Lots more on the construction front since the last post. The bench work that goes around the room has been built and track is laid on 3/4 of it. All the track laid so far has all the section wiring in place including all the turnouts configured in JMRI. The turntable and round house were installed and wired so I have tested and parked all the locos after unpacking them. I have completed all the siding tracks on the south side of the layout which allowed me to bring out the rolling stock as well as set up the refinery and loading rack.

My, how time flies! It feels like almost forever ago that I last logged into the MRH site. I didn't get tired of the wonderful MRH community, and I doubt I ever will, with such a wonderful crowd! No, the main contributor was my personal life- I don't wish to go into too many details, but I have spent the past few years struggling with a number of issues- some more temporary, others that will likely remain with me for life.

Here is what looks to be the final version (or close) for my Maryland Midland RR circa 1995.

The Port of Tillamook Railroad had two Budd RDC-1s, named The Oregon Coast Explorer. Both are now in service with the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad. As far I know neither of the two is powered, their engines were removed. I saw both in April when I came through Garibaldi.

So finally after some weeks I find the time to tell about the hassles I went through modelling the two GP9s of the POTB.

3771 started out as a Pennsy GP9 II, 101 was in the colors of Western Pacific. Both are P2k models. After stripping the shells I added the Farr airfilters and filled in the class lights on 101. I also drilled the holes for 101’s snow plow.

Well, we're over here visiting Aunt Joan for the holiday and figured I'd bring finish the conversion on Mr. Nolan's passenger cars while I had the chance. These are Athrean Blue Box cars that I've converted from body to truck mount couplers. Will have a how-to on this at some point, so stay tuned.

Hello again!

Another year and some more layouts to look at I hope!