I read a lot of books. Sometimes I read to escape. Other times I read to learn. But most often I read just because I enjoy reading.
Last week I had to go to the Secretary of State to renew my driver's license. I had everything all planned out. Paperwork in the bag and wonderful book in my bag to read while waiting. I was even late leaving because my book was so interesting. (Extra reading as a result of freezing temperatures and a day off.)
Finally arrived that Secretary of State. Took my number from the machine. Prepared to sit down and continue reading my book.
What??
Where were all the people???
I saw three (that is 3) people sitting!!! I hope you understand I have NEVER seen the Secretary of State office like that. Never!
I sat down. Still holding my number. Getting ready to take my book from my bag.
"60"
That's my number!
I looked at my book little sadly. I had not even had time to take it out of my bag. I really wanted to read!
"Do you want to buy the state park permit?"
"Okay, move over by the screen and we'll take your photo."
"Now you are all done. You'll get your new license in the mail."
That was it? In less than 5 minutes I was done (it might have been even less than 4 minutes)?
What happened to me reading my book? I was in the middle of an exciting part. I had to find out what Ann would do next.
What was I reading? Come back next Tuesday to find out!
This has never, EVER happened to me. Going to get a license or a renewal at the SOS office is one of my most despised activities ever. I'm glad to hear that your visit there was short, even if it meant that you missed out on some much anticipated reading time. I hope you took that extra time to visit somewhere nice like a coffee shop so you could catch up on those pages in comfort. :)
ReplyDeleteJennifer
WOW! I love how you step by step share your confusion over the unexpected non-wait time! You also show what a great planner you are and also how you expect a certain order, in this case, you expect the inefficient wait so you have that BOOK with you. And what a great ending. I do want to know what you are reading so I'll be looking for your next post!!
ReplyDeleteIt usually takes me 5 minutes to renew my license as well. The majority of the time is spent waiting for the new one to print. I don't think I have ever had more than two people ahead of me when I went. Looking forward to next week to see what book you chose.
ReplyDeleteAmazing. That has never happened to me, Jaana. Lucky you, & you could go home, read your book & have a cup of tea!
ReplyDeleteLast time I went the wait to get to the counter was only about a half hour. then, I had to wait about 45 minutes for my photo! UGH! I'm glad to hear your went so quickly. It gives the rest of us hope.
ReplyDeleteWow - that's a lucky break! The DMV is the worst place to be in New Jersey - so much wasted time!
ReplyDeleteI don't think I have ever heard anyone being sorry to not have to wait. Yet, as a reader, I can understand your point of view. I am curious as to what you are currently reading.
ReplyDeleteHahaha!!! This made me laugh out loud! I totally get it! I can't wait to hear what you are reading! I'd guess Anne of Green Gables, but that Anne has an -e at the end of her name! Thanks for a great post!
ReplyDeleteI've had some long waits, through the years, at the DMV in NJ and PENNDOT here in PA. Glad you didn't have a long wait. Where do you live again?
ReplyDeleteThe last time I had to renew my license, I was able to complete it online. So much easier. I love the teaser at the end because of course I want to know what you are reading!
ReplyDeleteJust when you finally show up prepared! Sure enough, if you had no book, you'd have been there for hours. :)
ReplyDeleteYou are such a tease! Yeah for quickness at DMV, but boo hoo that you didn't get to read.
ReplyDeleteSo funny, Jaana! Our Department of Motor Vehicles are in the process of closing and we'll get our licenses at the tax collectors; offices--I've never not waited at least an hour. Amazing! Love the disappointment I hear in your voice.
ReplyDeleteI was trying to pay attention (and mostly I did) but your something in your slice distracted me. It was when you said you had to go to the Secretary of State to renew your driver's license. This kept grabbing my attention because I had NEVER heard this before. I was thinking...where does Jaana live...the Secretary of State must be like the Department of Motor Vehicles...but why does she go there. So it shows how a reader's background knowledge changes the meaning. That became the bigger mystery to me than what book had you were so engaged with. Funny...
ReplyDeleteGreat little story, Jaana. Life is so unexpected!
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