Getting Back into Gear
Friday, May 28th, 2010
What a busy couple of months it has been. My new job has ramped up and I’ve attended two model railroad events. The proto meet in Marion, Ohio was lots of fun. Images have been posted to document this first time event.
I was recently in Charleston, W. Va. for the Coalfield Express, an NMRA regional convention. It was great seeing many old friends, solid clinics, fabulous contest models, and a few home layouts. I came away from both events inspired and motivated to push forward. The lead image kind of sums up what I take away from these events. My friend Frank is watching an S scale B&O EM-1 pull by at the top of a grade. His face may seem expressionless, but he was pretty thrilled. Just after the image was taken, Frank assisted the engineer in turning the big loco on a wye and reconnecting with the train to head back downhill. Conventions and model railroad meets are filled with opportunities to possibly operate on a model railroad, attend insightful presentations, and sit around enjoying discussions with others. I don’t think I’ve ever regretted attending an event. Additionally, I know my modeling skills would not be the same had I just stayed home. These weekends away are some of the best times to learn something new.!
So, where does that leave me on the home workbench and layout? Believe it or not, ten box car kits are wrapping up and benchwork may begin soon. I’ve got a few more kits targeted for the next batch through the car shop and hope to start laying rail some time soon. A few updates and essays are almost ready to post. Stay tuned!