Ahoy Cap'n Tom ‘n fellow travelers at the bar!
Ruth my deAH, ‘tis a bettAH day than most now that I've heard the "news" - the JINTS ‘n PATRIOTS game will be on the tube after all! Being the night B4 we leave for the Keys, I've declined the chance to go ovAH to see it in person. Best to remain home - safe ‘n sober! Not a bad idea . . .
Anyway, how about a number 3 from the menu board ‘n a mugga Joe without the jolt! Boris - feed the gang ‘n the small jar of PPF is yours - keep the change my deAH!
Of course a round for the boyz - "on" Jan of course! <grin>
Let me be the FIRST to jump into the CONTEST to name the Donut MoSheen! - I'll call it GreeseMeister!
<special note to Fergie of Fergmiester fame - most times the Germans use the E before I . . . that is IF I recall my German correctly!>
Some fine material provided yesterday by Da Bossman in the form of those Christmastime ads - then Wolfman's photos from Kansas City's Union Station - trolleyBOY's write-up on the Baltimore & Ohio/Chesapeake & Ohio - and today's Boston-Pittsburgh sleeper "stuff" from Shane. All around good stuff!
Gotta kick outta that lady who "found" her husband in Pete's pix!
I refrain from jumping on the bandwagon when it comes to the "history" in my family regarding the B&O - ‘n it goes way back. Just something that I regard as private stuff. Neither of ‘em <grandpa or father> did anything "famous," but they worked their tails off for "da man" ‘n were rewarded with decent retirements. Train guys from the get-go - with all sorts of stories ‘n pix stowed below in the depths of our basement. One day . . .
I too liked the pix from Eric - the cab shot approaching platform. Lucky man you've been to have so many fine experiences . . .
Hey Bossman! Just goes like this for me - I'm no wrist-wringer or "rewarder" for bad behavior. I call's ‘em the way I see's ‘em (Red Skelton!) - ‘n that's just the way it is. I don't miss - for one New YAWK minute any of the long-winded ‘n deeply one-sided data dumps of dayz gone by. No how - no way. I like THIS bunch ‘n perhaps we'll get ‘em all to at least "play the game" accordingly - things work so much bettAH when that happens - dontchathink I do!
<uh oh> Elena ‘n the girls "found me"! How in the world . . . . Are you sure Really! Oooooooooooooooh, here we go again!
Time again for the continuing Christmastime covAHs from the Larsman Mobile Toy & Model Trains Annex, of course!
Thomas Christmas Delivery
The Christmas Train
The Magic Journey (Polar Express)
The Polar Express (selections)
Ruth my deAH, why of course I'll be in our favorite place a bit later on! <blush>
Until the next time!
Lars
<"Our" Place Christmas Holiday Train>
G'day Gents!
A cloudy, gloomy ‘n drizzly kinda day here in mid-continent USA - began yesterday afternoon ‘n we're supposed to remain this way for a few more days. <ugh> Fortunately, it was blue skies ‘n comfortable temps on Christmas ‘n yesterday morning. Now we're in the <glop> once again. Petrol was at $2.70 <rounded> up at Collusion Corner, which really surprised me. Thought fer sure "they" would sock it to us all during this holiday season. BUT it ain't over, is it <groan>
Breakfasts are ready! Coffee ‘n pastries are too - so let's get a move on guys!
Comments from the Proprietor:
REMINDER: Drinks are "on Jan Olov" ‘til the New Year! So, don't be bashful - order away! PLENTY of holiday "nog" <spiked of course!> so help yourselves!
Customer Acknowledgments (since my last narrative)
Wednesday - Dec 26th:
Lars (LoveDomes) at 10 AM: Can always when things are getting back to "normal" when the Manager helps things along with a morning Post!
Glad you enjoyed your PRIZE aboard the Can-Am Railway's Trans-Mentor Limited! Wise choice to pick the weekend, as you caught at least a couple of guys off-guard! <grin> I trust the accommodations met or exceeded your expectations! The hot tub came from a most ‘curious' source. Yeah - remember that gal you met at the Super Bowl party down in Miami You know - the one who sent you the bar that's up in the Penthouse Suite! Yeah - HER! <uh oh> Does Ruth know about this Hmmmmm, AND you're heading BACK to southern Florida! <double Hmmmmmmmmm>
Hey Mate! Don't be too concerned about those who fail to pick up on the way we do things ‘round here. We've given everyone ample opportunity to discover "us" - if they don't' avail themselves of it <opportunity> - what's left other than to ride it out
Just count our "blessings," at least we're NOT putting up with the character who used to fill up nearly the entire Forum's Page with endless reams of data . . . . ‘n then hardly ever acknowledge comments made in his direction <either here or by Email>. Yeah - count our "blessings"!
Many thanx for the fine reruns of those Christmas trains book covers - keeps the "mood"
Pete (pwolfe) at 4:44 PM: Wondered whether we'd see you on this day - but I shudda known you'd wait ‘til near the end of daylite! <grin> Probably spending your time watching Brit sports, eh Always a treat when our Bar Chandler settles in at the bar!
I finally was able to retrieve those <ahem> fotos that Boris had squirreled away in his shed. My, my - rather explicit I'd say! Surely NOT of Lars ‘n Ru . . . his friend. And they surely weren't train mag fotos either! <geesh>
I recall our KCity trip when you took those Jones Trains fotos . . . seems just like yesterday, but then . . . . ahhhhhhh, another late Amtrak arrival! <grin> Also brings back thoughts of another time at our bar ‘n of guys who are UTBs . .
There's a restaurant in KCity's Crown Center that also uses model trains to deliver food. While it's more of a breakfast-lunch kinda place, there's a train on a shelf-system that stops at the booths from atop. The food gets lowered through a tubing system to your table. Kinda nice . . . IF we ever get TIME when we're in KCity, I'll have to show the place to you . . . <grin>
Thanx for the Boxing Day chat . . . was hoping we'd get a "report" from either of our Canadian Connections too. Also when our Kiwi from Downunder returns, perhaps he'll pick up on our comments . . . and of course, Dan ‘n Jan <sounds like a rock group!>
Good Morning Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please; slide the pastry case down this way, please and thank you. Cloudy here today with seasonable temperatures and rain expected later - maybe.
Let's see what's happening today.
Pete stopped by with comments and KC layout pictures.
Lars visted with toy train material. I saw a Lionel Union Station building like the one on the cover you sent while I was at the train show in Buffalo over Thanksgiving. It was in good shape and not too pricy.
Eric - We get to dress that way all the time. BTW, was that your retirement speech in your hand? No wonder the audience looked nervous (lol).
Rob - Sixty year old hobby stores? Careful, lad. Incidentally, while you are there, look for kits from Ambroid, Red Ball, All Nation, and Magow. There is some truly vintage stuff.
