Hop on board

Much hype and excitement were invested in this historic first train ride (though technically it was TRAX). Not even snowy, rainy weather could dampen or frustrate this trip. Though the trip provided memories cherished by father, it was a trip that had plenty of obstacles before we could "hop on board". After a nap, we headed out of the apartment and walked down to get a ticket. Being a country mouse in the big city I soon realized that the machine only took cash. We took a detour to the nearby Deseret Book hoping to get some "cash back". This "inspired" father thought to buy his son some "old school" treats in order to get the necessary cash back. After filling a brown bag with chocolate covered peanuts and gummy bears, sprinkled with some blue whoppers we purchased our prizes only to find out thatthey didn't give cash back. By this time Parker had discovered "Buzz" in the store and the excitement for the train trip had temporarily been derailed. After screaming and kicking and making a scene we left the store only to meet a kind father and his "quiet" daughter. After finding out what the problem was, this wise father gave Parker a train ticket (though this ticket was just a receipt). This kind act was greatly appreciated by a reeling father who only wanted to take his son on a train ride. Not deterred by the end goal I found a ATM where we found the needed cash to go on our train ride. With money in hand we joined the working class as they were getting off work and found the place to buy tickets. To my dismay our cash didn't work. A mother behind us realized our frustration and left to another machine to get her own ticket. We followed her though at this point Parker was a little anxious to get on the train. His anxiety and eagerness to get on the train right then caused a struggle. We got to another machine only to receive another act of christian service by the lady that had been behind us. She purchased us a ticket and said, "it's on me." I was touched at how this lady recognized my need. After missing a few trains, one that was just a test run, and talking with some other passengers that were waiting, we finally were able to "hop on board". Once aboard Parker was in heaven. At each stop he would say, "I want more." Of course I couldn't resist such a request. We took the train to the U of U football stadium, saw the stadium and the Olympic torch and then retuned back downtown.

Though this trip was anything but smooth and surely I gained more grey hairs than needed, this was an experience I cherished. I loved watching Parker's excitement for this simple pleasure as he watched eagerly out the window. I will always remember the kindnesses expressed to me through service and kind word. I am so grateful that we were able to "hop on board".