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The Mojave & Panamint Railroad.
Posted 9 years agoOkay... So one thing I am more than guilty of is being more active on Deviant Art than I have been here. In fact the tern "neglectful" is appropriate. >/////<
But I'm working on changing that and preparing to post a multitude of submissions here as well as DA. (That and DA has been a butt recently with uploading submissions... or rather no letting me)
So as some of you may or may not know, I'm a bit of a Trainz Player. And by that I mean Auran's (Now NV3 Games) Trainz Railroad Simulator. And the thing I love about it compared to other train simulators is the sandbox mode known as Surveyor. It is absolutely fantastic and there's more narrow gauge content for this franchise than any other one I've seen. Another reason I like using Trainz. I invested in the 2012 (TRS12) edition not too long ago, but may invest in Trainz: A New Era (T:ANE) soon as they've REALLY amped up the graphic detail and enhances the visible Draw Distance to some 25,000 meters or something. In short it just looks better!
My biggest project is the recreation of the United Verde & Pacific, one of my top fave favorite narrow gauge railroads. It was a 26 mile long, 3 foot gauge operation out in central Arizona and one of the crookedest railroad's I've ever seen!! And one of the reasons I love it so much. X3
Although I almost have track and grade finished the yards and the eastern terminal (Where the line interchanges with the Santa Fe, Prescott, & Phoenix RR, later AT&SF) has been REALLY frustrating me, so I'm taking a break from it. I'll post some screenshots of the UV&P route if I haven't already. So in the meantime I've been working on another route, although freelance, called the Mojave & Panamint Railroad.
The inspiration behind this route has been a long time in the making, and like many Trainz routes it owes its origin to a model railroad. I was recently going through my collection of hobby magazines and came across my Feb,93' issue of Railroad Model Craftsman. Within its pages is a wonderful article for a wondrous freelance narrow gauge line in southwest California. It was envisioned by Craig Tice, an explorer of that arid region and avid lover of history as well. His early modeling interests involved airplanes, but he particularly loved desert narrow gauge. In fact one of his early modeling endevours was the Nevada-California-Oregon Railroad (N-C-O) however he didn't commit to building a layout. However he was also a very imaginative guy and began plotting his own freelance "What-If?" railroad and he called it the Mojave & Panamint.
He spend considerable amounts of time researching and plotting. Even using topographical maps of a specific area to plot a hypothetical Right-of-Way for his M&P. This was so when he built his layout he can better match the topography and geography from the real world to his miniature one. So it's a wonderful blending of fantasy and reality.
His line starts on the southern edges of Searles Dry Lake along what is now the Trona Railroad. He did enough research to discover the the Los Angeles & Independence RR wanted to access the Death Valley region, but never quite made it. So in this case the M&P interchanges with the standard gauge LA&I, which later became part of the Southern Pacific RR. The M&P's southern terminal is Panamint Junction with a modest engine facility. A single stall engine shed which is open at both ends, a depot, and transfer trestle. Craig's HOn3 version uses structures that are blatantly of N-C-O/SPNG style and are leftovers from his previous modeling venture, but have been re-purposed for the Mojave & Panamint RR. I've made a few creative liberties with the set up with Panamint Jct, mostly for operation's sake. Such as a jointly used depot and transfer platform.
The line starts below the southern edge of Searles Dry lake and then skirts the western edges of the lake. The grades here are pretty easy going varying from flat and never exceeds 2%. The next stop along the line is Valley Wells, which is a very important location along the right-of-way. The line terminates at Ballarat, CA, but there is no water between there and Valley Wells. Tank cars are filled here and shipped up to the summit at Slate Range Pass (Slate Range Crossing according to Google maps/earth) where the cars are emptied and the water pumped into tanks there. The grade out of Valley Wells is moderate at a fairly steady 2.5% as the line climbs uphill towards the summit. There is a wye here for turning helper engines coming out of Ballarat. From here the line plunges through a tunnel and descends a steep and treacherous 4% grade into the Panamint Valley. Her the line levels out again and is easy going, entering Ballarat from the Northwest. Here is the primary engine facility with a 3 or 4 stall roundhouse and turntable.
The line is roughly 34 miles long in total, but with the varying grades, different industries, and changes in scenery (and not to mention the standard gauge interchange at Panamint Junction) the route promises to be a pretty interesting one! Fortunately Mr. Craig has come up with his own locomotive roster as well as a time table. These will be useful for creating operating sessions for the route once it's complete. However there are some interesting quirks that I'm debating on keeping or not. Such as a "strict" maximum speed of 20mph. I might bump it up to 25mph, but what do you guys think? Also run-away ore trains have priority over all other trains, regardless of train classification!
So far I have completed track work up to Slate Range Pass, though I have yet to get screen shots. I hope to grab some over the next few days and hopefully by early next week I can post them.
I am a huge believer in collaborative efforts and the biggest thing I could use some help with is re-skinning some content for the route. I've had some luck with some content, as some of my recent submissions show, but there are several items of content I'm not having luck with. So I would really appreciate anyone willing to volunteer their time and expertise, to do a quality job, on re-skinning a few items. Feel free to message me here or send me a PM.
Anyway, that's about all I have for now so I hope you all have enjoyed the shots and teasers to far! Once I have enough of the route finished I might make some teaser photos! Thanks again guys and be sure to leave plenty of feedback!
But I'm working on changing that and preparing to post a multitude of submissions here as well as DA. (That and DA has been a butt recently with uploading submissions... or rather no letting me)
So as some of you may or may not know, I'm a bit of a Trainz Player. And by that I mean Auran's (Now NV3 Games) Trainz Railroad Simulator. And the thing I love about it compared to other train simulators is the sandbox mode known as Surveyor. It is absolutely fantastic and there's more narrow gauge content for this franchise than any other one I've seen. Another reason I like using Trainz. I invested in the 2012 (TRS12) edition not too long ago, but may invest in Trainz: A New Era (T:ANE) soon as they've REALLY amped up the graphic detail and enhances the visible Draw Distance to some 25,000 meters or something. In short it just looks better!
My biggest project is the recreation of the United Verde & Pacific, one of my top fave favorite narrow gauge railroads. It was a 26 mile long, 3 foot gauge operation out in central Arizona and one of the crookedest railroad's I've ever seen!! And one of the reasons I love it so much. X3
Although I almost have track and grade finished the yards and the eastern terminal (Where the line interchanges with the Santa Fe, Prescott, & Phoenix RR, later AT&SF) has been REALLY frustrating me, so I'm taking a break from it. I'll post some screenshots of the UV&P route if I haven't already. So in the meantime I've been working on another route, although freelance, called the Mojave & Panamint Railroad.
The inspiration behind this route has been a long time in the making, and like many Trainz routes it owes its origin to a model railroad. I was recently going through my collection of hobby magazines and came across my Feb,93' issue of Railroad Model Craftsman. Within its pages is a wonderful article for a wondrous freelance narrow gauge line in southwest California. It was envisioned by Craig Tice, an explorer of that arid region and avid lover of history as well. His early modeling interests involved airplanes, but he particularly loved desert narrow gauge. In fact one of his early modeling endevours was the Nevada-California-Oregon Railroad (N-C-O) however he didn't commit to building a layout. However he was also a very imaginative guy and began plotting his own freelance "What-If?" railroad and he called it the Mojave & Panamint.
