Oh, that lady was a whole lot of something. As I was getting on the bus I asked her what happens at the next bus change over. Would there be time to get to the next bus? The legit question right. I was a newbie at riding the bus I had no idea if the bus that I was connecting to would even be there. Would it be heading down the highway without me and my 70’s luggage? The only response I got from that sour puss was “It’s been a long night get on the bus, that’s not my problem.” I climbed aboard and picked my seat.
The only seat I could find that was available was at the very back of the bus, the last seat the last row. Remember my hint? Do not sit in the last seat of the bus
I waded my way to the back through the ocean of sleepy passengers, I was certain, I was laying my life in the hands of a sleepy, hateful driver yikes!
Our next stop was a quick courtesy stop. One to stretch our legs and use the bathroom if needed. I got off the bus and saw her standing in the lobby of the deserted bus depot. I asked her again, what happens when we get to our bus change in Memphis. She said to speak to the girl at the desk. This girl had no clue what happens and It was in the hands of the driver to call ahead and make arrangements. So silly little hayseed me, I approach her for the 3rd time. I informed her of the information that the ticket girl had given me and oh my dear people she let loose with on me. She said, “If you don’t quit asking questions you will not be leaving this depot, you missing your bus is not my problem!” I was so upset, scared and frustrated.
I went to the restroom and scurried back onto the bus. I took my seat at the very back of the bus and stewed about her words. I heard the intercom come on for an announcement. I looked forward and could see her face and eyes in this huge visor mirror staring straight at me. For a split second, I thought she was going to announce that she had an answer for me but I was mistaken. She says “I am sick and tired of someone on this bus asking me what will happen when we get to Memphis. My answer wasn’t good enough you can get off the bus right now and figure out another way to go. Are we clear?” I slid down in my, seat hugged my belongings tight, let tears fall onto the blanket my sister had made me.
Welcome to Memphis! That was the sign on the bridge going into the city. I was so anxious to find out what was going to happen. Was it like a plane delay? Would we get the next flight out? I knew that only happened twice a day. I did know for a fact I was so happy not to be on that bus anymore with her.
Everyone exited the bus this was the stop, the transfer. I am one to ask a lot of questions to be sure I don’t miss anything, but I wasn’t completely stupid I wasn’t asking her!
I got off the bus and snatched up my luggage because you always watch your luggage get loaded. My bags were heavy and to tote them around with me was a chore. Backpack, duffel bag, pillow, and 70’s suitcases I waddled my way to find out what was going on. It was chaos I asked one gentleman and he didn’t know. I went to the ticket counter but on my way, another gentleman said: “Aren’t you going to Richmond Virginia?” I said “Yes I am,” He said in a hateful tone “Then get in line the bus is leaving!” I was so happy to hear that I didn’t even get upset by his tone. I waddled to the end of the line and waited. They ushered us like cattle out the door and to the bus. I encountered a super nice lady who had a luggage buggy and offered to put my suitcases on it. No need to be alarmed people I watched them get loaded on the bus.
I climb on this bus and guess what seat was available, yep, the last one at the back. The reason these seats are so awful and take it from me you do not want to sit there is this. It is right by the bathroom. Actually, the door would hit you if you are sitting on the aisle section. Big deal? You wouldn’t think so. Trust me it is the stinkiest place on the planet. Also, the engine for the bus is in the back of the bus, guess where yep right under the last seat. Hot air pours out of that floor and stinks poured out of the bathroom.
We had a few more stops with this driver, the same guy who told me to get in line in Memphis. He turned out to be particularly nice. He was making a special trip with this bus because of the delays earlier.
My journey to Richmond from Memphis was pretty smooth after that. I sat in some depots on layovers and watched people. It was an experience that I would definitely take again now that I am an old hat at it. My final Destination was Hampton, Virginia. My niece was waiting with Kevin when I arrived!
Three things I pass along to you. Hints to live by when traveling on a bus.
Hint #1 – Always watch your luggage get loaded on the bus you are riding
Hint #2 – NEVER sit in the back seat
Hint #3 – NEVER challenge a cranky, large, angry bus driver in the middle of the night, or ever for that matter.
