Things you learn during 8 hours in a hot car

1. I was very much a child when I bought my red 1997 escort wagon, at least when it came to major purchases like cars. Despite my apparent adulthood and ability to drive and drink (though not at the same time, naturally), I decidedly didn't have a clue what I was doing.

2. The escort's lack of air conditioning and tape/cd player and cruise control are evidence of this general cluelessness.

3. Today is the 40th anniversary of Jimi Hendrix playing that famous feedback-rich rendition of the Star Spangled Banner at the last day of Woodstock.

4. Today is also the 40th birthday of Donny Wahlberg of the New Kids on the Block (this thing is hereby designated "I feel old, part 1").

5. Also, according to a radio station in west central Wisconsin, Journey's "Don't Stop Believing" and Guns n Roses' "November Rain" are now "classic rock" ("I feel old, part 2").

6. Trips go faster if you stop less often.

7. Ceisaf still recognizes the streets leading to our Champaign home.

8. The next car will have ac, a cd player/ipod jack, and cruise control.