He spend considerable amounts of time researching and plotting. Even using topographical maps of a specific area to plot a hypothetical Right-of-Way for his M&P. This was so when he built his layout he can better match the topography and geography from the real world to his miniature one. So it's a wonderful blending of fantasy and reality.
His line starts on the southern edges of Searles Dry Lake along what is now the Trona Railroad. He did enough research to discover the the Los Angeles & Independence RR wanted to access the Death Valley region, but never quite made it. So in this case the M&P interchanges with the standard gauge LA&I, which later became part of the Southern Pacific RR. The M&P's southern terminal is Panamint Junction with a modest engine facility. A single stall engine shed which is open at both ends, a depot, and transfer trestle. Craig's HOn3 version uses structures that are blatantly of N-C-O/SPNG style and are leftovers from his previous modeling venture, but have been re-purposed for the Mojave & Panamint RR. I've made a few creative liberties with the set up with Panamint Jct, mostly for operation's sake. Such as a jointly used depot and transfer platform.
The line starts below the southern edge of Searles Dry lake and then skirts the western edges of the lake. The grades here are pretty easy going varying from flat and never exceeds 2%. The next stop along the line is Valley Wells, which is a very important location along the right-of-way. The line terminates at Ballarat, CA, but there is no water between there and Valley Wells. Tank cars are filled here and shipped up to the summit at Slate Range Pass (Slate Range Crossing according to Google maps/earth) where the cars are emptied and the water pumped into tanks there. The grade out of Valley Wells is moderate at a fairly steady 2.5% as the line climbs uphill towards the summit. There is a wye here for turning helper engines coming out of Ballarat. From here the line plunges through a tunnel and descends a steep and treacherous 4% grade into the Panamint Valley. Her the line levels out again and is easy going, entering Ballarat from the Northwest. Here is the primary engine facility with a 3 or 4 stall roundhouse and turntable.
The line is roughly 34 miles long in total, but with the varying grades, different industries, and changes in scenery (and not to mention the standard gauge interchange at Panamint Junction) the route promises to be a pretty interesting one! Fortunately Mr. Craig has come up with his own locomotive roster as well as a time table. These will be useful for creating operating sessions for the route once it's complete. However there are some interesting quirks that I'm debating on keeping or not. Such as a "strict" maximum speed of 20mph. I might bump it up to 25mph, but what do you guys think? Also run-away ore trains have priority over all other trains, regardless of train classification!
So far I have completed track work up to Slate Range Pass, though I have yet to get screen shots. I hope to grab some over the next few days and hopefully by early next week I can post them.
I am a huge believer in collaborative efforts and the biggest thing I could use some help with is re-skinning some content for the route. I've had some luck with some content, as some of my recent submissions show, but there are several items of content I'm not having luck with. So I would really appreciate anyone willing to volunteer their time and expertise, to do a quality job, on re-skinning a few items. Feel free to message me here or send me a PM.
Anyway, that's about all I have for now so I hope you all have enjoyed the shots and teasers to far! Once I have enough of the route finished I might make some teaser photos! Thanks again guys and be sure to leave plenty of feedback!
Been a while!
Posted 9 years agoHey all, been a while once again! Though thankfully not several months this time!
Anyway, been fairly caught up with RL stuff, such as work and school. And also I haven't had much of a chance to do much modeling recently with either the Armored Train commission or my own stuff. However to compensate I have have been doing some "digital" railroading of sorts. And on top of that I've finally been able to start piecing together my outlaw outfit, little by little for an even coming up later this year.
So in short, prepare yourselves for a bunch of random uploads in the not too distant future! As well as a journal for the aforementioned "Digital Railroading".
Anyway, been fairly caught up with RL stuff, such as work and school. And also I haven't had much of a chance to do much modeling recently with either the Armored Train commission or my own stuff. However to compensate I have have been doing some "digital" railroading of sorts. And on top of that I've finally been able to start piecing together my outlaw outfit, little by little for an even coming up later this year.
So in short, prepare yourselves for a bunch of random uploads in the not too distant future! As well as a journal for the aforementioned "Digital Railroading".
To Blog, or not to Blog?
Posted 9 years agoTo Blog or not to blog, that WAS the question.
Well, since I have several modeling projects going I thought I'd start back up an old one AND start a new one!
Since I've decided to delve into HOn30 I've decided to make a blog completely dedicated to that and the link is below.
http://roaringcreekng.blogspot.com/
My Roaring Creek Narrow Gauge has been making some good progress, I just haven't documented much of it yet. ^^'
But I'll give you a hint, there's been a heavy use of foam board, cutting, shaping, and laying of road bed. ;p
I only have two post right now on the RCNG blog, but more will come. But now I need to switch over to that armored train project for a bit, I've been a little neglectful of it recently. >_<
Well, since I have several modeling projects going I thought I'd start back up an old one AND start a new one!
Since I've decided to delve into HOn30 I've decided to make a blog completely dedicated to that and the link is below.
http://roaringcreekng.blogspot.com/
My Roaring Creek Narrow Gauge has been making some good progress, I just haven't documented much of it yet. ^^'
But I'll give you a hint, there's been a heavy use of foam board, cutting, shaping, and laying of road bed. ;p
I only have two post right now on the RCNG blog, but more will come. But now I need to switch over to that armored train project for a bit, I've been a little neglectful of it recently. >_<
No Subject
Posted 9 years agoOkay, so there have been several occasions where people have approached me about a model train commission. The thing about them is that they do COST MONEY!!! It's not the same thing to ask for a drawing or art piece which, by comparison, takes a lot more time, effort, and sometimes even skill. So when I present the rough numbers for cost it's not surprising they change their minds and run off.
Well, a few weeks ago a guy on FA approached me for a train commission. At first I thought the person wanted and art piece, but it turns out he wanted a model of a Russian Armored Train from a movie called Dr. Zhivago. I broke down some of the numbers and this person was undeterred! And so I've scowered the interwebs, though mostly ebay, for good donor cars and mechanisms. Mostly Thomas The Tank Engine 'toys' from Bachmann as they're fairly inexpensive compared to actual models. And besides, they'd be given such a makeover they won't look anything like the did out of the box!
I've posted some photos recently of the train before I do anything with it. However the links featured below will show the general look the commissioner would like for this project.
http://www.seanmichaelragan.com/img.....s_train_03.png
http://www.seanmichaelragan.com/img.....s_train_02.png
http://www.seanmichaelragan.com/img.....s_train_04.png
It's quite and imposing train, and it gives me the opportunity to model something that isn't exactly American. Pretty cool, don't you think!? ;p
Well, a few weeks ago a guy on FA approached me for a train commission. At first I thought the person wanted and art piece, but it turns out he wanted a model of a Russian Armored Train from a movie called Dr. Zhivago. I broke down some of the numbers and this person was undeterred! And so I've scowered the interwebs, though mostly ebay, for good donor cars and mechanisms. Mostly Thomas The Tank Engine 'toys' from Bachmann as they're fairly inexpensive compared to actual models. And besides, they'd be given such a makeover they won't look anything like the did out of the box!
I've posted some photos recently of the train before I do anything with it. However the links featured below will show the general look the commissioner would like for this project.
http://www.seanmichaelragan.com/img.....s_train_03.png
http://www.seanmichaelragan.com/img.....s_train_02.png
http://www.seanmichaelragan.com/img.....s_train_04.png
It's quite and imposing train, and it gives me the opportunity to model something that isn't exactly American. Pretty cool, don't you think!? ;p
Just took a HUGE STEP *PLEASE READ*
Posted 9 years agoOkay.... first of all I really want to thank those who have been watching me here on DA since I first created an account here. Most of you know that I have many hopes, dreams, and aspirations for my life; though there have been many circumstances that have effected things.
