I received some upsetting news this morning. A good friend of mine that I met a number of years ago in Tallahassee named Plumb has passed away.
Plumb was a good man, could whistle the full musical scale and played a mean game of gin rummy. His favorite meal was cheese-bread. He was once in the military, although he would never say what branch. He always smelled like women's perfume ('[his] mother's smell'). He loved a good pair of warm gloves. He collected "No U-Turn" signs. He also loved animals, especially feral cats.
The last time I saw Plumb was in late 2004. He didn't talk to me much that day, he was busy looking for logs by the interstate.
Apparently he died three years ago after making contact with downed power lines. I'd like to ask all of my readers to keep in mind how dangerous downed power lines can be. As vagrants, it's always tempting to explore, especially when things change in an area we know well. But power lines can be very dangerous, and oftentimes when they are down they are still carrying an electric charge. Apparently Plumb came across such lines and thought they were shut off, and he was trying to strip them for spare copper.
Be careful out there, please. And be sure tell your loved ones how much they mean to you. There are a lot of things I wish I could have shared with old Plumb.
Rest in peace, old friend.
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Blog Title Card
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Monday, March 14, 2011
Rain!
Rain! Oh glorious rain, how I've missed you!
Each year I always wonder if I'll ever say that again, but after suffering through a long, cold, icy and snowy winter, it's lovely to see some precipitation that doesn't put my extremities at risk!
If the rain gets you down, there are plenty of ways to keep dry. Blankets will quickly get wet and soaked through, but an old tarp will keep you dry all day! I use a shower curtain I found on the curb outside the Y.
Unfortunately most old umbrellas you find are in poor shape, so to keep your head warm and dry simply find or make a wide-brim hat. A bucket with holes punched in will work in a pinch!
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Each year I always wonder if I'll ever say that again, but after suffering through a long, cold, icy and snowy winter, it's lovely to see some precipitation that doesn't put my extremities at risk!
If the rain gets you down, there are plenty of ways to keep dry. Blankets will quickly get wet and soaked through, but an old tarp will keep you dry all day! I use a shower curtain I found on the curb outside the Y.
Unfortunately most old umbrellas you find are in poor shape, so to keep your head warm and dry simply find or make a wide-brim hat. A bucket with holes punched in will work in a pinch!
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Buffet Train!
For those of you who still keep some spending money on your hands, I encourage you to greet the gradually warming weather and treat yourself to a Sunday lunch buffet tomorrow at a local eatery. I know, this kind of goes against the 'live off the land' mentality we vagrants strive to hard to foster, but it's nice to get a taste of the carpet-walker's life from time to time.
Tomorrow there will be thirteen of us vagrants running a train on a buffet in Rockford. We've saved up all month long, and are really going to let loose!
Here are some tips we've compiled in planning the event:
1.)Be selective! Choose the right buffet if there are several within walking distance. Keep an eye on price and food offered. One of the most important things to remember when spending hard-earned monies on a buffet is CALORIE INTAKE. You need to use the precious time spent at the buffet to engorge yourself on as many calorie-heavy foods as possible. We'll get to that more in a minute. But the point is, do your research. There is a big difference in selection at a Sunday-only Chinese buffet than a 7-day establishment. American buffets often provide a heavy selection, but tend to be a few dollars more. Avoid Mexican, Indian and Greek buffets altogether if you are looking to really load up on calories. Also, try to find a buffet where you can get your own drinks (limited wait staff) to help avoid raising flags as to 'staying too long'.
2.)Sit and stay! Proprietors will be looking to move you along as fast as they can (the longer you stay, the more it costs them), but there are strategies that can be used to extend your stay. Be wary of establishments that shoo out diners between breakfast and lunch, or between lunch and dinner. I once spent a full thirteen hours at a buffet before finally being escorted out.
3.)Go when it's busy! As stated in #2, many establishments really frown on diners staying for more than a few hours. Many "mom & pop" style places, where the owner is on site, will actually keep watch for people who look like they are looking to park there for the day. It's easier to keep a low profile if you go during a rush, and Sundays work especially well because they are usually filled with the 'after church' crowd for most of the morning into the late afternoon. Change tables every hour or so to avoid suspician on part of the wait staff.
4.)Load up on calories! While most of America is watching their waist-lines, us vagrants are coming out of a long winter and likely haven't had a square meal in a while. Paying $5 or $6 dollars for a buffet means we have to make the most of our money, and that means calorie-loading.
Here are some of my suggestions on that front:
* Pile on deep fat fried foods. Fried chicken, fried meats, french fries, chicken nuggets, et al. Don't dip it in ketchup...dip it in a calorie-rich slurry. I like to take mashed potatoes, gravy, sour cream (equal parts with the mashed potatoes), three or four butter packets, grated cheese from the salad bar, mac & cheese and ranch dressing. Mix the slurry up and dip your chicken nuggets, fried chicken and whatever else. Yum!
* Avoid vegetables. We vagrants eat more vegetables than the average American on a daily basis, due to their potability in cans. At the buffet, steer clear! Only hit the buffet table for dressings, mayonnaise-based salads (krab salad, tuna salad, etc) and cheeses.
* Slather. Find the most calorie-rich dressing (sour cream or ranch dressing usually works well, blue cheese dressing even better!) and douse everything in it. Sop up the empty plate with buns stuffed with butter packets.
* Go easy on the beverages. Sure, they add some sugar and calories to the mix, but a cup full of fried chicken skin and mac & cheese beats a cup of Fresca any day.
5.)Don't be bashful about take-outs! I know, I know, it's a social faux pas to take home a "doggie bag" from a buffet. Hey, I'll leave that up to you--but consider this: Anything left on my plate is going in the garbage anyway, and it breaks my heart to see all those calories go to such waste. Imagine how much they throw away over the course of a day, week, month, year! I think they can part with some stray items going to good use. Anyway, be coy about it. Fill up your bags, pockets, shirts, hats and so forth when no one is looking. We don't want to cause a scene. I like to fill my clothes with chicken skin...not only does it form-fit and pack a great caloric punch, but my clothes smell heavenly afterwards!
Remember, don't abuse the buffet--I make it a once-a-year, mid-March ritual. It takes a little away from the spirit of vagrancy, but when used sparingly it can give you a great pre-spring jolt!
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Tomorrow there will be thirteen of us vagrants running a train on a buffet in Rockford. We've saved up all month long, and are really going to let loose!
