As my railroad grows I have come to the decision that I’d like to have a main line to connect the many planned branches on my pike. Within that main line, I’d like to run relatively prototypical speeds(50mph main, 30mph sidings). To accomplish this, with the smoothest transition possible, I have come to the conclusion that No. 15 turnouts will be used for all mainline interlockings.

There are a ton of commercially available grass tufts out there and each have there benefits and setbacks. Number one benefit is they really can enhance a scene, but the major setback for me is cost. I have also seen a variety of static grass tables so you can make your own tufts, they charge a metal sheet that you glue and sprinkle the static grass too, although these can be great, then can be expensive. 
 

Any bets on how long before we have a manufacturer putting out factory painted Canadian (-en) National heritage units? GT blue and red SD70M-2 already out on the rails, IC "death star" and BC Rail R/W/B GE's spotted in the paint shop, rumors that there will be a total of 18 heritage units done.

Not that they would be difficult to model, mind you.

Mike in CO

to all you Canadian model railroaders here and abroad.