Throughout my life, I have always had a passion for "building a model railroad someday" Well...that day finally came in July 2006. While being no stranger to model building (muscle cars, WWII planes, star wars) I now want a new challenge; the wide world of HO model railroading. The pictures that you see here are the beginnings of my first layout. As you can see, the layout is in a very "raw" state. It is almost embarrassing when compared to those photos one sees in the most prestigious magazines covering the hobby. But hey, we all have to start somewhere right? The plan for the layout is to extend the existing 4X6 and add a 4x8 section that will feature a farm at harvest time (based on my in-laws farm) and then to the foothills and eventual Rocky Mountains of Alberta. Adding another 4x8 sheet to accomplish this, the entire layout will run along three walls of one room; sort of like a square U. Taking one square foot at a time, it should be complete by 2020! With Gord of Canadian Scale Rail and Fun Times Hobby on my side, I know I will get the advice and tools to have a magazine quality layout "someday". He is, and always will be, the official dealer of the "Trains on the Alberta Plains" layout. On my first meeting with him, I described what I wanted to accomplish and asked for some wiring advice. Instead of directing me to the "How-to-Books" available for purchase that some hobby shops make one aware of, he told me to bring my layout plan next time, and he would help me with it. Well, now my locos have the ability to run on separate currents all for the price of $0.00! All the more money to spend on the important things like rolling stock or scenery. In summary, my plan is to update progress on the layout over the years to the web site here. I also encourage other model railroaders to submit their photos and let's make this site a great place for beginners and experts alike in sharing this wonderful hobby!

Sincerely

Brad Bilson

Drumheller, Alberta

e-mail us at CdnScaleRail@shaw.ca

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