Here are some tips we've compiled in planning the event:
1.)Be selective! Choose the right buffet if there are several within walking distance. Keep an eye on price and food offered. One of the most important things to remember when spending hard-earned monies on a buffet is CALORIE INTAKE. You need to use the precious time spent at the buffet to engorge yourself on as many calorie-heavy foods as possible. We'll get to that more in a minute. But the point is, do your research. There is a big difference in selection at a Sunday-only Chinese buffet than a 7-day establishment. American buffets often provide a heavy selection, but tend to be a few dollars more. Avoid Mexican, Indian and Greek buffets altogether if you are looking to really load up on calories. Also, try to find a buffet where you can get your own drinks (limited wait staff) to help avoid raising flags as to 'staying too long'.
2.)Sit and stay! Proprietors will be looking to move you along as fast as they can (the longer you stay, the more it costs them), but there are strategies that can be used to extend your stay. Be wary of establishments that shoo out diners between breakfast and lunch, or between lunch and dinner. I once spent a full thirteen hours at a buffet before finally being escorted out.
3.)Go when it's busy! As stated in #2, many establishments really frown on diners staying for more than a few hours. Many "mom & pop" style places, where the owner is on site, will actually keep watch for people who look like they are looking to park there for the day. It's easier to keep a low profile if you go during a rush, and Sundays work especially well because they are usually filled with the 'after church' crowd for most of the morning into the late afternoon. Change tables every hour or so to avoid suspician on part of the wait staff.
4.)Load up on calories! While most of America is watching their waist-lines, us vagrants are coming out of a long winter and likely haven't had a square meal in a while. Paying $5 or $6 dollars for a buffet means we have to make the most of our money, and that means calorie-loading.
Here are some of my suggestions on that front:
* Pile on deep fat fried foods. Fried chicken, fried meats, french fries, chicken nuggets, et al. Don't dip it in ketchup...dip it in a calorie-rich slurry. I like to take mashed potatoes, gravy, sour cream (equal parts with the mashed potatoes), three or four butter packets, grated cheese from the salad bar, mac & cheese and ranch dressing. Mix the slurry up and dip your chicken nuggets, fried chicken and whatever else. Yum!
* Avoid vegetables. We vagrants eat more vegetables than the average American on a daily basis, due to their potability in cans. At the buffet, steer clear! Only hit the buffet table for dressings, mayonnaise-based salads (krab salad, tuna salad, etc) and cheeses.
* Slather. Find the most calorie-rich dressing (sour cream or ranch dressing usually works well, blue cheese dressing even better!) and douse everything in it. Sop up the empty plate with buns stuffed with butter packets.
* Go easy on the beverages. Sure, they add some sugar and calories to the mix, but a cup full of fried chicken skin and mac & cheese beats a cup of Fresca any day.
5.)Don't be bashful about take-outs! I know, I know, it's a social faux pas to take home a "doggie bag" from a buffet. Hey, I'll leave that up to you--but consider this: Anything left on my plate is going in the garbage anyway, and it breaks my heart to see all those calories go to such waste. Imagine how much they throw away over the course of a day, week, month, year! I think they can part with some stray items going to good use. Anyway, be coy about it. Fill up your bags, pockets, shirts, hats and so forth when no one is looking. We don't want to cause a scene. I like to fill my clothes with chicken skin...not only does it form-fit and pack a great caloric punch, but my clothes smell heavenly afterwards!
Remember, don't abuse the buffet--I make it a once-a-year, mid-March ritual. It takes a little away from the spirit of vagrancy, but when used sparingly it can give you a great pre-spring jolt!
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Bean Pottage
On those coldest of evenings when even a deflected wind wants to cut deep to your bones, warm yourself up a nice soupy bean pottage and stoke the kindling of your body's hearth.
I like to take a nice can of red beans--the kind that are nice and meaty with flesh that just sloughs right off the bean curd--and get a good fire going. I'll take a knife a pop a tab-sized hole in the top of the tin and set the can right down on the fire. You'll know it's done when the slurry begins bubbling up from the hole.
Carefully take the can, using an article of clothing or a handful of rags to protect your fingers from the flame. The hot can will soon warm these protestants and your hands below them. After allowing the can to settle, drink the pottage straight from the can. It will be nice and warm and bubbly, delicious. Afterward you can choose to pop the lid and eat the dry ingredients right then and there, or save them for the next day's meal. Anything to warm us from this bitter cold!
In solidarity,
Train Tom
I like to take a nice can of red beans--the kind that are nice and meaty with flesh that just sloughs right off the bean curd--and get a good fire going. I'll take a knife a pop a tab-sized hole in the top of the tin and set the can right down on the fire. You'll know it's done when the slurry begins bubbling up from the hole.
Carefully take the can, using an article of clothing or a handful of rags to protect your fingers from the flame. The hot can will soon warm these protestants and your hands below them. After allowing the can to settle, drink the pottage straight from the can. It will be nice and warm and bubbly, delicious. Afterward you can choose to pop the lid and eat the dry ingredients right then and there, or save them for the next day's meal. Anything to warm us from this bitter cold!
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Walking Sticks
I wanted to talk a little bit today about the topic of walking sticks. Webster's defines "walking stick" as:
A stick held in the hand and used to help support oneself while walking.
Sounds simple, right? As our grass-walker friends forced to traverse rough, hilly terrain will tell you, sometimes the simplest things are the most important to get right.
What makes for a good walking stick? I interviewed a number of friends of mine that wander the highlands, and while there were certainly different preferences cited, a number of themes came up over and over.
The walking sticks we'll discuss today are the type suited for moderately vigorous rural travels, not the variety used to support physical ailments such as canes.
Proper length, first and foremost, was the crux of most everyone's opinion on a quality walking stick. There is no standard for conformity here, it has a lot to do with the user's stature. "A good stick conforms to its' owner", stated Bagaby, a very old and dear transient friend of mine from the southwest United States. It's more than just height, too...a properly proportioned stick will factor in the user's height, weight, arm length, leg length, torso length, length from shoulder to elbow, length from shoulder to wrist, length from elbow to wrist, and wingspan (left hand's middle fingertip to right hand's middle fingertip). Obviously not everyone that utilizes a walking stick will take all these sorts of figures into account, but those who utilize walking sticks as so-called "tether to life" will appreciate more exacting proportions. If you would like the full figure that is often used to measure out a proper walking stick's length and crotch angle, e-mail me at TrainTomOtt@Gmail.com and I will get you in touch with a knowledgeable expert.
