Train Trip Day 7: Destination Orlando, FL

There was a slight delay right before pulling into Orlando's train station. An elderly lady was lost on the tracks when we stopped into Winter Springs, Florida. Cousin Nancy and Cousin Tina came to pick me up around 1pm. We then headed to lunch at Panera Bread. After lunch, we dropped Nancy off at work, and Tina and I continued on to Merritt Island. So here I am, safe and sound.

Today's blog will conclude my solo Cross America Train Trip. It took 7 days, 4 trains, and 3 books to get me here. I have to say this experience was completely worth it. Waking up every morning and eating breakfast in the Observation Room while watching the America's beautiful landscape pass you by is an experience I cannot really describe in words. It was peaceful, tranquil and something I needed for myself. Even if the scenery was white, it was still full of wonder and awe. The anonymous passengers I've met and listened to have helped me through boring moments at the station and on the train. I am more in love with our country and people. Thank you All for following my blog during the Train Trip from San Jose, CA to Orlando, FL. I really didn't know what direction the blog was going. I was using past and present tense within the same sentences. Editing was the last thing on my mind when I am on a time crunch trying to publish a blog by the end of the day and battling network signals. This serves as a memory book of sorts.

Next stop Paris!

Your one and only,
Dziem

Train Trip Day 6 1/2: Destination Orlando, FL

What an evening! One thing that Union Station in D.C. needs are electrical outlets for people like me! I ran out of laptop and cell phone batteries while blogging at the station. Something I need to keep in mind is to bring backup batteries for these devices. I ran up and down the row of Amtrak gates looking for an electrical outlet. I wasn't panicking per se, but just in case a disaster happens, it would be nice to communicate with the outside world. After attempting 8 different outlets without any luck, I walked over to the Amtrak information desk and asked the nice customer service representative where I can find an outlet. She nicely pointed to the wall in back of her. There in the darks shadows of the train station were 4 outlets, 5 feet off the ground. I walked over and plugged my devices to the wall. And safely disappeared in the shadows. Amtrak workers would walk pass me and do a double take at the peering eyes in the dark shadows. I would take a step forward into the light to reassure them that I was only a harmless Asian female, charging her electronic devices. That was Part 1 of my adventure this evening.

Part 2, I was wrong about my train out. I am not taking the Atlantic Coast, but the Silver Meteor. More on that later. Let's skip to Part 3 which involves Russian Roulette. Just kidding. It involves a waiting period. Every train station I've been to check passengers in 30-40 mins early. If they didn't they at least tell you what gate to wait by. But not in D.C. After feeding my lovely electronics voltages, I came across two ladies standing in front of the Arrival/Departure bulletin board. I let out a huge sigh of disbelief that a gate has not been assigned to the Silver Meteor yet. That got the attention of 2 older ladies in their late 50s. They laughed and one said, "Shug, you must be riding the Silver Meteor cuz no one sighs like that unless they are riding the dinky ol' Meteor." I giggled and asked her if she was on it too. She let out an exaggerated sigh and we both laugh. She informed me the Meteor is always late and they usually get boarded the very last second. We continued to watch the bulletin board as more Meteor passengers joined us. I would make a few sarcastic comments that got the group laughing. We were all getting impatient. It's late evening after all.

They didn't tell us what gate to go to until 10 mins before boarding. You should see the flood of people running from all directions! I walked over to the assigned gate and followed behind the last person in line. An attendant step in from outside the gated door and announced to have all Orlando passengers stand to one side. I walked over to the direction the attendant pointed to. Somehow there was confusion amongst the passengers because no one else followed. So I asked out loud which direction the attendant wanted us to line up and he threw his arms sideways and showed us. I the waved my arms and said, "Come on ya'll, whoever is going to Orlando join me over here and line up behind me." That finally got everyone's attention. The attendant smiled, shook his head and added, "Orlando only! Orlando only!" He then rounded the pre-boarders and had the Orlando passengers follow the pre-boarders. I actually found his method organized, but these passengers (except a few) were impatient and rude. There was an elderly couple in front of a young couple with a toddler in a stroller. The elderly couple wasn't going slow, but the young couple behind them was so impatient. The young husband pushed the elderly aside with his toddler's stroller and continued to rush ahead. Following behind him was his young wife who said nothing and just walked by with her face pointed up. Though the elderly couple looked ok, I thought the least the young couple could say was "Excuse me" before barreling people down. They weren't the only people who behaved this way.

