Hello from Sunny California! As some of you know, I posted lots of photos of our cross-country train trip on Twitter . . . but I know not everyone is on Twitter, so I thought I’d do a little recap here for those of you who missed it. I’m posting from our hotel room in Seal Beach, California, starting with MUSICA and a question:
Let’s do both at the same time! You will need sustenance for this post! I’m not kidding. I would suggest you make a pot! I’ve been working on this post off and on, between visits with my family, early in the morning, getting the photos together, this is my third day . . . and here we go!
So this was me (and Joe), in our train “room with the view” crossing the country the pretty way, from Boston to Los Angeles, “Twittering from the Twain,” a very human, feet on the ground type of travel. And with all the connectivity we have today, it’s very easy to “work” on a train. Not a lot of sketching and painting, because of the train rocking, but almost anything else; knitting, writing in diary, reading, having tea, anything on the computer; all is possible on the train.
We start at dawn on Martha’s Vineyard with a boat ride. This is what it looks like when the first morning boat comes in, lots of worker bees coming to the island, trucks and cars unloading and loading. I discovered, watching this, that the new-man purse is a cooler. Almost every guy getting off the boat carried one ~ I figured out it was more than just lunch when I saw someone open his and pull out a hat! See that cart in the background, upper right ~ when you come and go from the island, you put your luggage on the cart, they drive it on and you can pick up your stuff on the other side. Very sane. In thirty years, we’ve never had anything go missing.
Joe is just finishing putting our luggage on the cart.
And off we go, 45 min to the mainland.
Arriving in blue-sky Boston at about 10:30 am.
South Station and here’s our stuff, on the cart, ready to board.
South Station . . .Boston, USA.
Our other three black bags on the cart behind Joe will be put in the luggage car; we won’t see them until LA. We of the “bring it all mentality” (if that counts as a mentality) will have these bags in our room. Joe is in cat-bird seat of joy of travel. See Club Acela in the background? That’s where we go to wait for our train.
Anyone who has a room on the train, gets to hang out in the Club Acela (most big cities have them) and drink free cokes and coffee and have free pastries while waiting for the train to arrive.
And here it is. All Aboard! Are you ready? The red cap comes and gets us and our bags, we follow him to the train and he deposits us and our stuff in our room with a view.
This is the viewing perch. We have brought the necessities of life for train travel. I’ve been taking the train to California and back since the 1980’s when I realized just how much I did not enjoy the whole flying experience, since, despite appearances these days, I am not cattle, and so I decided to try something else. And fell in love with the quiet gentleness of it.
We get settled, hang up our jackets, get out our books, and soon, in the gentlest possible way, the train moves a tiny bit, and then, rocking gently, we lumber out of the station on the first leg of our trip. There are hooks in the room, perfect for hanging these very accommodating French market bags filled with the little extras from home that make life sweet, carrots, oranges, celery and peanut butter, gingersnaps, and somewhere in there, a large chocolate bar. You can see what you want through the holes before you go for it.
I used to only bring an extension cord. But we had to get over that as we’ve been “gifted” with more and more electric equipment: must have: battery chargers for iphone and camera, cord for computer, then there is the most important of all, the tea pot.
Because what is morning without your own cup of tea in your room with a view? Minus the normal styrofoam cups. Why? Because we can. Oh, so civilized.
And so here we go . . . with appropriate MUSICA . . . to see how America is looking these days . . . past lakes and rivers . . . it’s
She is looking wonderful, as we ride along roadsides . . .
Passing traffic as we leave the city . . . Where our train, speeding in one direction, and this truck going in the other, gives quite an interesting distortion for the camera.
And then it gets truly beautiful as we head toward Chicago . . . a one-and-a-half-day overnight trip from Boston.
The gentle rocking movement of the train encourages three things, sleeping, eating, and watching out the window. It is exactly the same sort of “watching” we do when we watch flames in the fireplace, or the Atlantic ocean when we cross on a ship. Mesmerizing.
It’s fall, in case you didn’t notice!
East of Chicago, trains are different than the ones on the west side of the country. The west-side ones are double-deckers, with rooms upstairs and down. The trains on the east are like these, only one level but with high windows. Doubling the viewing pleasure.
What can I say? This part of the country is all rivers and streams, lakes and trees and woods.
Our dear conductor did very nice thing and opened back of train so I could take a photo, so I could see it the way Lincoln saw it, or Roosevelt, from their little porches on the backs of trains. Train travel is our heritage. The history of it is long and interesting.
the views from the lounge were spectacular . . .
And so it goes, rocking and swaying down the tracks . . .
And this is the perfect place to do it!
On a very colorful day . . .
We are going fast and the late afternoon sun is turning everything gold. Thank you God.
Weather was coming into Chicago, and as we got closer we felt it and saw it . . . I just love this photo. The train moves so quickly that often you just don’t get the photos you want. This one was a little miracle.
Hill and dale . . .westward we went . . .
It began to rain . . . I loved the way this tree was dropping its leaves. Lots more nature for the viewing down here at people level than at 30,000 feet. Leaves blow past our window in constant tatters, piles of them flying by too fast for our cameras to catch.
We stop all along the way, night and day, to pick up and let off passengers.
Many streets and neighborhoods look like this. You often see pumpkins on people’s porches ~
and once, at four AM Halloween morning, we were stopped in a train station somewhere, I looked out the window and saw a witch getting on the train! Hat and all! No, I did not go looking for her, I stayed tucked in my bed. Next day, Chicago . . .
And here we are, arriving in Chicago.
Back to Club Acela . . . we were late coming in; so what is usually a six-hour lay-over between trains, was only one. That was good news and bad news. Bad news: no Michigan Ave for shopping and lunch. Good news: it was freezing and storming out there, not fit for man nor beast, and we didn’t have long to wait for the next train, the one that would take us the rest of the way, to Los Angeles.
In the station, amazingly accommodating Red Caps pick you up at the train in these little carts, see the wagon on the back? That’s our luggage; we sit on the front. They deposit you in the Club Acela, then come back and get you when it’s time to go. Heaven forbid we should walk the length of a train! Actually we did give our cart up on our way in, to someone who had walking issues, but on the way back, we had it all to ourselves.
And here we are again, in our room with a view, heading west ~ we each have our own window, there is one behind me too.