I enjoyed your material on the C&O/B&O situation. The B&O boardroom is most impressive. Tuohy, BTW, was on the C&O side of the house. He had a tugboat named after him which used to work at Newport News. Again, I have pictures of her somewhere. Again, I have plenty of stories abt. all of that which we can share at Rendezvous.
OSP sent some UP and PRR material. UP promoted Sun Valley all over the place. You probably remember their fall and winter ads in the National Geographic.
O.K. I promised Eric some material on Boston-Pittsburgh sleepers service. Here ‘tis, drawn from NH,PRR tts, and ORG from March, 1950. Enjoy - it does get a bit complicated, especially westbound as the P Company was great to combine several trains into one and then split them up again.
Train 46-186 ("New Englander/Quaker") handled an extensive collection of sleeping cars between Pittsburgh and New England destinations.
An 8 section/bar lounge operated between Pittsburgh and Springfield, MA every day except Saturday. Passengers traveling from Pittsburgh to Boston could choose Pullman accommodations in a 12 roomette/2 single bedroom/3 double bedroom car, or a 12 roomette/2 single bedroom/4 double bedroom car. A 12 section/drawing room car was also available. Two Philadelphia-Boston cars were picked up en route. These included a 14 roomette/4 double bedroom car and an 8 section/drawing room/3 double bedroom sleeper. Monday only, a 12 section/drawing room car ran between Philadelphia and Providence. The consist was rounded out with a Pittsburgh-Harrisburg diner and coaches between Pittsburgh and Boston and New Haven and Springfield.
Train 46-186 departed Pittsburgh at 4:00 p.m., picked up cars and departed Philadelphia at 12:33 a.m. with a 2:15 a.m. arrival in New York. It was out of New York 15 minutes later with a 4:01 a.m. arrival in New Haven where the Springfield car was handed off to a connecting train. The Providence car was set out prior to 186's departure for Boston at 6:32 a.m. Train 186 was due at Boston's South Station at 7:45 a.m.
Westbound service was provided by Train 189-37-51, the "William Penn," truly a workhorse that handed a variety of sleeping cars. The Boston-Pittsburgh Pullmans included a 12/roomette/2 single bedroom/3 double bedroom car or a 12 roomette/2 single bedroom/4 double bedroom car. A 12 section/drawing room car ran from Boston as well as the 8 section/bar lounge from Springfield. Parlor cars operated between Boston and New York and Springfield and New Haven. In addition, diners ran between Boston and New York, Springfield and New Haven, and Altoona to Pittsburgh in PRR 51. Coaches ran between Boston and New York, Springfield and New Haven, New York and Harrisburg and Harrisburg and Pittsburgh.
Train 189-37-51 left Boston at 6:00 p.m. The Springfield cars arrived in New Haven at 8:11 p.m. or 9:11 p.m., where they switched out and the 8 section/bar lounge added into the consist. The train left New Haven at 9:25 p.m. with an 11:00 p.m. arrival at Penn Station, New York. This is where things got interesting as the diner and coaches from Boston were switched out, and a New York-Pittsburgh 12 section/drawing room Pullman was added and everything combined into PRR train 37-51. All of this was done in time for the train's 11:20 p.m. departure from New York as Pennsylvania train 37-51, the "Iron City Express," which, in addition to the Boston-Pittsburgh cars four New York-Pittsburgh cars as well as a New York-Birmingham 10 section/2 compartment/drawing room car en route to an interchange with the Louisville and Nashville Railroad at Cincinnati. 51 left Philadelphia at 1:16 a.m. and left Harrisburg at 237 a.m., with a 7:50 a.m. arrival in Pittsburgh.
work safe
Good morning Captain Tom and Gentlemen!!
Leon, back to work again! No, just a ham sandwich. That will do this time. Coffee, it is way too cold for a Keith's.
Christmas Day passed quickly! Spent a good portion of the day relaxing and eating some good stuff.
Sven – Glad that your coffee was strong enough, but you better be careful not to break the spoon next time. You have a good memory! The Iron Horse is the name of that restaurant where your food is delivered to your table by a model train.The Iron Horse (burgers arrive on a model train), 311 Third Avenue SJanOlov – That was a quick one!CM3 – Thank you, I feel happier already! The photo of me was taken last Friday and Friday is the only day I can (could) dress like that. I’ll certainly attend the 3rd Annual Rendezvous in May (140 days!) and I hope you will be able to go there too! Tom – No, I didn’t want to keep Leon up late Christmas Eve. That is why I tried to visit the bar early. A 1937 UP ad about taking the train to Sun Valley. How about the Valley of the Sun? No, I guess you have to take Amtrak and then ride a bus to get here. Lars – Oh, I didn’t know that you know Atilla the Hun! Perfect DVD cases and book covers for Christmas! Pete – Hmmm, damaged suspension? That does not... or does it? Do they still use Jones Train in Union Station, KC, at Christmas time? The Iron Horse (burgers arrive on a model train), 311 Third Avenue S is the name of that restaurant Sven mentioned. Obviously still in use!Very nice photos from Union Station, KC! A good size layout! Scale 0? Rob – It’s not too hard to get up before the crack of dawn this time of the year. I checked eBay for those books but did not find them. I’ll keep my eyes open.Thanks for the End of the B&O Merger With the C&O story! B&O swallowed by C&O and is now the Chessie System. Interesting!
Eric
Good evening again Leon another Rum punch please.In keeping with the re-runs here's another one from me from the early days of this thread.
THE END OF THE B&O MERGER WITH THE C&O
As with many railroads of the time the 1960's were not good to the B&O. It along with some of the other great eastern roads of the past like the NYC and PRR, started the slide towards mergers to continue theuir existance as viable transportation systems in the ever modernizing world.
THE B&O AND C&O
Going against the unions and most of the wishes of many of the eastern roads, the ICC said yes to the merger of the B&O/C&O on new years eve 1962.It was thought that in some quarters this resulting railroad would end up being the strongest one in the east.On Feb 4 1963, the C&O formalized it's control over it's once rival B&O. This change of power took place one minute past midnight and was the moment the ICC approval became a reality. The knot was tied in the B&O's boardroom, fitting I think of the nation's oldest railroad.
This combined system owned 11,000 miles of track stretching from the Atlantic, to the Mississippi River,and from the Great Lakes to the southern boarder of Kentucky. The B&O railroad obtained loans from C&O's financeers to enhance it's aging locomotive fleet, and to refurbish tunnels , yards and fleet facilities.In march 1968, the ICC approved the aquisition of the Western maryland by the B&O/C&O railway adding this 800 mile regional road to the system.
Over the years after the merger C&O people slowly replaced the old guard at the B&O with Gregory DeVine assuming the dual presidancies on the death of B&O President Tuohy in 1966.By 1970, the B&O Board included six men that also served on teh C&O board and 94 percent of the B&O was in the holdings of the C&O.
