Tue Oct 19, 9:00 am: Minot, ND

Shortly after I got back from breakfast, they announced that the next stop was Minot, ND and we would be there for about 45 minutes. It was 23 deg in the town, which made for a brisk walk, in more ways than one.

Minot appears to be a very tiny town with a huge courthouse building.

They stressed that we all needed to be back on the platform at 9:45 for a 9:50 departure. To get to the town from the station, you need to cross these train tracks. Just at 9:40, this really large freight train came through and cut off some of the returning passengers. It took less than 5 minutes to pass, but it was an anxiety inducing 5 minutes. And then we didn't even leave until after 10.

Shortly after we left Minot, we got delayed for a broken down freight train. Which gave me a great opportunity to take a shower when the train wasn't moving. Once again, the shower drained directly onto the train tracks. Which means there is this circle of cold air at the bottom of the shower.Read more