Next, crotch angle was prominently discussed, albeit with much discrepancy between those interviewed. The crotch of a walking stick is the angle between the head (top third of the stick) and the knickers (bottom third). This may sound strange to some, who are used to having a ramrod-straight stick for their travels (no crotch angle), but some rural walkers swear to it's importance. Overall, the consensus seemed to be somewhere in the 10 to 15 degree range, although some preferred a much more abrupt angle. My take on the matter is that it has a lot to do with the type of land being crossed (generally less of an angle in rocky areas, moreso in soft, marshy areas), and it has quite a bit to do with user preference. If you are experiencing any sort of extended wrist fatigue, try increasing or decreasing your crotch angle.
Stick girth or shaft circumference was another much-discussed topic. The consensus here was simply to achieve a balance of hand comfort and stick strength. Obviously, the thinner the stick, the more apt it will be to snap (especially if used in vigorous travels). On the other hand, too thick of a walking stick will cause significant problems, including everything from light fatigue to severe joint problems.
Material. What sort of wood should you seek out in a quality walking stick? In my experience, maple has been by far the most common. But I'm a rail man (or a former one, anyway), so rural instruments are certainly not my forte. Much of this is going to come from local availability, but take care to seek out a quality stick constructed from some sort of dense hardwood. Investigate it thoroughly to see that there is no sign of trauma or fungus. Almost everyone I interviewed for this essay said that if they are going to harvest their own walking stick (or are hired to find one for someone else), they extract it live from the tree. Picking them up off the ground may be easier, but there may be some reason why the stick is separated from the tree that can cause problems down the road.
Finish. It is wise to apply some resin or varnish to the walking stick, and most of those I talked to that used their sticks on a daily basis went to varying lengths to achieve and maintain the right finish (often referred to as "feel"). Some applied oil uniformly to the stick, applying multiple coats for a deep saturation into the wood. Others took special care of the grip, everything from waxing to buffing to scuffing to singeing the head of the stick. Many wrapped the head of the stick in some sort of material for extra grip, but this varied. Some of the suggestions in this regard were duct tape, electrical tape, tightly woven twine saturated in paraffin wax, tar, rubber bands, sponges, leather, cloth and others.
You can seek out a good walking stick in the forest, but there was an almost unanimous consensus that it is better to have one fitted to you by an experienced rural vagrant. Make sure this person is trustworthy and knowledgable before commissioning them to do this sort of work for you. For that matter, expect to pay a fair amount for this sort of custom instrument. Some are shocked at what is asked to procure, customize and finish a stick, but with use it will no doubt prove to be a very fruitful investment. I know I'll be in the market for a new one this spring.
In solidarity,
Train Tom
A stick held in the hand and used to help support oneself while walking.
Sounds simple, right? As our grass-walker friends forced to traverse rough, hilly terrain will tell you, sometimes the simplest things are the most important to get right.
What makes for a good walking stick? I interviewed a number of friends of mine that wander the highlands, and while there were certainly different preferences cited, a number of themes came up over and over.
The walking sticks we'll discuss today are the type suited for moderately vigorous rural travels, not the variety used to support physical ailments such as canes.
Proper length, first and foremost, was the crux of most everyone's opinion on a quality walking stick. There is no standard for conformity here, it has a lot to do with the user's stature. "A good stick conforms to its' owner", stated Bagaby, a very old and dear transient friend of mine from the southwest United States. It's more than just height, too...a properly proportioned stick will factor in the user's height, weight, arm length, leg length, torso length, length from shoulder to elbow, length from shoulder to wrist, length from elbow to wrist, and wingspan (left hand's middle fingertip to right hand's middle fingertip). Obviously not everyone that utilizes a walking stick will take all these sorts of figures into account, but those who utilize walking sticks as so-called "tether to life" will appreciate more exacting proportions. If you would like the full figure that is often used to measure out a proper walking stick's length and crotch angle, e-mail me at TrainTomOtt@Gmail.com and I will get you in touch with a knowledgeable expert.
Next, crotch angle was prominently discussed, albeit with much discrepancy between those interviewed. The crotch of a walking stick is the angle between the head (top third of the stick) and the knickers (bottom third). This may sound strange to some, who are used to having a ramrod-straight stick for their travels (no crotch angle), but some rural walkers swear to it's importance. Overall, the consensus seemed to be somewhere in the 10 to 15 degree range, although some preferred a much more abrupt angle. My take on the matter is that it has a lot to do with the type of land being crossed (generally less of an angle in rocky areas, moreso in soft, marshy areas), and it has quite a bit to do with user preference. If you are experiencing any sort of extended wrist fatigue, try increasing or decreasing your crotch angle.
Stick girth or shaft circumference was another much-discussed topic. The consensus here was simply to achieve a balance of hand comfort and stick strength. Obviously, the thinner the stick, the more apt it will be to snap (especially if used in vigorous travels). On the other hand, too thick of a walking stick will cause significant problems, including everything from light fatigue to severe joint problems.
Material. What sort of wood should you seek out in a quality walking stick? In my experience, maple has been by far the most common. But I'm a rail man (or a former one, anyway), so rural instruments are certainly not my forte. Much of this is going to come from local availability, but take care to seek out a quality stick constructed from some sort of dense hardwood. Investigate it thoroughly to see that there is no sign of trauma or fungus. Almost everyone I interviewed for this essay said that if they are going to harvest their own walking stick (or are hired to find one for someone else), they extract it live from the tree. Picking them up off the ground may be easier, but there may be some reason why the stick is separated from the tree that can cause problems down the road.
Finish. It is wise to apply some resin or varnish to the walking stick, and most of those I talked to that used their sticks on a daily basis went to varying lengths to achieve and maintain the right finish (often referred to as "feel"). Some applied oil uniformly to the stick, applying multiple coats for a deep saturation into the wood. Others took special care of the grip, everything from waxing to buffing to scuffing to singeing the head of the stick. Many wrapped the head of the stick in some sort of material for extra grip, but this varied. Some of the suggestions in this regard were duct tape, electrical tape, tightly woven twine saturated in paraffin wax, tar, rubber bands, sponges, leather, cloth and others.
You can seek out a good walking stick in the forest, but there was an almost unanimous consensus that it is better to have one fitted to you by an experienced rural vagrant. Make sure this person is trustworthy and knowledgable before commissioning them to do this sort of work for you. For that matter, expect to pay a fair amount for this sort of custom instrument. Some are shocked at what is asked to procure, customize and finish a stick, but with use it will no doubt prove to be a very fruitful investment. I know I'll be in the market for a new one this spring.
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
TIP: Lip Balm Recipe
A common complaint during the cold, dry winter months is sore lips. The arid air robs our smackers of their natural moisture, and it can get to the point where wetting them with saliva can become extremely painful.