END OF PASSENGER SERVICE
The B&O's passeneger service had been a long time loser of money and amny lines had already been cut back.Yet the federal govt still had not allowed the major interurban carriers like the B&O to shed these money losing services.So the B&O like many other roads continued to hemorrhege cash on passenger service.Once the government decided to form Amtrak, the B&O like many of the rest of the nations railways paid out a lump sum and discontinued their passenger services, leaving them to the federally operated Amtrak.A payment of 29.6 milion was made to the National railroad Passenger Corporation in 1970, and thus freed the B&O/C&O to become all freight operations.
CHESSIE SYSTEM
In 1971 Presidient DeVine, retired and was replaced by Hays Watkins, a C&O man since 1949.President watkins had the name Chessie System adopted as the marketing name for the C&O/B&O/WM conglomorate. The C&O and B&O continued to operate separatly but now shared a common head office in Cleveland.
The name Chessie refers to the C&O's cat logo first used in the early 1930's as a gimmick for the then C&O's passeneger sevice.The C&O used the kitten sleeping on a blanket in a Fortune mag ad in 1933 and the tag line sleep like a kitten.Thinking originally that Chessie should have a B&O counterpart for ad purposes as well, they came up with "BESSIE" the cat for B&O, but after a shareholders survey they decided that it was not a good idea, so Bessie died on the drawing board.They did however at the time adopt the now famous "C" with the cat Silhouette used on their locomotives and ads, adding it to the WM as well once the WM was completely absorbed into the Chessie System in 1974. At this time the Blue yellow and Vermillion painted locomotives began arriving on scene , with the only notion of the original owners being a B&O, C&O or WM initial under the cab road numbers.
Rob
Well good evening Leon. I think a nice rum punch will do wonders for me this evening.No just the drink the pasteries do look tempting and so do the hot greeseballs from the donut machine but alas I havejust about eaten myself to death these last two days.,<uh oh>We must find a suitable name for the donut machine, everything needs a label in this place if it's to be part of the lore.
It seems as though everyone has had a fabulous holiday season which is good to read
Tom-A fine display of holiday cheer from you on Christmas Evethnaks for sharing all those wonderfull shots and drumheads. I fine capper to the season.
Lars -Thanks for the fine selection from the larsmobile,as well as the fine holiday greeting.I myself stayed away from the shopping frenzy that was today. I know that my sisters and mother likely did their fair share of damage today , but for us we just stayed home with teh critters and enjoyed a quiet day. Sounds like your "prize trip" was therapudic.Good for you, in ditching the would be interlopers
Shane-I'm glad that you liked the NS&T shots. I've spent a lot of time when I was a kid enjoying lakeside park where the steamer warf was.The carousel is the only part of the park that's left and is maintained by Brock university and the cities parks dept. Still costs a nickel a ride
Next time I'm in the Hobby shop in St Catharines , I'll have to take a look , he may still have some Varney equipment in his one display case, I know there are some old Silver Streak kits.The hazzards of a hobby shop that's almost 60 years old.
Eric-Sounds like you had a typical first day of retirment , up before the crack of dawn, no rest for the wicked eh If you do go looking for either of those books the John Mills one is the better of the two , if you do find one let me know. John is one of the founding members of the museum we may be able to get it autographed for you.
Loved the latest pictures that you posted up , always nice to see the interior shots of equipment, a look we don't often find.
Sven-Thanks for the info on the coffee, make sure you get the hot fresh donuts from the machine, once they have sat a while they get a bit tough.
Mike-Thanks for the stop by and the holiday greetings Fergie I'm glad to hear that teh mess got a bit of a work out over the holidays
Pete-Hmm Boris's "gift" blew up did it hopfeully the shrapnel damage was limited only to his collection of beer steins and kazoos.
I had wondered why after they were done with me and the dunk tank that they had hurridly emptied it and added the thermal blankets to the inside walls and the outboard motors to it, now we know
Thanks for the pictures of the Holiday layout.From what you are describing to me,I'm tempted to believe that that private car was indeed one of the ex Illinois Central ones.
Hi Tom and all.
A pint of Bathams on this Boxing Day please RUTH
Hope everyone had a GREAT CHRISTMAS.
ERIC. That is so right about not trusting a manager.
I'm afraid BORIS looking at the photos, as had a bad consequence; his new ‘toy' suffered a massive explosion not long afterwards. Fortunately there was no structural damage to his shed or him, although he was very distraught, as the receipt said "Strictly NO returns". I have offered to replace his present and he was so grateful, he gave an interesting piece of information. Apparently the sleeping car on the Can-Am Railways Trans Mentor Limited as had to go into the shops with damaged suspension, as we know the Can-Am track is in excellent condition so the cause is a mystery.
Many thanks for the info on your badge on the hat.
The Jones Train has an interesting history, and it is quite old. It was used in the Jones store in KC in the old days and was not used for many years until it was refurbished and used in Union Station, Kansas City. I took the photos for a former regular Ted who remembered the train in the old days. Tom and I had traveled by Amtrak to KC but the train was late and I just had time to take the photos while the train turned round for the return journey, even so I nearly missed the train but Tom had the conductor to look out for me.
Great photo of Santa.
SVEN Many thanks for the link to Gevalia coffee.
That is very interesting about that restaurant in Seattle using the model railway to deliver the food. It would be great to know if it still in use today. The nearest I have seen is at the old station in Green Bay Wisconsin where the station is now a restaurant and a brewery. They have samplers of the ales they brew and the glasses are in a wooden model locomotive. They brew a very good root beer as well.
Yes AWK's bite is worse than his squawk.
JAN Good to see you in. I hope things get a bit quieter at work after the very busy time you have had lately.
CM3 My factory was all standard gauge but had some very old flat wagons with double curved cast spokes on the wheels. BR locomotives were not allowed in the works mainly because of the sharp curves, I think. We once had a railfan tour of a large steelworks on Teesside in the North East of England, it was very interesting you could feel the heat of the torpedo molten steel cars.A steel works in Lincolnshire used to run tours around its system some weekends, some times with an industrial stem locomotive. I am not sure if they still do this.
It will be great to hear some of your father-in law's stories at the Rendezvous.
LARS I have found that is the best way when the Christmas dinner is being prepared is to stay well clear unless asked to do something not technical.
You will have to let me know the secret of avoiding shopping expeditions.
Many thanks for the books and video covers with a great Christmas theme from the Larsman Mobile.
TOM Yes Boxing Day is still a big day in the UK, a public bank holiday, where there are a lot of sporting events on, including a full soccer program. It is a busy time for the soccer teams as they played Saturday and today, then the Saturday coming and New Years Day and the following Saturday. In the old days before the pubs had the extended opening hours they have today, Boxing Day was one of the rare days that a one-hour extension of the opening hours was allowed, although this had to be applied for. Boxing Day was a holiday when I started work but New Year's Day was a normal working day then, it is a holiday now. It was different in Scotland. Where New Year's Day was the most important day.
It seems as though Molly Throttlebottom's Adult Learning center is going to be busy this semester.
Many thanks for the Christmas RR Travel Nostalgia;
And another . . . .
