A comment on layouts....

[FCnota]

As I sit and go through all the questions and answers given on this site, I notice all the pictures of various layouts that are included. i must say, as I look at thses I feel as though I'm looking at something that should be on display for the world to see. The time, effort, and yes, love, that goes into these layouts is unbelievable! I am inspired everytime I see one. I only hope, as my own skill level progresses, that my layout would only look 1/3 as good! Just wanted to say THANK YOU to everyone who is kind enough to show a small pic of their layout. Please, keep it going![8)]

[trainboyH16-44]

Technically, they are out for the world to see, and they are mostly wonderful layouts that people have spent a lot of time perfecting.
just stick at it, and the look you're going for will come.

[grandeman]

I think the internet and model railroading are a match made in Heaven. Modeling is a visual art. The web allows us to see pics from all over the world that we'd have never had the chance to view otherwise. That enhances the experience of the hobby as a whole.

I hope to see some of your railroad pics very soon!

[tstage]

I know how you feel, Fred. Some of the folks on here have a real talent and gift for modeling. It's sometimes intimidating. Some spend a lot of money buying all the "right stuff" to accomplish what they want to do. Others seem to accomplish miracles by just using ordinary items around the house. Either case, it's pretty amazing.

You might be surprised though that the "experts" are not all gifted in ALL areas. There's more to a layout than just the visual. You mignt excel at wiring and track laying, where the supposed "expert" struggles with those particular areas. He or she may be more gifted at desgining and operations, where you bang your head against the wall trying to come up with a "reasonable", "functional" and real-looking design. That's why MRR clubs and this forum exist: to help each other out in the areas that we are not quite as "secure" in.

Keep workin' at it, Fred. It's a life-long hobby of learning. I don't think anyone has "arrived" yet...

Tom

[selector]

Agreed, all the above. Welcome, Fred. Thanks for the compliments if my pix are included in your assessment. It is very kind fo you to say those nice things to so many of us, because it is easy on the ears.

I started out greener than a spring lawn only five months ago. I have a passably decent layout to my credit, albeit with a fault or two. Leaving scenics and visual appeal aside, there are some physical limitations to my track arrangements that I will take care not to repeat. As Tom says, we're all in this together, some with an eye in one area, and others with a knack in different areas. I can't think of one person, one regular on this forum, who gets an A, let alone an A+, in everything related to model trains. Who would assign the grade?

So, you are in good company, and we would be pleased to see your pix any time you'd care to post them.

[Anonymous]

The best thing about the Internet is, I no longer have to worry about trying to get published in MR (even though I'd still be quite happy if that were to happen!). I can do stuff and share it instantly.

But even better: I can see layouts that maybe might not ever get into MR, but I still like them alot... and they give me more enthusiasm than the gigantic ones because I actually believe I can someday do that myself![8D]