Wednesday, Aug24

Didn't have a computer at our hotel in Minot last night. We had a good trip across North Dakota that far. I guess the biggest impression left on all of us is the water damage all the way along and then especially in Minot where the earthen walls are still in place downtown.*** This morning we were to leave at 7:30 for Stanley, ND where we were going to catch Amtrak to Whitefish, MT. The train station in Minot was all gutted due to the flood so there was no boarding there. However, before we left Minot, we received word that the train that we were going to be taking to Whitefish was about 3 hours late so we all got off the bus and went back into the motel until 9. We then did leave for Stanley but had to wait another good hour before the train did arrive in Stanley.  Impressing us today to this point was all the vertical oil drilling that is going on in this area. As we traveled by train then we got to also go through Williston to check on our oil investment in the Williston Basin!! ***We enjoyed the train ride immensely -lots of room - good food. We sat in the observation car for a lot of the trip to catch good views of the gorges and high train track tressels we crossed. Farming is a challenge in Montana: dry farming, strip farming, cattle ranching. We enjoyed the mountains in the background as we watched combines in the wheat fields all along the way. They also grow alfalfa and canola. Very little corn any where along. Saw many antelope and a bison. ***Unfortunately because our train was so late (due to wet unstable track across North Dakota) it was getting dark by the time we entered the east glacier park.  Tomorrow we get to Lake McDonald and the Go to the Sun Road and a cruise beside a lovely supper at a very nice resort we are told.  Since it is now quarter past midnight, I'm turning in. That luggage call is at 6:45 again tomorrow morning so will be another early day... Blessings to you all...