Part 4 of the adventure started with me being directed to follow another attendant on the platform to go all the way down to the last car only to be told to go all the way back to the second car. All this back and forth with a herd of Orlando destined passengers following behind me. I felt like a shepard leading their flock of sheep. We were finally let in by a older blond attendant who dropped down the steps to another car. I felt this took an hour, but it was only 30 minutes. Only 30 mins! That is still a long time! I get to my seat at the window and dropped into it. It was then that I noticed I am on a "dinky" train. The whole train trip from the West Coast I was in a large 2 level car. This time I am in a single level car with smaller aisle and smaller leg room. The seats were more stiff and everything was outdated, in need of repair and Lysol spray. I looked around and the car was completely packed. When the train started to pull away from the station, I noticed people stretching out in the middle of the aisle. They pulled out their sleeping bags and laid smack dab in the aisle. The ticket person started walking down the human path, checking tickets and somehow avoiding the bodies. Is this a violation of a fire code? Brother Joseph, what code is this in violation of?

I pulled my blanket out and wrapped myself up like a burrito from head to toe. I leaned on the glass window and focus on the swaying of the train. 10 hours and I will be in Orlando, Florida.

Sorry no pictures tonight. I was too tired from the event this evening to pull out my phone.

Train Trip Day 6 1/2: Destination Washington, D.C.

Martinsburg, West Virginia

Here I am on the Capitol Limited heading into Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. I should arrive at Union Station  in D.C. at 12:40pm. I will be in D.C. for 6 hours before boarding the next train, the Atlantic Coast, at 7:30pm taking me to Florida.

This part of the trip I saw more of the smaller and quaint towns with their old brick buildings and Virginia style homes. I take in every moment of the scenery and am reminded why I am talking this trip. The trip was meant for me to take in America as much as I can. So often we fly because of the quick convenience of things. Do you really know what you flew over in that 1 hour? What about the 7 hour flights? I didn't want quick and convenience. I had 15 days off and wanted to take in America's beautiful landscape (even if it is covered in snow) and get to know the different American traveler each day on the train. So far I have done just that.

In "The Christmas Train" I read that passengers take the train during the holidays because they are lonely. I am far from lonely. I have a very large and warm family, who I love with all my heart. But this year I needed to take a break and not worry about games, food, or tradition. The rebel in me wanted to break tradition and be alone. The book was right when it stated that there are a lot of singles on the train looking for companionship. I was the exception. I chit chat with passengers, but I never gave them personal information like my name, where I lived, or what I did for a living. As far as they know I am just a young women trying to get away from her family and I am okay with that.

Ice on my window

That was a sidetrack, now back to travel. When I was crossing the mountain states I noticed the temperature was below 0 degrees. The lowest I saw on my thermostat was -17 degrees. On the way out of Chicago the snow on the train melted and created streams of water trickling down the side of the cars. I watched them stream down my window, but before they reach the bottom of the window, the water turned to ice. This was due to the speed of the train and the dramatic drop in temperature.

Arrival into Washington, D.C.

Union Station, Washington, D.

My row mate and I talked some more this morning. He was describing home and how much he missed his family gathering and the food. He and I have something in common. I am starting to feel it too, but I must soldier on. Still have half my vacation to go. So far I have finished 3 books: Les Miserables, The Hunger Games, and The Christmas Train. Every book I read I somehow mix up with images on this train ride in my dreams. Let's just say I have great movie ideas! The Christmas Train was an easy read about a journalist who took the same Amtrak train ride as me, except his version was a lot more entertaining. Lots of the plot seemed Hollywood influenced. I laughed and cried.

We reached Washington, D.C. earlier than expected, 12:20pm. I gathered my things and waited for everyone to get off. I thanked the attendant for all her help and wished her a great holiday. Her tired look quickly changed and she was energetic like the first day she greeted us on the train. I hope the gratitude will last. I heard that Amtrak workers on the long distance trains usually work 3-4 straight days (constantly on call) and get 3-4 days off.


I knew that Union Station in Washington, D.C. was going to be big. But when I stepped out of the glass doors an onto the brick lined floors of the Amtrak lounge, I was blown away. This place was so big it even had a mall in it! Though the mall was not that big, it had enough stores to keep me busy for the next 6 hours. I checked my bags in and raced to Barnes and Nobles to pick up a power charger for Cousin Huy's Nook.

