Hi, I am  a newcomer in model railroading. I am 63 years old and have been dreaming of creating my own layout since I was 16. Several  unachieved and amateurish planning attempts later, and at the dawn of retirement, I had the impulse to take the plunge… I soon realized that this is quite an overwhelming venture. I have acquired and read lots of basic railroading books and magazines from Model Railroader. I negotiated the acquisition of a 9’ x 12’ space in the basement. I joined this community forum because I am aware of the invaluable and pertinent resources shared by other railroading enthusiasts.