<CN heavyweight at Pier 21, Halifax, NS - personal foto>
G'day Gents!
Back at the Saloon by the Siding as Wolfman Pete, the Interim Governor General, departed for Jefferson City aboard Amtrak <on time> at Kirkwood on Friday. Was a grand time ‘n good seeing our Resident Brit in Mid-Missouri once again!
Saturday means time to have a kick-back start to the day. No rush - just fill up your coffee mug, grab a pastry or three while deciding on whether it'll be a <light> or <traditional> breakfast!
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Comments from the Proprietor
Want to make special mention to ALL who came thru on Friday to keep things perking at the bar whilst Pete 'n I were enjoying things to do 'round here. In spite of our small numnbers, having guys who demonstrate the willingness to help out means very much 'n keeps me wanting to do the things necessary to maintain "Our" Place for US! THANX!
Where's ROB Well, I received an Email from him - said things at work have been tuff . . . doesn't know when he'll be back. Says to keep the beer cold for him . . .
It's "You Post, I Post" at the Bar by the Ballast!
Customer Acknowledgments (since my last narrative):
Friday - September19th <all times Central daylite>:
Page 22 - Dan <DL-UK> at 10:19 AM <4:19 PM GMT>: Wouldn't necessarily say you were "elevated"! <uh oh> But, not to worry, you've found the "light" once again, ‘n of course your stool - good to have you amongst the gang once again!
You probably didn't realize just how HELPFUL your daylite Post was to us - especially since Pete ‘n I were otherwise engaged in things to do.
Hope you'll return - soon!
Page 22 - Pete <pwolfe> at 12:02 PM: It's Posts JUST LIKE THIS ONE that means very much to "Our" Place. When guys like Eric ‘n Pete take the time ‘n make the effort to drop in - even while away from home - it surely shows they give a Rat's Patoot!
Page 22 - Fergie <Fergmiester> at 2:51 PM <5:21 PM Nfld time>: And ANOTHER supportive Post, this time from our Resident Canadian Maritime Mariner "somewhere" out where the water's over his head! <grin> You probably didn't realize it - but the timing of your visit couldn't have been better-er!
Many thanx for the good cheer ‘n of course the business <KaChing> <KaChing> Hope we'll be seeing more of you as you get back in range ‘n then head for home.
Oh yeah - advance notice: Pete ‘n I have been talking about another visit to Halifax or Gaspé<by train of course> . . . way, way off - but something to think about.
Page 22 - CM3 Shane <coalminer3> at 3:04 PM <4:04 PM EDT>: Second visit on Friday - a day FULL of surprises AND support for the Tavern by the Tracks!
Grand Canyon trip will be for the scenery - Carol's never been there <this will be my 3rd time> . . . going to meet up with Eric ‘n his bride in Phoenix . . . trains will be a secondary or tertiary "thing" . . . no plans to spend big bucks riding that excursion train, when we've had so many miles logged aboard REAL trains in DOMES. Of course if the foto ops present themselves, I'll have the camera at-the-ready! <grin> Appreciate the head's up on the steamer ‘n FPA situation . . .
A link: http://www.thetrain.com/
Additional installment of quarters ‘n the ROUND helped! <grin> <KaChing> <KaChing>
Page 22 - Nick <nickinwestwales> at 8:59 PM <2:59 AM Saturday GMT>: Hey, Mate! Didn't expect to see ya "in' - but you've been full o' welcome surprises of late - so have another on me! <clink>
Good nite's work at your performance - guess the satisfaction comes from witnessing the enjoyment of those getting into the swing of things, eh
Don't even "go there" with talk of arthritic thumb(s) - both of mine are so <censored> tender that even the thought of striking either with a hammer makes me want to scream obscenities! <yikes>
Pete 'n I got some serious railroading "in" down in the Can-Am Trainroom . . . assembled 'n ran a CN freight with a fine looking Mikado at the head . . . <grin> YOU shudda been HERE! <fotos next week . . .>
Knew a guy or two with pancreatic cancer . . . not good, not good at all. Surely understand your chagrin. Best one can hope for is as painless a departure as possible.
Thanx, as always, for your continuing support for this little joint of ours - we've got a fine group - as finest as we've ever had ‘n with you operating even on one cylinder - what more could be asked
Page 22 - Allan <Gunneral> at 8:58 PM <3:58 PM Saturday NZ time>: And from half-way ‘round the world <at the bottom> comes our Resident Downunder Kiwi Boom-boom! You surely capped off our Friday quite well - didn't think we'd do so well, given Pete ‘n I spending the daylite portion elsewhere. Thanx!
Yeah, we had a good time of it - always do. Let things flow - no particular hurry or schedule to maintain. Anyway, once you get to know the Wolfman, one realizes this guy CANNOT be rushed. He says he has two speeds - slow ‘n STOP! I believe it! <grin>
That pub we visited did indeed have an Irish flair to it . . . very nice appointed <some fotos will be Posted next week> . . . friendly crew . . . we'll definitely visit the place again. TrainWreck Saloon is fine, but really a problem when it comes to getting to ‘n from <it isn't that close to home> . . . so this bodes far better-er for us. <grin>
Visited the St. Louis Museum of Transportation in Kirkwood <again> for about 3 hours . . . fine day for it, although there were times when the sun kinda made things a wee bit warm. So, we spent some time in the air conditioned converted rail station enjoying a snack or two . . . <grin> No brew available . . . that came later!
There's probably a benefit being an island nation - far easier to ensure control over those desirous of illegally entering . . . not saying it's THAT easy, but with land borders . . . well, say no more, eh Again, a subject perhaps better suited for "off-line" comms - never know who gets OH-FEND-ED over this or that while eavesdropping . . .
Pete ‘n I have DECIDED that we must find a way to get YOU to join the gang <in person> for one of our swarays . . . figured it'd be easier for one to make the journey than several. So you've been ELECTED! So, when are you coming <grin>
Appreciate, as always, your good cheer ‘n support for the bar - ROUND of Tui didn't hurt a thing either! <grin>
Reminder: Cindy has the bar from 9 AM until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing.
Dinner begins at 5 PM so come early ‘n often!
Boris, serve ‘em all of the "spiked" OJ they can handle!
Tom
Hi Tom and all,
Leon, the usual round of Tui`s for all the guys` please.
Nick. Nice to see you, just caught your post when I posted this item on the page.
CM3. Nice to see you in again sir.
Eric. Are those lingonberries edible at all?
Dan. Good to see you again, sounds as if you`ve had a very busy schedule looking at all those transport venues` you`ve visited. Hope you and Pete have a great meeting of the Brit branch of "Our Place" when you get together.
Pete. Sounds as if you are in train heaven with Tom at his place.
Fergie. Good to see you back again.
Tom. Looks as if luck was with you when Pete`s train was late arriving, Mike Duffy`s bar has an Irish sounding title to it. All of our Asian immigrants had to conform to strict financial self-sufficiency criteria, professional qualifications, and be able to start small or medium businesses. Hope you and Pete are having a great time together at your place, wish that I could`ve joined you both there that's for sure.
See ya, Allan
Well good evening all-and welcome back DAN-Hey mate we all gotta do what we gotta do....
