I started in 1957(?) and ended my first train purchasing in the mid-60s. I went into the USAF for 24 years. No place in dorms/barracks for train layouts. Eventually sold my train collection.
Then in 2009 found out Lionel had been licensed by the Boy Scouts of America to issue 100th Anniversary of the BSA items starting in 2009 and ending who knows when. I think Lionel issued the last 100th anniversary piece in 2012 or so.
That collection grew (I think I ended up purchasing ever item Lionel issued and then kept adding and adding and adding).
Now my collection is about 1,100 pieces (including track and everything else). In fact, I now need a larger place to put up a layout. I originally had the items stored in my only bedroom. Out grew that space and moved into a 2 bedroom apartment. Wasn't big enough so now looking for a larger 2 bedroom apartment.
You can see my current collection here with more items continually being added: http://dog-walker.org/trains-modern.htm
Rational? Not sure, but I do collect certain railroads and themes (you can see the list on the above web page). I don't think I'm rational, but I'm enjoying it. I guess that's the main point - enjoy it. Will be enjoying it more as soon as I find that larger second bedroom apartment and have a layout built.