Christmas train travel NOSTALGIA
CHRISTMAS RR TRAVEL #2 of 8
<A form of this was initially Posted on 12 Dec 2005, Page 189 on the Original Thread>
Here is an advertisement for Christmas holiday travel retyped from a 1948 advertisement in my private collection:
HOLIDAY HOMECOMING
This is the happy season when Pennsylvania Railroad's great fleets of trains between East and West, North and South, assume a particularly festive air.
By Pullman, by coach, joyous families are going to visit the folks at home - carefree, or comfortable, relaxed as they speed on their way.
For your holiday travels Pennsylvania Railroad offers a wide choice of daily trains . . . . conveniently scheduled to fit your plans.
Pennsylvania Railroad
Enjoy! Tom
Keeping to the "theme" for the remainder of this year - some oldies to enjoy whilst we're resting 'n relaxin' over the holiday period . . . .
CHRISTMAS RR TRAVEL #1 of 8
Here is an advertisement for Christmas holiday travel retyped from a 1937 advertisement in my private collection:
Enjoy the Christmas Holidays at SUN VALLEY Opening of the New Challenger Inn
Combining economy with all the Winter Sports of Sun Valley. Modest rates for rooms - popular prices for meals - accommodations for 400 - all in a "mountain village." Warm water swimming pool - motion picture theatre - two restaurants including unique night club - shops for all your needs.
Sun Valley Lodge Living at its best! Continental service and comforts. A matchless cuisine. Rooms for single or double occupancy, and suites. Accommodations for 250 guests. American plan. Nothing like it anywhere else - long, timber free ski runs, deep "powder" snow, brilliant summer sun - skiing stripped to the waist - sleighing in bright moonlight, skating, swimming in warm water open-air pools - the perfect Christmas holidays.
INTERCOLLEGIATE SKI MEETDartmouth College - University of Washington SUN VALLEY, DECEMBER 29 to JANUARY 1ONLY UNION PACIFIC SERVES SUN VALLEY
For information and Union Pacific representatives in principal cities or write or wire
K.M. SINGER . . . . . . . . . . W.S. BASINGER
Gen'l Mgr. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . P.T.M.
Sun Valley . . . . . . . . . . . Union Pacific R.RIdaho . . . . . . . . . . . . . Omaha, Nebr.
THE PROGRESSIVEUNION PACIFICSERVES ALL THE WEST
Ruth my deAH, here we are again, the day aftAH . . . remnants of a fine day all ovAH the place - here ‘n at home! I'll take a large mugga Joe with a jolt if you please, ‘n no thanks right now on the food. <ugh> Completely wasted from yesterday's feast that Mother LoveDomes put forth. <phew>
Boris, feed the gang those leftovers from the staff party ‘n that LARGE jar of holiday PFF is YOURS! <ugh> And ring the bell for a round of Egg Nog on the house! Yeah I know the drinks are on Jan - BUT the nog has to be consumed!! <grin>
After making the rounds of the huts where all the grandkids dwell, it was back home for meal preparation. An absolute rigid ritual in my digs - keep away from the Chef as she weavers her magic in the kitchen.
Crowd arrived around 4 PM - which is just about right for those still locked in to the toys ‘n "stuff" under the tree. By then, they need to get out for some fresh air ‘n so forth.
Was a good day all ‘round ‘n hope the same for all here at the bar! [tup ]
Just gotta make a comment or three . . . .
For Eric ‘n Pete! Tuff stuff . . . I'd rather trust Atilla the Hun with my personal life than either of YOU. <geesh> Camera ‘n photos In your DREAMS, guyz - in your DREAMS! <ha> Ru . . . . my friend fooled the two of ya - those pix are not "us," just some "centerfolds" taken from Hot Tubs ‘r Us <a subsidiary of Robs Stores ‘r Us, eh?> up in Ontario! <grin>
We've ALWAYS had a few ‘round here who just couldn't "get it" when it came to READING what this place is all about. While it may sound as if "they are being picked on . . . not meant that way. Just is mind boggling when ovAH, ‘n ovAH, ‘n ovAH our Bossman repeats the same stuff in the morning summaries ‘n elsewhere - CLOSED on SUNDAY - CLOSED on CHRISTMAS, ‘n somehow that just doesn't get picked up. One of life's mysteries, huh
I'm just gonna drop off these covAHs from the Larsman Mobile, then get going on the day aftAH. You guessed it! She's out right now hitting the stores . . . fortunately I got a reprieve as it's a "gals thing" dontchaknow! <grin> BUT she'll be baaaaaaaaaaack, ‘n I bettAH have this place squared away, otherwise . . . don't even wanna talk about it! <grin>
Enjoy these guyz - they were all shown last year at this time ovAH at the old bar . . .
Toy Trains & Christmas - Parts 1, 2, 3
Toy Trains Christmas Memories (DVD)
Toy Train Memories
Christmas Trains
All Aboard for Christmas
Ruth my deAH, Why of course I'll be in our favorite place a bit later on! <blush>
Wednesday's Witticism
You cain't hurt a tongue by speakin' softly.
The day AFTER Christmas in some parts of this world of ours is BOXING DAY! Perhaps one or more of our crew will drop off their versions of this day for our ED-U-MAH-KAY-SHUN!
Hope one ‘n all had a most enjoyable day . . . we did!
Okay - mid-week at the Saloon by the Siding here in mid-continent USA ‘n time for the resumption of business! Coffee has been freshly ground ‘n brewed - the pastries are freshly stocked in The Mentor Village Bakery case ‘n our <light> ‘n <traditional> breakfasts are ready to be ordered from the Menu Board!
Again, many thanx for being here ‘n offering a "hand" with the set-up for the party. It all turned out well, eh Kinda nice that our staff get togethers run so well . . . Didn't Cindy look MAH-VEL-US in her "Mrs. Santa" suit And how about Ruth in her . . . exactly WHAT was that <phew> I'm still "warm" . . . <uh oh> Yeah buddy - quite a party! Somehow just cannot get accustomed to Boris ‘n Leon as "elves" . . . <yikes> A nice touch to have the Polar Express shown on the "big screen" . . . love that flick at this time of year! <sweet>
Monday - Dec 24th:
Jan (JanOlov) at 7:52 AM: A Gaelic toast from our Resident Swede in Scotland! Much appreciated . . .
Fergie (Fergmiester) at 7:52 AM: A heartfelt greeting from our Resident Canadian Maritime Mariner! "Skip" the eggs, eh THAT's the way to do it, Mate!
Lars (LoveDomes) at 12:15 PM: The return of our Manager with a fine upfront ‘n honest piece about this ‘n that!
