Is This Really the 21st Century?

Some folks think train travel is an outdated mode of transportation, just like the horse and buggy, dirigibles, and those mule-drawn barges. But, that's just not true. Train travel is alive and well in Illinois, and for that matter all over the country. The Feds have pledged 50 billion dollars over the next 6 years to develop high speed rail as alternative travel.  So many other countries have high speed rail.  And you would think with the size of our country that we would have made this commitment earlier. Let's hope this money isn't axed by the new Congress. If you haven't taken the train anywhere, give it a try. Riding the rails is a big part of our vacation and something we are looking forward to on our way to Alaska.There is nothing like walking between lurching cars on  your way to the dining car.  It is always a treat to meet new people at meal time.  Sleeping on the train is also an adventure.  Watching the stars as you fall asleep is majestic and listening to the song of the rails, I find comforting.  But, the best part of taking the train is just hanging out with my sister...we can play cards, read, talk, laugh, eat and nap, whenever we want. Keep your airplanes with the cancelled flights, the little bottles you have to cram your stuff into...along with your check baggage fees and the full body scans...we will be hanging in the observation car, scanning the Rockies and eating whatever Peggy has in her snack bag.

Going to Have Breakfast with Dad

This morning I am going to have breakfast with Dad.  Now that school is out I have had lots more time to spend with him.  He is now living at Good Samaritan here in Quincy after his hip surgery.  The Doctor wanted him in a facility with aggressive physical therapy so he can learn to walk again.  That process has been slow, but sure.  The picture I have posted is of the new addition they are building which should open in a few weeks.  It has a new Alzheimer's wing and more beds.  This health care area is booming...hopefully to get ready for the influx of our generation in a few decades??

Good Luck to my Graduating Seniors

Today was the last official day of school. So many of my best students graduated today.  It is sad to see them go, but I take pride in what they take with them from Culver-Stockton College.  They have gotten a fine education and have been well prepared for Law School, grad school, or careers in Law Enforcement.  I am proud of each and every one of them.  It was a sad goodbye to all of my California baseball players.  They had an excellent season this year and I will miss them.  Some of my trial team members also picked up diplomas today...they are headed to Law School and careers in the law.  Now I can focus on getting the last minute things done before we leave on Wednesday.

A Big Truck for a Big Suitcase

The FedEx guy came today to pick up my whopper suitcase.  He remembered me from last year when he came to pick up the same bag when Peggy and I were going to Ireland.  Keep your fingers crossed that it gets to our hotel in San Francisco.

Food Glorious Food

Oliver Twist

It appears when looking back over the blog that some of my posts are focused on food.  At some point I went to bed and woke up an old broad.  I used to ask my Mother why old folks were always so focused on where they went to eat, what they had, how it tasted, and the biggie, whether they got a senior citizen discount. The other night someone asked me which cruise line we were taking to Alaska.   When I said "Princess" that person immediately said...THEY HAVE THE BEST FOOD...how funny.  

South Water Kitchen in Chicago

This is where I met Delanne, my brother's girlfriend, when I went to DC and had a long lay over in Chicago. We loved this place.  So, Peggy and I are going to meet Del again there next Wednesday for lunch on our way to Alaska.  We really didn't have a chance to chat with her at Doug's memorial service last Saturday.  I was so glad she came and joined the family for his service. One of the blessings from his passing is that we have reconnected with her.  

How Come I Have 4 pairs of Rain Pants?

We are going on a whale watching cruise in Juneau.  So, I looked on YouTube and saw some videos of the type of cruises they are.  It appeared that if it is raining (which it almost always does) that we will need rain gear.  So, I informed Peggy that we needed rain pants.  Jeeezzzz....I didn't know that the rain pant God would answer in such a prolific way. Somehow I have ended up with four pairs of rain pants. When I am feeling philosophical I try to remember Peggy's words..."Judy, the Universe is perfect and on time.."   


How did I end up with 4 pairs of rain pants?  Well, last fall Peggy bought two pairs and shipped them to me...I had bought another pair before that and tucked them away...and my brother Douglas gave me a pair. It may appear to the casual observer that I am collecting rain pants.  So, again, I wondered???  What am I going to do with 4 pairs of rain pants?  I emailed Joannie and John (the couple going to Alaska with us) and said..."By any chance do you need rain pants?"  Because as we know...I have four pairs. Luckily, they have none and were very happy to take them off my hands. Mystery solved.