Leon-Large measures of strong drink for the company please-just back from a fine night out with my favourite band-was one of those nights-sweet young things throwing themselves all over the dance floor from the first song onwards -only stopped `cos everybody was totally knackered and everybody except me has to work from 7 am tomorrow........I have spent most of the day up on a roof ladder replacing the cladding on our dormer windows -much useful advice from the boys outside the club having the friday after work drink-even got a round of applause for the language used after I hit my arthritic thumb with the hammer-apparently my parents could hear it as well-will deal with that tomorrow.........the joys of living in a small village -gotta love it
Right-regret that I am in no state to make any useful contribution tonight-just thought I ought to touch base as it were-have a good time one and all-will be back soon
On a more gloomey note,a good pal ( and one of the village characters ) has just been diagnosed with inoperable pancreatic cancer-by da*n -sometimes you just want to lean back and curse the whole da*n world-why is it always the good guys.............sorry-just really pi**ed off about this........
Prolly bed time-have a good weekend everybody-speak soon
Well-looks like I have a load of stuff to deal with tomorrow
Good Afternoon Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox. Today gas bumped down from $4.15 to $4.05 to $3.99 between 8:00 a.m. and noontime. Guess what price I paid (snargh!) - well, "You can't win if you don't play" as the lottery folks around here say.
Just a quick stop to keep us going.
First, an apology to Allan for leaving him out of my a.m. post.
OSP - I read you're planning a trip to the desert. Don't know your itinerary, but be aware that steam is being taken out of service on the Grand Canyon Ry. I am not sure when it'll happen (it may have already). Also heard that FPA4s are to be removed from service. I know, Awk, it's always "all about the money."
Fergie - Sounds as though you may be getting "in range" again.
work safe
DL - UK wrote: Pretty scary to find I'd been elevated to one of the 'Legion of the Lost' -
Pretty scary to find I'd been elevated to one of the 'Legion of the Lost' -
It's really not all that bad! Once in a while ya pop in, get looked at, heckled and someone buys ya a beer!
Hellooooo Captain Tom and Company!
I'll have a Keg of Kieth's and a Mariner's special Please.
Can't stay on for too long as the internet just got into range but switches off in about 5 minutes. I missed you lot and hope to be back on tomorrow!
Later All
Fergie
http://www.trainboard.com/railimages/showgallery.php?cat=500&ppuser=5959
If one could roll back the hands of time... They would be waiting for the next train into the future. A. H. Francey 1921-2007
Running a bit late (as usual) so it's time for a Bathams please Ruth!
Good to see DL back in the bar and yes, I received your e-mail. Will reply when I get home. Hello as well to Eric, Shane and Nick!
Perhaps I should get the Manager's pay . . .
Haven't had time to read through everything as Tom has been running the steamers on the Can-Am Railway. Assembled a CN freight with CN power and caboose. Looked great!
We're off to the Kirkwood rail museum and have a lovely day to enjoy. Weather has been great!
A round please Ruth, as I must go now.
Pete
Thanks for those words there Tom - I'll have a beer please.
Pretty scary to find I'd been elevated to one of the 'Legion of the Lost' - luckily one of the regulars, in the form of Pete, had been out searching for me. As you've heard we're trying to fix what might be called a 'mini-union' - can't be a re-union as never been done before - Our Place connection - this side of the pond - in the land of Mild Ale no less. No doubt reports back will be posted in the fullness of time.
All the best to all. Good to see CM3 in just fater my early start too.
DL
Friday's Grin
Lines To Make You Smile
You're just jealous because the voices only talk to me.
Week's end has arrived, for some reason it's called Friday . . . but no difference here when it comes to our <light> ‘n <traditional> breakfast orders from the Menu Board - or our freshly ground ‘n brewed coffee. Not to forget those tasty pastries in The Mentor Village Bakery case - the pride of Mama ‘n Papa Grundledink!
Pete ‘n I have a full day - so I'll not be coming back ‘til this evening - if at all. It's up to YOU to keep "it" going ‘round here . . .
Where's ROB
Thursday - September18h <all times Central daylite>:
Page 22 - CM3 Shane <coalminer3> at 8:29 AM <9:29 AM EDT>: "In" for a regular AM visit - roll of quarters ‘n a ROUND too!
Tell us a bit about the GMA train - for some reason, I'm a bit hazy on it this morning . . . <grin> Is there a link available
Juneau's day was hi-lited by a visit from "Uncle" Pete . . . for some reason, dogs ‘n the ladies just luv this guy! <grin> Even gave up "his" room for the Interim Governor General at that!
Meant to mention that I received a response from that fellow who provided so many fine RDC pix on his web site . . . never made mention of coming by, but appreciated the feedback. Oh well, nothing ventured, nothing gained . . . always trying to get some new blood in here.
We salvaged the mid-late afternoon ‘n enjoyed a relaxing dinner ‘n remainder of the evening sitting out on the patio . . . I'm even getting better at comprehending what our Bar Chandler is saying - now it's every OTHER word!
Appreciate the visit ‘n chat!
Page 22 - Pete <pwolfe> at 9:44 AM: Pretty good example of what I've been stressing for YEARS ‘round here. One doesn't have to make every Post an all-inclusive Epistle. Even dropping off a handful of lines HELPS. Why is it that some guys just don't "get it" Anyway, many thanx to our friend the Wolfman for helping to keep things moving forward at the Bar by the Ballast!
Page 22 - CM3 Shane <coalminer3> at 3:15 PM <4:15 PM>: Back with a part deux, eh Awwwwwright! Goes to illustrate that if one CAN, one SHOULD ‘n you DID! Second roll of quarters ‘n ROUND helps too! <KaChing> <KaChing>
Page 22 - Nick <nickinwestwales> at 5:21 PM ‘n 7:04 PM <11:21 PM ‘n 1:04 AM Friday GMT>: Always a pleasure to have our Resident Londoner in Wales on board - ‘n by the by - YOU may refer to yourself as the Shop Steward <earlier Post> - but we aren't "organized" ‘round here. Sorry - this is a family affair with all employees taken well care of. <grin> Don't fall sucker to the Bar Chandler's <mumbling> <grumbling> <malcontent> ain't gonna get any sympathy from Da Bossman! <uh oh> Anyway, I've described in the past where one can find SYMPATHY in the dictionary . . .
Luv the fotos of those vintage cars - before my time, but Classics nonetheless!
That's also a fine looking foto of the freight crossing that wooden trestle in Canada . . . <sweet>
Ahhhhh, the musically inclined. Only wish I could have mastered at least one instrument - just one! Strange how that "works." Late-oldest son picked up his first guitar at Christmastime back when he was a youngster - began strumming discernable tunes before day's end ‘n never looked back. Amazing!
Already enjoying the company of our Interim Governor General! This is his "tune up" for bigger ‘n better things to come when he returns to Mother England! <uh oh>
Many thanx for the good cheer, ROUND, fotos ‘n well wishes! Have a fine weekend yourself, Mate!
Page 22 - Allan <Gunneral> at 10:17 PM <5:17 PM Friday NZ time>: Appreciate the visit from our Resident Downunder Kiwi Boom-boom Connection! Another fixture at the bar who we have grown accustomed to . . .
