Mom's Post

When Michelle and I first talked about how much fun it would be to take Amtrak to a city that was new to both of us, I knew we'd have a blast.  When making our plans, we referred to it as "Our Adventure," not just a run-of-the-mill "trip."

As a child I'd taken the train a few times, the longest being a cross-country trip that took three days (and nights).  I didn't want to sit in my seat the whole time, and enjoyed exploring it all: passenger cars, sleeper cars, dining car and the observation car where I could sit up on top and look out at the world.  My favorite spot was standing between the railroad cars because it was open to the elements, and so the noise and movement were accentuated.  I always loved the clack-clack-clack of the tracks, and the gentle rocking motion as we sped down the rails.  Last week when Michelle and I boarded and the train started moving, it was all very familiar, just like when I was a kid.

We took the Coast Starlight and highly recommend it; the views are stupendous and luncheon in the dining car was great.  The airlines can't compete with linen tablecloths, real silver, a tasty menu with reasonable prices, and service with a smile!  For three days we explored San Luis Obispo, walking everywhere of course, and seeing museums, antique stores, and wonderful restaurants.  Mostly though, we enjoyed talking about anything and everything.  We don't live in the same state anymore, so our in-person visits are very special to both of us.

The second night Michelle said "Let's call our husbands -- doesn't that just sound great -- call our husbands?"  The big smile on her face when she said this reminded me how much she loves Bryan, her husband of six months, and how lucky they are to have each other.  Of course we did call Bryan, as well as my husband of forty years (and believe me, we're also very lucky to have each other) to tell them about our day.  Being the terrific guys they are, they were happy to hear the excitement in our voices when we told them how much fun we were having.

Before long it was time for the train ride back to San Diego; we'd packed a lot into our days and said maybe we'd take a longer trip next time.  We didn't buy much and spent very little money, but came back wealthy with memories.  The song that keeps running through my head is Carol Burnett's theme song: "I'm so glad we had this time together, just to have a laugh and sing a song..."

Thanks a million, Michelle, for coming up with a fabulous idea!