And just in case you would like to see the dining car, this is it. It’s where we sit for each meal (if we want to come, they will even deliver it to your room if you ask nicely); meals come with your ticket, but tips are appreciated by the servers. We are usually seated with perfect strangers from every walk of life, from 747 pilots, to Amish couples, to people traveling through America from other countries, kids going back to college, doctors coming home from conferences and us. Some are very friendly, rarely someone isn’t, but politeness is the name of the game in this room.
Here’s the breakfast menu . . .
I think they might be lying when they say this is the low-cal choice! Of course, being the health nut that I am, this is what I had, every day.
On the left, those are two Albuquerque doctors we actually met later that night at dinner; they just happen to be in this picture; and that’s Joe behind them with his camera. This is the Observation car, speaking of rooms with views.
The thing to do, if you want to travel by train, is get an Amtrak credit card (Chase, Mastercard) … you get points, and travel for free. Oh yes, you do!
Can you imagine? Free! While rocking in your little bed on the train.
And the moon too, and the stars, all from your bed. There are many in congress who would like to do away with the train system (not the freight part, just the people part). Over the years I have seen a huge difference as they cut back on everything. Many of our routes have already been discontinued; a few years ago they came this far →.← from taking away the Boston to Albany 
route, which meant I would have had to drive five hours to get the train in New York to get to Chicago! We were saved by the bell, but it’s a very bare bones route these days, no dining car for one thing; and often not the kind of repairs you would hope to see in the sleeping cars. But many other routes have not fared even this well; they are already starting to put trains in museums. Some folks have to drive hundreds of miles to get on a train. Beggars can’t be choosers. It’s a terrible thing in my opinion . . . and in the opinion of this guy . . .
Just a regular person, not an Amtrak employee (fighting for his middle class job), but just someone who cares, who took the time to write this smart letter, make copies and leave them lying around in the lounge car. I could not agree more. Even if you will never take the train yourself, I would hope our children could see our world from these windows if they want to. It’s voting day, an appropriate time to think about the stuff that makes America great; personally I vote a straight “I love the train” ticket. Train lovers love America, they love the middle class. Trains use much less energy than any other form of travel, they could even be updated using our wonderful American we-can-do-it kind of know-how; it costs nothing to drag along a few extra train cars . . . maybe a massage car, or a meditation car, a car for MUSICA, a children’s play room, a library, a tour guide or lecturer, or any old thing; I wish Disney would buy it! But not to be too picky, if we could at least just keep what we have I would be happy. The cross-country trains provide much needed down time in this crazy world of ours, that’s something to protect.
FYI, with l♥ve from the Heart of the Home and me.
Back to our regularly scheduled programming.
And now, for your arm-chair training enjoyment, the wide open spaces of the wild and wonderful Mid-West . . .
Skies began to clear, the storm was behind us . . . And here is just a part of the Heartland of our beautiful country. Falling in Love with the English Countryside? Now we fall in Love with the American Countryside.
Where generations of families came from all over the world to make a place for themselves; here they farmed the land. I know some would have us believe there is a disconnect between the coasts and the Midwest, but I don’t think so. So many of us have roots here, my mom was born in Iowa, I think the Iowa in me is my best part!
Here they laid mile after mile of track; we see houses that are so far from each other, we’re pretty sure they must celebrate Halloween at The Grange! It is not neighborhood door-to-door trick-or-treat around here! But when we have come ‘cross country on the train at Christmas time, we’ve seen every house lined in colored lights. It was touching to see them, those houses, some seemingly in the middle of nowhere, twinkling celebration in the dark, the whole country, lit up cities and towns, pulled together in gratitude.
Another sunset, getting redder all the time, as we go toward Colorado . . . whistle blowing across the land . . .
And stop here in Albuquerque. Sometimes we get off here, get a car at the airport and drive one hour to Santa Fe, then up and over the mountains to see our family in Durango . . .
It’s always a one-hour layover, they wash the windows and we get to walk and drink in the fresh air . . . and look at the Native American jewelry they sell in the station.
The dirt in New Mexico is red! The sky is blue, the trees are green and the adobe is either white or brick colored. It’s very primary out here.
And now for the land of sagebrush and rock . . . it’s cowboy country right outside your window . . .
There’s a poem called Out Where the West Begins written in 1917 that sings a song of this part of the country . . .
“Out where a fresher breeze is blowing . . .”
“Where there’s laughter in every streamlet flowing . . .”
“That’s where the west begins . . .”
One more of these . . .
And the next morning we come over the mountains to arrive in Los Angeles, our destination, and travel spot for the next three weeks.
Yes, to go away we had to leave these faces for three weeks . . . and it was hard, but our friends, Will and Debby, are staying at our house on the island and sending photos and we know they are in good hands . . . And in exchange . . .
We get this . . . for the last two days we’ve been with these faces; my nephews, along with my mom and my sister Shelly ~ and my sister’s twins, Paden, on the left and Mason, on the right. They are eleven and this is the first time in my life I’ve totally been able to tell them apart. Whew! Maybe they can now forgive me for all the times I’ve had to say, “Which one are you?”
Paden on the left, Mason on the right. Poor things, they don’t know how to have fun. I feel so bad for them.
They helped us move into our hotel . . .
After they finished with the cart . . .
which took a while . . .
But we finally got it together . . . it’s so nice to have some (extra) men around the house. ♥
Yes, I know, I’m almost done being delightful. 🙂 I just want you to know, it might take me a while to get your comments moderated (which I have to do in order to prevent spam from loading up our comment section), but I’ll get there ~ never fear. We’re off to my mom’s as soon as I get done here. Until then, one small favor? If you could close your eyes for a moment and say a little prayer for Blog Daddy, he doesn’t feel well. We’re going see him in Arizona on our way home in a couple of weeks, but until then, could you please surround him with your blessings, Girlfriends? Thank you! You are the best! XOXO to you and a special Muah! to Blog Daddy. ♥
If you don’t have our November Calendar, here’s what you almost missed! Happy November Girlfriends! XOXO Make it a wonderful one for you and the ones you love.
Susan, so happy to get caught up on your travels! We were in Oregon visiting my daughter and her family, so I missed your twittering!! What a wonderful blog! I would be utterly devastated if they did away with our trains!! I haven’t ridden on one since childhood, but it is a dream of mine to do so – maybe the California coastal trip. How horrible it would be to not have that wonderful option!! :'(
Love from Mary S. in Fresno, CA
Love this blog-when do you have time to sleep? Prayers for Blog Daddy.
What a beautiful train ride through America!! It is also our favorite way to travel! To be greeted by two darling boys!! such a treat Enjoy your time and our weather here in California. Pray for some more rain when you leave! We need it!!!
