Has Anyone Reached This Realization Too?

[vsmith]

QUOTE: Originally posted by JerryZeman

...Since we haven't had a professional hockey team in Chicago in quite some time....

I also disagree that this hobby requires copious quantities on money to secure enjoyment. .....You are correct, this hobby does require an investment of time, and I'm glad to make that investment.

It also doesn't take an abundance of skills to succeed in this hobby.

Unhealthily Yours,
Jerry Zeman

I do large scale, not a cheap end of the hobby, but I have yet to spend more than $100 for any single item in my collection. so far running 20+ engines. Before that it was HOn30, most stuff being bashed. This hobby can be done on the cheap, even narrow guage can be done cheaply. it just takes more carefull selection and a willingness to bargain hunt or to get your xacto-saw out...

I also agree about the skills comment. I found that just trying a little something new each project, my skills get better over time. Its the trying, trying trying is the key to learning, just try, fail, try again, get balsa try making a house or station, comes out good do it in basswood, you might just discover that Master Modeler inside. Try! You'll be surprised how good you are ...

Oh and Jerry..

GO BLACKHAWKS!!!!



Yeah I know they suck but there is a kinda pride that comes from finishing dead last!

At least this year I can wear my Blackhawks jersey proudly knowing they're tied for first place with the rest of the league, at the bottom!

[Anonymous]

I admit I have a very large collection. I also admit that I have been model railroading for 18 years. I am 22. (Yes a young pup) I have never lost interest in model railroading, In fact my interest has only gotten deeper. Out of all my hobbies, model railroading is the one I spend the most time and effort doing. There is something rewarding for me in creating a whole universe (Yes, I do total concept [8D][:D][8D]) in miniature. While I have a large amount of model railroad stuff, I guess I don't spend much more than someone else who is presently building a large layout. 2004 will mark the year that I have spent the most money in one year on model train stuff. On the same token, though this is the year I have been able to find the most bargains on things as well. For example last summer, I was able to jump on a deal, where I was able to aquire a 9 car brass passenger train set for $225.00 after shipping. Granted they are in need of alot of TLC, It is TLC I am willing to give so I can have a 9 car brass passenger train. Last spring I was able to get my hands through varous sources on 6 different Big Boys for about $25.00 a piece. Also needing TLC of course. But all this has allowed me to expand my roster for much less than it would have other wise. So for my money spent I was able to accomplish a huge expansion of my roster. If I had to guess, the new MSRP value of everythign I ended up buying this year so far, is roughly 4 times what I spent.

Am I obsessed, maybe. Am I cautious. Yes. For me, Its a hobby. I have grand hobby ambitions, But it is still a hobby. If I were to find tomorrow, that All I would ever have for a model railroad is what I can fit into a spare bedroom, then I wouldn't be all that dissapointed. I have other hobbies to. Ones I mainly do when on the rare occasion i become board with model railroading.

My two cents worth.
James

[conford]

This has been an interesting discussion to read and has given me something to think about, as long as I'm thinking about trains. For me the extent of my involvement with model railroading relates to a need for balance in my life, which means time with my family comes first, work is a priority, and sometimes I have other responsibilities to fulfill. However, I have to be a support for my family during some difficult times right now, and nothing sets my mind at ease better than going down to the basement and getting something done on the layout.

I thought Lance Mindheim's letter in the (currrent) November MR was full of wisdom. He warns againt "the association of dream layouts with large size," and praises "smaller layouts that actually get built." So keep at it, enjoy it, and keep it in perspective. That's what I'm trying to do, and I appreciate the food for thought in this forum.

Cheers,
Peter

[Fergmiester]

Yes my realization is:

My layout will not be finished in the near Future, especially as it takes two days to straighten out two switch machines in parallel! This has to be the "Worlds most Frustrating Hobby" at times

[sailor38]

I am, to a certain extent, of similar mind. I can offer you some advice that is worth exactly what you paid for it: Relax and enjoy the hobby on YOUR terms!

I certainly admire and envy the craftsmanship we see on MRs pages but I don't lose any sleep over attaining that level of perfection. When one gets right down to it, this hobby is really about IMAGINATION. If your layout is and does all you want it to then you are a fortunate person. I get to be the CEO, COO, CFO, Supt., Engineer, Fireman, Conductor, Brakeman, Mayor and anything else I feel like being on my RR kingdom. The only one I have to please is ME!

Enjoy yourself and this great hobby.