As most of you also know I have a particular dream that I've struggled with. Not struggle in the context of "Should I do it or not?" but rather "How can I do it?". And that dream is my comic Gunpowder Falls. Despite all the train drawings and models, at the core of my artistic desires is Gunpowder Falls. For those watchers who aren't familiar with GF (what I call the comic for short) it is a period Western set in the lush and majestic San Juan Mountains of Colorado and some of the open arid southwest of New Mexico. The story revolves around A.J. Davis, a locomotive engineer for the Gunpowder Falls Railroad. Which is a fictional, but plausible narrow gauge line (meaning the rails of the track are only 3 feet apart!) running north from Pagosa Springs, CO and finding it's way to Naturita, CO. Then the line steadily curves south and eventually will terminate at Navajo, NM.
This past Sunday I met a guy at church in out small group after service. I heard him say he was a writer and so we began bouncing some of our ideas off each other. I then mentioned I was also an artist and his eyes lit up and we set up a meeting last Monday and from there things took off! The guy's name is Joshua and he is a creative writer, but he has been looking for an artist for some of his projects. But after sharing some ideas he was completely enthralled with Gunpowder Falls! The thing though, for me, is I am an "Idea Guy". I'm not one to really intimately know how to take my ideas an practically put them out there/apply them. Where as Joshua is that kind of guy, so we're meshing together well and filling a need for each other. Joshua will be the writer for GF as we're in the process of taking my ideas for scenes and 'episodes' and then fleshing out all the stuff in between. But this isn't the HUGE STEP I had mentioned in the title. No, what I was referring to there is that I am now on PATREON!!!
Yesterday Joshua and I put a Patreon page together. I mean think about it? It's REALLY putting GF out there for exposure. It is going to take some money in order to bring this story to fruition. Before I had nothing to guide on how to make it happen, but now that's not the case. I am excited and eager to get Gunpowder Falls off of the ground. Here is a link to our Patreon Page, so PLEASE go check it out!
https://www.patreon.com/GunpowderFa.....=h&alert=2
So C'mon all you Gunpowder Falls Fans!! Come together and lets make this happen!!!
As most of you also know I have a particular dream that I've struggled with. Not struggle in the context of "Should I do it or not?" but rather "How can I do it?". And that dream is my comic Gunpowder Falls. Despite all the train drawings and models, at the core of my artistic desires is Gunpowder Falls. For those watchers who aren't familiar with GF (what I call the comic for short) it is a period Western set in the lush and majestic San Juan Mountains of Colorado and some of the open arid southwest of New Mexico. The story revolves around A.J. Davis, a locomotive engineer for the Gunpowder Falls Railroad. Which is a fictional, but plausible narrow gauge line (meaning the rails of the track are only 3 feet apart!) running north from Pagosa Springs, CO and finding it's way to Naturita, CO. Then the line steadily curves south and eventually will terminate at Navajo, NM.
This past Sunday I met a guy at church in out small group after service. I heard him say he was a writer and so we began bouncing some of our ideas off each other. I then mentioned I was also an artist and his eyes lit up and we set up a meeting last Monday and from there things took off! The guy's name is Joshua and he is a creative writer, but he has been looking for an artist for some of his projects. But after sharing some ideas he was completely enthralled with Gunpowder Falls! The thing though, for me, is I am an "Idea Guy". I'm not one to really intimately know how to take my ideas an practically put them out there/apply them. Where as Joshua is that kind of guy, so we're meshing together well and filling a need for each other. Joshua will be the writer for GF as we're in the process of taking my ideas for scenes and 'episodes' and then fleshing out all the stuff in between. But this isn't the HUGE STEP I had mentioned in the title. No, what I was referring to there is that I am now on PATREON!!!
Yesterday Joshua and I put a Patreon page together. I mean think about it? It's REALLY putting GF out there for exposure. It is going to take some money in order to bring this story to fruition. Before I had nothing to guide on how to make it happen, but now that's not the case. I am excited and eager to get Gunpowder Falls off of the ground. Here is a link to our Patreon Page, so PLEASE go check it out!
https://www.patreon.com/GunpowderFa.....=h&alert=2
So C'mon all you Gunpowder Falls Fans!! Come together and lets make this happen!!!
Roaring Creek Narrow Gauge
Posted 9 years agoSo some of you may have noticed a few photos I've posted and they are all relating to my present modeling project. A 18 inch by 5 foot mini model railroad layout.
Back in August of 2015 I took a trip up to Athens, GA to visit a friend. While I was up there I helped him to build a 4x8 model railroad for his step dad. After cutting my teeth on layout building I REALLY wanted to build one of my own! But I only have a small bedroom and very little space. But I did have a pair of modules salvaged form a defunct model railroad I had stuck under my bead. I was originally going to use them for an On20 (O scale on HOn3 gauge) engine facility with an On30 interchange. The problem there though was I could only have the trains move back and forth and through switches. But before I left Athens my friend gave me a deal on a brand new Minitrains F&C 0-4-0 engines. And with that I was suddenly inspired to make an HOn30 model railroad! Given the size and short wheelbases of HOn30 engines and rolling stock I could have super tight curves and continuous running!
Now keep and mind I am NOT changing scales or gauges, this is just the practice solution to my space constraints. And it will satisfy my model railroading itch. I have a track plan and I'll scan and post it shortly. O scale is my scale of choice, but I'm really keen on this project as this would be my true FIRST model railroad! As a cub I had a 4x8 I fiddled with with roll-out paper 'grass' and Bachmann EZ track, but I never truly was able to build land forms and such.
Okay so here's the concept, the name of the railroad is the Roaring Creek Narrow Gauge and it is set in the majestic Cascade Mountains of Washington State. The track plan has a pair of reversing loops at either end, but the line has folded over itself twice in order to lengthen the right-of-way and add some vertical scenery. The track is to be hand laid with code 55 rail and HOn30 #4 switches. There are mountains to either end of the layout and several tunnels with a river canyon in the center.
On the bottom 'level' there is a small town with a depot and a hand full of buildings. I have three town buildings so far and they are all Woodland Scenics structure kits. The Flagstop Depot, Pharmacy, Doctors office and Shoe Repair. The latter kit I want to re-purpose and make them into other places of business. I've also considered converting the Pharmacy into a Saloon/Hotel.
The station is VERY small and the kit comes with a passenger shelter to be attached to one side of the station. I'm omitting this entirely and using some of the parts to help make a detailed interior complete with office and waiting area, including a pot bellied stove. I also plan to add full interiors to all the structures at some point.
Unfortunately there is still a lot that needs to be done before I can actually start working on the layout itself. I still need to acquire pink foam board for the scenery base, a bunch of dirt for ground cover, a BUNCH of code 55 rail, and several tools to help me fabricate switches and such. Not to mention how to wire the layout with auto-reversing loops so that the train doesn't short out when running. So for now, to practice my scenery techniques I'm working on a small diorama. And that is what I've posted photos of already.
This is kind of a boring journal, but at least you have some context for the recent photos I posted.
