My dream/nightmare layout... July Update 7/31/19 Big Boy month!

Thanks guys.

We were going to go out to North Platte tomorrow, and stay through Wednesday, but that went out the window when we found out that I can't get dialysis out there unless I pay out of pocket. Think Lionel Big Boy for cost. So we are gong to have to make a decision this fall, take Medicare and be able to travel, or stay private and stay close to home. Tough choice! 

We are still heading out tonight, but only going to Omaha, cause we have to be home for Monday. We are staying right across the street from the Big Boy. Maybe they will have it lit up, and we can get some night pics.

Matt & Steve - You're welcome. You guys out east have such a rich railroad history. Get west of the Mississippi, and things thin out quite a bit. This has been a lot of fun to chase and hang out with this magnificent engine. If you really want to see it in person, start thinking about getting to St Louis when they announce the next tour. I figure they have at least two more to do. One to the southeast part of the system and one to the west coast, as they have an IOU to repay with the members of the museum who sold the 4014 back to them.

Mark - Thanks, it has been fun. The $500 we spent to attend the museum gala in Duluth a couple weeks ago was well worth it. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity. There was a little thought put into the decision  to go, but within about 90 minutes I pulled the trigger, with the rationale that you only live once. Beside, it gave the weekend purpose, since we had just seen it in St Paul. We even had two nights free hotel in a sold out city. Back to work on the layout next week, so we have a real August update! 

Mike - I think you are going to get a chance to see it near you. UP serves Washington. I expect it to go along the entire coast. This is just speculation, but they are doing this for PR, and I expect it to cover all the major points in the system. They went to Duluth, didn't they? That was more of a stretch than Seattle would be. Yes, I'm watching every step I take, I really don't want to go through any of that again. Glad you're working on that thing. Take your time. 

Elliot, I hope all is well!

The reason I stopped by here to comment is I was searching the internet for the dimensions the Lionel 3656 stockyard.  You had answered the question on one of the other forums all the way back in 2004...16 years ago!  Your knowledge not only helps those in the moment, continues to help countless people into the future.  Anyway, it got me wondering what you've been up to.  

I hesitate to write this as I do not want to encroach...I know you said it has been difficult to work on the layout and type up all of these monthly reports that keep us all up to date.  I know a lot of us enjoy seeing your layout, seeing all of the projects you work on, and your railfanning adventures.  Just a thought for you...if typing is too frustrating, perhaps a posting a video update with your phone might be an easier way to stay connected than managing a keyboard. 

My sister was on dyalisis for almost 10 years before getting a transplant that worked.  I understand the struggle and the time spent hooked on the machine, making everything more difficult and the feeling of isolation that can creep in.  You have a great community here supporting you and I think it's good thing for the mind, body, and spirit to stay connected in these positive environs if you are able.  Apologies for the intrusion, but sincerely hope you are doing well.

Wow JD- you must have read my mind.

Elliot's buddy Patrick has been posting on What did you do...... and I was wondering how the master of the worlds biggest residential layout is doing. 

Hope all is well Elliot!

Elliot, I am with JD and Bob, with that I hope you are doing well! I really miss your updates and stories of how your build is going. 

Please take care and when you get a chance if anything just say HI!

Elliot, so good to hear from you. Vic and were a little worried. Please just say "Hi" every so often. Don

I will pop in and quip also Miss seeing the progress Elliot!

I was worried when i had not seen a update in awhile. I hope all is well. 

I also miss your updated and hope all is well.   

Elliot, haven't seen any updates in quite a spell, hope all is well with you.

@gunrunnerjohn posted:

Elliot, haven't seen any updates in quite a spell, hope all is well with you.

I second that emotion...

Elliot, I too am concerned and hope you are well!

My uncle had very similar issues to Elliott, it's a tough road even with the best of dispositions.  I certainly pray the best for him and regardless of what happens this RR journey he has shared with all of us has been a fantastic ride!  

I do see it shows he last visited in June this year.  If anyone knows how he's doing and can share that would be awesome, but I certainly respect one's privacy as well.

Ditto TexasSP

He was last lurking on 6/27.

Hope he is well too.

Ellioit, Glad to hear from you. I'll be looking for your next update.

Take care

Gerry

Add my name to the list of those who want to hear from you, Elliot.

Alex

I too would like to hear from Elliot.

Hope all is well with him and his family.

Can anyone give him a call? Don

Sure, I'll try later, Don.

Elliot, a lot of us are rooting for you buddy. Hope all is well.

Elliot, we all miss hearing from you and we all hope that you are doing well.  Keep in touch.

Hope all is well....I miss getting those up date too

Just wondering if anyone has talked to Elliot lately?

I sure hope he is doing well!

To those not aware, there is another thread running where Elliot posted some info today.  Here is the title: "How is Big Boys Layout Coming?"  Sorry, but I just realized I have to learn how to post live links to other threads into threads I am currently reading on this forum.  If anyone knows the method, would you please let me know.

Chuck 

@PRR1950 posted:

To those not aware, there is another thread running where Elliot posted some info today.  Here is the title: "How is Big Boys Layout Coming?"  Sorry, but I just realized I have to learn how to post live links to other threads into threads I am currently reading on this forum.  If anyone knows the method, would you please let me know.

Chuck

You copy the URL and paste it. Pretty simple.

https://ogrforum.com/...6#152477234109691636

@mike g. posted:

Just wondering if anyone has talked to Elliot lately?

I sure hope he is doing well!

Very bad news, Mike. Poor Elliot. Sounds like this thread is done for good. Read what Elliot said today in the other thread.

@Jim R. posted:

You copy the URL and paste it. Pretty simple.

https://ogrforum.com/...6#152477234109691636

@mike g. posted:

Just wondering if anyone has talked to Elliot lately?

I sure hope he is doing well!

I called him two days ago and left a message on his phone.   I have not had a call back from him.  Several weeks ago, Tammy answered and he was resting so I did not want to disturb him.   I requested a call back but I have not heard back from him.  

I'm concerned,

Dave  

Chuck, Jim and Dave, thanks for the information. It truly is sad news, IMOP I think he is one of the modern day masters of this hobby!

@darlander posted:

I called him two days ago and left a message on his phone.   I have not had a call back from him.  Several weeks ago, Tammy answered and he was resting so I did not want to disturb him.   I requested a call back but I have not heard back from him.  

I'm concerned,

Dave  

He chimed in regarding his health issues  and exiting the hobby on this other thread from a few days ago: https://ogrforum.com/...1#152477234128820411