A Time To Build

“For everything there is a season… A time to tear down and a time to build up.”  Ecclesiastes 3:3 (NLT).  ‘A Time To Build’…. This recent title on the issue of Cowcatcher magazine really caught me.  If we take just that part of the scripture, it sure rings true right now.  It really is a ’time to build’.

As a railroad modeler myself, I have been very focused on shipping the many production runs that have been arriving since April, and specifically working earnestly to complete the American Freedom Train’s final release of the Tool Car.  Once that is done, I will finally start working on my railroad, and there will be more about that in another blog story down the road.

I am encouraged right now (and that’s a good thing for me and for you, too) to hear the stories, and see on the internet, the progress that many are making on their model railroads.  I am also hearing that other manufacturers report they are doing well, or certainly much better than expected during the Covid situation.  Shops that have an ‘online’ presence have been pressed to keep up.

Are you making progress on your railroad?  It sure is a different season of life, and I am so thankful that this is a hobby that thrives when we are home to work on it.  The missing part, however, can be the time we spend with others.  Sharing our passion for model railroading whether at a train show, a club gathering, or a friend’s layout is certainly one of the most rewarding parts of our hobby.  I encourage you to reach out to your railroad buddies and engage.

I am a life-long railroad modeler.  One thing I found out many years ago is I don’t need another photo of a train, but would rather have the picture of my ‘friend’ that’s operating the train!  The train may last forever, but friends will not, and recent passing of several rail buddies brings that home.  Reach out, stay connected, and encourage someone, because he/she may need it more than you know.

Please, Stay Well

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Lowell Smith

A native of Portland, Oregon, Lowell Smith married his church choir sweetheart Barb in 1978. After a lifetime of rail-fanning, Lowell and Barb ventured out in 1992 to launch a new business in Portland, Oregon. Read more

7 Comments

  1. Brian Morgan on July 29, 2020 at 8:34 am

    Well written, keep safe. — Brian

  2. Charles Stringfellow, Jr on July 29, 2020 at 10:21 am

    Nicely said… We often take too many things for granted, and then find out too late of the opportunities we missed by not staying connected with our friends. Friends we need now more than ever.

    • Lowell Smith on August 9, 2020 at 5:57 pm

      Thanks Charles for taking time to respond.

  3. Rick on July 29, 2020 at 2:23 pm

    Great shot of the crew that night! Thanks for sharing this memory of Doug. I hope to have you all back soon enough.

    • Lowell Smith on August 9, 2020 at 5:57 pm

      Every op session is a special moment in time. thanks for building this great layout Rick! Lifetime friend!

  4. Todd Treaster on July 29, 2020 at 5:46 pm

    I love the get togethers, its what makes this hobby great. Lowell you are a true friend to all and your cars are super. The time we spent here with you and Barb will never be forgotten. I hope you can come again some day.

    • Lowell Smith on August 9, 2020 at 5:55 pm

      Thanks for your kind words Todd. We cannot wait to return!

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I really am enjoying what you are producing, Lowell! Thanks for doing it. Jerry

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I just received my Carolwood Pacific cars yesterday. They are exquisite! Every attention to detail was paid here, and I can’t thank you enough for putting this into production.  They are going to look amazing, circling my main Street miniatures display.

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Many thanks for your superb offerings and beautiful work!

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Wow… You made my dream come true with the CK Holiday! I am a great admirer of your work.

G.P.

I just received the “The Great Locomotive Chase” set from the Walt Disney Family Museum. Very nicely done!

K L

What a trip! We had a great time- exceeded our expectations by a mile. The Silver Lariat was simply stunning. A gem on the rails. The scenery and weather were perfect. The delays were not an issue for us at all. All just a good days work on the railroad! Thank you for all the…

R. M.

Lowell, I just want you to know – you make this hobby fun!