Day Off

As mentioned prior, this day wasn't a day planned to go into the park, since we typically like our Sundays to be quiet and relaxing. It was fortunate that we have a relative who lives in the San Diego area. I was a little nervous about getting on the train, remembering the incident that happened last time, and having to cancel my tickets. I didn't want to do that this time. Fortunately, getting to the station and getting on the train was smooth and quick.

Sunrise from Hotel Window.

The ride itself was really enjoyable. I think since it was so early in the morning, there weren't a lot of people on the train, which meant a nice and quiet environment. I loved it, and I got to stare out the window for the whole time. That's one of my favorite traveling pastimes. The windows are my friends. They let me stare out, watch what's going on outside, and my mind can wander to wherever it pleases. It's a beautiful thing.

View from Train Window.

Fortunately, there was plenty of interesting things to look at. It was a good blend of building architectures and nature. I got to see a good close-up of the ocean. I'll confess now that this is one of my vacation flaws, for so many people would be shocked to hear that I've never really spent a day on the beach. There were times in Oregon and Washington when I stopped at a beach with my choir, but I sat back and talked with the adults rather than played in the water with my peers. That was quite typical of me. But yes, I've never been to a Southern California beach to swim or play. I live in a landlocked area, so the closest to a beach experience I've had is Lake Powell.

Another View of the Beach.

We got off and, in perfect timing, our family member (my uncle), arrived only minutes before we got there and was just getting out of the car when our train arrived. We spent the morning enjoying and relaxing in his quiet house. We talked and took a tour of his yard, and later on went to church with him. It was an enjoyable experience. The train company had my mobile number and started sending me texts telling me the train was getting delayed, which was nice, because it gave us a few more minutes.

Sunset at the Train Station.

The train was delayed by about ten or fifteen minutes, and while we were waiting, I could see people out there wondering what was happening, but I was still getting notifications letting me know what was happening, which really helped me keep from getting worried. I remember at one point, getting one, and saying to my uncle, "Well, it's a lot better than two hours." I succeeded in keeping it positive, which may have helped reduce the concern I would have while trying to find a seat on the train. It was completely crowded, and it took us a while to find one. I think the stress got to Peeps a little, because she was starting to say things. She's more verbally expressive than I am. We found some seats, though we had to be separated for a good part of the journey. I found my companion to be pleasant. We'd talk a few times, but didn't feel the need to talk the whole time. We finally were able to sit together, and had a slight confusion over where to get picked up to go back to our hotel, but it was all good. 

Back in Anaheim.

Traveling isn't as great of an adventure without something happening. My uncle sent us back with some food, which made it really nice that evening to not have to go out and find a place to eat. 

It was a short and sweet visit, but even short and sweet visits are worth it.