A few years ago, I gave two sets of grandchildren Lionel Starter Sets. Then for a couple of Christmases, I gave Christmas boxcars.
Today I visited my grandson and his family- the set was up and running around the tree. My 8 year old grandson handed the Lion Chief control over to his grandmother, and admonished her: "run them slow, like real ones." It was grandma's first time running a train- she won't touch mine.
The train runs perfectly even though Mom and Dad shut off the chuff and smoke. (I hate that!!- cut out half of the play value"!!) Still, the magic can till be there.