The bar we found was every bit as comfortable to spend a couple of hours in as the TrainWreck - in fact, we've pretty much decided to schedule a repeat performance on Pete's next visit with us. <grin> Didn't see any evidence of flooding at the TrainWreck - just a sign on the front door saying they were CLOSED while working to get things back in order.
Funny how things work out - for the original plan was for a friend of mine to drop me off at the train station - then Pete ‘n I were to take a cab over to the TrainWreck . . . with the bride meeting us there for dinner later on. That way, I'd avoid the hazards of driving while under the influence. Something I'm really serious about NOT doing.
Anyway, as it turned out, when it became apparent that Pete's train was going to be late enough to force a change in strategy - I decided to drive to Kirkwood to pick him up - have a couple at the TrainWreck, then come straight home. Amazing how that worked out in our favor. We'd have been ‘stranded' outside a CLOSED Pub - with no automobile had Plan A been followed. So we found Mike Duffy's, a watering hole darned-near within walking distance of home! Never been in the joint before - but surely will again! <grin.
Don't know what to say regarding the immigration issue . . . best to remain "off line" for that, eh But am surprised at what you had to say. Didn't know . . .
Many thanx for the good cheer ‘n ROUND!
Friday - September 19th:
Page 22 - Eric <EricX2000> at 1:04 AM <11:04 PM Thursday Sandbox time>: Not to disappoint us, our Resident NOCTURNAL Desert RETIRED Swede came through with another fine inclusive offering at the late hours!
Yeah, that book is one I'd like to add to my modest hard cover library - Snowbound Streamliner. Just the kind of title that brings a smile to my aging face! <grin> Could be worse - could be floating around in the ocean in a lifeboat or raft! <yikes> I'd take my chances aboard a stranded train in the snow over that!
Disgusting disparity in petrol prices from different regions of the U.S. - you're about 40 cents lower than we, whereas Shane is 40 cents higher than here. Go figure that, eh Can't! <barf>
Many thanx for the foto, chat, inclusive comments ‘n support for "Our" Place!
Page 22 - Dan <DL-UK> at 3:27 AM <9:27 AM GMT>: The Legion of the Lost has given up a member as our Resident Brit in Sherwood Forest has found his way back to the Bar by the Ballast!
Each of our personal circumstances are different, so for those who aren't able to communicate from home, it's understandable how W-O-R-K can get in the way! <geesh>
Pete had mentioned that you ‘n he are working on arrangements <by Email> to get together next month . . . <envy>
Sounds as if you've been as active as always with your interests . . . don't let any grass grow, Mate! <grin>
Thanx for thinking of us ‘n hope to see ya sooner rather than not!
Page 22 - CM3 Shane <coalminer3> at 8 AM <9 AM EDT>: Great to have our Resident WVA Connection kick things off here at the Saloon by the Siding - gave me some "slack" for the morning "rush." <grin>
Just cannot get "into" foo-ball <yet> - college ball has been "on" for weeks, yet the interest level for me has been zip, zero, zilch for it ‘n the NFL. Hmmmmmm.
Pete ‘n I have agreed that we'll drive from here to WVA for Rendezvous IV. Just gotta get Eric onboard with the idea too . . . I'll "work on him" in November when we visit Phoenix/Grand Canyon.
Do appreciate the continuing support, good cheer, chat, ROUND ‘n quarters <phew>!!
Reminder: Ruth has the bar until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing.
TODAY pizza ‘n Beer Nite! - and - Steak ‘n Fries Nite!
Saturday is Steak ‘n All The Trimmings Nite!
Cindy is our Saturday bartender!
Good Morning Barkeep and all Present (I know Pete's here, I see the black bag and his boots sticking out from under the pool table); coffee, please; round for the house and $ for the jukebox. Another beautiful day - this is the best run of weather we have had all year - gas is still at $4.15/gal. West Virginia lost to Colorado in OT last night, IMHO, the game was not as close as the score indicated.
Nick - Yes it is Northern Alberta. I have an NA boxcar (N scale, yet) in one of the boxes in the east wing. It sounds as though you have a full schedule, sir. Bice touch with your station name on the layout.
Eric - Well, if it's not turbocharged it'll have that classic GP sound. Appreciate your answer to my questions. Also liked the AEM7 picture you sent along from one of your sojourns in DC.
DL - Sounds as though you have been busy as well.
OSP - City of San Francisco material is good - the book by Church is one I have been meaning to get for a long time. He had done several outstanding works on SP steam as well. Glad to read that the Guvnah General's train arrived in good shape. Train Wreck closed? Zounds! Hope it's not too serious.
Will try and get back later today but figured I'd get something posted in my usual time slot.
Work safe
hello Tom and all in
Here's one big round for the house, and a quick breakfast for me.
Problem is that four letter word w-o-r-k has been giving me probs recently - even today is a bad one, so no chance for a catch up - although I see the regulars have been holding the fort. Each day iIhope to make it - each day not so - hence no apols for my abscence from me when i should have done so - as Tom once said, I want to be here - so this message is that apology - I've missed the banter and hope to be back more frequently soon!
Esp since my last reports from France I have managed to encounter a steam powered sentinel bus in Whitby, walked the trail of the disused railway line at Robin Hood's bay (and been in the old station hotel at Staithes, a pub any regular at our place would want to spend time in - £1.50 a pint for some of the best brewed beer I've tasted for a while - yep - £1.50...). Spent the bank hol at the Ecclesbourne Valley railway, visited the Coventry Museum of Road Transport, and got to see the Rolls Royce aero engine private historic colection at the 'building open day' held the other week. All of which are experiences I've been keen to share with you regulars.
Anyway - hopefully be back soon - all the best, and have a drink on me
(Incidentally Pete, hopefully you got my e-mail with my contact details off line)
All the best
Good evening Captain Toma and Gentlemen!!
Hi Leon, kind of quiet day today? Yes, a #3 special would be great! Fries and a cold Keith's, please.
Another work week done! Not much to tell tonite, no breaking news.
Tom – Expensive gas in your area. Gas here is $3.35. Still very expensive but not as bad as back east.I know you need more room in order to expand your layout. Maybe you should talk to Vito. I am sure he is willing to help if he will make some money doing so. You are right about wild animals. Give them the room they want and need and everybody will be happy. But sometimes you just bump into them. Interesting in Sweden is that both bears and wolf are spreading to areas where they haven’t been seen for many, many years. Thanks for the SP ad! My favorite railroad! The book, “Snowbound Streamliner”, is something for you and Juneau! Interesting reading on that link. Three days in the snow!CM3 – $4.15 for gas! That is very steep! 80 cents more than here. We never had any price increase after Ike. I don’t know if the 567 engine in class T41 was turbocharged, but I don’t think so. The 567s were imported from the US. The rest of the locomotives were built under license in Sweden. Pete – Time for another trip to Kirkwood! Hope you and Tom will have agood time at the library and wherever else you are going. The Trainwreck Saloon I suppose? Ooops, I just learned it is closed due to flooding! Nick – Nice photo of that Northern Alberta Road train!Thanks for the info on the cars and the signals! They look British to me. I’ve never seen that “Miniture” train place before. Will go back next time I go to the old country. Hope you will find out about the loco builder.Sorry to hear that you have missed the lingonberries so far. Good stuff! Nice looking old timers! I can’t say what make though. Allan – The good thing is that moose don’t eat lingonberries! I know what you mean about not seeing the wood for all the trees. It happens to me all the time.
