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I agree with the last two posts relating to "alternate" uses of money. As a university student I have friends whose main expense, after food and accommodation, is the campus bars - some of them can spend astonishing amounts in a couple of weeks. This money is gone, they have nothing to show for it except maybe a few memories and stories. Meanwhile, I've spent far, far less on having a good time, and also bought some model trains which will still be around in a good few years time. I'm of the firm belief that people should get out sometimes, but when you consider that it's possible to mix going out once in a while with being interested in a fairly expensive hobby, their approach doesn't seem so smart. Interestingly I have computer enthusiast friends who think much the same way - they spend similar amounts on computer hardware to my spending on model railroading and agree that they have something to show for it. <br /> <br />The thing I have noticed is that those who belittle model railroading have had no contact beyond maybe a clockwork "Thomas" set when they were about 3. They've never encountered high-quality equipment and are often amazed when they do. My favoured trick for these people is to show them my LGB 0-4-0 tank loco - this is one of the sound-equipped examples with a very realistic steam sound system. Spectacle seems to be the key here - if it has lights, sound, etc (and the sheer bulk of G scale is a big help) then even the loudest critics tend to go very quiet! Another good trick is to operate in HO scale on a "hands off" basis - I use Kadee fixed magnets so can switch without needing to intervene manually unless something untoward happens. This fascinates everyone - it's intriguing how long it takes for someone to ask if the funny plates between the rails have something to do with the uncoupling!
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