Was in the Better Living Hall by about 9:30 and as happens more often than not was confronted with a big decision early on. Not really "needing" any engines I came looking for scenery items as I'm always impressed with the assortment of trees, structures and overall layout items this show has to offer. So with this in mind I spot an engine at the Trainz booth that has been on my "maybe" radar, the MTH 44 toner and in PRR no less! The engine is used with just a slight area of missing black paint on a railing, easy fix. I ask the Trainz people if I can take it to be tested. They could not have been more gracious and allow me to walk away with the engine. Unfortunately no test track in the building despite staff admitting they should have one. Unless these people were misinformed that really needs to be corrected. Same thing happened last year when I went to buy an older Williams engine. The staff recommended I ask one of the layout operators to check the engine. Very awkward to have to ask that of someone but I did needing to make sure the engine was ok. Guy couldn't have been nicer and I threw him lunch money for helping me. Engine checked out perfectly and we made a deal for $225. Very happy!!
Also bought a few really nice trees by Sterling Models, an Atlas 2 rail hopper (my first to run on my 3 rail track).
Overall a good day and was back on Long Island by 4:30...
