Cee Tee Jackson

Planes, Trains and … sleds.

Image, grey on blue background, depicting Planes, trains and automobiles. (Also a coach.)

I’ve been driving now for almost fifty years. Not continuously, you understand. This is not some kind of weird record-breaking attempt. I passed my driving test, at the second time of asking, in 1976 and have not looked back.

Though I do use my rear-view mirror a lot. (Boom boom!)

I’m the only driver in my immediate family: neither my wife nor my two adult sons have felt the urge. That old, cheesy car sticker, proclaiming ‘Dad’s Taxi,’ could never be more apt.

I don’t mind. I rather like driving. It’s become second nature. But if I could choose my mode of transport for a cross-country trip, it would not be by car. And here’s why.

Last year, I was unable to drive for nine months. (No. I’m a bloke. Sixty-five years old. 😉 )

Some good friends would give me lifts to various events; I’d travel by bus into town, sometimes by train. And you know what? I discovered so much about my city. With time to look out the window, and no longer having to maintain a constant state of awareness, I noticed sights I’d passed without previously registering.

I had dreaded not being able to drive for such a long period, but it was actually quite liberating. And while very inconvenient and time consuming at times, overall I have to say it was an eye-opener. I now use the bus a lot more than I ever did in the past.

However, that’s not to say I’d like go on a long journey by bus. Or train, for that matter.

Obviously, if the emphasis is on getting from A to B as quickly as possible, then travelling by plane would seem the best option – though, by the time check-in and security checks are factored in, that potential time saving is eroded somewhat.

So here’s what I’d do for a cross-country journey. I’d ask one of my clients if I could borrow her dogs, Shadow and Ghost. (I’m a professional dog-walker, and have been walking these two since they were little puppies, five years ago.)

Picture of two huskies sitting on a country road in Renfrewshire, Scotland.
(Ghost on the left, Shadow to the right.)

I’d have them harnessed to a wheeled sled, point them in the general direction of travel, sit back and enjoy the ride.

I’d love that. The huskies would love that. The environment would love that.

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3 comments

  1. Wow, what a journey you’ve had, both behind the wheel and exploring other modes of transportation! It’s fascinating how taking a break from driving opened up new perspectives and allowed you to discover hidden gems in your city. It’s funny how life’s unexpected twists can lead to surprising revelations, isn’t it?
    I totally get what you’re saying about the convenience of driving and how it becomes second nature over time. But there’s something special about slowing down and taking in the scenery, whether it’s on a bus, train, or even just walking. It’s like you said, you notice things you’ve never seen before when you’re not focused on the road ahead.
    Your idea of hitching a ride with Shadow and Ghost sounds like a dream! Imagine cruising through the countryside with those majestic huskies leading the way. It’s not only a unique mode of transportation but also a sustainable and eco-friendly one. Plus, who wouldn’t want to experience the thrill of sledding across the country with a pair of furry companions?
    Overall, your story highlights the beauty of embracing different ways of getting around and finding joy in unexpected places. It’s all about the journey, isn’t it? Thanks for sharing your perspective, and here’s to many more adventures, whether behind the wheel or harnessing the power of huskies! 🚗🐾

    Liked by 1 person

    • Thanks so much for stopping by and taking time to comment.

      (They really are the friendliest – and strongest – dogs I’ve had the pleasure of walking these past seventeen years. 🙂 )

      Liked by 1 person

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