cc.Sam - that was an inspiring garage attic layout you had. At least you have some good pictures.
My tear down in 2009 was sad and painful in many respects; result of divorce and ex-wife not wanting the layout in her basement; 10 years of work and good memories made the 2-month long disassembly process emotional and painful. I wish more women liked trains and layouts! 
The reality for me was simply to go on, because that's all we can sometimes...and in 2012, in another home, I began building another layout, and it's mind-boggling to now consider it's 9 years later. I suppose if there is anything good it's that I saved most of the framing lumber, wiring, Ross Switches from the older layout - and most of these materials have been reused in the newer layout. Nevertheless, much had to be thrown out, and that is sad. Yet, the really sad aspect is how much design and uniqueness went into my former layout - it was a wonderful place; and I was about 80% finished. This picture is of the finished left-hand side.
