Having to go to work when you'd rather...

Normally over the last 30+ years on my (ugh [banghead]) job. I haven’t had a decent chance to see Amtrak on a steady basis. But as has only happened a few times in the past, I now can see Amtrak 286 on its new schedule. The problem is railfanning before work. When do you give up and make your way in to (UGH! [banghead]) work. I give myself 15 minutes “padding”. If I have to wait over that, it would have to be steam, or an Alco! OK, non-railroaders, any stories?

As noted on my signature, I have the advantage of railfanning on the ride to and from work. I ride on Metra’s Southwest (ex-Wabash) line and get to see a good variety of things on the ride, passing NS Landers Yard, the former Conrail facility at 47th Street, UP Canal Street, and Amtrak 18th Street facility, along with various junctions and crossings. Just this morning, I spotted UPY 2712 (a gen-set) at Canal Street, LLPX 1503 is a regular switcher at Canal Street, and I did see Amtrak 658 (HHP8) at 18th Street a little while back while it was on its way to and from Pueblo.