I arrived at the Amtrak Station to visit my friend Clint down in Shaston. It was the first time I’d ever ridden an Amtrak train, so it was quite the experience. I had actually been under the impression that these trains ran mostly empty, but in this case it was almost full. So much so that I had to plop down an extra $13 because the only available tickets were Business Class.

I was somewhat impressed by the Business Class accomodations. I will definitely pay the extra $13 (or 33%) next time. The free voucher sort of helps with that, but the big thing is that you get your own power jack, plenty of leg room (which is important for someone with my dimensions), and the feeling of smug superiority that is much more expensive on airplanes. I sat in the regular accommodations for about ten minutes before I realized that I was in the wrong place. They weren’t bad, though they weren’t quite as nice as I had figured they would be. The seats were a lot better than plane seats, but not much better (if better at all) than bus seats.

Because I got Business Class tickets, I got a free voucher for $3 at the diner. I had visions of eating something while watching the landscape fly by. Wouldn’t you know it, after I buy the food and before I sit down, the train stops. Apparently the switch on the tracks are frozen and somebody has to get out to do something about it. After I finish my sandwich, the train is back on its way.

Screw it, I want my food-and-ride. I buy a bagel just so that I can eat something while I ride.

Train stops again. Someone has to get out again to clear off some switch or something.

Train stops a third time. They apologize for the inconvenience, but the snow and ice are creating problems for them. Even though we’re not far out of Shaston, I’m beginning to wonder if we’re actually going to make it.

I make it. Clint comes and picks me up. I’m safely in Shaston.