborhood is barely recognizable. And, I am in a very different place in my life. But, I appreciated the time I got to spend with folks who know me well (even if I've changed). I miss them all and loved how I got to laugh at salsa jokes, discuss all of lifes big issues, and relax in that way you can around people who know who you are at your core all weekend.

Who has the right of way on a city street--a horse or a car? I still don't know
I was cut off by a horse, in front of Central Park, on my way home. I don't know if I was wrong or if the horse was not following the rules of the road. I had just been enjoying my return to the city, realizing that I do think of here as my city, and thinking about all of the things I want to do over the next few weeks that can only happen here...then, the horse cut me off. I wasn't sure if my typical driving expletives should be used in this situation or if it was different because it was a horse.

How long can a person survive class and teaching? 12 weeks (exactly)
My semester is almost over and I could not be happier. I still have 3 semesters to finish off my grad program. But, I need winter break. On my drive back, I decided that I cannot do this anymore and am going to quit teaching and going to school so I can see my friends more. (After 12 weeks of school and mild case of exhaustion, it is such a tempting idea.) I may change my mind once next semester starts. But, I cannot be sure right now. If there is anyone who would like to support me, as I drive around, please let me know.

(FYI--all of this was typed while I was wearing Thai pants and a winter hat)