I know we are all aware of the size and shape of the United States. We started learning about it in seventh or eighth grade in a Civics or Geography class. But I hadn't really grasped the size and diversity of geography our country offers until a couple of weeks ago. This country is really big.
Sara, Megan, and I took a vacation to San Francisco. Because I wanted to, we rode Amtrak to the West Coast. The last time I was on a train for travel, I was a child. I enjoyed the Amtrak experience and would do it again, however that was not the universal feeling in the group. If we do this type of trip again, some of us will take the train and others will fly and meet us when we get there.
I was amazed while watching the country go by, mile after mile. There are times when you have the sense nobody is around, but then you come upon a house or a ranch, a city, or a town, and you remember you live here with millions of other people. It was a time of true reflection. I couldn't help but think about all those people in all of those places, trying to have their own happy lives. Sometimes it is hard to remember that when we are surrounded by the things that happen to us on a daily basis.
In contrast, we spent several days in San Francisco. The difference was startling. We went from watching mountains, plains, and emptiness to being continually surrounded by crowds of people. Overall, the experience made me think about our personal daily experiences.
On top of that, I was amazed by the passengers on the train. They were younger than I expected, with those in my age group being the oldest by far. I didn't expect to see train travel embraced by thirty-somethings. I had an opportunity to talk to some of them and found out that the train fits many personal "likes" of the age group. They can read a book, listen to their music, and watch the world go by. Additionally, it appears that Amtrak frequently runs "Buy one, Get one" specials. I will need to pay more attention. There is already conversation about taking the Empire Builder from Minneapolis to Seattle next year.
On a completely unrelated note, I will be hosting my Executive Roundtable at the Toybox next week. I am working diligently to have the place in shape so it will show well and my guests will enjoy themselves. I am sure it will go well, but I do want to be ready.
I hope you have a great Labor Day and spend the time in a way you enjoy.