Susan thank you for taking me along. I had so much fun❤️Sending a prayer and a healing hug to Blog Daddy
First of all, saying special loving, healing prayers for Blog Daddy! Hugs to you, Jack! Second, I just love this trip along on the twain! Have always wanted to make such a trip….about as far as I get is from Milwaukee to Chicago….so far! I love seeing the Autumn harvested farm fields….the white church steeples in the distance….the gray, cloudy skies threatening a storm. It’s all so wonderful across our great nation and you capture it so well, Susan! Have a wonderful time in LA with your friends and family and a safe trip home. Hugs….Karen P.
I am truly jealous. I think I’m going to hop a train to CA just because 🙂
Welcome to So.Cal. Susan it’s been a wonderful journey bringing us on the train! If all goes well I’ll be in Santa Barbara to meet you!!!! But most important my prayers and all the love possible is been sent so Blog Daddy fells well soon. with much love, Patricia
XOXOXOX
Hi Susan! We love to travel on the train too! I am curious, have you ever noticed the train car made into a home right by the station in Lamy, NM? The conductor let me jump off and take pictures of it! Re-reading your newest book I got from you in Wichita, KS. You should see how big our grandson, the baby you held, has gotten. Blessings!
Yes, of course I’ve taken photos of it too . . . but only from inside the train! There’s another one now, one on each side. It’s cute in Lamy!
I like Lamy too! I will have to look for the other one next time I go through! Blessings!
Oh! Susan, what a wonderful trip to the other side of the country. I have never been on a train trip, but seeing the photos as you roll along, makes me wish to take one NOW!! You have such a gift, in how you share your days for us, in your special creative ways. Thank you so much. I hope you can imagine the joy you give us with your words, paintings, recipes, trips, and the kitties. Hope for good weather, no travel mishaps, and lots of family delights.
Thank you so much, Susan, for posting this to us who are “twitterless” so we may be able to enjoy your trip too! Love the scenery…Special prayers for Blog Daddy too!
Oh Susan, I love being in the train with you and relishing the beauty and diversity of this amazing country! Thanks for bringing us along. Enjoy California and your family. And of course I’ll remember your dad in my prayers. I pray that you two get a nice visit in a few weeks. Safe travels!
Wow, wow , wow, what a wonderful glimpse of your train trip !!! It’s very upsetting that they are trying to discontinue passenger train travel ! I think you may have a brilliant idea there about Disney taking it over ! I just bought the August book at our local bookstore, was planning to go to one of your signings but, my husband just had spinal surgery. He’s doing well but it’s so stressful—- reading my book is bringing me much pleasure . Prayers for your Dad & wishing you a happy trip!
xoxo Best to you and your husband Pat!
America the Beautiful indeed ~ how I’ve enjoyed the journey from the Twain! Did you notice that the landscape seems to change on each state border? On the three times I drove across America, I found you could mark within a few miles when you crossed the state line as the landscape changed markedly. Maybe it was just my imagination. Anyway, my favourite image of all is the one just above ‘America The Beautiful’ because it looks like an oil painting capturing the speed of the train ~ but they are all very beautiful, each and every one!
I’m shocked to read about the closures. Scandalous! They won’t know what they had until it’s gone, will they? Dr Beeching all over again, and look what a disaster that turned out to be.
Sending prayers and a blanket of light and love to Blog Daddy to feel better very soonest!
~~~waving~~~From Across The Pond ~~~ Debs in Wales ~~~ xoxo
Oh Susan……..one of your most lovely posts 🙂 My Daddy worked for Southern Pacific as the District Claims Manager for the Pacific Northwest…….the start of my lifelong love of train travel. So many happy memories! Prayers and good thoughts for your precious Daddy too…….
How wonderful for you to be brought up around the trains . . . Joe’s dad was involved with them too.
! wanna go on a train trip!!!! I loved this post…Our country has so much to offer….Many many years ago, we drove cross country, Seattle to Virginia Beach, stayed a year, and then drove back across….2 different routes…I love America and what it has to offer all of us….We took 14 days going to Va. and then 10 coming back….So much to see and people to meet and enjoy..I so envy you this trip….I have never gone on a lengthy train trip…just from Seattle to Portland, Oregon….and that is fun! I want to do it again, only go further and have a “room with a view”…..Thank you for all the pictures….So glad you are in sunny California for a short stay and seeing your Mom and family….Sending good thoughts and prayers to your Dad on the gentle breezes from Bainbridge Island to Az…….Have a wonderful stay and enjoy every day of sunshine! You are my sunshine………Oh happy days, from my Island to you….
Oh, my, how I love this post. Hugs to Mom and those two delightful nephews and your sister, hugs and kisses to precious Jack. He delighted me a few months past by answering a couple questions I’d directed to him through your blog. He is a dear, sweet, strong man (after all, he is your daddy!) and I will hold him close in my thoughts and prayers. I’m glad you and Joe have arrived safely and will be able to spend time with him.
Thank you Shannon!
Oh! This takes me back. What fond memories I have of traveling across the country on a train in the 60’s. Thanks for sharing all of these wonderful photos and details. Mom would pack a grocery sack full of crackers and Velveeta cheese to last us for the 2.5 days on our trip. We got to eat one meal (breakfast, I think), one time in the dining car. I was in heaven!
Remembering your Dad in prayer!
Love it Joy!
Loved that photo of the church and the clouds ~ Reminds me of a Maxfield Parrish painting! Warmest wishes, wings and prayers for your ailing dad ~ Wishing him many better days ahead. Enjoy this special time with your family and loved ones. xxoo
Me too, Maxfield Parrish . . . those clouds! xoxo Thank you Kim.
good morning Susan and girlfriends!! what a wonderful trip across the country with all the beautiful Autumn trees in full glory. it figures they would try to cut out trains and explains a lot since we haven’t seen a train out here in over 4 years, we used to have trains coming through town all the time and now we seldom see even one. how sad that anyone would want to cut out train transportation, its the only way to go when traveling cross country. not much going on here, everyone is settling in for the cold winter ahead. sending loads of prayers and loving hugs to blog daddy, I hope he gets to feeling well real soon. enjoy your time in California, and have a safe trip home. off to go check on the barnyard crowd and to refill the water tubs and pools for them. have a great day today….. hugs everyone… 🙂
Ohhh, yes. That’s probably what happened. Hello and blessings on the barnyard crowd, Pat!