AEM-7 #930, Union Station, Washington D.C. 1993.
Eric
Nick. You are correct, Holden is the Aussie arm of GM, they used to assemble most of the old Vauxhall/Opel models re-badged as Holden`s, they make a large purely Aussie sedan called the Commadore, 6cyl or V8 motored. Couple of interesting old car shots, could`nt pick the makes` though.
CM3. Here in NZ most of the coal mines are drift or opencast mines, although their are a couple of mines in Southland with the traditional head frames`. Those old country miners` sure travelled the world round did`nt they?
Pete. Hope you and Tom are having a great time together, would have loved to have joined you there for the fun time.
Eric. And there was me trying to find a Moose in that photo, saw the red berries OK, talk about not seeing the wood for all the trees`. Some interesting pix of the EMU Class X1 control desk , the cars` and the semaphore do look very British.
Tom. A very to Juneau, give him a nice big juicy bone from me. Would have loved to have joined you and Pete at your place for the weekend, glad to hear Pete arrived OK even though the train was 2hrs late, hope you both have a great time, sorry to hear the Train Wreck Saloon was flooded, hope the other bar was just as good? Nice re-post of Passenger Train Nostalgia #22 on the SP RR`s "City of San Francisco". Their was a big increase in Auckland`s population over the last 10 years with a lot of Asian immigrants from Hong Kong, mainland China, and South Korea coming in. A lot of Vauxhall, Opel and Holden cars` were the same models, they just re-badged them to suit the particular market.
<Wabash #573 at MoT, Kirkwood, MO - personal foto>
Just a quickie - Pete finally made it to Kirkwood - over 2 hours late, but he made it!
TrainWreck Saloon was CLOSED due to flooding! <yikes> Found another watering hole much to our satisifaction 'n much closer to home <10 minute drive> - passed Pete's Pub test! <grin>.
Many thanx to Shane 'n Nick for keeping things going . . . much wonderment regarding the situation with Rob our Manager. Hmmmmm. Said he'd be gone the last week of September . . . but this is surely not then. Hmmmmm.
Hope to provide some acknowlegments in the 'morrow!
G'nite!
Well then-here we all are-apart from ROB (Alien abduction..?..more likely to be pulling down double shifts and sleeping the rest )-just back from a pleasantly mellow band night-bass man Rich couldn`t make it so I took along my fretless jazz bass (new-ish toy) -need to get back with that since small Hannah is starting cello lessons ( oh lordy) as well as piano-have promised I will help her with it all-shouldn`t be too difficult,just have to re-tune it-C-G-D-A instead of E-A-D-G--same intervals as the mandolin (G-D-A-E) -should be fun-of a sort.....
Right then Leon -suprise us-lets have a round of the drink of your choice-but as a safety measure I want to see you drink one first..........
So-to the business of the night:-
ERIC-R.E Volvo`s-I mispoke there,was the V70 I was thinking of,not the 740-apologies for confusion-as noted above there is a cute little gray critter in the pix-look carefully,its there...
Must confess I have lived my life ignorant of the existance of the lingonberry-my loss I fear..
Now the coaches-definately Brits-Midland Rly,poss to a Deeley design-the Exely company used to make 4mm models of them back in the 50`s -also the signals-upper quadrant main line signal-upper arm is the `home` and lower arm is the `distant` for the next home-track is immaculately ballasted by the way.....-still looking for pix of the Moor Vale line(at Ringwood,nr Southampton) for clues about the loco builder.....
ALLAN-Had no idea the Vectra was such a widely travelled model....this one is (or was) the mother in laws and has recently gone for recycling-given her rather robust approach to the rules of the road,I`m suprised it lasted as long as it did--assume from your note that Holden and Vauxall are all part of the G.M mega-corp -just to cheer us all up-here is a really old car
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and another one ,whilst we are at it
There now-don`t it take you back...........
TOM-Appreciate that the old Prince doesn`t float yer boat but 143 years old and still working-got to admire that...glad you enjoyed the pix-R.E the Duchess-be careful what you wish for.............Apologies if parts of yesterdays post were a bit `wobbly`-was trying a new German bottled ale-a mite stronger than I am used to -Excellent S.P stuff by the way-nice one-hope you enjoy the weekend with the Wolfman
SHANE-Glad the book arrived in good order (one less thing to worry about) -Am of a mind with you R.E lectures-was the same when I got my chefs ticket-no amount of blackboard time is of more than marginal use when you are up against it-only way to learn is to roll up the sleeves and get stuck in..( 3 baked otters and a squid en croute for table 6).......
Layout pix are a bit behind the times-a fair bit of progress has been made since then-in fact had the first test run on the upper level today-all very smooth-just a bit of pinning down to do on the new upper station approaches and the upper level staging tracks to put down and we are cooking on gas....
Interesting that you spotted the upper level halt-is at the point where the line divides between the upper and lower levels-Is going to be Kelston halt -Kelston was a real station on the line but much closer to Bristol,however,as a memorial to Alan who gave a good deal of his time to a club for disadvantaged kids called Kelston Hall I think it would be appropriate to give him his own station.....call me an old softy-I can take it ....
Right-show tomorrow night and gotta do the school run as well-also halfway through replacing the cladding on the dormer windows and gotta get it all done before I start the new job on monday (thanks lord)-better love and leave you-will try and make it in tomorrow-but don`t be suprised if a bit wobbly-PETE & TOM-enjoy the weekend-Everybody else -likewise
Take care-speak soon
Evening all-just a bookmark whilst I catch up-Looks like at least two of the company are likely to be ensconced in the train room,working on the first brews of the evening and,I suspect,working a running-in turn on the new `big steam` ...........
Anyway-heres a pic to fill the gap and will be back soon....
Believe this is the Northern Alberta road
Good Afternoon Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please, round for the house and $ for the jukebox.
But remember one dog year = seven human years. Therefore Juneau is 31.25 yrs old in human years. Sorry, I'm having a good time with this one - couldn't resist. IOW, I don't fail, I'm just misunderstood. (lol). Hope the Guvna General arrives soon.
The day is off to an inglorious start insofar as Pete's arrival is concerned - already 2 plus hours LATE.
The bar, however, had TWO morning visitors - Shane ‘n Pete! Now that's a PLUS!
Odd, Yogi ‘n I seem to understand how 65 months in human years equates to 5 years 5 months old. Hmmmmm. Yeah, it was a test . . . you failed, Shane! <grin>
Figured it was a good time to drop something off from our sub-basement archives room - since there most probably won't be anyone "in" for the remainder of the daylite . . .
PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #22
<Initially Posted on 09 Nov 2005, Page 158 at "Our" Place I>
http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/157/991587/ShowPost.aspx#991587
Here's something to enjoy regarding the Southern Pacific (SP) from a 1951 advertisement in my personal collection.
Did you hear what the ‘49er said about the
"City of San Francisco"
"WHAT A TRAIN, PARDNER! SHE'S THE FASTEST THING ON WHEELS BETWEEN CHICAGO AND THE GOLDEN GATE! ANOTHER OF SP'S WONDERFUL WAYS WEST!"
