Train was ready to go on time but there was a car stuck on the tracks ahead so we left a little late. Here is my contribution to bad eclipse pictures, from the train.
When I was a kid we didn't ever get soda at home, the only time we had it was when we would pack up the family and drive from LA to our cabin in Boulder Creek. My mom allotted us each three sodas for the ~8 hour trip. I always chose Shasta Black Cherry cola. I was disappointed it wasn't made on Mount Shasta.
I wish I would've noticed these planes a little sooner so I could've gotten a better video. Strange to see them flying over a remote but populated area.
Far west coast California has never had a traditional autumn with lots of changing leaves etc. but if you've lived here long enough autumn is unmistakable with the change in light; even the shades of the scrub and ground cover is different in autumn. I love it.
Elkhorn Slough was so full of wildlife today! The train neglected to slow down for me so the pictures are not great but it's such a beautiful place. I've never seen harbor seals on the east side of the tracks before.
Amtrak moved the sleepers back to the front of the Coast Starlight again (not sure why they keep reconfiguring the train) so not as good a view on the horseshoe; still a nice day out.
Heading back home. There's a really nice woman who works in the metropolitan lounge and I always say hello to her and today I decided to tell her how much I appreciate how friendly she is etc. and she told me she was retiring this week! Glad I took the time.
I know I say this every time but I just love the California coast. Amtrak should start a service on the Coast Starlight where a limited number of people can get off at one of the secluded beaches to camp for a couple of days and get picked up on the way back.