Last night's rain/wind storm moved out faster than expected (well, the rains, not the high winds), with sun and clear blue skies by 10 am !! (Clouds did return by 2:30 pm.) Incredible early Dec. temps rising to the low 60's F by noon, then backing down into upper 50's F mid aft'n, upper 40's F by 9 pm. Gusty winds were a constant all day, 10 to 20 mph w/ gusts to 30 mph, SW shifting to WSW and finally W during the course of the ride. West bound Amtrak Lake Shore Limited (Boston to Chicago) train intercepted at overhead rail crossing at ~1:25 pm around the corner from Howe State Park. Two engines, baggage car, sleeper car, 2 passenger cars, and a dining/cafe car. Lunch stop at Podunk Deli + Market, E. Brookfield (next to P.O.), cream of broccoli soup (sm - same as yesterday). Total fluids consumed: 20 oz. water, 12 oz. soup .