i also contemplated the meaning of the driving school symbol (behind my head)... "learn how to drive with us and we'll slow you down"? or "drive with us, you shall become the proverbial hare on the back of a tortoise"... hmmmm, does this explain the bad drivers in japan? while i was out cycling yesterday, i realized what i take into account on the road: there's the usual blind spot that i watch out for and also there's a special 'not paying attention spot' that i am very cautious of. i hate to say it but the women drivers in this country are much worse than the men. they are so indecisive. i've been stuck at a four way stop watching four women sit behind the wheels of their vehicles and bow to each other nervously, waiting for someone to go... *sigh* it can be frustrating.