Shopping trip

Well, that was my excuse. But it wasn't so much of a shopping trip as  a reason to catch the train again.
To think that not so many years ago I used to do this every day. Not the same train, nor the same journey, but nevertheless a train journey.
All pretty routine really, and what was then considered a way of life. But then the menacing hand of politics took over and railway branch lines in the country, till then considered a lifeline, were axed in the wake of Dr Beeching's view on railways..
Possibly one of the gravest errors of the time. 
So today's rail journey is like a breath of fresh air to be able to go by train for the simple things. Yes, even shopping. Or sightseeing. Even exploring the area.
To a degree, railway enthusiasts have attempted to restore the possibility of seeing trains in country areas once again, yet they are primarily tourist amenities, and while capturing the age of railways, and especially the era of steam, for the most part they are not intended to provide everyday services which you and I can use for everyday needs.
I have to admit I never thought I would ever be a fan of underground trains, the tube or the metro — call it what you  will. 
Or maybe it is simply that I have never grown up and still yearn for the age of trains serving everyday needs in the country and envy those in the suburbs of Greater London to still have what those of us who live in country areas, can only remember with a certain fondness!