Grandma agreed I would drive. My eyes were laser focused, glued to the Turnpike. I felt the thrill of control as my hands gripped the wheel at ten and two. Grandma rode shotgun beside me, spouting directions I ignored. The engine sputtered as I pressed the gas down to test the full speed of the old classic car. I slowed to expertly maneuver the sharp turn ahead and Grandma nodded her approval. I’d gotten the taste of freedom that day, which made it hard to exit the Dutch Wonderland Classic Car ride and return to my five-year-old life.
Julie Ann Cassol is a love warrior. She teaches, reads, writes, paints, and hikes. She lives with her dog, Daisy.