Back in August of 2015 I took a trip up to Athens, GA to visit a friend. While I was up there I helped him to build a 4x8 model railroad for his step dad. After cutting my teeth on layout building I REALLY wanted to build one of my own! But I only have a small bedroom and very little space. But I did have a pair of modules salvaged form a defunct model railroad I had stuck under my bead. I was originally going to use them for an On20 (O scale on HOn3 gauge) engine facility with an On30 interchange. The problem there though was I could only have the trains move back and forth and through switches. But before I left Athens my friend gave me a deal on a brand new Minitrains F&C 0-4-0 engines. And with that I was suddenly inspired to make an HOn30 model railroad! Given the size and short wheelbases of HOn30 engines and rolling stock I could have super tight curves and continuous running!
Now keep and mind I am NOT changing scales or gauges, this is just the practice solution to my space constraints. And it will satisfy my model railroading itch. I have a track plan and I'll scan and post it shortly. O scale is my scale of choice, but I'm really keen on this project as this would be my true FIRST model railroad! As a cub I had a 4x8 I fiddled with with roll-out paper 'grass' and Bachmann EZ track, but I never truly was able to build land forms and such.
Okay so here's the concept, the name of the railroad is the Roaring Creek Narrow Gauge and it is set in the majestic Cascade Mountains of Washington State. The track plan has a pair of reversing loops at either end, but the line has folded over itself twice in order to lengthen the right-of-way and add some vertical scenery. The track is to be hand laid with code 55 rail and HOn30 #4 switches. There are mountains to either end of the layout and several tunnels with a river canyon in the center.
On the bottom 'level' there is a small town with a depot and a hand full of buildings. I have three town buildings so far and they are all Woodland Scenics structure kits. The Flagstop Depot, Pharmacy, Doctors office and Shoe Repair. The latter kit I want to re-purpose and make them into other places of business. I've also considered converting the Pharmacy into a Saloon/Hotel.
The station is VERY small and the kit comes with a passenger shelter to be attached to one side of the station. I'm omitting this entirely and using some of the parts to help make a detailed interior complete with office and waiting area, including a pot bellied stove. I also plan to add full interiors to all the structures at some point.
Unfortunately there is still a lot that needs to be done before I can actually start working on the layout itself. I still need to acquire pink foam board for the scenery base, a bunch of dirt for ground cover, a BUNCH of code 55 rail, and several tools to help me fabricate switches and such. Not to mention how to wire the layout with auto-reversing loops so that the train doesn't short out when running. So for now, to practice my scenery techniques I'm working on a small diorama. And that is what I've posted photos of already.
This is kind of a boring journal, but at least you have some context for the recent photos I posted.
Life Update! *Please Read*
Posted 9 years agoGood lord... Has it really been seven months since my last update!? O_o
To say I've been neglectful of this account is a vast understatement. And a LOT has happened since the last time I dropped by.
The job I had at the BBQ place... gone. I got screwed by management and instead of having the decency of saying "You're not working out for us" and giving me an opportunity to turn in a 2 weeks notice they changed the schedule one me, failed to notify me. (Not even an attempt to call me) And then say I neglected to show up to work... Well that was a long while back, then I worked at a Pizza Place for a while, had to quit there due to unethical management. But on the bright side I have an AWESOME job I started this past September! I am officially a Camera Man at the local news station!! WOOT!! XD
The past few months have been rough. trying to save money, help pay bills, ect... I'm also attending Online Collage for a degree in English. So between work, school, and possibly even a second job on top of it all I have barely have time or motivation for any art or model building. Well sort of... it's mostly a lack of motivation really, if I had to be honest. ^^'
I do have a fairly big-small project I'm working on. I'm building a mini model railroad layout in HOn30 scale! No, I haven't changed scales or gauges... so to speak, but I've been really wanted a model railroad and HOn30 is perfect since I don't have a lot of space. The layout I'm building is 18 inches wide by 5 feet long. So it's pretty narrow. It will be a while before I start to actually work on on, but I am working on a diorama to practice my layout building/scenery techniques. I'll be posting photos eventually and I can post a second journal that goes into more detail about the project(s) if there's enough interest from you watchers! XD
But anyway, I have worked on the comic... a LITTLE BIT... and I do mean a little. I have a new cover page in the works and Page 1 is ALMOST finished! It's something I've really been dragging my but with and I'm ashamed of it. I really want to at least get a chapter done before I'm 30! >_<
And the comic falls under the category of "More Furry Art". I've actually gotten rusty from not having drawn anything substantial for so long. Almost makes me want to just stick my head in a hole in a wall somewhere for a few hours in shame... ^^'
Anyway, I know I've said it before and my track record is deplorable with this 'promise', but I do want to become more active here on FA again. Hopefully one day I'll make good on that! But for now, thanks for stickin' with me this long. Words can't describe how much I appreciate it! Thanks for watching and hopefully some cool stuff will happen in the near future!
To say I've been neglectful of this account is a vast understatement. And a LOT has happened since the last time I dropped by.
The job I had at the BBQ place... gone. I got screwed by management and instead of having the decency of saying "You're not working out for us" and giving me an opportunity to turn in a 2 weeks notice they changed the schedule one me, failed to notify me. (Not even an attempt to call me) And then say I neglected to show up to work... Well that was a long while back, then I worked at a Pizza Place for a while, had to quit there due to unethical management. But on the bright side I have an AWESOME job I started this past September! I am officially a Camera Man at the local news station!! WOOT!! XD
The past few months have been rough. trying to save money, help pay bills, ect... I'm also attending Online Collage for a degree in English. So between work, school, and possibly even a second job on top of it all I have barely have time or motivation for any art or model building. Well sort of... it's mostly a lack of motivation really, if I had to be honest. ^^'
I do have a fairly big-small project I'm working on. I'm building a mini model railroad layout in HOn30 scale! No, I haven't changed scales or gauges... so to speak, but I've been really wanted a model railroad and HOn30 is perfect since I don't have a lot of space. The layout I'm building is 18 inches wide by 5 feet long. So it's pretty narrow. It will be a while before I start to actually work on on, but I am working on a diorama to practice my layout building/scenery techniques. I'll be posting photos eventually and I can post a second journal that goes into more detail about the project(s) if there's enough interest from you watchers! XD
But anyway, I have worked on the comic... a LITTLE BIT... and I do mean a little. I have a new cover page in the works and Page 1 is ALMOST finished! It's something I've really been dragging my but with and I'm ashamed of it. I really want to at least get a chapter done before I'm 30! >_<
And the comic falls under the category of "More Furry Art". I've actually gotten rusty from not having drawn anything substantial for so long. Almost makes me want to just stick my head in a hole in a wall somewhere for a few hours in shame... ^^'
Anyway, I know I've said it before and my track record is deplorable with this 'promise', but I do want to become more active here on FA again. Hopefully one day I'll make good on that! But for now, thanks for stickin' with me this long. Words can't describe how much I appreciate it! Thanks for watching and hopefully some cool stuff will happen in the near future!
I need to post more furry art...
Posted 10 years agoThough the hard part about wanting to do that is the lack of a scanner.... Of course I haven't been drawing that much recently anyway. And although I've said it many times before I plan on changing that.
Right now I'm REALLY wanting to work on Gunpowder Falls. It's a comic I've been planning for how long now? Easily since high school and what do I have to show for all the planning and poor promotion of said story? Nada...
I'm dealing with some mild frustration creatively speaking. Trying to get a few things in place in RL that needs to be done and all. After all, RL comes first and I apologize for not being as active as I'd like be online.
There's also the possibility I could be moving yet again in the near future... yayz... Not totally sure if it will happen but most of my stuff, including my models and hobby projects, are packed up and tucked away. So there's one option I use to relax that's not available at the moment.