Did you know that you can board a modern streamliner in Chicago and travedl at your ease the same route the ‘49ers struggled over in the Gold Rush? Well, you can. In the crack extra-fare "City of San Francisco" for instance, or the "Overland" that shows you California's lovely High Sierra by day. Until you've done this you've never really seen the West. We've just issued a new folder we're rather proud of, "Planning Your Overland Route Trip." Tells you all about accommodations on these great "name trains" (finest Pullman; economical Chair Car). By the way, at San Francisco these streamliners connect with our famous "Lark," "Daylight" and "Starlight" south to Los Angeles, thence with other great S.P. streamliners eastward. Or with the new "Cascade" and "Shasta Daylight" northward, right past gorgeous 14,161 foot Mt. Shasta to the lovely Pacific Northwest. Mail that coupon today for free folders. "CITY OF SAN FRANCISCO" Chicago-San Francisco via Omaha, Ogden, Great Salt Lake, Reno, Oakland. 40 ½ hours westbound via CNW-UP-SP. Shown here with Golden Gate Bridge in the background.
SP AMERICA'S MOST MODERN TRAINS
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
City of San Francisco drumheads
Train #101, City of San Francisco; 15 cars. Photographed: near Cheyenne, Wyo., December 4, 1948. (Denver Public Library - Fair Use/www.wikipeida.com)
A Real RR Adventure!
A link worth reading:
http://www.trains.com/ctr/default.aspx?c=a&id=40
Enjoy! Tom
Hi Tom and all.
A very quick coffee and a bacon sarnie please RUTH, as I am just off to catch the bus and then Amtrak to see Tom. Just checked Amtrak and my train was expected 46 minutes late at Sedalia.
A busy evening in the bar with visits from Nick, Allan, Eric and Tom's summery. Saw CM3 and Tom's post this AM. Just caught a glimpse of the GMA train arriving in Harper's Ferry and saw some great archive footage of the early diesels in the Pullman Porter piece. Have read the posts but owing to my slow typing speed I will have to leave my replies until I get back from my visit. I did notice the ‘Wee Beastie' in the photos Nick.
Well RUTH put a few rounds on my bar tab while I am away.
Pete.
GMA train was in WV this a.m. at Harpers Ferry - some nice scenery and pictures of the B&O in that area.
Pete was in with more information and some pictures of double Fairlees. Hope you have a good trip and visit today.
Nick - Book arrived this a.m. in good shape. I agree with your definition of a lecture. Fortunately, I don't do a lot of that. Most all of our training activity is hands-on (with proficiency tests and demonstrations) given the nature of what we do. It takes approx 1.5 yrs to get through our program and we have a ton of material to cover. If I sat and talked to them, no learning would take place.
I appreciate the information you posted re narrow gauge and related history - I keep "larnin'" more and more. Shrews? I know some (lol). Tell you what, I'll trade you a couple of possums which, around here, are the size of small dogs (almost got one on the way home last night). That would certainly shake up the locals.
I was looking through your layout pictures - a fair amount of construction is taking place. In picture 3 there is a very quick stop on the upper level. Glad to see so much traffic in picture 4.
Allan - There were many Scots, Welsh, and Cousin Jacks involved in developing the mines here. This was, of course, because they had the practical experience necessary to do it. You look at pictures of old head frames and the like from back in the day in So. WV and you'd swear they were taken back in the old country.
Eric - So the T41 has a 567 inside. Turbocharged? Was the 567 built under license as well?
OSP was by with a nice L&N book - got me all homesick again. The splash was intended to save what was left of my voice, not necessarily for inspiration. Have a good visit with the "Guvna General" Oh, your e-mail just came in - will do so. Congrats to Juneau - I'll bet this was a test - how can it be 65 mos. in himan years - hah! you thought nobody read your material (grin) - anyway the K9 Korps sends congratulations - Milk Bones are on the next Zeppelin.
Juneau, 1st mascot for "Our" Place is 65 months old today <human years>!
The day BEFORE Friday has arrived - but still no sign of our Manager. No "heads up." Can only hope all's well for ‘n with our Resident Ontario Connection.
Check out our Menu Board for <light> ‘n <traditional> breakfasts - draw a mugga Joe ‘n of course stroll over to The Mentor Village Bakery case.
Petrol still holding at $3.80 <rounded> up at "Collusion Corner." Temps were in the mid-70s (F) ‘n expected to reach 80 before week's end. Humidity is tolerable - blue skies make things pleasant, so all's well in mid-continent USA!
Pete arrives this afternoon - so I'll be scarce ‘til he departs on Friday late afternoon . . .
RR BOOK RELAY 2008!
Book has arrived in WVA 'n Shane has it! Next up will be Rob . . .
Wednesday - September17th <all times Central daylite>:
Page 21 - Nick <nickinwestwales> at 8:12 PM ‘n 8:30 PM ‘n 8:40 PM <2:12 AM ‘n 2:30 AM ‘n 2:40 AM>: Back with a trifecta from our Resident Londoner in Wales! Our man in Wales has all kinds of energy in the wee hours!
Not sure I can do justice to all that's been said . . . much to ponder.
Shrew - now there's a critter we don't hear very much about over here. Voles ‘n moles - oh yeah. Whatever - critters in their element, eh
Wavelength I didn't detect anything contrary. Just good conversation, flowing at the bar like the brew!
My instant steam loco collection could only have come about because of present circumstances. No kids to raise! We're at that point in life where our expenses are manageable. Been there ‘n done that with payday to payday living. Not something I like to think about, it was a way of life thanx to feeding, clothing ‘n taking care of 3 children. No more - actually, no more paydays <so to speak> being retired . . . <grin>
Another factor in that instant steam loco collection is that if one thinks about the money thrown away at this ‘n that <with nothing to show for it afterwards> then putting that amount against something tangible does reap benefits <aka: instant steam loco collection>. I look at it as my trip to the UK with Pete that I didn't make this spring. We also cancelled a paid-for Amtrak trip aboard the Empire Builder because of that <censored> basement - again, money "redirected." So, that's my way of going about acquiring the things sitting down in the Can-Am Trainroom <aka: RR Museum>!
You surely outdid yourself with all of the activity - all of it much appreciated ‘n certainly supportive of our Saloon by the Siding!
Page 21 - Allan <Gunneral> at 9:01 PM <4:01 PM Friday NZ time>: And "in" comes our Resident Downunder Boom-boom Kiwi with a fine < I3 > Post!
From your description of the places you visit, seems like the human population is exploding all over the world. Ya know, there's a "reason" for that! Hmmmmmm. I'd prefer to keep the <fun> part separate from the <other> part - if you follow my drift. There will come a day of reckoning once we reach a point where feeding ‘n providing for all of those souls will overtake our resources. Hmmmmmmm. Rather somber, eh
Deep pockets is an understatement. What it really comes down to is the realization that the work HAS to be done ‘n done sooner rather than later. Really been a pain in the Patoot since late February. We've given up on opportunities to travel because of the fear of returning home to a flooded basement. So one of us has had to mind the store, so to speak. Not the way either of us want to live. FINALLY found a contractor willing to take on the work. So, after taking a deep breath - the check got written ‘n here we go . . . <gulp>
Not to beat a dead horse, but I've NEVER been treated so well as at the Volvo dealership where my car was purchased. Their service department is the most expensive I've ever encountered. However they DO provide SERVICE ‘n know how to take care of the customer. Guess one gets what one pays for, eh But this time, I didn't pay! And got the use of a brand new car at no cost . . . <amazing>!