Glad you ‘n Ru . . . . your friend, enjoyed the deluxe accommodations aboard the Can-Am Railways Trans-Mentor Limited! What's NOT to like, eh Thought you'd get a kick outta the hot tub - the railway agreed to install it at the last minute - but of course only at a price! Fortunately Vito-the-hit is a majority share holder on the board of destructors directors. <grin> <uh oh>
Many thanx for the continuing spate of American Flyer toy train catalogs! All good ‘n all bring back "those" memories ‘n feelings of times long gone. In spite of being a "Lionel kid," surely did like those Gilbert trains "back in
Good Morning Barkeep and all Present; coffee, please (New England Four Seasons Blend) and slide the pie case down here. I notice that our bar and tune tab(s) are being paid for - many thanks! Partly cloudy here and in the upper 20s. No snow. K9 Korps enjoyed it so much he spent all day outside yesterday harassing and all cars (and other vehicles) that ventured onto "his block, his street, his frontage." He can't drive, but...
Let's see what's in the stack of stuff this morning.
Lars stopped by with a Christmas card which was greatly appreciated. Yes, sir - the Giants are in! We will, however, not get to see them play the Patriots as our cable co., who as always knows what's best for us, dropped the NFL Network several months ago - so we are "cut off." Oh well.
Rob - Excellent traction photos which enlarge very well. The Port Dalhousie picture has sooo much to look at. Thank you!
Jan stopped by with a nice collection of SP cab forward pictures.
Eric - Happy retirement. I see you dress for work about the same as I. Only thing missing is the suspenders and heavy boots. Enjoy yourself, lad - hope to see you at the Rendezvous.
Pete has been by as well with comments and pictures. Beth Steel's Lackawanna Plant, where my father-in-law worked, had narrow gauge inside and standard gauge outside. He has all sorts of stories about fitting wheels onto axles for narrow gauge cars - it was all, shall we say, hand work but not of the delicate kind. South Buffalo Ry. served the outside. They were an interesting line that served many industries in the Buffalo area - lots of Alco power.
DD1 Stopped by - Good to hear from you!
Fergie was by as well. Always nice to be "forced" to work on the layout.
Mike visited with one of my favorite pieces of NYC art work - more abt. that below.
OSP has been busy keeping the home fires going with all sorts of nostalgic material. Drumheads - twice yet! Always nice to see those and recall that I did get a chance to ride a few of them. The toy train manuals are a nice collection. The 1900-1942 Lionel one looked as though it would be interesting.
Globe Models! Holy cow! That is truly in the realm of the exotic. I do remember them well. Now, how about Varney? I know there are enough folks at the bar who recall them. It was interesting to see the two different EMD logos you provided. The old symbol was used on bldrs. plates. The newer one was a builders plate - nice pick! I also enjoyed the pictures and the movies. Polar Express was on TV here the other nights - nice to see a PM 2-8-4 even though it was a bit stylized. Last, thanks for the Christmas greetings and that magnificent piece of NYC ad copy - one of my favorites.
Work safe
Greetings Tom and gentlemen....
Just thought that I'd stop to see what's going on..... Nice and quiet in here I see, I'll just make myself a cup of hot Gevalia and some sandwiches to go with it. Will be nice to have some taste of the good ol' country in the east.
See you soon again....
Season Greetings to you all!
Merry Christmas to all of you my fellow patrons!
Good Afternoon' Ruth! No Ruth here! And the door closed! I am so sad to find your door closed today, when I finally have some time to visit.
Thank you Boris for letting me in. No I won't tell anybody what you did, and that you tend bar, fix food, and drinks today.
Ja, ja, I hear you Awk. Just be patient until I have ordered and gotten something to share.
(Pete thank you for warning me about Awk. Little too late though. I already have bandages on two fingers and on my nose. Not a pretty sight).
Yes, I would like a cup of strong Gevalia coffee. I like it served in a cup on a saucer. Sorry if I sound demanding, but I know that this place really goes all the way out for its patrons. I have even heard rumors that Boris is going to dig through his shed, to find parts to put together a donut machine to be set up in the Rats Patoot Room.
I see Tom has good connections, and found donut machine at the Mentor Village Bakery. Really nice of the Grundelinks to let it go. The Galley is OK with me. But before that is accomplished, I'll take two of your Danish. One with yellow gook in the middle, and one with that dark blue that is supposed to be blueberries. Bossman Tom mentioned I should elaborate some about Gevalia the other day. Here is a link for some information:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gevalia
There you can see that Gevalia holds the Royal Warrant for coffee roasters from the H.M. the King of Sweden. Thus Gevalia is fit both for the King and I. We actually subscribe, and get a package Gevalia in the mail ever so often.
During our travel as tourists by train in the US in the 70ies, my wife and I had a layover in Seattle, WA. There I remember we found a restaurant in which the food was brought out from the kitchen on a model train. The train stopped at the table, and you unloaded your plate. There were tracks around the restaurant, and I think there was a lift bridge at the door. I think the restaurant was name the Iron Horse or something similar. I do not know if it still exists.
Maybe I should talk to the proprietor of this establishment to lay out some tracks and then you can order your food or drink on a named train. "I need a Roth beer on the Southern Pacific to arrive at table 11", or "a Belgian Waffle on Burlington Northern to arrive at table 3, at 9.37 AM".
Enough rambling. Allan. I did not see nay wolves, but a lot of reindeer and a bobcat from time to time while working up in Northern Sweden. The deer were a nuisance as the frequently walked in the tracks and were un over by the trains. Coalminer I also go with N. I had a fairly nice layout in Sweden. Now all are in boxes in the garage. I know of a Swede who had a desk with an oversize drawer with a N-layout in.
Erik, and many more. I enjoy greatly all photos. Weather it is exteriors, interiors or environment. Photos and other pictures brings an extra dimension to the chat the bar. One day I might get a new scanner again, and learn how to share from my collection. Time will tell.
Time will also tell when we meet here again. I'll be back, and hope to see Ruth again behind the bar. No, NO , no offence Boris. The coffee was strong enough. Sorry I broke the spoon while stirring it.
Sven
Merry Christmas from all of us in the (cold) desert to all guests at "Our" Place and their families!!! After Christmas we have 2008 waiting behind Boris’ shed so I also wish you all a Very Happy New Year!!! So, finally, all we have to do is wait for Santa to show up! Tom – I can hear the staff party is really going wild tonight! One of the track gangs is here as well and they are all dressed as Santas. I think at least half of them are more or less knocked out. Too much to eat??? At least Lars proved one thing, one can’t trust a manager! But the fun part of his trip has been documented. Ruth borrowed a little camera that she took along on the trip. She said she wanted some memories! Nice drumheads! The Flying Crow, that is a strange name for a train! I’ll pick GN’s The Cascadian! I like those old Christmas cards/ads! With trains and Santa! A perfect addition to Mike’s post!
