Calm Train Week

Last week's message went well. I was surprised, and pleased, to see a larger audience than usual for an evening service that included families. It is possibly the result of the Charlie Kirk assassination, but I hope the increased attendance continues.

This week has mainly been work on websites and quad life related paperwork. When I know more, that will likely be an upcoming post. However, I finally took a day to just do something fun, go train watching with a friend.

In Junior High, my 7th/8th grade English teacher was a fellow railfan. We became friends and went train watching a few times, even over night rail camping with a group of boys from school. It has been 29 years since I graduated from eighth grade and a few changes have occurred. Mr. Muether is now

Pastor Muether and he has a small congregation in town and has several other responsibilities. He is also the secretary of a local minister's group that I attend when weather and schedules allow. After our last meeting, the two of us were reflecting on busyness of life and not getting time to do train hobbies. On the spot, I suggested a day to watch trains and we were off this past Thursday morning.

Just like old times, we headed north to Marshalltown to see what trains could be found. Sitting under bridges to avoid pouring rain, we only saw three trains and a switcher in our five-hour escape. However, it was a great time to get away from everything at home and get caught up with a friend and fellow railfan.

A few times this year, I thought of asking a couple guys from my church to come join me by the tracks. However, dad had various house projects on Saturdays and I didn't want to take his free day. Maybe just going with my caregiver is an easier route that allows everybody to do what's needed. I'm doubtful I'll get out again this year, but I may be surprised.