So yeah, I'm kind of all over the place right now. but tonight I'm hoping to work on the comic and get a little bit more done and maybe even finish the first page. Though all that being said I still find ways to smile and laugh, like this awesome video I found for the "Mean Kitty Song"!! XD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qit3ALTelOo
Right now I'm REALLY wanting to work on Gunpowder Falls. It's a comic I've been planning for how long now? Easily since high school and what do I have to show for all the planning and poor promotion of said story? Nada...
I'm dealing with some mild frustration creatively speaking. Trying to get a few things in place in RL that needs to be done and all. After all, RL comes first and I apologize for not being as active as I'd like be online.
There's also the possibility I could be moving yet again in the near future... yayz... Not totally sure if it will happen but most of my stuff, including my models and hobby projects, are packed up and tucked away. So there's one option I use to relax that's not available at the moment.
So yeah, I'm kind of all over the place right now. but tonight I'm hoping to work on the comic and get a little bit more done and maybe even finish the first page. Though all that being said I still find ways to smile and laugh, like this awesome video I found for the "Mean Kitty Song"!! XD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qit3ALTelOo
Long Time No See!!
Posted 10 years agoWell once again my suborn habit of not doing much here still persists. I know a lot of people have stopped watching me because of how neglectful I have been of my FA account. However, there is some what of a good reason... I'm going to school!!
Yep, well since my last journal I lost that job at the BBQ place... rather not talk about it due to employer backstabbing. That's all I'm going to say about that. BUT! I have found another, better paying job at a restaurant called Marco's Pizza and I'm thoroughly enjoying it! Although I'm loosing some hours due to unusually slow business.
That all being said I've been struggling to find a sense of direction for my life over the past year and decided to looking into a trade. Welding to be more specific, and I found a school that had a welding course. However while talking with the admissions people I mentioned my strong interest in the railroad industry and how'd I'd like to get into it. So the person I was speaking to recommended another course they had. A full Aircraft Maintenance course. They sent me info, I looked over it, and said YES!!
It's been several months since then, as per usual family issues still persist like a bad rash... But my start date is June 15th! Which is very, VERY close! I'll have to relocate again, but this time it will be in a better area. Duluth, GA and the Atlanta, GA area. The school fortunately will be helping me with finding a place close to campus and I'm already networking for jobs. The course is 20 months, but I'm looking forward to it. I'll be certified in a quickly growing and well paid industry. And the same skills can be applied to railroading as well. All in all, I'll finally be getting on my feet! And hopefully moving forward in my purpose in life.
That's all for your support and friendship, truly I can't explain enough how much that means to me!
Yep, well since my last journal I lost that job at the BBQ place... rather not talk about it due to employer backstabbing. That's all I'm going to say about that. BUT! I have found another, better paying job at a restaurant called Marco's Pizza and I'm thoroughly enjoying it! Although I'm loosing some hours due to unusually slow business.
That all being said I've been struggling to find a sense of direction for my life over the past year and decided to looking into a trade. Welding to be more specific, and I found a school that had a welding course. However while talking with the admissions people I mentioned my strong interest in the railroad industry and how'd I'd like to get into it. So the person I was speaking to recommended another course they had. A full Aircraft Maintenance course. They sent me info, I looked over it, and said YES!!
It's been several months since then, as per usual family issues still persist like a bad rash... But my start date is June 15th! Which is very, VERY close! I'll have to relocate again, but this time it will be in a better area. Duluth, GA and the Atlanta, GA area. The school fortunately will be helping me with finding a place close to campus and I'm already networking for jobs. The course is 20 months, but I'm looking forward to it. I'll be certified in a quickly growing and well paid industry. And the same skills can be applied to railroading as well. All in all, I'll finally be getting on my feet! And hopefully moving forward in my purpose in life.
That's all for your support and friendship, truly I can't explain enough how much that means to me!
I HAZ JOB!!!
Posted 11 years agoHallelujah! I finally have a job!!
After relentlessly walking and searching, having the skin practically falling off of my feet I finally have employment!!
It's not exactly an ideal job, but it's something. I'll be a server at Sonny's BBQ and I'll be making an hourly wage, plus tips. And there's a lot of potential for career advancement. It's a good company and they take their of their employees. My orientation is for Monday at 2:30, and that's when my hours will be discussed as well as wage.
I'me VERY excited about this, and hopefully, unlike in the past, I can actually get on my feet. I just hope my mother doesn't try to bleed me dry.
After relentlessly walking and searching, having the skin practically falling off of my feet I finally have employment!!
It's not exactly an ideal job, but it's something. I'll be a server at Sonny's BBQ and I'll be making an hourly wage, plus tips. And there's a lot of potential for career advancement. It's a good company and they take their of their employees. My orientation is for Monday at 2:30, and that's when my hours will be discussed as well as wage.
I'me VERY excited about this, and hopefully, unlike in the past, I can actually get on my feet. I just hope my mother doesn't try to bleed me dry.
Urgent, Please Read.
Posted 11 years agoSo just a few minutes ago I got a call from my mom...
She has to go in for emergency surgery regarding her thyroid on the 17th. I'm making a bunch of calls today so I can get as much support as I can for her, emotionally and spiritually. I've also been contacting people at the church to make the prayer team and the church leaders aware of the situation.
It's been hard the past few weeks, and this certainly doesn't help things. But regardless of the outcome, God's will be done.
She has to go in for emergency surgery regarding her thyroid on the 17th. I'm making a bunch of calls today so I can get as much support as I can for her, emotionally and spiritually. I've also been contacting people at the church to make the prayer team and the church leaders aware of the situation.
It's been hard the past few weeks, and this certainly doesn't help things. But regardless of the outcome, God's will be done.
Tough Times Once Again
Posted 11 years agoHey all,
Sorry I haven't exactly been around... It's a trend that seems to be the only constant now-a-days. And I do hope to change that some day.
Things have kinda been like they were when I was living back in SC. My mother and I are constantly butting heads and I could be on the verge of being homeless once again. Admittedly part of it is due to my own actions, not looking for work as hard as I should have. But the past few weeks I've been making a serious effort to move forward. I realized that there were a lot of things I should have done, but didn't, and now I'm changing that.
Right now, my immediate need is a job. Something I've been on foot searching for as well as making phone calls and submitting applications. So much so I'm actually starting to run out of places to apply to. So if you've been wondering why I haven't been around... that's why. I haven't even been able to work on any drawings, writing, or models because of this need. So please keep me in your prayers. I'm praying that things will improve soon.
Sorry I haven't exactly been around... It's a trend that seems to be the only constant now-a-days. And I do hope to change that some day.
Things have kinda been like they were when I was living back in SC. My mother and I are constantly butting heads and I could be on the verge of being homeless once again. Admittedly part of it is due to my own actions, not looking for work as hard as I should have. But the past few weeks I've been making a serious effort to move forward. I realized that there were a lot of things I should have done, but didn't, and now I'm changing that.
Right now, my immediate need is a job. Something I've been on foot searching for as well as making phone calls and submitting applications. So much so I'm actually starting to run out of places to apply to. So if you've been wondering why I haven't been around... that's why. I haven't even been able to work on any drawings, writing, or models because of this need. So please keep me in your prayers. I'm praying that things will improve soon.
Going off-line again.