Thanx for the mention of that Vauxhall vehicle - I had meant to ask Nick! Kept running it through my mind - now I KNOW! Wonder if one of those is in that barn-full of vintage cars that you sent along in your Email
Wish you could spend a bit o' time with Pete ‘n I at the TrainWreck Saloon today ‘n tomorrow at the Barriger RR Library then the StL MoT. You'd luv it all . . . .
As always, THANX for the visit, chat ‘n ROUND!
Friday - September 18th:
Page 21 - Nick <nickinwestwales> at 9:14 PM Thursday <3:14 AM GMT Friday>: Unbelievable - the man doesn't quit!
Fine selection of fotos to round out the wee hours! No shortage of rolling stock ‘n locos on that railway of yours! Some scenes are familiar, but the work in progress is evident with your S.O.B. railway . . .
Duchess is a fine looking beast - would be an asset in my display case! Better watch my every move should I visit your shed! <uh oh> Keep both hands clapping - is the way to handle something like that, eh
Also like those two diesels - mixed livery hauling the mixed passenger carriages. <sweet>
It's a great hobby - a safe pastime ‘n a money pit, all rolled into one! <grin>
Again, many thanx for your support for the bar ‘n entertaining, informative ‘n well placed Posts!
Page 21 - Eric <EricX2000> at 2:13 AM <12:13 AM Sandbox time>: No doubt ‘round here who the Night Owl is - it's our Sandman! The man keeps the same hours as Nick! <geesh>
Just go to the Volvo cars web site http://www.volvocars.com/ and you'll be able to view ‘em all . . . owned by Ford, of course! <grin>
IF there was room, I'd entertain a round house for those steamers - wouldn't they look great just waiting their turn for the turn table But the layout is a "period thing" - and the period is 1990 to present times. Just wouldn't fit . . . Nope, the steamers will reside in the display case, being taken out for special runs now ‘n then. They do look good where they are - especially with the cabooses. You'll enjoy viewing ‘em next time you visit.
I make it a practice to give wide berth to wild animals, regardless of size. Have encountered a few in my time - especially in Alaska. The operative word there is WILD! ‘nuf said, eh
As always, a fine < I3 > Post ‘n fotos from our Resident NOCTURNAL Desert RETIRED Swede! And a ROUND too!
Reminder: Ruth has the bar from 9 AM until Leon the Night Man comes in at 5 PM ‘til closing.
TODAY is Fish ‘ Chips Nite!
Friday is Pizza ‘n Beer Nite! - and - Steak ‘n Fries Nite!
Good evening captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Leon, no not tonight. I large coffee and a super sized cheese danish is exactly what I need!
Too many things going on here. Finally got some time to stop by.
Tom – Yes, I have outlined my “things to do” list! I don’t know how I will be able to do all the things I plan to do, but I’ll give it a try. Have to be flexible!To be honest, I don’t even know what Volvo S80 looks like. With only 36,500 miles on your good running car there is no reason what so ever to trade it. I think I know where the brunette is hiding. I’ll check that on Friday! Oh, the coupon was on the back of the ad! No wonder I couldn’t find it!Some interesting test runs on the Can-Am Railway! Figured out any extension yet? Pete – Nice photos of a small size train! The cars/carriages look very small! Can’t even see the wheels! I like the first photo of the Fairlie, with the steam around it! No, not loganberries, lingonberries! Normally you don’t have to be afraid of a moose, but under certain circumstances like meeting a moose with a calf, it is safer to keep the distance. I was chased by a bull moose once when I stopped with my car to have a look at him. He didn’t like it so he came running straight towards me. I started driving and he followed me. After about 500 ft he gave up, satisfied he got rid of me. But I have more or less bumped in to moose several times in the forests and nothing happened. They left me behind. There is possibly 1 remaining T41 in service, but I doubt it. Only 5 were built. Please, tell the brunette I am looking for her!CM3 – 16 days, that is correct. 43 days if you count all days.The T41 is basically an American locomotive, built on license in Sweden by NOHAB 1956. It has a GM-12 567C diesel engine, 1,445 hp. If you like forests you should go to Sweden. Nick – I have been sitting here for a long period of time looking at your pictures of whatever it might be. But I have to give up. What the heck is it? I thought you knew everything about lingonberries! Used for cooking for ages! Hmmm. Still a lot of work foryou to get your layout done! It is very time consuming. But it is nice to see how different details are being added! Allan – The red berries well camoflaged? Red!? Not green, red!! Well some people have a hard time see the difference between red and green, that is true. But...
EMU, class X1.
A poor picture, but those cars look kind of British to me. Correct?
Semaphore. British?
Round for the house!
Right then-it`s wednesday-so it`s model day-nothing new yet I`m afraid (although have grabbed a couple of useful hours wiring up the cab-control system and tying the top station into the loop,as it were)
So-two ways to go here-either a (frankly tedious) description of the cab-control system or a few `only seen once` layout pix-well-I know where my money is -so Leon-another bottle of the brandy please old thing...
Here we have the old Duchess with a wilfully mixed bag and a 2mt with a pair of Collets
Heavyweight power on an up train
spot the missing upper level boards
Making progress-test running of low level lines in full swing...
All things being equal,should have upper level running by end of this week-will keep you posted.........
sleep well-speak soon
Nick. A nice collage of the Welsh narrow gauge steam locos`, the "greenery" shots` and the pic of your Vauxhall station wagon, they are called the Holden Vectra over here.
CM3. Nice to see you sir. Their were a lot of Geordie miners` from Tyneside who emigrated to the coalfields in the Newcastle NSW and Gladstone Queensland areas` and a few Cornish miners` too. I`ve always found Queenslanders` to be very hospitable folk to get on with.
Eric. Whatever was in that photo was very well camoflaged indeed, I`m sure their was something that looked like an antler there somewhere, some nice deer shots and your X2000 and the Class T41. My Nissan has a five speed manual gearshift, it`s handy for coasting down some of the long downhill stretches of highway over here which saves a little bit of gas.
Pete. Got my fingers` crossed for a spell of good weather for your trip home. It`s the same with all the extra housing here too, in the 26yrs we`ve been travelling up to Auckland, from where we used to get off the motorway to where our relative`s live it was all open fields` for 10 miles`, now their`s housing covering all that area. Enjoyed your fine set of pix of "Prince" on the Ffestiniog Rly.
Tom. I`m sure you`ll enjoy the "Mama Mia" movie when you get to see it, the songs match the story line very well. Glad to hear you are in the throes of fixing your basement flooding problem at last, you will be glad you found the cause of it after all that hassle, it sounds as if you might have to have "deep pockets" though! Nice re-post on the SOO Line in the Fallen Flags #18 of the series and the fine spread of pix of the steam locos` on your Can Am RR. That was a pleasant surprise for you on your last warranty service on the Volvo that's for sure.
