Planes, trains, and automobiles times two!
I’d love to lie to you and tell you that I’m a world class traveler, savvy in the ways of all modes of transportation, but you’d never believe me and rightfully so, because it’s not true! I have just come back from spending a great weekend with one big-hearted guy, Tom Aeliss. This morning we said our goodbyes and I headed to the airport early to see if I could get an earlier flight home as the original flight was to land in Charlotte at 11:55 PM. Tom graciously picked me up in Philadelphia on Wednesday evening. Mind you, the airport is about 90 minutes from his home one way.
As he greatly overexerted himself this weekend hanging with me and showing me the sights, I certainly didn’t want him to have to drive to Philly today. Add to that there was a major baseball game going and a bridge closure. It might have taken him 2 or 3 hours each way! Tom dropped me off at the Trenton Transit Center in Trenton, NJ at 12:45. I had with me one suitcase, one backpack with camera gear, and one laptop case. Here’s how the day went:
11:30: Left Tom’s house for Trenton Transit Center
12:45 : Dropped off at Trenton Transit Center.
13:06: Caught R7 train to Philadelphia 30th Street Station (45 minute ride)
14:06: Caught R1 train from 30th Street Station to the airport (15 minute ride)
14:30: Checked bags, changed flight to earlier flight. Paid the $50 change fee.
[waiting ... waiting ... waiting]
16:45: Left for Atlanta, Georgia (ATL)
18:30 Arrived in ATL
[waiting ... waiting ... waiting]
20:40: Left for Charleston.
22:00: Arrived in Charleston
22:45: Home at last!!!
Mind you, I’ve been lugging this stuff around all day. I’m tired. My knees hurt. I’m sleepy. Next time, I’ll forego the ‘apparent’ savings by flying to Philadelphia. I’ll just fly to Trenton and be done with it! So, all told, 2 trains, 2 planes, and two automobiles. I’ve had enough modes of transportation for one day. I did, however, feel very European this weekend. I spent a lot of time on trains and subways, but more about that later.
I’ve got 7 rolls of film to develop, but those probably won’t be done tonight!
Planes, Trains and Automobiles… isn’t there a movie by that name?
Sounds like it’s been a full on weekend for you. Gotta say though that I’m looking forward to seeing the results. Specially if this classic NY skyline shot is anything to go by.
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@Cedric: Yes. I stole the line of the post from the movie and added my own spin.
The movie starred John Candy and Steve Martin. It was pretty funny. I have so many stories to tell about my short visit to NYC. I hope that I can remember them all! Probably this will be the last skyline shot that you’ll see. I’ve got lots and lots of people shots. It’s the ideal place for that type of photography. I can’t wait to start developing this afternoon!
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Paul, welcome back. You cerntainly had a beautiful and dramatic sky for this and the previous panorama.
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Welcome home, traveler.
Tom is clearly a prince among men and you have me waiting eagerly for the Big Apple version of Paul Lester photography. Your day sounds exhausting and I can’t imagine having mustered the energy to post after such an ordeal. You impress on so many levels.
Naturally, I look forward to the people pictures. Still, I am loving the “establishing shots”. It’s that story-telling skill again. The clarity and detail in the photo here are amazing. Wonderful contrasts providing gripping drama.
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Glad you’re tired and safely back. Sounds like a lot was done in the short time and many more images to work through. Your 12 hour travel day home sounds exhausting. Travel does take a toll on our bodies, emotionally and physically. I travel a lot and learn something new each time I travel, what to bring and what not to bring. I keep down sizing so much it is becoming easier all the time. Sounds like Tom is the great guide and hope you tipped him well! Again, welcome home!
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I love to travel but often the best part of the trip is arriving home and sleeping in your own bed.
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Glad you made it home safe big fella’.
It was such a treat and a pleasure having you in our home. More then that just spending time with you one-on-one and discussing life in general. Your a special guy.
Can’t wait to see what comes out of the soup. You really have an eye and I’m sure you will be soon in the same leaque as HCB.
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Such a complicated place to visit – I am sure you will have many stories to tell. Welcome back!
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