Monday, December 24, 2007

On the Train

I am sitting on a train headed to Wilson, NC and I decided to write a little bit to pass the time. I still have about 2 hours to go. I have been on the train for 5 hours so far and I absolutely think that the train is the way to go!! I have my laptop plugged in and have been able to watch as many episodes of Friends as I want. I have already read an entire book (Yes, I read fast) and spent some time really enjoying the east coast. It is a BEAUTIFUL day outside!! It’s pretty cool because trains drive past highways and through small towns. I even passed right by Randolph Macon College; though it was deserted. It doesn’t feel like Christmas Eve at all, but that doesn’t really bother me. I am really enjoying the ride.

I have also had some interesting experiences. My trip started at 8:30 this morning with the lady behind me discussing Tasty Cakes in great detail with someone on her cell phone. Oh, and did I mention that she didn’t have her hearing aid in? I can laugh now, but at 8:30 in the morning, when I haven’t had much sleep (I have since taken a noce cat nap), the conversation is much more annoying than amusing.

There is also a 5 year old boy who has been watching the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie. He doesn’t have headphones, and apparently also needs a hearing aid. The conductor has come by several times to ask him to put headphones on. He responded quite rudely to the conductor and then yelled at his mom when she asked him to turn it town. Did I mention he is only 5?!? It wasn’t long before I figured out where his attitude came from…

A few minutes ago, the conductor came by again to tell the boy to turn off the movie if he didn’t have headphones. The mom erupted in anger making it clear to him that her son was going to watch the movie whether the people around him liked it or not. Apparently he has ADHD and needs the movie to keep him calm. When the conductor mentioned that people had complained about the noise, she very sarcastically announced that anyone with a problem could come and talk to her. The conductor then threatened to escort them off the train at the next stop. The movie is now off, and the boy seems to be doing fine. I’m so thankful for how my parents raised me.

The only thing that could make this ride better would be having wireless internet. I had it for about 10 seconds while in Petersburg, but nothing since. You can even bring your own food on the train, so you can eat as healthy or as crappy as you want. And, its much cheaper!!! The train is pretty full, but the seats are so much bigger than a plane; I don’t feel cramped at all. AND, I brought a giant bag, a bookbag and a smaller bag and didn’t have to check anything. Can you tell I love the train?!?

My dad should be picking me up at the train station, and I think we only have about an hour drive to get to their house. My dad is NEVER late; in fact, he’s probably in his way to the station now, haha. Actually…he really might be. Its so nice to be so loved. Okay, I just got off the phone with my dad…he is in fact on his way to the train station. :)

So, I’m down to an hour and a half, and I am out of things to write. In about 4 Friends episodes, I will be in NC!! My dad also informs me that they have wireless internet at their house!!! (This is the first time ever for them!) So, hopefully you will be hearing from me again soon!!

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