Before I gorged myself on that wonderful Thanksgiving day meal, I gave thanks. Usual suspects, my wife, son, grandson, the many blessings to our family, to the troops and first responders that keep us safe, and especially to those that can't be with their families. It was a great day. This morning I realized I left a group out; this Forum. Thanks for this Forum, or more specifically, to the many wonderful, helpful and giving members and guests that show up each and every day to give comment and help, and opinions and reviews. These things enrich the hobby in so many ways. This Forum is an invaluable resource for someone like me who has been buying, I don't consider myself a collector because I buy post war what I couldn't afford as a child without regard to rarity, etc., then modern stuff I like: appearance, new technology, attributes like that for nearly 2 decades. I buy not because I believe it will grow in value, but rather it's fun, cool and entertaining, for me and anyone that wants to join me at my layout...usually my grandson. Along the way I learn...about model trains, modeling and real railroading. Reflection on the Forum reminded me that the contributions and uniqueness of groups like this is irreplaceable. Here's the memory of 35+ years ago that prompted my reflection. Early in the PC revolution, I was smitten by computer games. I bought a PCjr., I'm sure some of you may remember that little gem by IBM. It was not considered a "serious" PC but I didn't care. It had the best integrated graphics chip and the best video games on the market at the time...graphics-wise. Well, it was not designed to easily expand its memory. Then, through the power of a PCjr user group I discovered a fellow in Baltimore that could expand the memory. I trotted up from Laurel, MD to visit him with my computer in hand. I was in his basement when a gentleman descended to pick up his computer. We chatted for awhile, then I realized it was Brit Hume. Yes, that Brit Hume. He was an avid PCjr fan, used it to publish his columns and I believe was the moderator of the PCjr. Users Group! It was this memory that prompted me to recognize how thankful I am for this Forum. You just never know what you may learn, or who you might meet, what incomprehensible problem that can be solved..there's a shared love of "something" that binds. I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving...and Thanks to you, and thanks for your patience with me.