Posted 11 years agoHey all,
Just as a quick heads up I'll be going off-line again today. Though this time it's because I'm moving to the new apartment tonight! (YAYZ!! I cannot wait to get out of this dump...)
And hopefully things will get turned back on sometime around 10am tomorrow. (eastern time)
So this time it will be brief, but I'll still be here.
Just as a quick heads up I'll be going off-line again today. Though this time it's because I'm moving to the new apartment tonight! (YAYZ!! I cannot wait to get out of this dump...)
And hopefully things will get turned back on sometime around 10am tomorrow. (eastern time)
So this time it will be brief, but I'll still be here.
The packing has begun.
Posted 11 years agoSo I'm packing my things and getting ready to move... AGAIN.
Though for once it's less than 10 miles! The landlord at out current residence... or rather our "Slumlord", has been a real jerk and shows no desire to take into consideration what we're going through financially. The old car was a money pit, constantly breaking down and needing repair. So my mom got a new one and that's put us a little behind.
Though the house we rent is nice, it's not updated. Single pane windows, virtually no insulation, the utility bill is at least as half as much as the rent!! It's ridiculous. So we found a new place and we'll be in there by at least the 20th. So I've spent the day packing my belongings I have here and getting ready to move.
Oh, and the slumlord found out and says we have to be out by THIS Sunday. Aka, tomorrow. :/
Really? Forgive my vulgarity, what what an ass hole.
Though for once it's less than 10 miles! The landlord at out current residence... or rather our "Slumlord", has been a real jerk and shows no desire to take into consideration what we're going through financially. The old car was a money pit, constantly breaking down and needing repair. So my mom got a new one and that's put us a little behind.
Though the house we rent is nice, it's not updated. Single pane windows, virtually no insulation, the utility bill is at least as half as much as the rent!! It's ridiculous. So we found a new place and we'll be in there by at least the 20th. So I've spent the day packing my belongings I have here and getting ready to move.
Oh, and the slumlord found out and says we have to be out by THIS Sunday. Aka, tomorrow. :/
Really? Forgive my vulgarity, what what an ass hole.
Back on track... sort of...
Posted 11 years agoHey all, well things seem to be getting a little more stable. Though I'm getting ready to move again, though thankfully not out of state, let alone out of town! The place where my mom and I are staying at right now is just not working out. It's owned and operated by your typical slum lord, says he'll fix this... and then never does until my mom starts riding his @$$. And then he complains about it. The place costs her about $650 in rent each month, and $300 in utilities! :o It's an older house, built in like the 50s or something like that and that's part of the reason. But it's ridiculous! So we found a new place, and it's a lot close to the church we go to also and that's a plus.
The new place is going to cost about $750 a month, but the utilities shouldn't run more than $140 a month. And we usually don't use a lot of electricity and such so the bill should be a lot lower. Anyway it will due for now unless we find a better place. So I could still be intermittent online, but I should be appearing more than I have been.
The new place is going to cost about $750 a month, but the utilities shouldn't run more than $140 a month. And we usually don't use a lot of electricity and such so the bill should be a lot lower. Anyway it will due for now unless we find a better place. So I could still be intermittent online, but I should be appearing more than I have been.
Gonna' be gone for a while. *PLEASE READ*
Posted 11 years agoJust to give you all a heads up, I'm going to be offline for an undetermined amount of time. Things are so tight right now that we literally can't afford internet service. Or a phone, or anything else. Not even my own phone.
So I have absolutely now forms of communication or job searching tools at all for I'm not sure how long. I'm sorry to tell you guys this on such short notice. Keep me in your prayers.
So I have absolutely now forms of communication or job searching tools at all for I'm not sure how long. I'm sorry to tell you guys this on such short notice. Keep me in your prayers.
Sorry for sudden absence
Posted 11 years agoHey all,
Sorry I've been anti social the past few months. As my last journal stated I've been dealing with a lot of personal things in life and they have either been distracting me or occupying my time. I'm doing a lot better now though and hopefully things with continue going that way. Still looking for work, though there may be some prospects further north here in GA, but I'll still be looking for local work in the meantime regardless.
The past two weeks I actually spent with my good friend on DA for his birthday was about a week ago and he and his family went on a vacation to Clarks Hill lake new Lincolnton, GA. While there we explored the town a bit and even found a VERY small section of the Washington & Lincolnton RR that was still intact. It was only a small railroad crossing, but a section of the line none the less. I'll try and upload pictures when I have more time.
Also while I was till up north I was able to tag along on the official last run for Squaw Creek Southern. Two locomotives were left on the line in Madison and needed to be moved into the CSX interchange. Sadly I left my camera back at my friend's house, but he should be posting pics on his own DA account. I picked up a few souvenirs while in Madison also. A track bolt and a brick from the original depot foundation in town. The Madison, GA depot was recently relocated by the city and is undergoing restoration.
I enjoyed my time away and I needed it. But I'm back in Albany, GA now and still living. I've got a lot of back log to take care of on here, so my responses to comments might be sparatic for a bit. So yeah, I ain't dead, just took an unexpected hiatus.
Sorry I've been anti social the past few months. As my last journal stated I've been dealing with a lot of personal things in life and they have either been distracting me or occupying my time. I'm doing a lot better now though and hopefully things with continue going that way. Still looking for work, though there may be some prospects further north here in GA, but I'll still be looking for local work in the meantime regardless.
The past two weeks I actually spent with my good friend on DA for his birthday was about a week ago and he and his family went on a vacation to Clarks Hill lake new Lincolnton, GA. While there we explored the town a bit and even found a VERY small section of the Washington & Lincolnton RR that was still intact. It was only a small railroad crossing, but a section of the line none the less. I'll try and upload pictures when I have more time.
Also while I was till up north I was able to tag along on the official last run for Squaw Creek Southern. Two locomotives were left on the line in Madison and needed to be moved into the CSX interchange. Sadly I left my camera back at my friend's house, but he should be posting pics on his own DA account. I picked up a few souvenirs while in Madison also. A track bolt and a brick from the original depot foundation in town. The Madison, GA depot was recently relocated by the city and is undergoing restoration.
I enjoyed my time away and I needed it. But I'm back in Albany, GA now and still living. I've got a lot of back log to take care of on here, so my responses to comments might be sparatic for a bit. So yeah, I ain't dead, just took an unexpected hiatus.
In a bit of a mope...
Posted 11 years agoYeah... for the past week or so I've been feeling depression creeping up on me.
Things are for the most part alright on my end, but like I thought it's getting to be extremely difficult to find work and that's causing a lot of tension right now. I've been in arguments with my mother... again. Telling me I need to find a job and all this melodrama when, ironically, she was the one who told me that if I move back in with her (which I didn't have a f***ing choice anyway) that it would be next to impossible to find work.
I've found a lot of jobs I can do, if trained properly, but I don't "qualify for B.S. reasons. Granted it was before my time, but I do find myself wishing I lived in times passe, where all you needed was to talk to some guy saying you need work and BOOM, you haz job. No resume, no applications (of sorts), and NO bureaucratic bull crap to deal with. Especially online applications! They've become such a pain in the @$$ to fill out and take 10 times as long as opposed to a paper one. Though some places sill offer them it's rare to see.
I had an opportunity in FL but circumstances, yet again, ripped my hopes from my hands. Story of my life right there. It's easily effecting my creative flow and I haven' drawing anything in weeks, even months! I haven't written anything either! It makes me want to rip my hair out in frustration. Oh I find inspiration for a lot of things that I WANT to do, like experimenting with drawing chibi versions of my GF characters. To work on the comic again, to work on my stories. Namely my novels like Apocalypse Joe and WasteLand...
