On Route to Chicago

As we approached Washington DC, I was not able to see much because it appeared we were arriving via underground tunnels. Once we stopped at the station, I crossed my fingers and said a little prayer that I would be fortunate enough to get a good seatmate. "Miss, do you mind if I sit here?" a young guy politely asked. In my usual manner, I immediately started talking with him. He was 25, had lost some friends in the recent air accident that killed many ice skaters. That is why he chose train travel instead of flying. All the recent problems with air travel swayed my decision to use Amtrak, as well.

From family dynamics to how self driving cars can operate safely, the conversations with Cole really made the time pass quickly, and I hope he found the ride with me to be positive. I really enjoyed listening to everything he shared with me. I know I overshare, even though I really do try not to tell my entire life story to strangers, but it happens more times than not, I think because I can find something the other person is talking about relatable. Sadly though, most of my memories also contain trauma.

Cole was amazing! His girlfriend, Maria, teaches ice skating. He is employed by a tech company works with heavy, high-tech industrial machinery. In addition, he is a materials engineer specializing in metals, a metallurgist. He has some dreams that are out of this world! When labels start featuring, Moon Made instead of Made in China, he just may have had a hand in that new reality. I hope all of his dreams come true!

I was so happy to learn the process of getting to the cafe car. Cole mentioned he was going to go there, and I mustered all the courage I could find and I asked if I go with him. It was a great learning exercise that would prove useful later on in my trip. Leaving him to study in the cafe car, true to form, I walked off without my purse when I headed back to my seat. They say the best way to cement learning something new is to repeat it shortly after learning it. I got back to my seat, realized I didn't have my purse, went back to the cafe car, grabbed my purse, and then returned to my seat feeling accomplished! Not only did I learn how to travel between cars, I practiced it three times! Thank you Cole!

Everyone I meet, I give them one of my blog cards. Not only does it have my name and number, in case they ever want to get in touch, the back of the card is an invitation for them to submit their own writings! I was thrilled that Cole submitted a poetic piece titled "Verse from Eleazer" based on a Bible verse. The time spent between Washington DC and Chicago, IL really helped prepare me and lessen the challenges I would face for the rest of my trip going forward. This part of my trip was incredibly special!

On the route to Chicago, I also met Patty. She was headed to Chicago to visit her son and couldn't wait to see her six year old grandson! I could relate because I am excited to visit with my grandchildren, as well. We talked about the financial hardship of retiring. I really enjoyed Patty's personality that gave off wholesome, positive vibes. She also spoke about wanting to live near her children, but they all live in cold climates! I feel the same way about where my children live! I wish they could relocate to Florida where I live, or another warm area where I might be inclined to move!

When we arrived at the Chicago train station, it was massive. The Great Hall is the central hub between the outside and the tracks. I had some interesting encounters that I will describe during my next post. Hopefully my internet will last! Until next time....

To be continued: In Chicago on My Way to Portland.