Lip balm can be a luxurious comfort on these long winter nights. However, we all know the feeling of trading away good food or potables for something seemingly unessential (although those suffering from chapped lips might argue that moniker!)
A simple, effective solution is to use a few common garbage scraps and resources you may have lying around to make up your own batch. Plus, you're likely to even have some left over, to give away or for trade!
Vagrant Lip Balm
Ingredients:
1.5 inches of candle wax.
Smear of grease
Dollop of oil (preferably olive oil, but any will do)
Dollop of honey
Multivitamin
Heating stone
Stick
Individual tins
Get a small fire good and hot. Smear a 3" diameter of grease on a heating stone. Warm up the heating stone until it is hot enough to make the candle wax nice and malleable. Add oil and honey. Crunch up the multivitamin until it is a fine powder, incorporate into goo with stick. Ladle individual servings into tins. Allow to cool thoroughly before using. Do not eat.
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Lip balm can be a luxurious comfort on these long winter nights. However, we all know the feeling of trading away good food or potables for something seemingly unessential (although those suffering from chapped lips might argue that moniker!)
A simple, effective solution is to use a few common garbage scraps and resources you may have lying around to make up your own batch. Plus, you're likely to even have some left over, to give away or for trade!
Vagrant Lip Balm
Ingredients:
1.5 inches of candle wax.
Smear of grease
Dollop of oil (preferably olive oil, but any will do)
Dollop of honey
Multivitamin
Heating stone
Stick
Individual tins
Get a small fire good and hot. Smear a 3" diameter of grease on a heating stone. Warm up the heating stone until it is hot enough to make the candle wax nice and malleable. Add oil and honey. Crunch up the multivitamin until it is a fine powder, incorporate into goo with stick. Ladle individual servings into tins. Allow to cool thoroughly before using. Do not eat.
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Monday, January 24, 2011
Interesting article
I came across this essay on a vagrant-friendly newsgroup. Definitely an outsider's perspective, but it gives a unique and unfiltered perspective that I find fascinating.
http://www.ohioswallow.com/extras/9780896802629_intro.pdf
In solidarity,
Train Tom
http://www.ohioswallow.com/extras/9780896802629_intro.pdf
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Storm's A'Coming
Batten down the hatches, my northeast U.S. readership! My Baltimore-based transient weather reporter Holder says that the shells predict an ice storm in the next 48 hours. Find a shelter, find a commune. Stay in a library or a 24-hour retail store if necessary. By all means, stay safe, stay together, stay warm!
In solidarity,
Train Tom
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Friday, January 21, 2011
Op Ed: Sugar & Spice...
Spirred on by Gumball's wonderful Op Ed, my good friend Satchmo from the Norfolk docks decided to share his two cents, with a little help from his brother (?) and eternal comrade named Petros, but his friends affectionately call him Tonk.
For those of you unfamiliar, Satchmo typically documents nearly everything that goes on around him, for what he claims will become his memoirs. He's got literally stacks and stacks of the stuff, and it's interesting/exhausting to review.
Anyway, he insists on writing in his accustomed style no matter if it's his memoirs or an e-mail or a grocery list. Give it a try, it's sure to grow on you.
You've given us a lot to think about, boys.
In solidarity,
Train Tom
For those of you unfamiliar, Satchmo typically documents nearly everything that goes on around him, for what he claims will become his memoirs. He's got literally stacks and stacks of the stuff, and it's interesting/exhausting to review.
Anyway, he insists on writing in his accustomed style no matter if it's his memoirs or an e-mail or a grocery list. Give it a try, it's sure to grow on you.
Hello! It’s Satchmo talking to you from my trusty Smith 8-10. For many years me and Tonk have been fending for ourselves as vagrants and you tend to pick up a few skills as you go. Today I’m gong to tell you how to get yourself some hot pecan pie!
I have a bit of an advantage here as Tonk has been recognized as a Grade-A pie-snatcher in the tri-country area but I hope you still learn something from him that you can apply in your own ventures. “HELLO SATCHMO, REGINOLD SAYS HI TOO!”
“Yes, Hello Tonk, hello Reginold.”
Reginold is a little knick-knack that Tonk carries around, a mess of fence wire and twine he calls a rabbit.
“IT’S FLUFFY FUR!”
“I’ll tell you what it is! Now stop reading over my shoulder, it makes me nervous!”
Sorry for the interruption. About pie-snatching, the secret to Tonk’s success is that he can smell a pie cooling on a windowsill from a mile away. When he smells some pie he’ll shout “OH BOY!” and that’s my signal to grab him by the scruff of his neck to keep him from getting run over as he leads me to the pie. He’s pretty single minded when he’s on the scent (not that he’s very many minded most other times) so keeping him out of harm is a big challenge.
Locating the pie is the easy part. It’s so temping to dash and grab that hot pecan pie off the windowsill and take off! But that’s the sign of amateurs itching to get shot full of buckshot. The true pie maestro will distract the pie owner so that an associate can take off with the pie safely. Tonk will hide in the bushes while I ring the doorbell and engage the man-of-the-house. My go-to distraction is as a travelling salesman. I doff my hat and give my best pitch. Unwanted items you acquire at the hobo swap make great fodder for this. The goal isn’t to make a sale but to distract the man long enough for the associate to abscond with the pie and take off! Tonk will tweet like a red-bellied woodpecker and that’s when I know its time to excuse myself and scram!
“SOMETIMES IT’S A YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO!”
“That detail’s not important! Now stop interrupting!”
If everything went well you will be well out of site before the absent pie is noticed. Now your biggest challenge is how to enjoy that hot pecan pie!
You've given us a lot to think about, boys.
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Reverend Tucibat's Eastern Tour
Reverend Tucibat maintains a number of summer hobo churches in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, and winter ones usually around Dallas or in the Florida panhandle. This winter, however, to bring some good cheer to vagrants stuck in the cold, he has been doing a series of goodwill ministry events in the American Northeast.
I don't usually prescribe to Thumpers or ministers in general, but Reverend Jimla is different because he gives his sermons with a wonderful hobo flair, including a lot of hobo history and Bible-related transient anecdotes. It's worth giving him a listen, and if you can treat him to lunch I really encourage you to. You'll have some great, memorable conversations.
I wish I would have known about this sooner, I know we get a lot of readership out of New York and New Jersey, and he's been in the Northeast since late Novermber. Anyway, I will list here the dates/times/locations of his public sermons, all of which will be held in open-air street venues.
