Hi everybody!  I have been thinking for some time of starting on a new layout with a winter theme, that would connect to my existing layout that was still waiting to be transported to my house from my parents basement. 

Well, the old 4x8 has finally found it's way to my own basement, so plans have changed slightly so I can finish this one first.  It is an old double loop that I started probably 17 years ago, when I first got into model railroading.  So, it's pretty basic and pretty crude right now, don't laugh when you see the pictures!  I have had a vision for this layout as being a simple "railfanning" type of layout with no specific roadname or time period (present day I suppose).  It will be a rural scene with a farm, pond, mountain, and a few country houses.  My scenery goal is to model the fall season- changing/falling leaves and the like.

At this point I'm looking for some inspiration and advise on the layout and the next step(s) forward.  I'm not looking for a complete overhaul (although the inside track around the pond will need to be redone, it's too sharp a curve).  As you can see, the first picture is the original layout, the second is my (very silly looking) editing of some ideas I've had. 

I'm interested to hear your thoughts and suggestions, thanks!