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you and yours. Of course including Juneau. JanOlov – Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you too! Fergie – Glad to hear that the MESS is up and running again! Merry Christmas to you and your family!!Lars – That was a dirty trick, leaving on your trip without Pete and me! We wanted to make your trip perfect and now see what you got. Oh, BTW, Ru... your friend was very happy she were able to use the camera she borrowed during the trip. “Wanted some memories,” she said. Boris was looking at all the photos tonight. He’s sitting behind the bar, looking and looking.But since it is Christmas time we’ll forgive you, maybe. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!Very nice model trains catalogs! Mike – The perfect post for a perfect Christmas! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!Pete – Don’t be too upset about Manager Lars dirty trick. Just ask Ruth to see her photos from the trip! I lost that camera she borrowed but it was worth it. I don’t mind if every quiz is easy. Makes me look smart! The badge on my hat is the railroad’s logo, a wheel with wings and three crowns on top of them. Some very nice photos! That Jones train is really different. Check the trucks! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you and yours!!!And here is Santa himself! Ho, Ho, Ho!
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!Eric
I see you are tending bar Tom as the staff are relaxing and getting ready for the staff party, I hope it is in the navy tradition where the officers serve the men so Manager Lars will wait on his humble chandler, with pitchers of Bathams etc. We have had a most generous year with the tip jar so the mascots and staff have lots of gifts under the tree; yes I did notice BORIS's present said, "Air pump included".
ROB Thanks for the kind words on the photos, yes it was great that you were allowed to visit the inside of some exhibits. They had steps so you could go through the corridor tender of the A4 Dominion of Canada into the cab of the locomotive.
I do not know how they came up with the British system of money, although it seemed natural to us at the time, but doing math with the old money in pounds, shillings and pence, especially long division, was tricky. A thought occurred to me that there would have to be special calculators for the UK. I can still remember ‘Farthings' which were a quarter of an old penny. Nowadays the smallest coin is 1 penny, which is equal to two and a half old pence. The lowest bank note now in the UK is 5 pounds, with 2pounds and1 pound being coins. I still call the 5 pence coin a shilling and the 10pence one 2 bob.
The car is painted in a brown livery with Canadian National just below the roof. I have put the film in for developing so hopefully should have it back soon.
ERIC Well what do you think Manager Lars done the dirty on us and went on his trip on the Can-Am leaving us behind. I thought I saw someone in a tuxedo the other night,but I put it down to a trick of the light and the Bathams XXXs making FROSTBITE seem 6 feet tall.
HA! I bet the ‘Hot Tub' was really the Dunk tank with a bit of silver foil wrapped round it, not that I am bitter or anything.
Yes it seems the doctors don't want us to have any fun at all, but Tom says some wise words.
On the quiz I see we are going to have to make the questions a lot harder.
Many thanks for those great photos of the older and more modern cabs; they really show how they have changed over the years. Love the brass controller on the Hg, what is the badge on the hat, and I noticed the coffee cup in the Class F cab Thanks for sharing.
RON Great to see you in the bar before Christmas, it sounds you are all ready to have a great time. I do hope your sons truck is OK soon, I am sure when the new items are fitted it will be like new and hopefully give years of trouble free service.
Many thanks for thinking of us at the bar with the toast.
JAN Many thanks for the Scottish Toast and the wishes. I have never had the pleasure of seeing in the New Year in Scotland I have heard it is very special.
FERGIE What a great thing to do when it is raining hard to have the MESS running. Many thanks for the Christmas Wishes.
LARS I can't believe you would not want to take a couple of such as ERIC and I along with you but seeing as it is Christmas I am glad you had such a great time on The Can-Am.
Many thanks for the best wishes, as Tom's list shows we still have some great people at the bar, may I say the bar is looking far healthier now than at this same time last year, if my memory serves.
Many thanks for those great AF covers; I wonder how many kids woke up on Christmas morning, with delight, to find som
Reminder: "Our" Place is CLOSED on CHRISTMAS!
My finale for this day . . .
<inspired by wanswheel Mike>
See y'all on Wednesday!
Tom
Always a suprise or three 'round the Bar by the Ballast as we've been visited by Jan - Fergie - Lars 'n Mike on this day before THE DAY!
Now Arriving on Track #2
Classic Drumheads by the Dozen - #2
(1) DRG&W - California Zephyr
(2) Erie - Pacific Express
(3) GN - The Cascadian
(4) IC - Panama Limited
(5) KCS - The Flying Crow
(6) L&N - The Pan-American
(7) NH - The Yankee Clipper
(8) NYC - The Pacemaker
(9) NP - North Coast Ltd
(10) PRR - The Broadway Ltd
(11) CRI&P - Twin Star Rocket
(12) Soo - Twin Cities - Seattle
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Enjoy!
Hi Tom and everyone, a round for the house
Safe travels, friends, and go easy on the eggnog!
'Twas the night before Christmas when all through the housenot a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,while visions of sugar plums danced in their heads.And Mama in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap.
When out on the roof there arose such a clatter,I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter.Away to the window I flew like a flash,tore open the shutter, and threw up the sash.
The moon on the brest of the new-fallen snowgave the lustre of midday to objects below,when, what to my wondering eyes should appear,but a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer.
With a little old driver, so lively and quick,I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.More rapid than eagles, his coursers they came,and he whistled and shouted and called them by name:
"Now Dasher! Now Dancer!Now, Prancer and Vixen!On, Comet! On, Cupid!On, Donner and Blitzen!To the top of the porch!To the top of the wall!Now dash away! Dash away!Dash away all!"
As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,when they meet with an obstacle, mount to the skyso up to the house-top the coursers they flew,with the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roofthe prancing and pawing of each little hoof.As I drew in my head and was turning around,down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,and his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.A bundle of toys he had flung on his back,and he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.
His eyes--how they twinkled! His dimples, how merry!His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,and the beard on his chin was as white as the snow.The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,and the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.He had a broad face and a little round belly,that shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly.
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,and I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself.A wink of his eye and a twist of his headsoon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,and filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.And laying his finger aside of his nose,and giving a nod, up the chimney he rose.
He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.But I heard him exclaim, 'ere he drove out of sight,"Happy Christmas to all..."
Mike
Drinks on JAN!!
My JINTS are IN - my JINTS are IN!! <phew> Bring on the playoffs - but maybe a week or two of recharging is needed, huh
Just stopped by to check on last minute arrangements for the Staff Gala event tonight! Looks like Da Bossman beat me to it, as everything is set up ‘n at the READY!
Been feeling like crap with the EXCEPTION of a memorable trip aboard the Can-Am Ltd with Ru . . . my "friend." <oooooooops> Finally "cashed in" my prize ‘n it came at the right time.
I'll tell ya this, they do it right aboard the Cam-Am Railways passenger trains - a hot tub in the drawing room suite! Can you imagine THAT?!?!?! Had all I could "do" but to drag myself out of it ‘n up to the DOME! Two wonderful days ‘n nights with all the "trimmings" <and then some!> - What a prize!
I'm NOT sorry that Eric ‘n Pete didn't accompany us. They thought I was falling for their "line o' crap," HA! Not so, mateys! <grin> That will be THE DAY when I willingly let either of you <much less both> "intrude" on my PERSONAL life! HA!
