Over the weekend we had the pleasure of meeting the engineers that drive the Grinder Train that was going through Chappell, Nebraska and then to Julesburg, Colorado (and beyond). This train grinds the rails from one end of the country to the other. The guys were very nice, they said that they get LOTS of questions and lots of people wanting to take pictures. So because they were waiting for less traffic on the rails, they let us look at the train up close and take pictures. Each of the guys were from a different state. The one I mostly talked with was from Florida, but he had a southern accent. :) Very nice! We asked about the fire danger because of the sparks and they have quite a few ways to keep the fire danger down. They have 2 large water tank cars at the end of the grinder cars that shoot water out about 10 feet from the rails, soaking everything it passes. Then there is a water truck that drives on the rails about a mile or two behind the train that looks for any hot spots that may have been carried by the wind. Here are some pics and the full video I shot.

INGREDIENTS
¾ cup whole milk
½ cup granulated sugar
Pinch kosher salt
1½ cups heavy cream
1½ tsp pure vanilla extract
2 tsp imitation butter flavoring
1/4 -1/3 cup (or more) rainbow sprinkles

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a medium bowl* whisk to combine the milk, sugar and salt until the sugar is dissolved. Stir in the heavy cream, vanilla, and butter flavoring. Cover, refrigerate, 1 to 2 hours, or overnight. (* I use a quart canning jar and combine all the ingredients in the jar, put the lid on, and then shake, shake, shake :) until combined)
   
2. Turn the Ice Cream Maker on; pour the mixture into the frozen freezer bowl and let mix until thickened, about 10 to 15 minutes. Towards the end of the churning, pour in the Rainbow Sprinkles and let the mixer incorporate them throughout the ice cream. The ice cream will have a soft, creamy texture. If a firmer consistency is desired, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and place in freezer for about 2 hours. Remove from freezer about 15 minutes before serving.
   

Below is the process I used. Yes, I cheated and used my mixer... But in my defense it was 10 at night and if I hadn't I'd still be making these right now (11:47 PM) instead of finishing up this post and going to bed. So with that, I wish you all a good night. I would love to know if you make these, and what you think of her recipe!