The weekend's "balmy" temperatures and sun provided definite relief after having to deal with a stretch of cold weather, snow and gray skies that has been prevalent here in central NJ. Waiting in Manville (NJ) to photograph NS 24K being re-routed down CSX's Trenton Line and soaking up the sun's rays, I didn't mind the wait for the CSX crew to start their trip down to Morrisville (PA). NS 2584 and NS 7516 served as the power when 24K came down the LEHL. For the reverse move at Port Reading Jct, NS 8383 (ex-CR 6170) would serve as the leader with NS 9053 following as it went through Manville yard.
On Sunday NKP 8100 was the leader on 67J, a empty trash train, as it made a return trip down the LEHL. One week earlier on January 25th NKP 8100 was the leader on NS 22V. It is seen here at Bloomsbury (NJ LEHL MP 68.8) preparing to cross NJ's Musconetcong Mountain range as it heads east to Oak Island. With February 2nd also being Groundhog Day, Punxsutawney Phil the Groundhog has seen his shadow! The means we are in for another six weeks of winter! On Monday, central NJ is forecasted to once again have wintery conditions with three to five inches of snow and sleet predicted. Oh well, so much for the end of winter.