Side note: the Friday I left, Cousin Huy found his Nook to let me borrow for the trip. When I arrived, Cousin Huy was still looking for the power adapter. I took the Nook anyways and thought I could aways find a Barnes and Nobles on the way. Lucy was the one who pointed out to me that my cell phone charger would work. As a Thank you to Cousin Huy, I will pick the power charger up anyways to replace the one he lost during his move.

After Barnes and Nobles I finally remembered Cousin Son's advice to call my bank to inform them about my travel. So far I have been paying cash and have avoided calling the bank. But now that I have 6 hours to kill shopping, I decided to call the bank. My goodness what a hassle that was! I should have done it sooner. I was on the phone waiting for representative for 40 minutes. And there was no music playing in the background to inform me that I have not been disconnected. Every so often I would look down at my phone to make sure I was connected.

U.S. Capitol Building

After talking to the bank representative I walked out onto the streets. Unlike Chicago's Union Station, Washington, D.C. had huge windows. All I had to do was walk towards one, reach double glass doors, and push my way onto the street. It was sprinkling outside and I didn't think it was any different from Portland. So I went for a walk. There were plenty of signs around. I found one pointing to the U.S. Capitol Building where a botanical garden was. I wanted to take Nick there and bury him nearby, but as I got to the 2nd block the sky got angry at me and started to dowse me with water. I mean I was dripping wet! I let out a profane word and hastily walked back to the station. After a change of clothes I decided to stay inside. I checked the weather and to my disappointment, it was going to be wet all day. Sorry Nick.

My stomach started to growl so I decided to give my friend Christian a call. He works in D.C. but his family is in California. I had a feeling he was going to be home for the holiday, but decided to call to get a tip on where to eat. Christian suggested Potbelly Sandwich Shop which was one of hundreds of eateries in Union Station. I found it and went right in. I ordered an Original Mediterranean Chicken Sandwich with everything except for my food restrictions. It was delicious! I finished it off with a trip to a ice cream parlor and scooped away my mango sherbet ice cream.

After my fill of food, I continued to shop and explore the surrounding buildings of Union Station. There was so much to see. Finally, I decided to break from walking and hit the blog before boarding the train. It is about 6pm now and I am waiting for instructions to which gate I need to go to. So far I have been able to go by instinct. Rarely do I ask for help. Part is because I want to learn my lesson if I am wrong. But if I really don't want to waste time, I just ask for directions.

I will be in Florida tomorrow! WOOHOO!

Train Trip Day 5 1/2: Destination Washington, D.C.

Thank you for all your Christmas greetings today! It was a bit surreal waking up without family around. And even more when I called my parents to say Merry Christmas. Let's never be apart like this again. I miss you all. (Not really cause this experience has been fun!)

Train arriving at Union Station, Chicago

The train arrived in Chicago 18 mins early. Since I had 3 hours until my next train I decided to do a bit of touring. I threw my bags in a locker and tried to find my way out of the station. It was not easy. The station was like a labyrinth. There were signs, but I had no idea why they can't just have a sign that says "surface street"? After wasting 30 mins I found my way out. I felt like a mole person coming up from underground for the first time.

Empty Chicago streets at 4pm

Grand Hall of Union Station, Chicago

I instantly found a CVS and thought I should grab water and snacks for the next couple of days on the train. There is a cafe on the train where they sell these things, but what a rip off! As I approached the well lit CVS, I noticed a couple of standard size printer paper on the doors: "Christmas Eve Open Til 8pm. Christmas Day Closed." For a second there my smile fell upside down. But my Christmas spirit was still on a high. 

Red bridge above a freeway.

Walgreens on Monroe Street

My independent spirit told myself that I am the most resourceful person; there must be something opened on Christmas day. I pulled out my handy dandy Android phone and looked for a Walgreens. I remembered back in the day Cousin Jimmy had to work on Christmas at Walgreens. I walked 2 blocks north, 4 blocks west, and over a red rail bridge where lo and behold, an opened Walgreens. The streets were completely bare as I walked to my destination. Everything was still and quiet. I even thought the end of the world happened while I was on the train. When I got to Walgreens, I grabbed a large bottle of water, 2 bowls of cereal, a bag of nuts, and a bag of Starburst. Embrace technology and it will embrace you back.

