Hi Jerry!
I understand on the "move cautiously" as we come out from under the lock downs. Here in OK, the virus peaked several weeks ago and has dropped dramatically (according to the OK site devoted to such statistics) to very low levels. However, our cases were never anywhere close to what some of the more populated states were experiencing. Enough of this virus talk... onto trains:
I hope you attain your goal of getting the upper level functional and scenery in place! Such a wonderful feeling to have 100% of the track in place and functional. (Scenery is my big hang up.) I really like the Northern Pacific*, and thus I enjoy seeing your progress.
* I actually have the track in place on a V scale rendition of the NP's Stampede Pass switchbacks from Lester over to Easton, circa 1880s! You ought to handle trains with primitive air brakes over that sucker!!
Though I'm still full-on in a motorcycle mode (I'm neck deep in a restoration project that I am determined to get completed this summer), I still slip out to my layout and fire it up and enjoy the sounds and fun of piddling with my trains. Like you, there has been no structured operations w/visiting operators since mid-March. Yesterday I went to my layout building to retrieve a step stool I needed to use on a lawn tractor task and as soon as I stepped inside, the wonderful smell of plywood, birch wood, and Homasote greeted my olfactory senses in a delightful way. Though the layout is barely over a year old (started it Feb 12, 2019), it is ALREADY triggering good memories of operations past! Later, when finished with tasks, I returned the step and while inside, I fired up the system, ran some trains, and simply enjoyed the relaxing and wonderful effect of being in my layout room. I will forever love the hobby of model trains. IMHO model railroading is THE best craft hobby going.
Okay... flapped my jaw long enough. Hope you make some good progress over the coming weeks and and take care!
We'll chat some more here at OGR as the days go by.
Andre
