Finally, cold weather here in PA, and the corresponding spark to work on layout

After a few hours getting acquainted with where my tools are located, pencils, building supplies, etc., I actually got something done - albeit only cut some wood supports and cut and shaped a retaining wall and bridge abutment - and it felt good.

It use to be that "new engine" or train cars that motivated me to work on the layout - but not anymore, in fact I am quite happy with the trains that I have and don't need new purchases to generate that spark of interest in the hobby or layout.

While I have kept somewhat busy with trains through the summer, it is true I just started working on a layout plan for my recently acquired room our daughter who was married last month is vacating.  I have been thinking about the Christmas layout, and with my wife decorating my existing small corner layout for Halloween, I gathered up all my orange cars and even have an engine this fall to pull them.

Mark, you reminded me that I accomplished some work over the Spring and Summer, too. I managed to get 3 Railking buildings weathered and detailed. I take one at a time on business trips and work on them at night in the hotels ~ helps me unwind after stressful travel work trips.

I agree, it seems like the cold weather moving into NEPA along with the leaves changing brings back childhood memories of Christmas  layouts and a need to be in the basement working on the trains. It's all good relaxing fun and yes, a stress reliever from business trips, airports and hotels. 

Paul, colder weather always triggers that "Christmas" feeling and that leads to thinking about trains.  After living with carpet RRs for several years, we finally have a house where I have a room for trains.  We have a notional design done for a 9X20 ft plan.  My son is ready to order the lumber but I have to get some better lighting installed first.  Will be working on that on Monday.  With some luck, my Christmas layout this year will actually be ON a layout, however incomplete.