Excellent topic for discussion, Paul! I came to O gauge from smaller scales in 2012, the year I joined the forum. I had sold nearly all my HO and N scale and used the money to help pay our daughters' tuition, so I had nothing to contribute to starting in the new scale. I was laid off again in 2015 and haven't been able to work since late 2018, so I am in a similar situation as Mike.
Most of my engines and rolling stock were bought used. Some of you contributed to the cause. I wish I could say I am as disciplined as I could be in buying engines and cars, but all in all, I do pretty well. I made some 'mistakes' early on and some of you have given my 'mistakes' new homes. I do have 3 diesels I bought new before prices started going up. The steamers were all used. Now, if I buy something, I try to sell something. I don't have room for displaying a collection anyway.
Most of you are familiar with my layout crammed in an 11x11 room. Track and switches cost a good bit, as most were new. However, I am not going to glue down ballast and may not even put on any loose ballast in case I find myself in Mike's position someday. I have also been kidded for using a menagerie of wood. The used wood supply has run out, but served quite well.