The talk given at each of these is entitled, "Jesus Was a Transient, Too!". I have not heard this sermon myself, but it has come highly recommended from some close friends.
1/22 - Utica Ave. & Farrgut Rd. (under the train track overpass), East Flatbush, Brooklyn, NY. 10:00 AM
1/23 - Utica Ave. & Farrgut Rd. (under the train track overpass), East Flatbush, Brooklyn, NY. 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM
1/26 - Brower Park (east of the basketball courts), Crown Heights, Brooklyn, NY. 1:00 PM
1/27 - Brower Park (east of the basketball courts), Crown Heights, Brooklyn, NY. 7:30 PM
1/29 - Mott Ave. & Beach Channel Dr. (parking lot behind Rodriguez Grocery), Far Rockaway, Queens, NY. 10:00 AM
1/30 - Mott Ave. & Beach Channel Dr. (parking lot behind Rodriguez Grocery), Far Rockaway, Queens, NY. 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM
2/2 - Field between Riverview Dr. and Totowa Rd. (just east of Laurel Grove Cemetery), Paterson, NJ. 1:00 PM
2/3 - Field between Riverview Dr. and Totowa Rd. (just east of Laurel Grove Cemetery), Paterson, NJ. 7:30 PM
2/5 - Irving Ave. and Cohansey St. (dirt path near walking bridge), Bridgeton, NJ. 10:00 AM
2/6 - Irving Ave. and Cohansey St. (dirt path near walking bridge), Bridgeton, NJ. 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM
2/9 - Parking area east of the State Street Bridge, Camden, NJ. 1:00 PM
2/10 - Parking area east of the State Street Bridge, Camden, NJ. 7:30 PM
2/12 - East Stafford St. & Baynton St. (under the Baynton Street alley train overpass), Germantown, Philadelphia, PA. 10:00 AM
2/13 - East Stafford St. & Baynton St. (under the Baynton Street alley train overpass), Germantown, Philadelphia, PA. 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM
2/16 - East Stafford St. & Baynton St. (under the Baynton Street alley train overpass), Germantown, Philadelphia, PA. 1:00 PM
2/17 - Field southwest of St. Agnes Hospital, West Baltimore, MD. 7:30 PM
2/19 - Field southwest of St. Agnes Hospital, West Baltimore, MD. 10:00 AM
2/20 - Field southwest of St. Agnes Hospital, West Baltimore, MD. 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM
2/23 - Clearing behind Jerusalem Mill Museum & Administration Building for Gunpowder Falls State Park, White Marsh, MD. 1:00 PM
2/24 - Clearing behind Jerusalem Mill Museum & Administration Building for Gunpowder Falls State Park, White Marsh, MD. 7:30 PM
2/26 - Light rail station at Gilroy Road, Cockeysville, MD. 10:00 AM
2/27 - Light rail station at Gilroy Road, Cockeysville, MD. 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM
3/2 - Under the Penn Lincoln Parkway overpass (at Forward Ave), Squirrel Hill, Pittsburgh, PA. 1:00 PM
3/3 - Under the Penn Lincoln Parkway overpass (at Forward Ave), Squirrel Hill, Pittsburgh, PA. 7:30 PM
3/5 - Old abandoned dock under Liberty Street bridge, Mount Washington, Pittsburgh, PA. 10:00 AM
3/6 - Old abandoned dock under Liberty Street bridge, Mount Washington, Pittsburgh, PA. 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM
Reverend Tucibat asked me to pass on that, while the sermon will have a Christian-theme, he really wishes to present a non-denominational atmosphere at these events. So whatever your faith, whatever your belief, if you are able then certainly try to show up and enjoy the festivities. Should be a fun time, and might get your mind off the cold for a while!
In solidarity,
Train Tom
I don't usually prescribe to Thumpers or ministers in general, but Reverend Jimla is different because he gives his sermons with a wonderful hobo flair, including a lot of hobo history and Bible-related transient anecdotes. It's worth giving him a listen, and if you can treat him to lunch I really encourage you to. You'll have some great, memorable conversations.
I wish I would have known about this sooner, I know we get a lot of readership out of New York and New Jersey, and he's been in the Northeast since late Novermber. Anyway, I will list here the dates/times/locations of his public sermons, all of which will be held in open-air street venues.
The talk given at each of these is entitled, "Jesus Was a Transient, Too!". I have not heard this sermon myself, but it has come highly recommended from some close friends.
1/22 - Utica Ave. & Farrgut Rd. (under the train track overpass), East Flatbush, Brooklyn, NY. 10:00 AM
1/23 - Utica Ave. & Farrgut Rd. (under the train track overpass), East Flatbush, Brooklyn, NY. 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM
1/26 - Brower Park (east of the basketball courts), Crown Heights, Brooklyn, NY. 1:00 PM
1/27 - Brower Park (east of the basketball courts), Crown Heights, Brooklyn, NY. 7:30 PM
1/29 - Mott Ave. & Beach Channel Dr. (parking lot behind Rodriguez Grocery), Far Rockaway, Queens, NY. 10:00 AM
1/30 - Mott Ave. & Beach Channel Dr. (parking lot behind Rodriguez Grocery), Far Rockaway, Queens, NY. 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM
2/2 - Field between Riverview Dr. and Totowa Rd. (just east of Laurel Grove Cemetery), Paterson, NJ. 1:00 PM
2/3 - Field between Riverview Dr. and Totowa Rd. (just east of Laurel Grove Cemetery), Paterson, NJ. 7:30 PM
2/5 - Irving Ave. and Cohansey St. (dirt path near walking bridge), Bridgeton, NJ. 10:00 AM
2/6 - Irving Ave. and Cohansey St. (dirt path near walking bridge), Bridgeton, NJ. 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM
2/9 - Parking area east of the State Street Bridge, Camden, NJ. 1:00 PM
2/10 - Parking area east of the State Street Bridge, Camden, NJ. 7:30 PM
2/12 - East Stafford St. & Baynton St. (under the Baynton Street alley train overpass), Germantown, Philadelphia, PA. 10:00 AM
2/13 - East Stafford St. & Baynton St. (under the Baynton Street alley train overpass), Germantown, Philadelphia, PA. 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM
2/16 - East Stafford St. & Baynton St. (under the Baynton Street alley train overpass), Germantown, Philadelphia, PA. 1:00 PM
2/17 - Field southwest of St. Agnes Hospital, West Baltimore, MD. 7:30 PM
2/19 - Field southwest of St. Agnes Hospital, West Baltimore, MD. 10:00 AM
2/20 - Field southwest of St. Agnes Hospital, West Baltimore, MD. 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM
2/23 - Clearing behind Jerusalem Mill Museum & Administration Building for Gunpowder Falls State Park, White Marsh, MD. 1:00 PM
2/24 - Clearing behind Jerusalem Mill Museum & Administration Building for Gunpowder Falls State Park, White Marsh, MD. 7:30 PM
2/26 - Light rail station at Gilroy Road, Cockeysville, MD. 10:00 AM
2/27 - Light rail station at Gilroy Road, Cockeysville, MD. 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM
3/2 - Under the Penn Lincoln Parkway overpass (at Forward Ave), Squirrel Hill, Pittsburgh, PA. 1:00 PM
3/3 - Under the Penn Lincoln Parkway overpass (at Forward Ave), Squirrel Hill, Pittsburgh, PA. 7:30 PM
3/5 - Old abandoned dock under Liberty Street bridge, Mount Washington, Pittsburgh, PA. 10:00 AM
3/6 - Old abandoned dock under Liberty Street bridge, Mount Washington, Pittsburgh, PA. 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM
Reverend Tucibat asked me to pass on that, while the sermon will have a Christian-theme, he really wishes to present a non-denominational atmosphere at these events. So whatever your faith, whatever your belief, if you are able then certainly try to show up and enjoy the festivities. Should be a fun time, and might get your mind off the cold for a while!