We need a “like” button on this blog. Beautiful photos, Susan. Have a wonderful time in California.
Excellent idea, Rita!!
I know! A “LIKE” button is desperately needed here. About every 5 seconds, I find myself going to “like” something on Sue’s blog and – no button. :>)
Such a lovely blog. Enjoy your stay in California. I just said a prayer for your Dad. Hope he’s up and around real soon!
It’s so fun to see the country this way. I have never had the pleasure of traveling by train, and it’s sad beyond measure to think of the train system being done away with.
After 30 years in the computer and technology industry, my husband lost his job and was unable to find another – totally frightening at our ages. But he was led to took into the trucking industry, something he was was always interested in. After going to truck driving school, he is currently in Fontana CA completing his orientation this week with a trucking company, and hopefully will be on the road next week. If so, he will be traveling the 11 western states and Texas. His dream was to travel and see the country, and now he will have the chance, though in a very different way.
I have been thinking about how life can change 180 degrees in next to no time. I am strengthened by the examples of others (yourself included) who have been through the same thing and have endured to the end and found a better life on the other side. We are learning what is needful and what is not, and more importantly, how to focus on our blessings every day.
I am thankful for you, Susan, and how you share so much with us. Your blog is fun, sunshiny, beautiful, and lifts me up every time I read it. I’m so looking forward to your next book. Love to you and Joe, and to Girl Kitty and Jack. (Can you feel all the good wishes and love that are sent your way?) =^..^=
That was so beautiful Mona. You and your husband are an inspiration . . . life does give us about-faces sometimes, the only way to deal with it is to deal with it. Congratulations! I hope he LOVES his new freedom and the views that go with them. Yes, I do feel the love, I hope you do too. xoxo
What a treat to ‘ride along’ with you on your trip west! Thank you for sharing your wonderful life! Saying a prayer right now for your dad…
Prayers complete for blog daddy and you! Beautiful blog Susan! Thank you! Love.
We are just holding on to the Indianapolis to Chicago Amtrak line. Hubby and I are going out to near Boston in May to see our daughter and her family. I finally convinced him to take the train! We’ll catch the Amtrak in our town, take it to Chicago, and then off to the Boston area!
I’m thinking of taking Murder on the Orient Express to read on the way. 😉
Oh Brenda, I hope you don’t lose it! LOL, perfect book!
Susan, That is a dream trip…one I hope to take some day. I have only traveled from South Bend , Indiana to Chicago, Illinois., for Christmas shopping. I love trains so much. Saying prayers for your daddy. Bless you and Joe , stay safe, xoxo,Susie
wow. what a wonderful, joyous blessing to find you all settled in on your train-trip!! maybe those who would discontinue train-travel should be fastened onto the front of a train and get a ride that way….ah, yes….somewhat disgusted with their “ilk” am I !!!! forgive my “harshness”…..but, I am quite confident most will agree. many, many hugs & prayers for blog-daddy!!!! and, I will direct my prayers to “Saint John-of-God” who is our patron saint of those with heart-problems…which I assume it is, your dad having had surgery some short time ago. in any case…prayers do help, don’t they? a real comfort. do have a wonderful visit with all family and friends out there. thank, tons, for doing this blog-visit….no twitter, etc, in my realm. ( I can hardly navigate e-mail!). to keep me happy, I always go to your wonderful archives, and click onto each month, of each year, to keep in the spirit of the whirling world. sooooo, thank you, much, for that availability as well. enjoying nov. of 2011 these days…..happily. and, to all who haven’t yet done so…..VOTE!!!!!!! hopefully, for those who support essentials….like train-travel !!!! and, RIP to Tom Magliozzi of Car-Talk. take care and be happily well, Susan and Joe. again, thanks!!!!!
Yes, Tom, Car Talk Bro, will miss him so much! xoxo Thank you Chris.
For Blog~Daddy! 🙂 Jack! 🙂 Warm Hugzzz….. Lots of Love… Healing Prayers & Lots of Feel~Better Pixie~Dust! xoxo Poof! ✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✫ 🙂 Hello California~Girl 🙂 THANK~YOU for This Wonderful Blog~Post Sweet Sue! I Have Loved Every Tweet From The Twain & Now This!!!!! Each Photo is Wonderful!!! All The Autumn Cross Country…Magical… I Love Today’s Musica! The Perfect Soundtrack for This Post! 🙂 The Twins Are Oh So Cute! & Growing Up! What did They Dress Up As for Halloween? 🙂 🙂 Three Glorious Weeks Of Traveling & Visiting Your Loved Ones & Working….Savor Every Moment… Jack & Girl Are Safe & Sound & Just Think When You & Joe Return….The Kitties Will Be Doing The “They’re~HOME” Jiggity~Jig! 😉 Sending Love & Hugzzzz & Sweet November Pixie~Dust Sweetest Sue! Have Fun! & Thank~You For Bringing Us Along! 🙂 xoxo Poof! ✫*¨*.¸¸.✶*¨`*.✫*¨*.¸¸.✫*¨*.¸¸. 🙂
They dressed up as total monsters, masks, claws and all. My sister showed me the photos, yikes.
Yikes! Booooo! Happy Scary~Halloween! Yay! 🙂 🙂
Susan, Thanks for your supportive comments re:Amtrak . We have fallen behind other developed countries in this respect . I’ve read that Europe has modern, high-speed trains and we could do the same . (btw, no vested interests here ) …. Amtrak has a Facebook page , with over 400,000 likes . I hope some readers here, visit their page & click like . I’m taking your advice, Susan , and checking that my Representatives support expanding & improving our rail system. We once traveled via train to Disneyworld from New England , when our son was 6 . It’s a great family vacation memory . Love the photos & your commentary ! All the best ! 🙂
Thank you Joan! I love the idea of high speed between cities, but for myself, I like it to go across country the slow way . . . but that’s just me, there are a thousand opinions out there, all of them good ones! Like the quote says, “If we’re all thinking alike, that means somebody’s not thinking!”
Oh I definitely agree ! We need high speed rail for business travelers & others, where time is important ……and a slower train for sightseers , when the trip experience is as important as the destination. We should definitely have both , plus world-class improvements . Thank you & Happy Trails ! 🙂
ps: the fellow who wrote that letter you came upon on the train…Charlie st. Clair of Laconia, NH……we moved to va. from alton, nh, last year……just a town away from laconia…it was heartwarming to see that letter. he’s a good man. thank you, soooo much, for sharing that!!!!
