Thanks Matt, that's just the reassurance I was looking for. Once I get to the terminal block, I will use some heavier wire to cover the distance. Just using this quick and dirty to get out from under the benchwork to where I can sit down and reach them easily.
I might go with the LED's, but for starters I'll be happy to be able to throw some switches, something I haven't been able to do for the first 10 years of my layout's existence. This is starting to get exciting again.