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Fire Hatch
A sizable percentage of the readership of this blog are people that either know me personally or from other forums. If you fall into one of these categories, chances are you have heard me weigh in (likely more than once) on my opinion on eternally-maintained Fire Hatches.
For those unaware, a Fire Hatch is a small, low flame kept in a small cavity in out of the wind. The intent is that there will always be fire readily available when needed, without having to use a flint or a match or a lighter.
That's all well and good, but for years I have been a pretty outspoken critic of the Fire Hatch philosophy. Unless someone is going to continually maintain it, I have always maintained that this sort of operation is just more trouble than it's worth. It takes more effort, more supplies (wasted kindling!) and more attention than benefit. If a group has a man that can constantly maintain it, sure, I always said, I guess that's ok, although it seems like wasted effort for someone who could otherwise be out foraging or earning.
And don't get me started on the alternative--those of you who maintain a Fire Hatch on your own, without constant maintenance throughout the day (and night), you forever run the risk of having it die, having it be stolen, or--heaven forbid--burning down a city block or two. It's happened!
But! The Steam Men I am currently housing with have a dedicated Fire Hatch, and I must admit it is damn nice to have around. Not only does it keep the area nice and warm, but it saves the annoyance of having to rustle up kindling when you're hungry, not to mention trying to start a fire in wet conditions. Our Fire Hatch even constantly boils a pot of water, and I can't tell you how beautiful it is to have constant, easy access to hot water through the night and into the morning. Coffee, anyone?
It does come at a price, as all Fire Hatches will, and I'm not saying I have completely reverted on my opinion in all respects. It still seems silly to me to maintain a Fire Hatch by yourself or in a small group. But there are 9 of us here in the old abandoned industrial complex, and each day one stays behind. Not exclusively for the Fire Hatch, but to do basic homemaker type duties which includes stoking the Fire Hatch and collecting kindling.
I know I'm going to get a lot of "told you so!" e-mail messages, and that's fine. I'll admit it, having a Fire Hatch handy is a luxory that will be difficult to ever break myself of--it's wonderful to have around. But just be careful before you create one, and know that it certainly helps if it can be shared communally.
For those unaware, a Fire Hatch is a small, low flame kept in a small cavity in out of the wind. The intent is that there will always be fire readily available when needed, without having to use a flint or a match or a lighter.
That's all well and good, but for years I have been a pretty outspoken critic of the Fire Hatch philosophy. Unless someone is going to continually maintain it, I have always maintained that this sort of operation is just more trouble than it's worth. It takes more effort, more supplies (wasted kindling!) and more attention than benefit. If a group has a man that can constantly maintain it, sure, I always said, I guess that's ok, although it seems like wasted effort for someone who could otherwise be out foraging or earning.
And don't get me started on the alternative--those of you who maintain a Fire Hatch on your own, without constant maintenance throughout the day (and night), you forever run the risk of having it die, having it be stolen, or--heaven forbid--burning down a city block or two. It's happened!
But! The Steam Men I am currently housing with have a dedicated Fire Hatch, and I must admit it is damn nice to have around. Not only does it keep the area nice and warm, but it saves the annoyance of having to rustle up kindling when you're hungry, not to mention trying to start a fire in wet conditions. Our Fire Hatch even constantly boils a pot of water, and I can't tell you how beautiful it is to have constant, easy access to hot water through the night and into the morning. Coffee, anyone?
It does come at a price, as all Fire Hatches will, and I'm not saying I have completely reverted on my opinion in all respects. It still seems silly to me to maintain a Fire Hatch by yourself or in a small group. But there are 9 of us here in the old abandoned industrial complex, and each day one stays behind. Not exclusively for the Fire Hatch, but to do basic homemaker type duties which includes stoking the Fire Hatch and collecting kindling.
I know I'm going to get a lot of "told you so!" e-mail messages, and that's fine. I'll admit it, having a Fire Hatch handy is a luxory that will be difficult to ever break myself of--it's wonderful to have around. But just be careful before you create one, and know that it certainly helps if it can be shared communally.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
RECIPE: Fried Ketchup Sandwiches
Ketchup packets are a gift from the vagrant gods...free, easily portable, nutritious and darn good. They can serve as a lovely condiment, a delicious accouterment to a meal, or--in a pinch--a fist full of packets can make a damn fine dinner on their own.
Sometimes, though, it's nice to throw our standard dishes a curve ball and get some new ideas for dressing up old ingredients. I'm going to kick us off with an easy, inexpensive alternative to straight ketchup, Fried Ketchup Sandwiches. Feel free to send me other ideas and I'll publish them as well--the mail bag is always open, TrainTomOtt@Gmail.com.
Fried Ketchup Sandwiches
Ingredients:
3 ketchup packets (fast food style)
2 slices of bread
Oil/Grease
Pan
Lube up the pan with a fair slather of oil or grease. Also wipe some on one side of each piece of bread. Heat the pan good and hot over a low open flame. Apply contents of ketchup packets to ungreased side of one slice of bread. Placed greased side down on pan. Place other slice of bread on top of ketchup, greased side up.
Allow to fry for one full singing of Back Alley Kitty Cat (about 1.5 minutes). Flip over sandwich, sing again. Bread should be crispy and brown on both sides. Enjoy!