By the time I got back to the train station it was 4pm. I walked the block some more, but there wasn't much to experience since everything was closed for Christmas. All was well because I was proud of myself. On my way to the train station I found a street vendor selling sandwiches. I walked over and ordered a pulled chicken sandwich with fries to feed me on the train tonight.

Outside entrance to Union Station, Chicago

I boarded the train to Washington D.C. at 5:45pm. I met my row mate, an older gentleman from Panama City. He moved to North Dakota 5 years ago to work on oil lines. He is going on the same train with me up until Orlando Florida. He has family he is visiting in Tampa. He also gave me his window seat. See what you get for being nice and friendly!

We rode off in a packed train at 6:10pm. After getting my ticket scanned I walk over to the Observation room to eat my dinner. I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas!

Train Trip Day 5 1/2: Destination Chicago

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

As I passed through Minnesota I noticed that my internet AND phone service has regained it's connection. I am so excited! So I am going to take this opportunity to say Good Morning and Merry Christmas to all! It is still dark out so I can't take any pictures yet. I will post some in a bit. Now, time for a shower.

Larger restroom.

Since my baby sister Lucy asked for some pictures of the train, here are some for your amusement. I described to you  that the bathrooms had all the necessities you needed. It is a shared public space so the facilities sometimes gets dirty.  The space is also very small, but there is a handicap one (I don't use handicap stalls the same way I don't take advantage of the handicap placard at work) and there is another restroom twice as big as the small restroom. I like to use the slightly bigger one. The lock on the restrooms are a bit tricky. The first time I went into one I thought I locked the door - usually a click is what we all wait to hear - but not long before I was going to sit on the toilet, a women opened my door and frightened me. I haven't exposed myself, but was very close to it. I then closed the door and pulled the lock until I heard the second click. I also heard a faint, "Sorry."

How many of you have had this happened to? Come on, no one else can see you raise your hands. Ah, now I see several raised hands out there. 

Observation Deck

Observation room is in the next picture below. It is open and spacious. The dining car is usually 5 - 10 degrees lower than the other cars. Trust me, its not that cold because the cars are usually 75 - 80 degrees. This is where I would meet interesting characters like Scruffy Man and Attractive European Family. 

The blue chairs are comfortable to sit in for long hours of reading. They face large windows where I can snap pictures of natural landscape. This is where I eat my breakfast and do most of my reading. The observation deck is most quiet in the early morning. Around noon it gets noisy. Part of the reason is because alcohol is served by then. This is when I escape to blog or take a short nap - depends on the rocking of the train. Yesterday, we had a musician play guitar in the corner of the observation deck. I hope she comes out today to play Christmas songs cause you know me, I can sing almost anything - on or off key. 

The following pictures are kind of blurry, but that is because of the shaky train. I apologize. This is my current set up: electronics on the tray next to the 2 electrical outlets for quick charges when necessary,and seat holds a pillow, blanket and jacket. My seat is constantly reclined even though I sit straight. I was given a pillow when I boarded the train, but have only used it for my back; I hardly use a pillow when sleeping. There is plenty of legroom especially for a person like me who is 5' 3". Because I don't have a row mate for this part of the trip, I usually turn sideways and have my back against the window. When I sleep, I lay across two seats. So far no back pains and I sleep through the night.

There is a tag or two above each row. It sits right under the corresponding seat number on the overhead bin. If you can see the picture, they are the tags that are blue or orange. These tags gives the attendant an idea of who is getting off which stop. When they bend the tag, that means that you are getting off the next stop. It also gives the attendant an idea of how to place people. Because of the holiday season, there are more families traveling together. They have split families from singles by placing us in different cars. Obviously, I am placed in the singles car.

Oh, story about last night! So it was around 11pm and I woke up to a conductor's face above mine. He asked if I am getting off at Chicago. I said, "Yes sir I am." Then he rushed down the aisle. Next I hear conversations among passengers saying that they lost a passenger. The guy sitting directly behind me said that it was his row mate. An attendant went over to the guy and asked him to describe the missing passenger. He told the attendant that the passenger was female, with dark hair and 5' 2". Everyone looked over at me and pointed at me. I looked back at them and the first thing I say is, "I am 5' 3". Not 5' 2"." That sent the car roaring in laughter. The guy sitting in front of me said, "Solved, she was asleep the whole time." More laughter. I smiled and shook my head. But I wasn't the girl they were looking for. The girl everyone was looking for was supposed to get off in Devils Lake, North Dakota. After being examined by every attendant, they finally ruled out that I wasn't the girl (duh, I am 5' 3"!) a women from another car came in and told the attendant that she saw the girl get off at Minot, North Dakota. She was positive because she was hanging out with the girl in the Observation room and she said she was going to meet her boyfriend there. After a few comments from my fellow passengers, we all fell silent again. I fell asleep instantly knowing that I am now free of accusations that I am 5' 2".