WHOOPS-read that wrong-apologies-and yes you are right-it is a vole(or possibly a shrew)-spotted it bimbling through the greenery before we all went out for the day-seemed oblivious to humans-just going about its business ,doing `shrew` (or perhaps `vole`) stuff-followed it across the garden snapping wherever I could-imagined it muttering to itself it a rich Devon accent............when I first saw it ,it was outside the nest with all the babies-by the time I got back with the camera they had all gone to ground-was a delightful start to the day....
Right-we are all still here-TOM-was only meant to be a gentle tease mate-I wish I could afford to buy ONE engine to sit in a case and gather dust.....suspect we are not on the same wavelength tonight-is almost certainly me thats out of synch-had a tricksy sort of day with cancelled bookings and being generally messed about---sleep well mate-speak soon
Right-back again-now whats happening here-I slip away to the washroom and here is crazy Otto from the track gang in my seat-Oi pal-would you mind removing your large ,heavily muscled and impressively tattoed carcass from my stool...no..O.K then........................................that went well-hopefully that tooth will grow back...Leon-a cold compress please and don`t say a word...I`ll just sit over here instead
So-PETE-By chance,dug out a couple of old vids last night-T.V stuff from the `90`s-Bowes Rly etc-definate family resemblance between Tanfield engines and R.S.H `Lambton` coal engines-round cabs et al-must have been what I saw in them..some wonderful characters interviewed as well
And on to Wales-Yes-different dialects and,as I understand it,little love lost -going out on a limb here,but I believe the `Gogs` regard the southerners as having sold out-this is a 1000 year old dispute......They know how to do a good feud in these parts ..-cats-all of ours are banned from the train shed for offenses various-wee b*ggers -little item on the news the other day-the new A1 pacific seen easing round the yard and posing in proper `photo grey` prior to going down to Loughborough for full main line trials--Fine shots of `Prince` with the vintage stock-she is painted a much lighter red than originally
See `Palmerston`,top left..`Welsh Pony`on plinth outside Harbour station is also this colour..
Nice shots of Minffordd <min-vorth> also-for detail freaks,the narrow gauge lines peel off at the far right of PETE`s pic and come round thru 270 degrees to end up parrallel to the std gauge tracks-used to be a huge and busy yard here-can confirm (for SHANE ) was originally Welsh coast rly until all the little lines combined into the Cambrian Railway-(was all little bits of lines -A to B-B to C etc...
Back to the Ffesters-is indeed Mountaineer (Alco 2-6-2t) and would agree Penryn..on to the Harbour stn shots-engine is standing at more or less the point where the W.H.R connection took off through the streets (the new block of flats opposite have replaced Britannia terrace) -although that was always where the line to the slate quays took off-the W.H.R line really started on the other side of the Britannia bridge,where the goods line turned sharp left onto the quay
As to the mixed coaches on the train-the first coach looks like a repro of the W.H.R tourist cars and the 3rd coach is almost certainly an original F.R Bogie car-the rest look like Boston Lodge work-apart from the first green one....
For those of a topographical bent-now lets see how we can do this-O.K-imagine a large square-a river runs down through this from top to bottom,at the bottom of the square is a causeway running across the whole width of the thing,the river is diverted to the bottom left ,the narrow gauge stn is here-the line runs across the causeway,turrns sharp left (Boston Lodge-the main works)then heads north,at top right is Minffordd,then it turns half right and goes off the map.
From the bottom left stn there was once a line ( and will be again) running through the streets up the left hand side of the square,this crossed the std gauge line on the level and ran up to Beddgelert and beyond.
the std Gauge line runs across the top of the square..............
I hope this helps,but won`t be suprised if it doesn`t............would make a lovely layout if you could scale it down
Have just re-read this and I think its prolly bed time-speak soon
I see Pete made it back for round deux! Followed a surprise PM visit from Shane! And our man in Wales, Nick has entered the premises with a foto quiz! <yikes> <grin>
Figured since I'm on-line this evening, may as well get the day's acknowledgments out of the way . . . .
Page 21 - Pete <pwolfe> at 11:07 AM: Appreciate the morning visit!
While Prince really doesn't do very much for my tastes in railroading, it is a most revealing look at what is perfectly "normal" for places other than ‘round these parts. For that, "Our" Place stands tall with regard to Classic Trains from ‘round the globe!
Page 21 - CM3 Shane <coalminer3> at 3:10 PM <4:10 PM EDT>: Most pleased to see our Resident WVA Connection made it "in" for a chat on our mid-week day!
There are soooooooo many of those Fallen Flags I never had the opportunity <or desire> to travel with. Afraid that my time ‘n interests were elsewhere - call to duty, so to speak. Trains were far from my mind - except for memories of my childhood Lionel collection. <ahhhhhhhh>
We thought we had a good friend in the form of a Contractor who hads taken on several projects ‘round here over the years <15 or more>. He surely disappeared when it came to this current dilemma with the basement wall leak. Promises made - but not kept. Lost about 4 months waiting for the guy . . . oh well. <groan> Things is - we NEVER expected nor would approve of a "break" - ALWAYS paid him his "going rate" - nothing less. Wanted business to be business ‘n friendship - friendship. Such is life . . . never to old to learn, eh
Again, do appreciate the visit, ROUND, quarters ‘n revelation! Revelation Yeah, Shane ordered a "splash"!!! <grin>
Page 21 - Pete <pwolfe> at 3:40 PM: Back with Part Deux - which again amazes me in that you continue to find things to talk about in spite of the relative inactivity at the bar.
Noted that the flood crests for the areas where I had concern have come ‘n gone . . . so, unless there's something not being released, my guess is your train won't be late because of high water. Union Pacific traffic, however, is a totally different matter. <groan>
Appreciate your picking up on the additional steam locos for the Can-Am Trainroom! Helps to use that RELOAD feature, eh <grin>
Finally finished the "window glass" for the last of the 10 cabooses ordered for the display case . . . tedious work, but worth it for the effects desired.
Finally got those Trains ‘n Classic Toy Trains mags you gave me, put into binders! That room is beginning to take on more of a RR library effect than I ever envisioned!
Thanx for the continuation of those fotos from the Ffestiniog Railway.
ROUND, visit, chat ‘n good cheer ALWAYS welcome ‘round here! See ya at the Kirkwood Station . . .
Page 21 - Nick <nickinwestwales> at 5:40 PM 'n 7:01 PM <11:40 PM 'n 1:01 AM Thursday GMT>: A welcome visit from our man in Wales! Surely can use the activity ‘n interest.
These are most perplexing times at "Our" Place. We've had doldrums befall us in past days <daze> We've got a fine lot to work with ‘n to appreciate. But what we've gained in that department, we've lost in dependability. Just never seem to know . . . especially during daylite hours. Proprietor's lament, I suppose . . . but must admit, I'm getting rather weary of these times. If not for a handful who really provide the good cheer - I'd get another job! <grin>
Photo quiz! Hmmmmm, aside from that nice looking residence with the car parked in front, I see green stuff! <uh oh>
Seriously though, looks like a critter - field mouse, mole, vole - something alive in the green stuff! <grin>
Can't say I'll be on-line when you return - but surely will provide comments in my next round of acknowledgments!