Loved the virtual train ride! It looks so inviting and your pictures are beautiful. Thanks for sharing pictorial evidence that America is truly “The Beautiful!” Hope everyone voted so we can keep it that way. Will add Blog Daddy to my prayer list.
Susan and Joe…..
You have just reached all your girlfriends….So all of us will be praying for your dad. With all the joy and love and blogs and prayers you have given us over the years…I believe all of us can give more than just one good thought and prayer…maybe a Novena. With all the laughter and great advice that your dad has been giving us…(and believe me he has made my day great so many times)…I and my husband will be saying prayers for him to get well soon. Take care …and rest assured that Your Dad is in God’s Hands. Enjoy your time in California….we got it all washed and cleaned up for your visit. (we had a little rain) hahahaha
Thanks for the wonderful view of our great country. Love, Susan P.
Thank you dear Susan. xoxo
Saying many prayers for our Blog Daddy. You’ve been good to share him with us and we all love him! Get well soon, Blog Daddy!
And Susan………..many thanks for the lovely trip you’ve just given us. It’s been SPLENDID! My heart is full…….
Maybe those who use horse and buggy ,do not find the train a civilized way to travel.All that jiggling around.The train like many things of the past,is on the way out.I rather travel fast and spend more days with the people that count, my loved ones.Beautiful scenery is everywhere.
Now, I don’t need to see it because you have showed me.Thank you very much:-) you can pray for my daddy too.
I bet your loved ones would rather you took the slow way. 🙂 But you’re right, the train isn’t for everyone. It’s just an option I hope we can hold on to.
🙂 🙂
Aw! Thank you for THAT! I’ve never taken the train across the country, but it does sound FUN! Maybe I should get one of those credit cards!
We took the train/subway around Taipei a short time ago and I must say, trains that go EVERYWHERE are extremely smart. Our little Denver Light Rail is growing and that’s a good thing for us.
Your photos are lovely! Your nephews are darling! So fun!
Take care in Cali, good Susan!
Thank you dearest Pom Pom … xoxo
What a marvelous journey! The prices for breakfast weren’t cheap though, were they!
No, but they’re free if you have a room.
Thank you for the fun trip tik! I loved every minute of it. I wish I could take a trip on a train someday. It looks like so much fun! I already said my prayers for your dad..and will keep saying them until I hear he is on the mend. Enjoy your time with your mom, your sister, and your nephews. It’s beautiful and golden here in up-state, NY.
Oh, how I love trains! My grandfather worked for railroads starting in 1940 at age 18 until he retired at age 66 from BNSF. When he and my grandma were first married, they lived in a rail car that had been rudely converted into living quarters, complete with wallpapered walls. A joke with my grandpa was how my grandma stoked the woodstove too high and the heat caused the wallpaper to fall off the walls. My grandpa was the depot agent and part of his duty was to check cars and their numbers at all times of the day. He told stories of walking along the tracks and having to look out for sleeping vagrants so as not to disturb their slumber and how he had to be careful of lumber trains as they passed in the night so as not to get hit by boards that had become dislodged. I’ve never traveled by train but I dream of traveling to San Francisco on the California Zephyr. Maybe in a few years for my 50th birthday in honor of my dear grandpa!
Good ole train stories!
Oh, what an awesome post, Susan. We have an incredibly beautiful country! I loved seeing the pictures of the mid-west . . . I was born in Iowa and although I have traveled through the country, have only been back once to Iowa since my parents came back to California. Thank you, have a great time and I am praying for Blog Daddy’s quick recovery! Kathy
Welcome back to CA! Thank you once again for bringing us along on one of your wonderful trips. I’m thinking my husband and I need to take this trip, in the reverse, at some point. Our country is so beautiful and you captured some awesome shots. Sending prayers and healing thoughts to your Blog Daddy! <3
Enjoy your time here with family and friends.
I just loved this post, Susan! In 1992 my husband and our two children took the Amtrak from Oregon to Illinois to visit family. Some thought we were crazy for not flying…but I didn’t care. That trip is one of my best memories!
Thank you for sharing. And, many prayers for your daddy.
Slows life down, makes memories, all the good things.
beautiful blog, Susan. I´m praying for your Dad from Argentina. Stay positive. Give thanks for his healing all day long (is the best way to show faith).
I do Barbara, thank you for your prayers all the way from Argentina!
Hi Susan
Another amazing post with fabulous pictures. You make us all want to take the train to California!
Have fun with your family
Praying now for your daddy
deezie
Oh, that was fun! Thank you for taking us along on your cross-country journey, Susan. Sending a prayer for your dad and a hug for you~
Prayers for Big Daddy! Safe travel prayers for you and Joe! Love the pictures! Love America!
I have taken Amtrak twice from Denver to Northern California. I travelled alone, got myself my own little roomette and had a delightful time. Yes, the only way to travel.
Hello Susan! Oh, I so enjoyed our train trip! (Thanks for the blog – no Twitter here.) It is no wonder that so many of the old movies involved trains – there is just something magical about them! Relish the time with your family. Prayers to Blog Daddy. <3
I rode the train in 1952, when my Mom, my baby brother, and I went from Troup, Texas, to New York City. We were on our way to join my Air Force father stationed in England. Great trip and wish we had done more. Now, my husband and I take trips in our 28 ft. RV. I’d love to travel on Amtrak, you make it look like so much fun!
Why can’t we have more trains?
It’s always the money. Sorry to say. Joe and I have driven too, and it really gets you close to the land, the people, and history.
sigh…where do I start? First priority is…..so glad will have tons of prayer for your dear B.D.!! Second, so appreciate the praises for Amtrak. Hubby & I went for our 1st autotrain ride this past spring. Going all the way to Fla. from D.C. is pretty also. Thrilled to see early blooms and a couple of wide rivers. I,too, captured images of sunrises & sunsets despite the rocking. Now, thanks to you I now want to go West. I dearly hope we all have that option. Safe travels and enjoy the visiting!!
I just loved reading this post, as I do all of your posts. This is a dream of mine, to go cross-country on a train! I adore your pictures and captions. Thank you for sharing so much of your life with us 🙂
Oh Susan!!!
Such wonderful photos, and they just kept coming and coming, getting better and better as I scrolled down. Thank you so much for sharing your train trip with us Girlfriends.
