Everyday I Learn Something New

I made a spur-of-the-moment trip to see my mama and sister in South Carolina. It was so unplanned that I didn't think of the idea to pay them a visit until the midway point of the conversation.

About fifteen minutes before I completed my winding path through the countryside, I noticed a road sign that read "Highway Closed Ahead." Well, this was the only way that I knew how to get to my town so I kept driving. Much to my surprise, and believe me I was surprised, there were huge tractors, trucks and other miscellaneous people and equipment destroying the bridge.

I had a slight moment of panic. Should I go back home?

Now, this was not an option because with the price of gas, and investment of time, I had to out a new route. However, I didn't know one. I managed to happen upon a small business. In less than 3 minutes I was speeding down some side road that brought me to the other side of the bridge.

Lesson #1: Now, I know two ways to get back to the interstate.

After a short day stay with my mama and sister, I needed some gas. Who doesn't need gas these days? My mama directed me to the best gas station in town, and I paid my tariff, tax and fee. I put the nozzle in the tank, and the gas wouldn't come out! I let out a scream of disdain, and then I turned to a man who just pulled up to the gas station.

Can you help me? The gas doesn't want to come out. The man told me to make sure that I don't have the pump too deep in my gas tank. Jackpot!!! In my tenure as a driver, I have not ever committed this act before.

Lesson #2: Make sure you do not place the nozzle too far into your gas tank. Otherwise the flow of gasoline will be hindered substantially.

Prior to leaving my mama, she packed me a lovely care package. It included a rutabaga.

Do you know what a rutabaga is? Don't fret. Most of my friends have not heard of a rutabaga, and until today, I was not entirely sure about the spelling. However, a rutabaga is a turnip. It is a round, reddish turnip with an orange inside. They sell them at some Wal-Mart's for $0.50.

Anyway, my mama gave me a primer on cutting it. You take one large knife and place it on the center of the rutabaga. Then, you take another knife and bang it on the handle of the first knife until it goes all the way through the center of the rutabaga. It is a time honored technique that my grandmama uses because rutabagas are so hard to cut.

I announced to my mama that I think that I can peel one. Will tradition hold up or be replaced by a new, easier peeling technique? I am not sure, but whatever happens, it will be something new that I have learned......