Spring Lake, Minnesota

We are now in Minnesota! Here is a picture of an iced over lake. It looks solid enough to skate on, but I wouldn't do it. There is a thin blanket of snow covering the iced lake. It looks like white foam with glitter as the gentle morning sun touches the snow's surface. The falling snow also has a bit of glitter effect to it this morning. The sun must be very gentle today, or maybe the clouds yesterday didn't give the falling snow such an elegant look. Today is very pretty.

Train Trip Day 4: Destination Chicago

I woke up this morning with several messages on my phone. Some of you were inquiring about Nick and his ashes. I am sorry, I failed to mention him to you. Nick is the friend I mention in my first blog “Introduction.” He was a couple of years older than me when he passed away this September. His father gave me a jar of his ashes so that I could bury and scatter on my trips. So technically I am not alone on this trip. Nick has been at my side the entire time. To not scare passengers, I wrapped Nick’s jar in a Japanese cloth his dad gave me and tucked the jar on the side of my backpack so that he would be secure and – not to sound crazy – have air. Nick is a wonderful person who has a loving father, Merle. Before my trip, Merle and I spoke at great lengths about Nick and about being a parent. Merle: your son Nick is a wonderful person and I hope you know that he got all that from you.

I had better rest on the train than I did in my hotel room. Call me crazy, but things in motion tend to put me to sleep. Several of you have witnessed me dozing off in mid-sentence on car rides and airplane trips. Sometimes I laugh before I doze off. A mid-laugh is a sure indication that I was not listening to your story and that I am going to fall asleep in .05 seconds.

West Glacier Park, Montana

Today, I woke up at 7am, went to the restroom and cleaned the drool off my face – another indication that I had a good night rest. I went over to the dining lounge and grabbed a bowl of cereal and headed back up to the observation deck. There I found an empty row of seats. I slid myself as far to the side as I could to make room for any other passengers who would like to join in the spectacular view. No longer than 5 seconds after I seated myself I was greeted by a male’s voice, “Wicked boots.” I looked up and there was an average sized scruffy man who looked like he could be in his 40s. He asked if the seat to my left was taken. I said no and he plopped down in the seat next to me.

Browning, Montana

Shelby, Montana

I continued to open my bowl of cereal and poured the two small cartons of milk in my bowl while the scruffy man talked about how he almost missed his train (this train). I nodded in acknowledgement that I was listening to him while mixing my cereal with a spoon. He then asked if he could talk to me about his girlfriend woes. I was taken aback by this, but didn’t mind. I mean, what am I going to do for the next hour or so? I don’t have anywhere urgent to be and sitting there listening to someone is one of my favorite things to do. So the scruffy man started telling me how confusing women are and how they take advantage of guy’s jealousy to get what they want. About 1 hour into his rant a very attractive European family sat down next to the scruffy man and I. The scruffy man found less interest in me and started to strike a conversation with the European dad and I started to converse with the European mom and 10-year-old daughter. They are from Lafayette, Lufthansa. We made small talk about the weather here and why we were traveling during the holiday season. I then felt tired from all the rocking the train was making so I excused myself and headed back to my seat. As I approached my chair, I was greeted by my row mate who was on his way home after visiting his daughter in Washington. He lives in Montana and knows every nook and cranny in the state. During our train ride he would nudge me and give me a bit of natural history on the landscape and towns in Montana. I didn’t mind, and he knew I didn’t mind because I would engage in conversation with him. He got off at Shelby, Montana and I had no row mate for the next few stops. I like this train route better than the one from California. Passengers are more open and friendlier on this train.

Malta, Montana

\Traveling through Montana, North Dakota, and Minnesota will conflict with my cell phone signal so I will try to post my blog at any chance I get a 4G signal. Thank goodness for technology because my smart phone acts as an internet router and gives me a hotspot for internet service. I look like a tech geek on the train, but it gets me through the long solo rides! Also my tech devices make me more resourceful than anyone else on the train – besides my row mate from Montana. I am going to dine in the fancy dining car later this evening. Reservations only, does that mean I should dress in a gown?

