Checking Chicago off the list!

Brain cancer is...

...checking Chicago off the list!

Hi Friends.  We are here safely and loving every minute of it.


The train ride continued to be perfect.  We were really struck by the fact that many people who choose to travel by long distance train already embrace the Life 2.0 lesson that it's all about the relationships.


We met so many happy people with interesting lives.  One was a former pilot going to see her daughter who is a pianist at Julliard.  Another was a former chemistry teacher who is finding joy in every place that America has to offer.  From him we learned that the largest sandhill crane migration resting spot (0.5 million cranes) is in Nebraska. 


Crazy Tom with a K took great care of us.  His last words to Darrell as he left us on the platform were, "I am praying for you my brotha."


We learned a lot that may be applicable to our future train trips:

1. The word of the year ("lean") applies to packing for a train trip.
2. Despite #1, above, pack two iPhone chargers.  Then there will be no need to buy a cheap replacement in Albuquerque and an expensive replacement for the cheap replacement in Chicago.
3. I can spell Albuquerque.
4. Every cent, every minute is worth it.

Here's a three-minute video of the trip:

https://animoto.com/play/Jw3r1HCIYRzvoUQoN67Pbw

And here's a two-minute video of us crossing the Mississippi on one of the nation's longest single span suspension bridges:

Or try this link:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxjtHlzFbZE&feature=youtu.be




You know that both Darrell and Andi have roots in the Midwest.  Andi's family is in particular attached to the Mississippi.


We are very much looking forward to a day in the city with family.


Thanks for all your locomotive good wishes.  Hope you are surrounded with love and happiness today.