Note: For a South-of-the-Border flare, replace one ketchup packet with a fast-food style mild taco sauce packet.
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Sometimes, though, it's nice to throw our standard dishes a curve ball and get some new ideas for dressing up old ingredients. I'm going to kick us off with an easy, inexpensive alternative to straight ketchup, Fried Ketchup Sandwiches. Feel free to send me other ideas and I'll publish them as well--the mail bag is always open, TrainTomOtt@Gmail.com.
Fried Ketchup Sandwiches
Ingredients:
3 ketchup packets (fast food style)
2 slices of bread
Oil/Grease
Pan
Lube up the pan with a fair slather of oil or grease. Also wipe some on one side of each piece of bread. Heat the pan good and hot over a low open flame. Apply contents of ketchup packets to ungreased side of one slice of bread. Placed greased side down on pan. Place other slice of bread on top of ketchup, greased side up.
Allow to fry for one full singing of Back Alley Kitty Cat (about 1.5 minutes). Flip over sandwich, sing again. Bread should be crispy and brown on both sides. Enjoy!
Note: For a South-of-the-Border flare, replace one ketchup packet with a fast-food style mild taco sauce packet.
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Friday, January 14, 2011
A Warm Place to Stay
Just a quick update on my winter lodging situation. A few weeks ago I came across a Steam Man named Len fishing in the Donner Street sewer and asked to sit with him a while. After a friendly conversation (and a thorough vetting), he invited me to stay the night at his industrial home--an old, abandoned factory, office and warehouse facility on 8th and Glenny once called "Cunningham Materials". I guess they used to manufacture custom metal shelving units.
There are eight Steam Men in the group: Len, Matchsticks, Steam Kyle, Ratchet, Marbles, Tummy, Steam Bud and Sweat Nuts. They call themselves Clear River Steamers. I explained my dire situation--the fact that my home had been under the bridge but it's just too cold to stay there, and my medical condition makes me immobile at the moment.
Thankfully, they took pity on me and took me in. Not as an official member, by any means, but as a semi-permanent guest until spring. I have some extra dues that are expected of me to stay there, but the warm lodging, safety, companionship and social gravitas offered by the other men are well work the extra expenditures. I could have found a way to survive the winter on my own, I am sure, but a warm, safe place to stay and a relatively friendly group will sure make the season easier to bear.
The stereotype about Steam men is that they enjoy tinkering with the abandoned equipment and other supplies harvested from their industrial settings. That's obviously not true for everybody, but this group has done some interesting things with the leftover Cunningham Materials machinery. Steam Bud is going to have me assist him in converting an old hydraulic press into a way to make soap. Matchsticks found a big stack of damaged screen doors and has been repairing them for some reason, and Sweat Nuts is convinced he can get an enormous old backup generator up and running again.
Should be an interesting winter, will keep you updated!
In solidarity,
There are eight Steam Men in the group: Len, Matchsticks, Steam Kyle, Ratchet, Marbles, Tummy, Steam Bud and Sweat Nuts. They call themselves Clear River Steamers. I explained my dire situation--the fact that my home had been under the bridge but it's just too cold to stay there, and my medical condition makes me immobile at the moment.
Thankfully, they took pity on me and took me in. Not as an official member, by any means, but as a semi-permanent guest until spring. I have some extra dues that are expected of me to stay there, but the warm lodging, safety, companionship and social gravitas offered by the other men are well work the extra expenditures. I could have found a way to survive the winter on my own, I am sure, but a warm, safe place to stay and a relatively friendly group will sure make the season easier to bear.
The stereotype about Steam men is that they enjoy tinkering with the abandoned equipment and other supplies harvested from their industrial settings. That's obviously not true for everybody, but this group has done some interesting things with the leftover Cunningham Materials machinery. Steam Bud is going to have me assist him in converting an old hydraulic press into a way to make soap. Matchsticks found a big stack of damaged screen doors and has been repairing them for some reason, and Sweat Nuts is convinced he can get an enormous old backup generator up and running again.
Should be an interesting winter, will keep you updated!
In solidarity,
Monday, January 10, 2011
QOTW: No one rides free?
NOTE: This post contains some adult language, please distribute only to appropriate parties.
Next time it may be, your question to Tom. Email it, TrainTomOtt@Gmail.com!
Do you really suck dick for rides?
- Lonny M., No city listed
Some of you may expect me to take offense for such a brash question, but this is something I have actually been asked a lot in conversation with non-vagrants and in the mailbag. Best to address it concretely, once and for all.
Generally, modern vagrants do not panhandle nor hitchhike. We've discussed before the difference between a legitimate homeless person and a vagrant, and we should add to that differentiation those desperate to travel for one reason or another. Some people need to travel across the country to visit a sick relative, or run away from something, or in search of a better lifestyle. These sorts usually adhere to one or both of the following: They are traveling to a specific place and/or they in a hurry to get there.
If we're going to nit-pick, we could say that one or both of these could also apply to a modern transient from time to time, but it generally does not define them. A transient may be headed specifically to Florida
The majority of travel in my life as a tried-and-true transient has been by foot, by train, by donkey, by bicycle or by the back of a pickup truck. Very seldom will I ride in a car seat, and I can say with a reasonable amount of certainty that this is the case for nearly all modern vagrants.
There are times where hitch-hiking is essential...if you do need to get out of a certain area quickly, if the weather is turning bad and you have no accommodations, so on and so forth. For these sorts of reasons, yes, a transient will occasionally travel by vehicle.
More often than not, no matter what your movie-pictures say, there is no exchange of goods or services for the ride. The friendly driver simply wants to help someone out. Other times the vagrant may be expected (or willingly give some sort of monetary compensation for the fuel used.
I'm going going to flat-out say that sexual favors are never exchanged for such a service, but I do want to dispel the myth that this is any sort of common form of payment for a modern vagrant. I cannot say what the case is for other hitch-hikers with other motives, all I can speak for is my own experience and the experience of those I am close to.
This is especially the case in the day of HIV, AIDS and other common forms of sexually-transmitted diseases. I can say with a level of certainty that there is VERY seldom any penetrative act given in exchange for a ride, although other forms of non-penetrative sexual relief such as a "four mile handshake" may or may not be common in rural areas where non-automotive travel is restricted.
In short, friends, be safe and don't allow yourself to get into positions where you feel uncomfortable or unnecessarily vulnerable.
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Friday, January 7, 2011
Sew What!
Dashing to learn to sew!
Hurry, teach me please!
Useful skills to know!
