Lawbreaker

I never thought that word would describe me, but for the past three months, that's what I've been.

A lawbreaker.

Every time I got behind the wheel of my car, I was a lawbreaker.  I didn't need to speed or roll through a stop sign or change lanes without using my turn signal.  Nope, all I had to do to break the law was drive to the mall or the grocery store or Bible study or even just around the block.

And the worst part of it all?  I didn't even know that I was a lawbreaker.  Not that my ignorance would have made any difference if I had been stopped by a police officer, especially since I'm way past the age where a sparkly smile or tears could sway a male in uniform with a ticket book in his hand.

So what's my crime?  What have I blithely been doing for the last three months that could have landed me in jail?

I've been driving around with an expired drivers license!

Today I was looking for a check that I should have cashed last week (I found it) and I came across a notice from the Illinois Secretary of State informing me that my license would expire on July 29, 2011.  Jesse White wanted me to know that I could renew my license by mail or in person at any conveniently located DMV office.

Thanks Jesse.  Too bad I didn't rush right out and renew my license when I received your friendly reminder.

Tomorrow my husband will drive me to the DMV in Wheaton -- I don't want to risk driving myself -- so I can finally be legal again.  I hope there's not a penalty fee for late renewal.

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