Whenever we hear an approaching train, we’ll ask if Hallie wants to go out to wave to it. We’ll then spend the next few minutes listening to the gathering thunder as the train gets closer. When it finally appears, we’ll both wave excitedly at the engineers. A few Saturdays ago, the engineer waved back and honked the horn just for Hallie. That thrilled her to no end, as you can imagine. I’m sure my neighbors had differing opinions, as it was barely 8 o’clock.
This past Saturday it was too rainy to watch from outside. I thought we’d miss our chance to wave to the train. All I could do was hold Hallie up at the window so she could catch a glimpse.
Instead of disappointment, something sweet happened. The instant the engineer came into sight, he waved and honked for Hallie, though all he could have possibly seen was a little face in the window. He had been looking out for her. It was very cool, and only adds to the magic regard I hold for trains and their crews.
Kelly said she and Hallie waved to another train today. As it sounded its horn, Hallie’s whole face lit up. Beaming from ear to ear, she then turned to Kelly and gave her the biggest, sweetest hug! Oh, how I wish I could have seen that!
Moments like these pass as quickly as these trains that rumble by. I hope I appreciate each and every one before there’s nothing left but dust and fading echoes.