ROUND of brandy hit the spot! <nice>
Edited: Back with a response to your 2nd Post . . . water is not being routed beneath the home. Being routed away from the property via conduit collecting water from French drains (2) which are to be dug on the outside of the front of our house.
USCG 'n CCG are on the same page <I hope> when it comes to territorial matters. Now the respective diplomatic communities - well that's 'nother story 'n matter. <barf> Should the Arctic waterway remain a viable transit for shipping - well then there's just gotta be an international corridor. Seems rather simple to me.
I'm surely not the kind to get snookered because of getting "something" for "nothing." Ha! I've spent a small fortune at that Volvo dealer <most expensive car to maintain I've ever owned> . . . my guess is they billed the warranty company for the work done. I'm just impressed though with the top shelf treatment, courteous attitudes 'n consideration given. That just doesn't happen in the world I live in - very often.
I consider myself tweaked! <grin> Mountain run is a single track - pont-to-point. Elevation is far too high to join up with the lower mainlines . . . unless of course I purchase the adjacent home to our property - expand the basement - etc. <grin> But in re-reading your "suggestion" that wasn't where you were going, eh Anyway, sorry but the Can-Am Railway is to remain a "period road" - from 1990s to present times. No steamers in everyday use. <sniff, sniff> Nice try!
Will catch remainder of your comments a bit later . . . many thanx <again> for your continuing support for this joint of OURS!
Boris, ring the bell - drinks on Da Bossman!
Right then-lets to business shall we ?...
TOM-You look exceedingly pale dear chap-must be all that cheque writing-pull up a barmaid and relax.....-indeed,the fact that you are under the illusion that you have had free auto-service suggests a high fever and wild hallucinations-I would reccomend either complete bed rest or a wild night out with like minded folk-whichever suits....
R.E. FERGIE-was an article on the tube over here last week about the Artic -apparently the sea-ice is retreating several hundred miles further than ever recorded and the U.S.C.G. service is having to police territorial disputes quite outside of normal remit-was talk of the N.W Passage becoming a regularly navigable waterway....suggested that this volume of normally `bound` water now being `free` might well figure in the rapid decline of established weather systems -certainly far in advance of the current accepted wisdom ...............HMMMMMM-lets make for the high ground perhaps.......
From your brief notes,it sounds like the building man is gonna do what I would do(and indeed,in a much smaller way DO need to do) -Accept I dont have the full picture,but could the water not be routed round rather than under the building ?-would be less expensive I would imagine-feel free to send on the back channel for brainstorming on this-more than happy to throw ideas up and bat them around -is frankly a bit far even for me
Very nice reminder of the SOO line-another of those roads for which I have a soft spot-nice liveries and runs through beautiful country-have been some top-notch models of SOO country featured in the M.R in recent years ......
The new steam looks a treat -now since I can`t let the chance of just a little tiny `tweak` on your chain go by......I can see the `Mountain` line as a preserved outfit with 3 steamers ( in strict rotation) and a couple of cars -maybe a caboose or two-loco A takes the up train ,loco B hooks on the back to bring her back down,loco C takes her up again loco A comes back down and so on-would depend on the wiring for dead sections etc-only one complete road would be needed at each end-plus space on the other for the turnaround loco-leaves space for the odd freight car ( the MESS vans ? ) & maybe a diner as the catering facility --R.D.C`s could be put onto the Mentor Metro commuter service out of Union stn............but enough of that.......
Interesting to note that given our differences in generation,lifestyles,experience and viewpoints ,how much music we have in common-a universal language I guess...
SHANE-The trenches-I sense a photo-op here-the boss`s L.G.B trains laid out in the garden in military support roles.......would give a different perspective to the normal Alco/Baldwin/Hunslet shots..a handful of figures and a vehicle or two,some diffuse smoke.........
Sounds like a long hard day at the chalkface for you..feel free to pull up Boris and join us for a nightcap or three--Am minded of the old saw that a lecture is the simplest way of transferring information from the notes of the lecturer to the notes of the student without disturbing the minds of either.......
ERIC-So-it`s lingonberries is it..?-I spent ages looking for small creatures in the background-in fact I can see what looks like a face-about halfway up,just to the left of that diagonal yellow stalk -but this may be down to medication issues.....interested to note on the Toronto pic,the food service area seems to be marked with a red line on the car side-just as over here-at least ,thats the assumption........
And so to PETE-
Right,quite a lot here-Leon-better have some more beer please-and we havn`t even THOUGHT about train day pix yet.....
O.K-gonna post this and come back to PETE in a moment
Well good evening all,sounds like the day has treated you all well....-Since PETE seems to be most recently `in the chair`,I will be delighted to join him in a pint of Staropramen,and if Leon will be so kind lets have a round of brandies to keep out the persisting chill.....
Just a quick `bookmark`whilst I make the days notes-will follow ERIC`s lead with a `what can you see ?` pic..........well,3 actually....
All the above were shot in the grounds of this rather splendid Edwardian residence,where we stayed last summer-clue you need to enlarge the pix and look at the whole of each pic.....
Right,back in a bit with (shock-horror) some train stuff & other relevant material
TTFN
A pint of Holden's please RUTH.
TOM Really looking forward to seeing you tomorrow, hopefully Amtrak wont be too tardy I see my train left Jeff City 1 hr 29 minutes late today.
It will be good to get the basement done by the end of October before the winter sets in and having a dry basement again will be great.
I would not mind getting some royalties from the Beatles songs. It would be interesting to know how many cover versions of their songs there have been, I bet it must be in the thousands.
Many thanks for the photos of the display case steam models having their test runs on the Can-Am. They are great models and it is good to see the New Haven, NYC and Pennsylvania locomotives in the snow and crossing Can-Am gorge. I hope everyone enlarges the photos.
ERIC I did say berries, I guess it had to be loganberries to get the prize.
Your photos of the deer reminded me it is getting the time of year when they are most dangerous running into the roads here. Can moose be dangerous if you get too near to them.
Glad you liked the photos yes that turntable looks hardly strong enough to carry the weight of the larger engines around it.
If the brunette calls in the bar again I will be sure to tell her you are back from your holiday.
Many thanks for the photos. The T41 looks a quite powerful locomotive are the T41s still in service with SJ..
CM3 Just caught your post. Glad you enjoyed the FR photos.That is a fine stone bridge. I have had a look to see when it was built and I think it may have been part of the Aberystwyth & Welsh Coast Railway which opened in 1863 and bcame part of the Cambrian Railways a year later.The 23.5 inch gauge Festiniog Railway was incorperated in 1832 and at first used gravity to take the loaded slate wagons down to the harbour at Porthmadog with the horses that would draw the empty cars back up to Bleanau Ffestiniog riding in a 'Dandy' wagons. The line first used steam power in 1863.
The 2nd part of some photos from the Ffestiniog Railway. I need Nick's help with the first one. I think the locomotive could be Mountaineer and the station she is arriving at may be Penrhyn next station up from Minffordd heading for Blaenau Ffestiniog.
Two photos of one of the FR's Double-Fairlies at Porthmadog.
It seems the Fairlie has quite a mixture of carriages behind her.
Well RUTH a round for those who come in please.
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