Member-only story
A Backseat Driver Known from Maryland to Hawaii
Let me tell you about the time my brother, Middle Brother (not his real name), became enshrined in the records of the most famous backseat drivers.
Our cousin — let’s call him Jack (maybe because that’s his real name) — was visiting our family in Baltimore County with his wife, Diane. They came all the way from Hawaii to see us. They helped my parents and me in many ways during their stay. They also hung out with Eldest Brother and Middle Brother.
So how did Middle Brother get involved? It was all about a brewery near his house.
Beer and Breweries
Jack and Diane both love to travel. Jack loves finding the best craft breweries wherever he goes. Sampling beers with cool names at restaurants. Rating the beers he samples on an app.
During his trips to see us, Jack had tried beers throughout our region — Baltimore County, Ellicott City, Ocean City, and even the beaches of Delaware.
That wasn’t enough. Middle Brother really wanted to make sure that Jack got to sample the beer at a place near his house in Harford County, Maryland.
The Plans Are Set
The trip was planned. They’d go to a restaurant at the Avenue at White Marsh, a popular shopping area near his house. This is what’s called a lifestyle center. Instead of a traditional strip shopping center, visitors are treated to landscaping and attractive shopfronts, all outside area instead of under a roof.
The sights included a brewery and restaurant Middle Brother wanted to share with his cousin.
But there was a catch.
Who would drive them back?
OK, it was me.
Enter the Obedient Sister
I didn’t need much cajoling. An excursion. A lunch with relatives. And there was a Barnes and Noble near the restaurant. Dangle a bookstore in front of me, and I’ll go anywhere. I’ll even agree to be the designated driver.
Middle Brother drove us to the Avenue so I would get used to the route. Before our lunch, I browsed in the Barnes and Noble. The others browsed the boutiques and chatted.
