New Jersey on the Train

Wow!  It's been a crazy world the last month or two!  I looked up and realized it had been quite awhile since we've visited!  

I tend to not discuss plans ahead of time when I'm traveling, but late January and all of February were spent on the road.  My husband has to travel occasionally with his job and when possible I like to join him.  So, this time he had to travel to New Jersey.  Looked into flying, but as I haven't flown since 9/11 I didn't really want to go through all the security issues.  It was a long way to drive and although I've done it before, I didn't really want to make a really LONG two day drive.  So....I looked into the train.  Having never traveled by train and since it was comparable by price to flying I purchased tickets and began preparations.

The time to leave approached and since the nearest train station was 2 hours from home some very dear friends drove me to the station.   The day started out dreary and snowy, but thankfully the roads were clear and we made it to Texarkana without incident.

 
After arrival I had my ticket printed and proceeded to wait since I was about an hour early. 

 
As the time to leave approached we went outside to wait trackside.  It was dark and seemed very surreal not knowing what to expect.  I hugged and thanked my friends as the the whistle blew and the train rolled into the station right on schedule.  Making an effort to relish the event I imagined myself in a 40's movie waiting for the train in a dramatic scene.  

Then reality set in.  Dragging a ukulele, rolling duffle with sleeping bag and pillow attached and a backpack loaded with computer, art supplies and papers, I was wishing I had paid more attention to learning weight lifting!   

But I found a conductor who put me on the correct car and while trying to stash the duffle the train slid away from the station and I was on my way!  I learned real quick riding a train is kind of like trying to keep up with a moving floor.  It's like I imagine getting sea legs is like.  Feeling a little weird at first, I stumbled my way up the stairs and wobbled my way to my coach seat.  I must  tell you I have never been drunk but I have to wonder, "This MUST be what it's like!"  

And THIS is where the adventure began!

 
So, I'll end here and come back soon to add more...

I hope everyone has had a blessed Resurrection Day!  
He is risen!!   He is risen indeed!!!

Blessings-- 
Sherry