Train Trip Day 3: Destination Chicago

7:45am Downtown Portland

Although the room was awesome and the king size bed was like sleeping on clouds, I had a hard time sleeping last night because it was so incredibly quiet. For being swamped with bars and clubs, downtown Portland is very quiet. Or maybe being 10 stories up made a difference. Or maybe I had soundproof windows?

7:50am Downtown Portland

I started this morning with a scrumptious breakfast, via Mother’s Bistro and Lounge. I found the restaurant on Yelp. It was about 2 blocks west and 1 block north from the hotel. It opens at 8am so I hurried to the streets to find the restaurant. The streets were clean and empty. Weather was a little wet, but no umbrella needed. All the shops were still closed; it is Sunday after all.

Breakfast at Mother's Bistro & Lounge

Once I got to the restaurant I knew it was going to be good. The décor was incredibly cute. It had a clean cottage feel to it with several crystal chandeliers falling from the tall ceilings. And the all servers wore tacky – yet cute – Christmas sweaters. The host greeted me in a sweater he made himself decked with a live wreath. I asked him how the pines are fairing, he stated that it was still too early to tell but he hopes that if someone was looking for him, they can just follow his pine needle trail.

I knew I wanted to try the French Toast covered in corn flakes. I also ordered mango fused herbal tea; which came out hot pink. I questioned it at first, but after the first sip, I felt the instant aroma of herbs and tinge of mango flavor lingering on my tongue. 

Memorial at Willamette River

I finished and headed out to the Willamette River where I decided to scatter some of Nick’s ashes. Upon reaching the river I noticed a large memorial that looked like it might be dedicated to the Navy. I was somewhat right. It was the Blue Star Memorial dedicated to the U.S. Armed Forces. I admire men and women in our Armed Forces and I believe they should receive as much benefit as they can once they are released/discharged from their post.

Blue Star Memorial

When I reached the edge of the park where a long rail bordering the river and me, I took a handful of Nick’s ashes out and said a prayer before scattering him over the water. Right as I did it a flock of geese flew by and honked. Coincidence? Yes, definitely. There were several waterfowls around the park. A flock of seagulls flew pass me when I was taking pictures of the memorial as well.

Willamette River

After scattering Nick’s ashes, I headed back towards the hotel to charge my phone and get ready for 10am Sunday Mass. I just want to be sure that I go to mass in case I don’t get to attend one while on the train Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. I found the church 2 blocks south of the hotel. Not bad considering I didn’t research it prior to booking a room. Must be a sign.

St. Andre Bessette Catholic Church

The church was smaller than any church I have ever been in. Even the one I attended while in college in Riverside was bigger than this church. This church, Saint Andre Bessette, was only able to accommodate 50 people. Still, it was a good experience. I was also the only minority in the room so they knew I was from out of town. Before mass started, everyone came up to me and welcomed me. It was the sweetest thing. Towards the end of mass, I snuck out as soon as the final song hit it's last note. I didn’t want to answer any more questions about who I was and what I was doing in Portland; kind of reminded me of the time I went speed dating.

Saint Andre Bessette Catholic Church

Weekend Market

I went back to the hotel to rest up a bit before heading back out. Since I was due to check out at 12pm, I asked the hotel if they can store my bags while I take a look at the Weekend Market that I found earlier this morning. The hotel was wonderful and said they will store my bags in their deposit room where customers store their valuables and I wouldn't be charged for it. Awesome! It pays to be nice and courteous to your host.

Weekend Market

The weather was still wet when I headed towards the Market. The Market took up a few blocks; vendors were aplenty. They were busy with last minute Christmas shoppers and tourists like myself.

I was able to pick up a few items for my co-workers, but the bitter cold and light showers got to me. I walked back to the hotel around 2pm and headed to the train station. 

The station was also cold, but at least I was dry. I met a fellow nomad at the station. He was young and was going on the same route as I was, except he was going backwards. We happen to talk because he needed help looking for a pub called Bagdad Pub. He asked if I was from around Portland and I said no, I was just stopping in for a day and am now heading to Chicago. His face lit up and he pulled a paper from his pant pocket. He showed me a map of the US and in red was the train route he was taking. I laughed and said I have the same route. He gave me a high five and told me that I am the first girl he met who isn't afraid to travel alone. He then left after I gave him directions to the pub. This, my friends, is what I am about.