Don't think I'm giving in to depression, I'm still fighting it. But I'm getting tired of fighting it. Just once, I'd like to have a few months, better yet years, or pure prosperity! Those who I talk to on a more personal/regular basis know how much I despise having to rely on others to just have a roof over my head. Hell! Call me crazy, but I actually look forward to having my own bills and to be able to pay them with MY own money! To find a career or something to make me self sufficient. And eventually to be able to support a family, probably the deepest desire of my heart more than any other dreams or ambitions I have.
Where I am now I have no friends to hang out with. My closest friend I have lives 5 hours away from here! I'm trying to get connected to a local church, I know they can help and there are a lot of prayer over both me and my mother. God knows we both need it. All the money I had saved up from being in FL has been used up. Groceries, helping my mom with here bills, and just trying to help both of us get ahead! A few weeks or so back my mom's car, out only mode of transport, had a sever mechanical failure. Something wrong with the "Harmonic Balancer" with the steering system went bad and I had to pay for it. She didn't have the money. The was about $460 for repair and another $200 to rent a car so she can go to work! So on top of everything else that drained the last few pennies I had and now I'm in the red again. I just can't seem to catch a break.
This is a bit of a rant and for that I apologize, I just needed to get some stuff off of my chest. So for now I'll be doing more yard work and job searching and I hope that I can find something soon. Otherwise I feel I'll just be suffocating in poverty.
Things are for the most part alright on my end, but like I thought it's getting to be extremely difficult to find work and that's causing a lot of tension right now. I've been in arguments with my mother... again. Telling me I need to find a job and all this melodrama when, ironically, she was the one who told me that if I move back in with her (which I didn't have a f***ing choice anyway) that it would be next to impossible to find work.
I've found a lot of jobs I can do, if trained properly, but I don't "qualify for B.S. reasons. Granted it was before my time, but I do find myself wishing I lived in times passe, where all you needed was to talk to some guy saying you need work and BOOM, you haz job. No resume, no applications (of sorts), and NO bureaucratic bull crap to deal with. Especially online applications! They've become such a pain in the @$$ to fill out and take 10 times as long as opposed to a paper one. Though some places sill offer them it's rare to see.
I had an opportunity in FL but circumstances, yet again, ripped my hopes from my hands. Story of my life right there. It's easily effecting my creative flow and I haven' drawing anything in weeks, even months! I haven't written anything either! It makes me want to rip my hair out in frustration. Oh I find inspiration for a lot of things that I WANT to do, like experimenting with drawing chibi versions of my GF characters. To work on the comic again, to work on my stories. Namely my novels like Apocalypse Joe and WasteLand...
Don't think I'm giving in to depression, I'm still fighting it. But I'm getting tired of fighting it. Just once, I'd like to have a few months, better yet years, or pure prosperity! Those who I talk to on a more personal/regular basis know how much I despise having to rely on others to just have a roof over my head. Hell! Call me crazy, but I actually look forward to having my own bills and to be able to pay them with MY own money! To find a career or something to make me self sufficient. And eventually to be able to support a family, probably the deepest desire of my heart more than any other dreams or ambitions I have.
Where I am now I have no friends to hang out with. My closest friend I have lives 5 hours away from here! I'm trying to get connected to a local church, I know they can help and there are a lot of prayer over both me and my mother. God knows we both need it. All the money I had saved up from being in FL has been used up. Groceries, helping my mom with here bills, and just trying to help both of us get ahead! A few weeks or so back my mom's car, out only mode of transport, had a sever mechanical failure. Something wrong with the "Harmonic Balancer" with the steering system went bad and I had to pay for it. She didn't have the money. The was about $460 for repair and another $200 to rent a car so she can go to work! So on top of everything else that drained the last few pennies I had and now I'm in the red again. I just can't seem to catch a break.
This is a bit of a rant and for that I apologize, I just needed to get some stuff off of my chest. So for now I'll be doing more yard work and job searching and I hope that I can find something soon. Otherwise I feel I'll just be suffocating in poverty.
I've been neglectful...
Posted 11 years agoHey all,
This seems to be a reoccurring trend where I'll make a journal post, respond to some comments and replies, and then drop off for a while. I'm sorry I've been a little neglectful of my account. I've just been a little preoccupied with some real life things.
Since my last journal my living situation has change once again. I'm living in Georgia again, though staying with my mom. Though this time under better circumstances. So I'm looking for work again and found a temporary job that starts on the 22nd. It's not much, but it's something at least. I'm hoping I can use the opportunity to get my foot in the door with the company and to get at least a part time position. I'm also looking into the prospect of going back to school also. As many of you know I've had a hard time trying to get on my feet. And although things are still not ideal, I'm on my way at least.
I've had a little time to work on modeling and I'm trying to coax myself back into an art groove. I've been out of artistic practice for months and I'm not happy about it. As a start I'm going to be experimenting with drawing Chibi versions of my Gunpowder Falls characters. The practice could prove useful for my comic.
Well that's about it, hopefully I can give this account better dedication. Catch ya' later!
This seems to be a reoccurring trend where I'll make a journal post, respond to some comments and replies, and then drop off for a while. I'm sorry I've been a little neglectful of my account. I've just been a little preoccupied with some real life things.
Since my last journal my living situation has change once again. I'm living in Georgia again, though staying with my mom. Though this time under better circumstances. So I'm looking for work again and found a temporary job that starts on the 22nd. It's not much, but it's something at least. I'm hoping I can use the opportunity to get my foot in the door with the company and to get at least a part time position. I'm also looking into the prospect of going back to school also. As many of you know I've had a hard time trying to get on my feet. And although things are still not ideal, I'm on my way at least.
I've had a little time to work on modeling and I'm trying to coax myself back into an art groove. I've been out of artistic practice for months and I'm not happy about it. As a start I'm going to be experimenting with drawing Chibi versions of my Gunpowder Falls characters. The practice could prove useful for my comic.
Well that's about it, hopefully I can give this account better dedication. Catch ya' later!
Long Time No See! ^^'
Posted 12 years agoHey all you guys,
I'm sincerely sorry that, yet AGAIN, I have seemed to drop off the face of the planet. Let alone the internet. Life has been throwing me... a lot of curve balls lately and frankly, it's getting to me.
I've been battling a hard depression the past few days and things here in Florida may not be going as well as I thought. For those of you who I talk on the phone regularly to I haven't said much about what I've been going through because of a lack of privacy. Some of you know what I mean by that.
My "family" seems to be leaving me out of a lot of their activities. Granted they have guests coming down a lot and they want to spend time with them, but I'm never invited to any of this. Before I can say anything they're out the do again leaving me behind. I feel segregated and ostracized, they don't talk to me unless it's something that's a "need to know" type of thing. Hell, the CEO of Fuzion treats me more like family than my own two cousins! My uncle tries to talk and relate, at least he's putting effort into it. But I still feeling like they want me gone as soon as possible. Sadly I can't approach them about the issue because there is a guest staying in the house and I have no idea when she is going to leave.
Pardon the vent, but it's something I've been dealing with for a while. I've always seemed to be the black sheep of the family. And again this is how I feel, I don't know where my family actually stands until I can talk to them about the matter.
