“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