Hmm...it all began in 1972 when Sue earned a bit of freedom at age 16 with her mustard yellow/Tang orange-colored Capri. Many times Sue's freedom came at a price. The price of toting around her much younger sister (by ten years I must add). A little sister with big ears and blessed with an incredible memory. These trips throughout Mountain View and beyond were filled with loud Peter Frampton 8-track music and cigarette smoke spilling out once we arrived at our location (from Sue, who got all of that out of her system many years ago thank goodness!).
These drives opened my young eyes to her boyfriends and how easy it was for me to be able to get things exciting by merely mentioning things or someone I'd imagined (or not). Dropping the name of someone else or making little sounds on the phone when I picked it up while she was talking (little burps, heavy breathing, fake tooting sounds). It was also at this early age that I began to hone my interview and reporting skills. Interviewing her boyfriends on the couch and reporting back to other guy friends of hers or to my parents. Now I know why I majored in journalism (broadcast no less, in college).
The fun drives in the Capri included some clothes shopping trips too, usually to the Mayfield Mall or San Antonio Rd. shopping center. This was always fun because Sue had to bring me into the dressing room. After returning from one of these trips, I sat and quietly checked out my mother while she was doing things in the kitchen. Our mom sensed I was deep in thought and had something to say. After asking me "Stacy, honey, is there something you want to talk about?" I proceeded to ask her a simple question. One that can stay with you for years if you're on the receiving end. Sorry for all of the therapy over this one Mom! I said "Mommy, am I going to be more like Susie or you when I grow up?" With that, our mom either asked me or sensed that I was inquiring about how I'd turn out after puberty. She responded "Honey, I think you'll be more like your sister". Apparently my body relaxed, I breathed a loud sound of relief, said "Oh, great! Thanks mommy" and bounded back upstairs.
Sue moved out of our area and got a new car in San Diego. I was thrilled to know that the fun just continued, regardless of the car. When I moved to San Diego while attending SDSU, Sue and I had many, many fun times doing things together. We drove to the beach, to stores, out to eat, etc. She even was patient enough to drive around with me while I was determined to find Tom Cruise (she made the mistake of telling me he was there to film "Top Gun").
By car, bus, plane, or by our feet...never mattered really because I have always loved the time I was able to spend with my big sister. I mean, to think that she put up with such a pesky (that's being nice) younger sister and that we are best friends at age 40 and nearly 50!! I am truly, truly blessed. Our driving experiences just continue to change over the years. Now I know I can bring Sue along for a true "driving school" refresher!! I love you Sue, get ready for some more silly cards in the mail!
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