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!