Introducing Ariel (pronounced R E L): my new car. An extension of myself. My life, and for right now, my love. (The picture isn't actually her but looks just like it. She has a Pennsylvania liscence plate. Long story...)
She uses manual transmission to get around and I've strained her poor little engine one too many times, especially on hills when stopped at red lights. I have also upset many drivers who are unfortunate enough to be stopped behind me at lights, stop signs, etc. My goal today is to head to Hobby Lobby and purchase materials to make a sign that says something along the lines of "Caution: New (sort of) driver. Stay back at least 5 feet." I wonder if it will work?
I've decided the best way to learn how to enter the world of stick shift drivers is to head to the hills, literally, and practice in the foothills of the rocky mountains which are conveniently located in my backyard. I went through almost a half tank of gas the other day doing this, and she over heated so much I had to take a break and went on a hike to kill time and to let Ariel cool off. It's all about finding a happy medium between letting the clutch out and giving it enough gas, something I have yet to master. I also have driven to Denver a handful of times. I've found that city driving and stop and start traffic is very effective. It's kept me on my toes and alert at all times, which I believe is a safer way to drive. Also, sorry if you call me while driving. I can't do that many things at once, and talking on my cell whilst driving is a recipe for disaster. That means I would only have one hand to shift and steer, all the while my feet are dancing around the clutch, brake, and accelerator. Bad news.
It's definitely been a learning experience for me, and if anyone is looking for a new car, don't get a black Subaru Outback because it's my car and I know everyone in Colorado drives a Subaru but still... I like to think I can make it my own.
Anyway if you do decide it's the car for you, make sure you get a model that has standard transmission because what I've heard is that having this certain type of skill set is proven to make you up to 20% hotter. Definitely something I'm striving for...
Check out where I got mine in Colorado Springs.
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