With the staff having the day off, things ‘round here are pretty quiet I note. Boris has fed the crittAHs ‘n devoured a couple of LARGE jars of PPF I see. Hmmmmmm. <grin> Leave for a couple of days ‘n things CHANGE . . . happens every time, huh
Looking at all the wonderful material provided just in the past few days, a 5- to those who demonstrate ovAH 'n ovAH their support for OUR Watering Hole by the Wayside!
Nice Christmas greetings 'n wishes from several, along with the "extra effort" <as usual> from Da Bossman! Also a nice "family" message from Fergie . . .
In reviewing all of those names our Cap'n put in his Christmas card it just amazes me how many have stuck it out. Many have fallen by the wayside - the worst of 'em couldn't find it within themselves to even tell us WHY and some continue to appear elsewhere . . . ok, ok - control myself! <phew> But again - MY best wishes are extended to those who demonstrate ovAH 'n ovAH how much support they give to this bar of OURS! You ARE the guyz that COUNT in my book!
Thought I'd simply add a few images to the "list" of Christmas trains - all from the Larsman Mobile- Toy 'n Model Train Annex of course . . .
1955 AF catalog
1955 AF catalog (2nd one)
1956 AF catalog
1956 AF catalog (2nd one)
1957 AF catalog
1958 AF catalog
Once again - as mentioned in my Christmas ‘card' on Friday - have the Merriest of
A most warm Christmas greeting to all of our friends and their loved ones at this special time of year!
Pete the Bar Chandler 'n traveling companion - Eric the Nocturnal Desert RETIRED Swede - CM3 Shane the all things railroad aficionado - Rob the trolleyMAN - Lars the Manager 'n 1st Mate - Mike the URLMeisterMonster - Sven the Cheesehead Swede - James the Milwauakee Road kid - Dan the UK rail ‘n pub man - Doug the barn weevil - Allan the downunder Kiwi - Nick the irrepressible in Wales - Ron the Southern Gentleman transplant - Fergie the not so ancient mariner - Dave the west coast disappearing act - Jan the most generous Swede in Scotland - ‘n Per the Cowboy Swede!
Many thanx for making "Our" Place YOUR place in 2007!
A most heartfelt greeting to Bud Karr in memory of his beloved Lydia.
Only the BEST of health and happiness for you and yours!
Tom - Juneau - Cindy - Ruth - Boris - Leon - Awk - Tex - Frostbite ‘n Artie!
<All Christmas images courtesy of:
http://www.geocities.com/~bug_hut/Christmas1997/contents.html>
Merry Christmas Captain Tom and crew!
siberianmo wrote:...and I used to drink 20-25 mugs a day - that's right, 20-25. Put me on my <keester> and after an 8-day stint in the intensive care unit (ICU) ‘n recovery room for a suspected heart attack, became a believer. Do as you will - but you are only fooling yourself.
...and I used to drink 20-25 mugs a day - that's right, 20-25. Put me on my <keester> and after an 8-day stint in the intensive care unit (ICU) ‘n recovery room for a suspected heart attack, became a believer. Do as you will - but you are only fooling yourself.
And on that note I'll have a beer!
I may have 2-3 a day as any more than that causes me to get the shakes and jitters. Water and wine is my forte.
Speaking of which I'll have the Christmas Eve Brunch Special Poached, Canadian Back Bacon and Potato Pancakes.
Anyway to-day is a train day as it's raining hard outside and the MESS is finally rolling once again!
On behalf of Lisa and the boys I will wish you and yours a Very Merry Christmas. May it be safe, festive and enjoyed with friends and loved ones!
(and remember too much eggnog will spoil your apetite! get rid of the eggs!!)
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
Greetings Tom and gentlemen.....
From me to all of you....*raises glass*
Nollaig chridheil agus Bliadhma mhath ur!
(Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!)
May the best ye've ever seenBe the warst ye'll ever see.May the moose ne'er lea' yer aumrieWi' a tear-drap in his e'e.May ye aye keep hail an' hertieTill ye're auld eneuch tae dee.May ye aye be jist as happyAs we wiss ye noo tae be.
A smile to begin the week!
Its' never happened in World Series history, and it hasn't happened since.
<A Yogi-ism!>
I've got the bar for this day - Ruth 'n the gang are off for the day!
That magical day has arrived when kids of all ages can't get to sleep because of the excitement that has been building for soooooooo long. Then Christmas morning with presents under the tree - and so it goes. That's the way it was "back in the day" for me ‘n when helping to raise a family . . . good memories.
Staff party begins at 8 PM . . . bar will remain open, but we're not expecting much of a crowd.
Coffee's ready - pastries are fresh ‘n our breakfasts are ready for orderin' . . .
REMINDER: Drinks are on Jan Olov ‘til the New Year! So, don't be bashful - order away!
Received an Email from Lars the Manager - he's planning to be back today - watch for it! Sez he finally had to "power down" to get over whatever has had him in its grip . . . <uh oh> Ruth, perhaps
Sunday - Dec 23r:
Ron (DD1) at 2:10 PM: Our Resident Southern Gentlemen down in Mississippi perhaps is using a different calendar than the rest of us <grin> - as we're CLOSED on Sundays. BUT, the message is appreciated . . .
Drinks ARE on Jan ‘til the New Year - but we have to be OPEN to get ‘em! <uh oh>
However - better to be thought of than not at all . . . so thanx for that!
Eric (EricX2000) at 11:51 PM: X2000 in Canada <sweet!>
A surprise, but most welcome Sunday nite visit 'n chat!
Don't quite know how you or Pete will "take" the "news," BUT . . . Lars 'n are due to return to Can-Am City's Union Station on the afternoon Can-Am Railway's Trans-Mentor Limited. What's to say, OTHER than I think he <go
Sunday night again! Seems like there has been some activities here today even though it is closed.
Busy today preparing for Christmas. Almost done, saved some things for tomorrow morning.
Tom – The main reasons for SP’s cab forward was to make it possible for the crew to breath (reason #1) and to see forward (reason #2) when the locomotive was running through the snowsheds and tunnels.Read and understood your opinion about coffee. I remember that the Polar Express was shown at the Emporium last year. I also recall we had some kind of discussion about some details (locomotive?) in that movie. Ron – Thanks for the congratulations! Feels good to finally have made it to the Golden Years! But I am not unemployed yet. Will work 20 hrs a week next year. Glad to hear that you are prepared and ready for Christmas! Merry Christmas to you and your family!!! We do also celebrate on Christmas eve. We went to IKEA a couple of weeks ago and got some good stuff to eat from the old country. Sorry to hear about your son’s problems with his truck. Hope he will have better luck next year!I'll be back Christmas eve.Eric
Hi y'all at Our place. When I heard the drinks were on Jan, I couldn't stay away, so I'll have a Guinness please. I haven't been able to view all the posts, but of the ones I saw, they were outstanding pictures. Christmas presents are all bought, wrapped and under the tree. We celebrate on Christmas eve. Can't wait another day. All the family will be over along with a few friends. We are cooking a big dinner, roast beef, pork loin, stuffed mushrooms and all the trimmings. If there's anything left over, I'll be sure to drop them by on my next visit, if it's not too far off.
