For those in the US, the Union Pacific Big Boy steam locomotive has been on a coast-to-coast tour. It’s the largest operating steam locomotive in the world and offers a pretty cool experience for train enthusiasts and casual fans alike. It’s been widely reported, and thousands of folks have gathered trackside to see it as it makes its way across the country. With that many people, it’s almost inevitable that there will be those who disrupt whatever photo or video you plan to take. But the worst offenders at these events have been those blissfully oblivious boomers.
Take, for instance, a recent encounter in a small Illinois town. The atmosphere was electric as a group of about a dozen train aficionados, armed with tripods and cameras, set up a well-organized photo line. They were all quietly anticipating the imminent arrival of the Big Boy when, just ten seconds before the train appeared, an oblivious boomer stepped directly in front of them. He was casually scrolling through his phone, completely unaware of the chaos he was about to unleash.
Words were exchanged, of course. One photographer, visibly frustrated, gestured in exasperation, while another voiced a pointed, “Seriously?” The boomer, finally catching on to the situation, shuffled back—though not without an air of indignation, as if he couldn’t fathom why everyone would be upset about his momentary intrusion. It left everyone baffled. What kind of person sees a dozen cameras pointing in one direction and thinks that stepping directly in front of them is a good idea?
The incidents didn’t stop there. In another small town, another boomer was spotted standing right in the middle of the tracks. Amtrak was scheduled to come barreling past at about 79 mph, and if the train had been any closer, this person would have ended up as a terrifying story for the evening news. It was only when people started yelling, “Get off the tracks!” that he finally registered the danger he was in. He scrambled off, tripping over his own feet in the process. Safety wasn’t exactly his top priority that day, apparently.
Then there were all the other bizarre behaviors that seemed to accompany these boomer gatherings. Onlookers noticed folks placing coins on the tracks, which, as most train enthusiasts know, doesn’t really do anything but is also incredibly dangerous. Others were seen putting their heads down to listen to the tracks, convinced they could hear the approaching train before seeing it. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t work, and it definitely isn’t safe. You get better photos from a distance, but the allure of standing too close seemed to grip them in a way that made common sense take a backseat.
At almost every road crossing, caution was thrown to the wind. Even when trains were approaching, people would crowd the very edge of the tracks, seemingly unaware that the exhilarating sight of a massive steam locomotive hurtling toward them was not a sound strategy. It was disheartening to see such a lack of awareness, especially when everyone else was actively trying to keep a respectful distance while still capturing the moment. Yet, without fail, the worst offenders were the boomers—consistently doing their own thing with a complete disregard for the safety of themselves and those around them.
It’s not that all older folks are oblivious. There were certainly some who followed the rules and respected the crowds. But in these particular incidents, it was clear that a pattern emerged. The obliviousness was almost comically outlandish, as if they were unknowingly auditioning for a slapstick comedy. Meanwhile, younger attendees and train enthusiasts watched in disbelief as their enthusiasm for the event was clouded by the antics unfolding before them.
All in all, the experience was a mix of awe and frustration. Witnessing the Big Boy in all its glory was something one would hope to remember fondly, but the boomers’ antics threatened to overshadow it. While they chased their perfect photo, almost stepping into danger with every misstep, the crowd of spectators just tried to hold on and enjoy the moment without getting caught in the chaos.
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As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
But home is just part of the story. I’m also passionate about seeing the world and creating beautiful meals to share with the people I love. Through Cultivated Comfort, I share my journey of balancing motherhood with building a home that feels rich and peaceful — and finding joy in exploring new places and flavors along the way.
