Model railroading involves so many topics, which keeps my interest. I learn about history, industry, construction, electricity, technology, modeling, design, art and more. Occasionally on this forum there is discussion of politics and economics as well. All of these topics cause me to do some research at times, and I learn a lot from others on this forum.
What have you learned from the hobby, and is that something that keeps you interested?
George
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Being something of an armchair modeler, at least until I get my basement finished off, the hobby and this forum provide a lot and that keeps me interested. Very few places where you can have the diverse interests you see on here, the people into toy trains as toy trains, those into it as hi rail or scale 2 rail O, those who love the history of trains (I have learned so much in the subway/transit and 'real trains' forum, that alone is a hidden gem), not to mention seeing how differently people see things (or the same) as I do. I have been able to share things I learned, too, and that is awesome, there is nothing like adding something to a discussion and someone saying "wow, I never thought of that, that sounds like a great idea", or even "You actually did that? You really are crazy, boy!" (well, okay, haven't had too many of those *lol*).
About the only thing I seem incapable of learning, on here or elsewhere, is how to use RR track software, my attempts at using it, well, have been pathetic, I see what guys do on here with it and can only sigh and shake my head.....
BIGKID, agree 100% about the forum and RR Track software, doesn't work very well for me but I enjoy trying to use it.
Brent
When I got back in the hobby a few years ago after a LONG time away, it was like a whole new hobby everything had changed so much. I knew little about the real railroads other than they had trains that ran on tracks. I found this forum about a year or so after deciding to get back in the hobby and I really have learned a lot about a lot of things here.
I would have to say the two main subjects I have learned the most about are the actual real trains themselves and electronics that control our modern model/toy trains. These happen to be the two subjects I am most interested in as well. I like the electronics part just as well as the train part.
The above being the two main things, I have also learned something about everything else that is related to the model railroading hobby. This is really a great place to learn the hobby and there are lots of very knowledgeable folks here willing to help, teach and share ideas. Not sure how far behind I would be from where I am now if not for finding the OGR forum.
BIGKID & Brent, the best way to get help with the software is to start a thread and post what you have. If you don't want to do it in public, email me what you're having trouble with and I'll be happy to try to help you figure it out (email address is in my profile). We all started from scratch and I've had my share of difficulties. One reason some have trouble is because they try to start by designing their layout instead of going through some basic tutorials or start with simple designs to learn the basics and gradually move to more difficult ones. It's like riding a bike. You don't start off trying to ride a 10k, you try to just make up the street a few yards without falling over. 
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