Jay, thanks for the words. I found this forum to be really helpful and at times inspiring. Some of the detail modeling being done is just outstanding (that goes for the spectrum from life-like to the Traditional Lionel layouts - I find both styles fascinating - you just have to decide which one you want or not - two layouts are always a possibility). There is so much good stuff in here it is truly hard to find. I suggest getting comfortable with the advanced search features.
Not that long ago my RR was little more than plywood and supports. I ripped up my layout several times as I found out what I liked from what I thought I liked. I fell for the scale aspect of the hobby, but am keeping the traditional aspect for my seasonal 48 under the tree. This hobby should be fun and not really daunting. Decide on a layout plan, build it, run it, change it, rebuild it, change it again. Your only real constraint is your available space and then the amount of treasure you are willing to spend.
Not disrespecting anyone you've already mentioned - if you haven't found him already look up a modeler "Norm Charbonneau" - I don't think I'll ever get to his level of modeling - but wow when you add grass to cracks in concrete pads - that is going over the top. Fun to look at.
