There’s so much more to this hobby than just “building trains in your basement!” This month’s selfie finds me outside with my wife, daughter and the dogs. The weather is so nice and we went on a hike. Of course, while on the hike, I took some reference pictures for a module I’m working on. We all have images in our mind of what trees look like and rocks and grass, etc. Many people would say a tree trunk is usually brown but more often it is grey with maybe some brown shadows. Having reference pictures can confirm. Also, different trees have different colors. Sometimes the trunk goes straight into the ground and sometimes you can see a massive root system. Except for the trail and areas with the tables, there was a lot of bushes and growth around the trees. All these things I know but seeing them again was a good reminder. Yes, I had fun with my family but I also came home with some good reference pictures to help improve my modules! Now if I can just remember where I put that ground foam I just bought!
Speaking of the outside… this month’s Division meeting is going to be at Canyon Meadows Park in South Weber where the South Weber Model Railroad Club has their ride-on trains. You can ride the train from 11-3. We will have our picnic/potluck from 11-1 with a short meeting at the beginning and the majority of the time for socializing and eating. I hope to see you there so we can enjoy the journey together!
Jim Wanlass, MMR #585
Superintendent
Northern Utah Division of the NMRA