Train thoughts
I rode this train in 2006!
I rode this same train line, roughly the same train, in 2006. I helped move my ex, Sandra, home from Orlando, and I started that trip with a train ride up the Silver Service to Kissimmee. It was before they had a combined route to Tampa, so I didn't have to switch out at Lakeland. There was definitely consideration of getting off in Winter Haven instead of Kissimmee or Orlando though. It was inconvenient; I should have driven. She had to bring all her stuff down AND me in her little Corolla.
It gave me a little preparation for this ride, so it wasn't a waste. Amtrak is less scary.
That was the same month my Dad died! Let me tell you, it was a heavy conscience to realize I could have refused to help move Sandra and possibly been there with my Dad. But... it's also possible that it would have earlier triggered the events that resulted in his death. From hindsight, I know he was managing a panic attack in preparation of my arrival. That's why he died with alcohol and Xanax in his system, and why he was preparing for a shower. All self-care things for anti-anxiety.
I have the good fortune of not having much taste for alcohol. That fate doesn't await me.