Driving on Route 37 from Ogdensburg to Watertown in upstate New York is like going back in time.
Each home seems to have acres of property with the obligatory barn and silo. The pastures go on for miles, with scattered herds of cows grazing in the sun.
For as many homes that look inhabited, there are dilapidated structures that have either collapsed or are ready to collapse. Years of neglect, bad winters and perhaps the economy have rendered these homes and sheds useless.
Living across from these abandoned buildings seems like bad feng shui. It's kind of sad to see quiet swingsets and seesaws, the kids either at school or grown up and on to other things.
At times it's like driving on the set of "Gunsmoke."
I glance in my rear-view mirror, wondering if Clyde Barrow and Bonnie Parker will pull up alongside me.
My GPS signal fades about the time I drive by two businesses, one selling steer and one selling guns.
I feel more at home as I reach Watertown. I like to see Dunkin' Donuts and vibrant storefronts. Visible activity is more comforting than an old dusty painting.