I wrapped my fleece blanket over my legs and waited until 4pm to check in with the station master. I boarded the train around 4:45pm and we are now on the move. Nothing exciting will happen tonight since I will be on the train for the next 2 days. I am expected to arrive in Chicago on Tuesday before 4pm, then hop on another train to Washington D.C. at 6pm.

2:40pm Portland Union Station

P.S. Below is a map of where I have walked to (my foot trail is in black) and other photos taken during my morning stroll.

One of many street corners lined with food vendors

Old Town China Town

Kells Irish Pub

Train Trip Day 2: Destination Portland, OR

I had a good night's rest. We stopped into several towns throughout the night; I was startled by the train brakes a fepw times, but got used to it. The small passenger that initially sat next to me got off in Oakland. She was then replaced by a skinny tall guy. He is going to be my row mate until Eugene, Oregon. We didn't get to talk. I was asleep when he came onboard and he was asleep when I woke up. It was kind of like that through the whole trip.

I woke up around 5am and went to wash my face and brush my teeth. Bathrooms are really small, but it had all the necessities: toilet, sink, soap, outlet for dryer/curler/flat iron, cup dispenser, facial tissue, towel, etc. I got back to my seat and an announcement came on. Due to icy conditions, we were going to sit tight for a while. At this point, we were north of Redding, California.

The dining car was opened at 6:30am so I went to get some nutritious cereal and orange juice. I propped myself in the observation deck above the cafe where I checked on emails and looked up a couple of cool places to check out when I get to Portland. Several passengers joined me and we talked about what a long ride it has been. You know, small talk.

As the sun came out, the train started moving again. It is 7:30am. There is snow around. My fellow passengers and I pulled out our cameras and started taking pictures of the scenery. We then turned to each other and gasped "Wow, so beautiful!" The mountains were covered in snow and the lakes we passed by were peaceful and still. Flurries were floating as the wind picked them off of tree branches. I was in a winter wonderland.

We then took a 10 minute break in Dunsmuir, California where the conductor let us out to grab a smoke and stretch our legs. I took the opportunity to touch the snow and take pictures of the tiny town. Only a few people got out of the train. Kids started to build mini snowmen and started a small snowball fight.

A couple of  Dunsmuir facts: population is less than 2,000. Known as "Home of the Best Water on Earth" because they get their water from beautiful Mt. Shasta.

By the time we got back onboard, we received more news that the rail road tracks were iced over between California and Oregon and we will have to wait for them to thaw. At this time we were delayed by 3 hours. By the time we got to Eugene, Oregon we were delayed by 4 hours. I occupied myself by listening to Les Miserables through audio books on my laptop. Then switched to Hunger Games on the Nook Cousin Huy let me borrow. In between I took long naps while the electronic devices charged.

I finally arrived in Portland, Oregon at 7:45pm; I was supposed to arrive at 3:40pm. I grabbed a taxi and arrived at the hotel. I was placed on the 10th floor with a fantastic view of Downtown Portland. The street below had several public transits that I hope to hop on to explore the city tomorrow.

The room was spacious: king bed, posh decor, large bathroom, and a planet friendly toilet that allows you to flush solid or liquid. Too much information?

In the meantime I only had one thing on my mind ... FOOD! I asked the receptionist where I can grab a homestyle meal. She nudged the hotel restaurant The Original a Dinerant - which I was hesitant on trying - but ended up doing so because of the menu. Who could resist Gingerbread Milkshake, Duck Risotto, and Mac N' Cheese? Sorry Bro Oliver, I couldn't resist trying the chocolate braised duck thigh sitting on top of risotto infused with red wine and cherries.

The milkshake was delicious and the mac n' cheese I had to take back to my room because I ate everything else in one sitting. I was seated by the window where I was able to people watch while I wait for my food. I am excited to be here by myself. Is that weird? No one seemed to mind.

Well, it is late and I am looking forward to an early breakfast followed by 10am Mass. I will be leaving for Chicago tomorrow afternoon. The train ride from Portland to Chicago will be the longest train ride; 3 days. I am looking forward to using all the electronics I brought along with me. I will be downloading several books, including one recommended by Richard. Thanks Rich!

Time to download!