My mother was an advocate of seeing our beautiful country before we travelled anywhere else. We used to take Trailways buses, they were called Golden Eagles, and they had hostesses on board to serve us our meals (mostly sandwiches). The bus would pull up to various stations at all hours of the night, and parents would be there, in the wee hours, putting their children on the bus, where all the passengers kept an eye out for them, until they were met at another station by their anxious grandparents. Can you imagine? This would never happen in today’s world! We stayed/slept on the bus til we got to the Grand Canyon, would get off there and stay for a couple of days, then go on to Sunny California, where my sister lived (she was in the Air Force). One of our highlights of each trip was when my cousin Elizabeth and I would buy souvenir Native American jewelry from the gift shops. Beautiful pieces of turquoise, and Apache’s tears, and goldstone. Such wonderful memories we have, and you have now shared your’s with us.
I’ll say a prayer for Blog Daddy… I’ve loved reading about his fascinating life in all of your books.
Seal Beach, .CA, a place I lived for 20 years!! Oh how I miss it. Such a charming place. Enjoy your adventure.
Dear Susan, thank you for this wonderful trip you took us on from the right coast to the left coast! I read one of your “train trip” blogs years ago and you shared how delightful it was to bring your own teapot and little snacks, etc. — I now have this “teapot and train trip” on my bucket list! Thank you, too, for asking for prayers for your Papa … it would be my pleasure and a privilege, too. Thank you for bringing God in to your writing, too … He is an integral part of my life and I’m sure, others. Safe travels and I hope that you have a wonderful time when you venture back to the right coast… please give your Papa a huge hug for me! All Aboard!!!
I’ll do it Pamela!
Hi Susan. We LOVE the train for travel. Thanks for the encouragement for people to be proactive about keeping train travel an option. Love taking this virtual trip with you and seeing the sights out of the window when you go back and forth from the coasts. Thinking about your dad…
Special prayers for your dad and Jeanie. You know Jeanie will take good care of your dad. They will be looking forward to your visit. Thanks for sharing your train trip. Hugs, to everyone.
They are a perfect partnership of looking after ♥
Ahhh, just lovely to travel vicariously with you and Joe on the train. Thanks for all the lovely pictures inside and out the window. Sorry to hear your Dad is not feeling so perky. Surely he will feel all the love and well wishes coming his way from the girlfriends!! May it bring him renewed vitality for your upcoming visit with him. The nephews are looking good and seem to be happy kids 🙂 Great to see them. Happy travels!
He is feeling it already Sylvia! Making a huge difference. xoxoxo
I need a train trip. Now. No, yesterday. Such adventure, such scenery, such quality. Airplane travel just can’t measure up to this.
You will love the quiet Mary Ann.
“She’s looking wonderful” – too much wonderful here for just one cup of tea (iced today for me, thank you!) – traveling with you is such a delight, Susan ♥ I must say that seeing South Station again (worked in those financial district buildings for 25 years! – my “T” stop along with the commuter boat!) was a fun surprise!
Blog Daddy is now on my prayer list, sending big hugs to him…just found and bought a fabulous old rocking chair for $15 on craigslist :-), and each morning now I greet the day with prayer and reading, rocking away in our little guest room – so quiet and peaceful… have big fun & we look forward to your adventures in California & return. Safe travels & lots of family love ♥
Lovely Mari!
Thank you dear Susan for sharing your journey. Amazing pictures. And yes sending oodles of prayers for Blog Daddy. Get well soon.
You make train travel look like fun:)
The twins have changed!
Tell them they are utterly handsome!
Thank you for all the pictures of America the Beautiful (and your priceless twin nephews)!!! I do love our “land of the free” – and yes, VOTE girl friends! Lifted up your Blog Daddy in prayer for healing – have a wonderful visit with all your family. And I hope you packed some eastern good rainy fall weather in one of those suitcases to open up here in California!
I’m nearish to you Penny, the weather has been stunning. I am bathing in it (draw out that word . . . sitting in the sun for every lunchtime, what a treat!)
Susan, I think it would be fun to travel with you. Your journal of your travels would make a good book, just like A Fine Romance. Keep blogging
Oh Susan!!! I have been so down in the dumps from having to stop part to my pet sitting services because of my plantar fasciitis. I just can’t do the long walks and i know that some people will need to make other arrangements and it just is breaking my heart because I love those dogs, but i pushed through for 3 years and it just keeps getting worse. So Anyhoo, I came down to the computer after having a pity party. And there was your blog. My spirit lifted and my heart smiled. Sometimes I think you write these just for me:) not really but sometimes i pretend we are friends.:) I picked the railroad french toast off the menu and then when i saw that you did too I thought… Friends. We like all the same things… its uncanny and we own some of the same things. that I pick out in your pics and say… hey i have that.( but weird obscure things, that you don’t expect someone else to have.) My husband swears we will retire in MV and that we will be friends. We won’t because he is not a MV type guy, but it is sweet that he says we will. I always say we got the two best guys in the world and sometimes he feigns jealousy of Joe’s handiness and it is completely hilarious as he goes around cursing Joe for being so wonderful. enough of being delightful. I just wanted to sat that you truly delight me and many others. And I will send prayers to blog daddy.
LOL! That’s too funny Charissa — about cursing Joe for handiness! I love your husband already! My girlfriend on the island is such an animal lover, she has (volunteered) taken over the front desk at the animal shelter. No walking. Just a thought. xoxo
🙂 He really does and then he tries to think of things that he is better at than Joe and pretends not to come up with anything, so it is even funnier. He says when we move to MV, I will have a friend to do all the things I like to do because who would not like me? and that he will be paying Joe to be his friend and teach him stuff so I will love him more. Isn’t he the sweetest? How could I love him any more? But I do everyday:) Thanks so much for your Idea. It may come to that, but for now at least i have enough to sustain me:)
You got yourself a doll! 🙂
Hi Charissa,
I had the same problem for years. I work at a job where I am on my feet all day and some days by the end of the day I could barely walk. I tried Podiatists and orthotics and nothing seemed to help. Finally by chance I went to an acupuncturist. It was truly a miracle. My acupuncturist was the real deal, this little oriental man I couldn’t even understand, but he has quite a following in Ft. Worth. It made me a big believer in acupuncture. And I make sure I always wear good shoes and I have never had a recurrence.
Chris
I live in frisco tx i would love to know his name if you remember i am desperate Thank you so much for writing me. I can’t tell you what it means to have hope:):):)
I enjoyed the train trip to CA so much! Lots of prayers for your Dad!