So that I don't freeze! (Brr! Brr! Brr!)
These are some of the lyrics to the popular hobo parody, "Neddle Spells", a take off on the traditional Christmas anthem "Jingle Bells". It's a lighthearted tune that History Dan (our blog's resident hobo historian) says dates back to at least the late 1940's.
While this song is lighthearted and whimsical, the idea of learning how to adequately sew clothes is very serious business to the modern vagrant. Even at so-called "discount stores" clothes can come at a premium price, so keeping them in good shape and usable is key to practicing the Five Pillars. That's not to mention the fact that sewing skills can mean the difference between health and disease--or even life and death--in cold climates.
Throughout the years, experienced Leathermen would conduct impromptu classes (commonly called "Sewlas", pronounced "So-Las") to a number of hobo brethren where they would pay a fee (usually an ingredient in a good batch of hobo chili or gumbo) that the Leatherman would then be allowed to enjoy all by himself if he so chose. It was in one of these Sewlas that I first learned the song that opened this post!
The term "Sewla" probably only dates back to the mid-1970's, but History Dan says they have gone on in some fashion for as long as vagrants have wandered the earth.
Some vagrants still prefer to learn through Sewlas, but in the event that they don't have something to trade, are on bad terms with the local Leatherman or don't have a local Leatherman at all, there are some modern-day alternatives.
The Internet has brought a wealth of information to our fingertips, and public libraries often provide free limited-time access to the Web. That's how I am able to transcribe for this blog, and likely how the vagrant audience of this blog are accessing this website.
For a cheaper alternative Sewlas, check out these and other tutorial web sites and videos. Feel free to bring a pair of pants, needle and thread with you to the library to practice on, or simply stitch what you're already wearing. In my experience, many librarians or computer lab monitors are tolerant and respectful of this sort of activity, as long as we ourselves are respectful and quiet. Remember your Five Pillars, friends.
Here is an introductory list of some tutorial sewing websites and videos. Feel free to send me your recommendations; the mail bag is always open... TrainTomOtt@Gmail.com
Good Intro to Sewing Resources:
These skills also come in handy for repairing or reinforcing sleeping tents, shoes, blankets, hats, gloves and scarves. As they say "the sky's the limit if you say sew!"
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Monday, January 3, 2011
Op Ed: "Christmas Presence"
Happy New Year! I have news to share but it will have to wait, because waiting for me in my Inbox this morning was an Op Ed piece from my friend Gumball. It was beautifully written, and sure to bring a tear to your eye. I'm honored that he is my first guest writer for this blog, and it's wonderful that he has such a poignant message to share.
Please enjoy.
"What did you get for Christmas?"
That is often the question on the lips of old and young alike this time of year. Still, even as a transient man who has lived this way for the majority of my adult life, I am often asked this question by my non-transient friends and acquaintences.
What did I get this year? What did I receive? What did I treat myself with?
This year I treated myself to fresh air, the cool breeze on a hot July morning or a warm, crackling fire on a cold December night. This year I treated myself to seeing the west, exploring and enjoying the beautiful and ancient rustic spirit of this nation. This year I opened myself up to new tastes, new smells, new friends, new hopes and dreams and life and liberty. I treated myself to good clean air in my lungs, to breathtaking beauty and scenery. I treated myself to wake up in a different location every morning. I treated myself to never feeling trapped, asphyxiated within a box.
Some people look at me and my brethren and feel sorry for us. They think we are lacking because of our lack of a Christmas tree, or the ringing of Christmas bells, or special food or drink or time spent with blood relatives. Most of all, they seem to think I'm missing something because I do not afford myself Christmas presents.
Maybe I won't enjoy a bounty of Christmas presents, but instead I hold close to my heart something much more valuable...Christmas presence. A presence not in simply existing, but in living within the moment. Taking it all in. The world is a big, scary, tragic and hauntingly beautiful place. You can't see it from behind closed doors. You have to live it, be a part of it, not apart from it.
I have seen some things in my time, some things I wish I could un-see and other things I'd give my life to experience a second time. You take the good with the bad, the horrid with the lovely. This world has a knack for simultaneously breaking your heart and filling it with childlike wonder all at once.
It's hard to break away, and this path is not for everyone. Some are better off behind their closed, locked doors, away from the rest of the world. Let them have their cubicles, their mortgage, their auto repairs, their health insurance. Let them have their Christmas presents. For the select few of us--the ones who choose not to remove ourselves from what this world has to offer--we strive for something much more symbiotic with nature. A Christmas presence.
Keep the flame, my brothers.
GB
In solidarity,
Train Tom
Please enjoy.
"What did you get for Christmas?"
That is often the question on the lips of old and young alike this time of year. Still, even as a transient man who has lived this way for the majority of my adult life, I am often asked this question by my non-transient friends and acquaintences.
What did I get this year? What did I receive? What did I treat myself with?
This year I treated myself to fresh air, the cool breeze on a hot July morning or a warm, crackling fire on a cold December night. This year I treated myself to seeing the west, exploring and enjoying the beautiful and ancient rustic spirit of this nation. This year I opened myself up to new tastes, new smells, new friends, new hopes and dreams and life and liberty. I treated myself to good clean air in my lungs, to breathtaking beauty and scenery. I treated myself to wake up in a different location every morning. I treated myself to never feeling trapped, asphyxiated within a box.
Some people look at me and my brethren and feel sorry for us. They think we are lacking because of our lack of a Christmas tree, or the ringing of Christmas bells, or special food or drink or time spent with blood relatives. Most of all, they seem to think I'm missing something because I do not afford myself Christmas presents.
Maybe I won't enjoy a bounty of Christmas presents, but instead I hold close to my heart something much more valuable...Christmas presence. A presence not in simply existing, but in living within the moment. Taking it all in. The world is a big, scary, tragic and hauntingly beautiful place. You can't see it from behind closed doors. You have to live it, be a part of it, not apart from it.
I have seen some things in my time, some things I wish I could un-see and other things I'd give my life to experience a second time. You take the good with the bad, the horrid with the lovely. This world has a knack for simultaneously breaking your heart and filling it with childlike wonder all at once.
It's hard to break away, and this path is not for everyone. Some are better off behind their closed, locked doors, away from the rest of the world. Let them have their cubicles, their mortgage, their auto repairs, their health insurance. Let them have their Christmas presents. For the select few of us--the ones who choose not to remove ourselves from what this world has to offer--we strive for something much more symbiotic with nature. A Christmas presence.
Keep the flame, my brothers.
GB
In solidarity,
Train Tom
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