My son hasn't made much money with his truck yet. It keeps breaking down, so the down time is spent fixing it. He has already replaced the trailers dump ram, the air compressor, generator and a few other smaller items.
Eric: Congratulations on joining the ranks of the unemployed. You will find out that retirement is a lot of work. Maybe that's why so many people return to work after a brief spell.
I had to buy a new laser printer, as the cost of a replacement drum for my old one was twice the cost of a new printer.
Anyway, a Merry Christmas to all. My first toast on Christmas eve will be to all of you at Our place.
"Our" Place is CLOSED on SUNDAYs - and - CHRISTMAS!
A rare SUNDAY round of ACKNOWLDGEMENTS from the Proprietor . . . thought I'd get to ‘em while getting the place squared away for the Staff Christmas Eve Party! <Where's all the help when needed the most >
Spoke with our Resident Canadian Maritime Mariner - Fergie - yesterday for well over an hour. He's great about maintaining fone comms ‘n it was good to hear from him! Sez all's well, but he's up to his <keester> in trying to catch up on the things he was supposed to do during the time of his last <surprise> deployment. Set him back a month . . . Anyway, passes regards to the crew ‘n hopes to at least "pop" in soon!
Saturday - Dec 22nd:
Rob (trolleyboy) at 9:30 AM: Saturday "quickie," with NO orderin' of anything! <uh oh> Fortunately, for YOU, the <tweeter> is being refitted for a new reed . . .
Pete (pwolfe) at 12:25 PM: As you know, I'm not "big" on steam locos, but getting to know far more than I ever thought possible from the info being passed ‘round at the bar. Those cab forwards were something else ‘n perhaps one day we'll get someone to explain ‘em to the gang. Yeah, I understand that one of the reasons was to avoid the smoke from obscuring the view for the Engineer while going through those mountain tunnels <or at least that's what I had read "somewhere." Any amplifying "stuff" out there
No sweat on the Rx for the TrainWreck Saloon - Dr. Gundlefinger <staff doc for "Our" Place> will put one in your mail box <next to the time clock>. I think that's a fine idea ‘n wonder why I haven't asked my doc for the same thing! <grin>
Anytime a system of measurement is based on <ten> it seems far easier to do the "mental math," donchathink 240 seems rather weird to me for a "base number," but what do I know, eh I mean here we are still using the track gauge based on the width of carriage wheels in the UK . . .
And here I thought you WERE speaking with the buffalo . . . <uh oh> Sorry if I ignored you - but then again, I'm only picking up every 3rd word again.
Another fine Post from our Bar Chandler ‘n friend, Wolfman Pete!
Jan (JanOlov) at 4:59 PM: Back with all kinds of great looking OPP <other people's photos> in the form of majestic ‘n awesome cab-forward steamers! I like the one with Mt. Shasta in the background . . .
Hope you soon get over what's ailing ya - perhaps a "fifth" of JD might be a good start to healing!
Thanx for the visit ‘n fotos!
Pete (pwolfe) at 6:41 PM: Back as promised with a potpourri of fotos from his archives!
I think that "dome on dome" is a sure-fire <keeper> and should be eligible for a prize of sorts. What a great shot! A five- fer sure!
Leon, still awake? It is time for my Filet Mignon with mushrooms! The usual side orders and a cold Keith's!
A pretty cold Saturday here in the desert! 57° for high! Freeze warning for Sunday morning! Turned on the heat in the dog house. Tom – Maybe it was a record for late/early appearances at the bar for me. But I am retired now and don’t care what time it is! I am concentrating on having fun now!You are right. It isn’t easy to find the right words quickly when you are in the center of things. But the lady to the far left in the photo mentioned our adventures in Mexico several years ago, when we were stopped by the customs and arrested for trying to smuggle a contakt press into Mexico. Everybody wanted to hear more. That might be a story for the Rendezvous (144 days from now!). That Globe Models A unit looks kind of short! Is that your own model? I guess Mentor Village Public Works Dept. is closed for the Holidays since they did not have time to finish that sidewalk. Wrong kind of Hooters! Parking for Drive-Thru makes sense!I love those photos from Canada! Good looking trains in a beautiful part of the country!The Polar Express at the Emporium! Didn’t that happen last year too? Maybe the beginning of a tradition at the Emporium!? Good choice!Rob – No sleeping in this first morning. Too many chores to get done before Christmas. I am sure those books you mentioned are expensive if I find them. Pete – You have to be firm when you talk to your doctor. If you feel you need a prescription for the Train Wreck then you should have it! My heart doctor told me I should only drink decaf coffee after my surgery. I told him that would kill me, I need the regular coffee to stay alive. After some negotiations he agreed to two cups of regular coffee/day. I have now increased that number to five. I am sure Manager Lars is delaying the release of the departure date of the trip until Ru..., oooops, I mean his special guest has decided when she is available. The cake was very delicious! A nice mix of photos from a number of different countries! UK, Canada, USA, and Holland. Another quiz for me!?! Hmmm, it looks like a Shay. I would guess it is Sierra Ry No. 2 Lima 1922 3T Shay at California State Railroad Museum. A photo of Captain Tom arriving to next Rendezvous!JanOlov – Some very nice pictures of SP’s Cab Forward locomotives! You better get rid of that cough.
Thanks for the free drinks!
Finally some photos. I apologize for a few oversized photos.
MARC Cab Car.
Swedish Electric Class F.
X2000.
Amtrak's RTL.
Amtrak's F40.
Swedish EMU Class X1.
Swedish Electric Class Hg.
Swedish Electric Class Ma.
evening Leon I think a Keith's for me and thanks again Jan your one heckava nice fella
Tom-Ah some wonderfull memories from train travels past 5x for them sir.Sorry I keep forgetting that Cindy's lap is your lap still that little santa numeber was well extra speacial unlike the elf suits that left nothing to the imagination that H&H were prancing around in.
Jan-Some mighty fine shots from you this afternoon as well thank-you
Pete-Wow some great shots from you today as well all good ones to be sure. i'm supprised that you were able to get inside the F unit at exporail , alot of museum's are look only no touch certainly no go inside.
I still find English money confusing but 240 pennies to a pound that's just wierd sorry !I bet that you have as much fun figuring out the where and the how espeacially now that you are in the US and the old pounds etc are again the measurments of the day. I've just about wrapped my head around the metrification , I don't think I'd survive going back again
There are places that they would send people that talk to Buffalo heads mounted on walls <uh oh >
I'm not familiar with that car name , so I look forward to the pictures. Was it painted in Amtrak livery or is it still in CN or IC colours I wonder if it was maybe an IC car and that's why I don't remember or recognize the name. I know that CN got rid of most of the IC exec train when they took them over.
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