Love the pictures! Now I have a train trip farther east than Chicago on my bucket list. Thanks so much for sharing. Your photos are such fun to look at! I love the stop at Albuquerque; a dear high school friend lives there , and last summer, she came to the station for a little visit. What was so neat is that the train was almost an hour early, so we were able to have a nice, long visit! I hope Amtrak passenger trains are never put to a halt. Wouldn’t that be a shame?
I too love, love, love your pictures and comments on your train ride. Prayers go out to Blog Daddy.
Of course! Prayers going up for Blog Daddy! Hope he’s better soon.
This was a beautiful post which I will reread several times. It occurs to me that this is the letter (with pictures!) that needs to go out to all our legislators! Also, Amtrak needs to get some advertising going and you just might be the one for the job! People just need to be made aware of this fabulous way to travel. When my sister and I were in England we were able to go absolutely everywhere on the train and bus systems. Even to the remotest village. It was such fun to see the countryside go by and not worry with driving on the other side, maps, or gps. We even were served tea and breakfast or lunch on some longer rides. When we got back to the states we took the train from NYC to NC and had just as great a ride. It’s also great for older folks. My 90 yr. old dad is taking the train up to NC for Christmas from FL. There are the nicest people that help him and bring his meals to his roomette. Airports are a nightmare for him these days. The other good thing is no weight limit on baggage! My sister and I flew to England, packing light, but we bought whatever we wanted because we came home on the QM2 and the train! So much fun and no worries! Brilliant! as the Brits say.
Brilliant!
Dear Susan, I want to thank you for being such a wonderful advocate for AMTRAK and the joy of train travel. Since my dad worked for the New York Central, I was a “train kid” and most of our trips were by train. My husband and I became train travelers back in 1992 and have been loving it ever since. He always says “my vacation begins the minute I step on the train” and he’s so right. It is pure relaxation and they even feed you!
We followed your trip on the NARP website and at one point you were very close to us. We live between Elkhart and Southe Bend in northern Indiana. We noticed that you even posted a photo of the Elkhart train station. We took the Southwest Chief a few years ago and traveled all the way from Chicago to Hawaii without setting foot on a plane! We took the QM2 from LA to Hawaii and we love that mode of travel too.
We travel on the Lakeshore Limited and the Capitol Limited a lot. Maybe one of these days we’ll see you in Club Acela or in the dining car! Thank you so much for this beautiful blog entry. We will be holding your dad and your whole family in our thoughts and prayers. Hope he feels better soon.
Loved that Karen, but I know you didn’t mean you went to Hawaii without setting foot on a plane! Ha ha ha, when I read that. Jumping ahead to the QM2 … that must have been nice!
What a beautiful trip across America the Beautiful! Another trip for my wishing list! Just too beautiful for words!
Susan, I will definitely be praying for your dad, and your family as well. Thank you for sharing your beautiful pictures of your travels. I just love America! What a beautiful land we have. I have never traveled by train, but you have certainly given me the desire to do so one day. Enjoy your time with your family. Your nephews are so cute. Yes, it does seem they have trouble finding fun! he! he! May God Bless your dad with better days ahead! Love to you and Joe!
I LOVED reading your blog about your Amtrak trip across the USA! I followed you as you Twittered on the Twain also! Eleven years ago I took Amtrak home from Seattle to Boston in the summer on a sleeper car. We flew out to Seattle for a cruise and decided to have an adventure and take the train back! We ran in to many delays and bumps along the way. Some of the most beautiful scenery was missed because it was nighttime. We did end up with a layover in Chicago though, which was a nice surprise. We hadn’t planned on visiting Chicago and so glad we got to. We ended up in Boston two days later than was originally planned, but it was quite the adventure. You definitely have to have the time and expect delays. I would love to do it again someday. Thanks for a great post!
Yes, especially these days, the freight train system owns the rails and has first priority, sometimes that causes delays ~ which is why we were late into Chicago. It’s definitely not perfect, but if you have nicely lowered expectations, you should enjoy it anyway!
Love seeing the American countryside as you cross from one side to the other. Beautiful!
Have a wonderful time with your family.
Betty (Melbourne)
Glad to have you along Betty!
Thanks so much, Sue, for the wonderful photos of your trip. I definitely think a train ride is in my future. I hate flying, and I’ve always said, if I can’t drive there, I’m not going. But the train, now that’s the way to travel. Hope your dad is feeling better. I’m sure he will perk up after a visit from you and Joe. Love the recipe for November, it sounds so easy. I’m thinking lovely little stocking stuffers for the family. I’ve been saving jam jars with red plaid lids.
Hi Susan and Joe-
Thank you for a lovely tour of our beautiful country . . . such an amazing array of beauty of all kinds. Praying for blog daddy. Peace be with you all.
What a great blog you wrote. You have such a wonderful way of taking your girlfriends along on your travels. I get so wrapped up in your photos, descriptions and experiences that I don’t want it to end. I loved the photo of the old farm house amid the fields of gold. Makes me want to walk into the photo. I am very excited to be able to meet you on Saturday at your book signing in Cayucos – yeah! Have a wonderful stay in California.
Keeping your Dad close at heart and in our thoughts. xxoo
Hi Susan & Joe! Thank you for taking us along on your cross country trip! I long to take a train ride. Need to convince my other half. Maybe in the Spring! Sigh………… 🙂
Our prayers are with Blog Daddy! Feel better soon!
Safe travels, Susan & Joe! Keep us posted – we are enjoying you journey so much! Love ya!
I love train travel and used it to get around NY state when I lived there. I’ve never gone across the country and your photos make me want to. We have such a beautiful country! Hope you have a wonderful visit with family & friends and sending prayers for your Dad.
Next time you should think about traveling west to Portland, Oregon, and then south to Los Angeles – you would pass through some of the most beautiful country imaginable in western Montana, skimming along the edge of Glacier National Park. Well … better yet to travel north from L.A. to Portland and then east … better hours for viewing the countryside regarding Amtrak’s timetable.
I took that trip one time and you are so right, it is Glorious up there . . . maybe the prettiest route of all . . . I think it was called the Empire Builder. I got into Seattle and then went south on the Coast Starlight . . . just beautiful through the Shasta Lake area too.
I vote for trains and more trains. We live across the road from a train track and every so often(not often) we see one lone passenger car between all the other cars. We fund so much that is not necessary. Let’s ask our congress to keep passenger trains running. Trains are a blessing to many who do not like to fly. My dream is to ride a train across the country. Love, love your blog and this one was especially wonderful.
xoxo Kate.
