Mike, I think that is good advice. We don't get pummeled with as much snow as you do closer to Lake Erie, but still get all the cold. I agree about not owning the second home. So many people we know have camps farther into the National Forest or along the upper Allegheny River. Many like my dentist brother-in-law and his wife like to get away to avoid being pestered about dental issues on off days. However all those folks have two homes and properties to maintain. A toy/model train hobbyist would never get a chance to build and operate a layout.
Ron and PH1975, Yesterday I was working outside, and it was the first day here in Western Pennsylvania that was cool. I was thinking about not being happy that winter will soon be here. Then I thought about working on the layout, which I hadn't had much time for when the kids were home and I was working. It made me feel a lot better. 