This was a very special blog for me! I love seeing the countryside pictures. They are so beautiful! Thanks for the ride! Prayers for Daddy Blog, too! Have a fun time during your 3 weeks. You are a special person, Susan!
What a beautiful “virtual” trip you’ve shared
We were travelling through Albuquerque last week heading home to OK from NV and saw your train heading east to pick you up! It was all silver and shiny making its way through the little towns and around the big red rocks picking up speed as it headed towards Chicago. Have a safe and happy home! ♥
I truly enjoyed reading and viewing your scenic train ride. I do not enjoy flying to visit my daughter, son-in-law and grandson in Culver City, CA. The train sounds like a wonderful, stress free way to go! Thank you for this very informative post. Saying a prayer and best wishes for Blog Daddy.
What a wonderful post! And I received my A FINE ROMANCE today!
It’s Susan Branch day at my house!! 🙂
Will certainly be praying for your Dad.
Have a great time!
My cousin sent this “case for Amtrak” to me and I read every word and enjoyed your beautiful photographs! You have a new fan. Also I am going to Seattle next week and plan to take the train, can’t wait to try it. Prayers for your father.
Celesta
Thank you Celesta, very nice to meet you!
Am loving your new book and feel as if I’m traveling with you and Joe through England and now on Amtrak! Thank you for always bringing us all along – so generous!!! Keeping your Blog Daddy in prayer. Hope he feels better soon. For you and Joe, prayers for a safe journey there and back plus loads of fun together! ~ Deb
This blog post was almost like being on the train with you! Thank you for sharing. I so want to do this kind of trip….America is indeed so beautiful–plenty to see right here at home. Sending prayers for your Dad.
What a fabulous blog. My husband and I are both in fragile health right now so the only trips we are taking is to the doctor’s office. But to be able to see the country through your talented eye is wonderful. It saddens me to think that the trains may be gone when we are back in better health and able to travel. I would love to train it across the country.
Your dad will be in my prayers. Jack and Girl Kitty brought a smile to my face as usual. Have a wonderful time in CA.
First things, first.
Sending big warm & healing prayers for Blog-Daddy!!! Please let us all know how he is doing.
Loved each and every pains taking photo. The descriptive commentary was an added bonus. Now I want to take a cross country train trip. I remember back to the days when train travel was the only way to truly enjoy the country and all it had to offer. Sigh . . . those were the days my friend.
Those two boys are full of fire and loads of unstoppable energy.
Take care and enjoy yourselves!
At a special fall tea with my dear friend Amy, she said, “There is bad weather in New England, Susan will be sending pictures when it gets to her” so I reminded her that you were on a train to California and we both remarked, “Wasn’t she going to take us along?” Came home and here you are with the quick version, lovely.
Have a grand time (looks like you already are) and keep us posted on Blog Daddy.
I’ll offer my rosary tonight for your Blog Daddy! I actually have a Pray List that I read each night! I am blessed to pray for others! Thank you for letting us ‘travel’ with you. Enjoy the family!
I really enjoyed this blog and immediately sent if off to a cousin who, after reading of your wonderful experience, is boarding a train from Spokane to Seattle to visit me. It’s a short run but will be a good experience nevertheless. I remember riding to Chicago from Spokane as a teenager. We took many a train ride as my dad was a switchman for the Great Northern which, at that time, entitled us to free passes. I would love to make that trip again at this ‘ripe old age’ when I know I would appreciate it so much more. Thank you, Susan, for the fun ride. Enjoy your stay in California.
Perfect Cheryl!
Susan, I want your life! Since I can’t have it, thank you for the beautiful stories and pictures. Your Dad is in my prayers.
Thank you so much Jeanne. xoxo
Love, love, love, love, love,love!! That’s all I have to say!!
Thanks, Susan! I thoroughly enjoyed the ride and all of the beautiful photos! When I was 17, my mom and I took Grandma (at age 84) by train to Kansas city from Los Angeles. She wanted to go back to her roots where she grew up in the little town of Chanute, Kansas to see the old homestead again after about 70 years. It was such a special journey and I’m so glad we went! I was born and raised in CA but I agree with you…I think my Midwest roots are the best part of me 🙂 . I really hope they keep the trains running…would be such a shame if they didn’t! I’m so sorry to hear that your dad is not feeling well. I will be praying for him. ♥ Blessings to you on your visit!
What a great memory Heidi!
How wonderful to see America via the train, and at such a beautiful time of the year. Thank you for taking us along. This may be the only way I get to see a trip like this. Hope you have bundles of fun with your nephews and your family in sunny California. I will definitely keep Blog Daddy in my prayers….praying for strength and healing for him. I read Psalm 91 till my eyes blurred while going through my treatments. It worked wonders, very healing. He is very blessed as all the Girlfriends will keep him covered in prayers. That worked wonders for me too as the Girlfriends prayed for me.
I should give you an update on Roy Jones. He is the man we prayed for and sent cards to here in Canada. He received cards and letters from all over the place. He had to get out the map to see where some of these places were. Roy pulled through very well (a miracle), he made it to the wedding of his niece, and the prayers and cards from all the Girlfriends were a huge part in making this possible. You really have no idea how much this meant to him and his healing, how much it helped this man. One of these days I plan to post a photo of him with the bride at the wedding. My girlfriend said that she’d never ever again underestimate the power of a card. So, we’ll keep Blog Daddy in our prayers, and let us know if there’s anything else we can do. Sending hugs to all. xo
So sorry for posting again….but I forgot to say THANK YOU. A huge heart-felt thank you for all the prayers, cards and letters for Roy.
Fabulous news Rhonda!
Prayers and hugs for b-daddy. ❤❤❤
Prayers for your dear Dad, Susan,
I so enjoyed the train ride. I often travel an 8 hour trip to MPLS by Amtrak. My husband and I have also thought a trip to Seattle would be quite an adventure…thanks for making it all sound so enjoyable.
Love to you across the miles. Enjoy your vacation !!!
Lori
Oh, Susan, What a delightful post and wonderful adventure you had travelling on the train! I think that a long train trip would be lots of fun. I will have to start talking to my dear hubby about one…. I wonder if your train went thru our town? Wouldn’t that be fun to think of you and Joe travelling by us!! I hope you have a wonderful time with your family out west. Safe journeys and thanks for sharing your adventures with us. I’m sending good thoughts to your dear dad. Hope he feels better soon!!