Then again this could all be a test or trial of some form. There are a few things in motion right now and this might be something I just need to weather out. I recently received some very reliable information that one of the railroads is hiring down here and they need train crew badly. The only thing holding me back is a car, and that's my goal at the moment. I'm saving for a vehicle so that when the railroad calls me I can get there without having to rely on anyone else.
Something else I've been doing is writing articles for model railroading. My first one is just about ready to publish and that has me very excited! One thing to uplift me in the current state of things. I just have to edit a few things here and there and it's ready to send.
Right now I'm looking at the alternative of moving back in with my mother, which I REALLY don't want to do. I'm too darn close to FINALLY making it on my own, but just as before in times past, there's always a wrench thrown into the works. Only time will tell, and God, what path I'm supposed to take. I'm also looking to find a good church family and that's something that's been missing in my life. I found a church that I think will be a good fit. I emailed the senior pastor and I hope I'll hear back from him today. I'm also hoping to be able to go to tomorrow's service.
Anyway I know this is a bit of a rant, but this is why I haven't been online lately. I'm sorry and I'm trying to keep tabs on everyone. I'll try to be more active again, but I still have a lot to sort out down here. Thanks for reading, I really appreciate it.
I'm sincerely sorry that, yet AGAIN, I have seemed to drop off the face of the planet. Let alone the internet. Life has been throwing me... a lot of curve balls lately and frankly, it's getting to me.
I've been battling a hard depression the past few days and things here in Florida may not be going as well as I thought. For those of you who I talk on the phone regularly to I haven't said much about what I've been going through because of a lack of privacy. Some of you know what I mean by that.
My "family" seems to be leaving me out of a lot of their activities. Granted they have guests coming down a lot and they want to spend time with them, but I'm never invited to any of this. Before I can say anything they're out the do again leaving me behind. I feel segregated and ostracized, they don't talk to me unless it's something that's a "need to know" type of thing. Hell, the CEO of Fuzion treats me more like family than my own two cousins! My uncle tries to talk and relate, at least he's putting effort into it. But I still feeling like they want me gone as soon as possible. Sadly I can't approach them about the issue because there is a guest staying in the house and I have no idea when she is going to leave.
Pardon the vent, but it's something I've been dealing with for a while. I've always seemed to be the black sheep of the family. And again this is how I feel, I don't know where my family actually stands until I can talk to them about the matter.
Then again this could all be a test or trial of some form. There are a few things in motion right now and this might be something I just need to weather out. I recently received some very reliable information that one of the railroads is hiring down here and they need train crew badly. The only thing holding me back is a car, and that's my goal at the moment. I'm saving for a vehicle so that when the railroad calls me I can get there without having to rely on anyone else.
Something else I've been doing is writing articles for model railroading. My first one is just about ready to publish and that has me very excited! One thing to uplift me in the current state of things. I just have to edit a few things here and there and it's ready to send.
Right now I'm looking at the alternative of moving back in with my mother, which I REALLY don't want to do. I'm too darn close to FINALLY making it on my own, but just as before in times past, there's always a wrench thrown into the works. Only time will tell, and God, what path I'm supposed to take. I'm also looking to find a good church family and that's something that's been missing in my life. I found a church that I think will be a good fit. I emailed the senior pastor and I hope I'll hear back from him today. I'm also hoping to be able to go to tomorrow's service.
Anyway I know this is a bit of a rant, but this is why I haven't been online lately. I'm sorry and I'm trying to keep tabs on everyone. I'll try to be more active again, but I still have a lot to sort out down here. Thanks for reading, I really appreciate it.
I Steamed into History!!
Posted 12 years agoHey all! As I'm sure you can tell by my recent submissions, I rode the Steam into History train hauled by America's Newest Steam Locomotive, the "York"!
As I believe I mentioned in my previous journal I barely caught a glimpse of the train, and from the rear, while on my up to my aunt's house for the memorial this weekend. Well once I got there I decided to do some digging and low and behold the York and train is based out of New Freedom, PA and it was less than 30 minutes from my aunt's!! So I did some talking with my mom and we were able to work out a time to go. I bought the tickets online so all we had to do was pick them up when we got there.
There are two trains that Steam into History schedules. The most popular being the train to Hanover Junction, where President Lincoln passed through on his way to deliver the famed Gettysburg Address. However that train was sold out the day prior and so I had to book tickets for their other train to Glen Rock, roughly the half way point from New Freedom to Hanover Jct.
Although we almost missed it! My mom got caught up with some issues with her airline boarding pass and we left a half hour later than we wanted to. We got to New Freedom 4 minutes shy of departure and thankfully there was a lady there who had our tickets in hand! So once we took our seats aboard the train both my mom and I let out a sigh of relief. The both of us were looking forward to the trip as it had nearly been a year since we last saw each other. It was good to actually spend some time together.
It's an interesting operation. On runs that go to Hanover the train steams tender first and pulls the train to Hanover Jct. Once there the locomotive will switch to the lead end and haul the train back to New Freedom in a more traditional manner. As for the Glen Rock Train the York pushes the train backwards, as there is no means to run the locomotive around the train. So when we departed Glen Rock the train steamed forward in the traditional sense.
The Glen Rock Train is a 1 hour round trip and an enjoyable one. It was a surprisingly scenic line and the old time atmosphere of the train and ride itself only enhanced the experience. Our Car host was dressed in period clothing and the conductor... somewhat was. He had a lot of Pennsylvania RR memorabilia on him, including his conductor's hat. Which is all well and good, but this is supposed to be the Northern Central Railroad! XD
Although he was packing a Colt model 1861 Army on his hip, so that was cool! I have a photo of him and our Car Host, I'll upload those shortly.
I remember passing through the areas, by road, that the train traveled. My Great Uncle Bill used to live in Glen Rock so I was used to going through the area. Such as the sleepy little town of Railroad, PA. And yes, that IS the town's actual name. I had also been to New Freedom a long long time ago when I was much younger. Things had changed so much in the 10+ years it has been since I was last there. All those towns used to be tired and sleepy, run down even. The York replica and the Steam into History train is more than just another train ride and tourist attraction. This train alone has boosted the entire economy of the local area! Buildings that were once abandoned are now being refurbished and renovated! Inns, hotels, and Bed & Breakfasts are opening up all over the place! And many of them right by the tracks too! Steam into History has been running the York and train since July of this year, 2013 and every train has either been sold out or nearly full! And My trip to ride was no different! And for $20 a person it's a fantastic deal!! This one attraction is a blessing to the area and a Godsend for the historical and railroad community.
And I would like to give a sincere Thank You to all those there who make that operation possible. For they are a non-profit organization run by volunteers! If you ever find yourself to be in the New Freedom area, PLEASE take the time to visit Steam into History and the York replica! Take a rid on it if you can!
And before I draw this journal to a close, here are some videos I uploaded onto YouTube. Apologies for the lack of quality, I don't have the best camera. But I'm sure you will enjoy the clips all the same!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dM2y1Lyp-84
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZm6p550_bc
Gotta' LOVE that whistle!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-rDqinQ1AU
As I believe I mentioned in my previous journal I barely caught a glimpse of the train, and from the rear, while on my up to my aunt's house for the memorial this weekend. Well once I got there I decided to do some digging and low and behold the York and train is based out of New Freedom, PA and it was less than 30 minutes from my aunt's!! So I did some talking with my mom and we were able to work out a time to go. I bought the tickets online so all we had to do was pick them up when we got there.
There are two trains that Steam into History schedules. The most popular being the train to Hanover Junction, where President Lincoln passed through on his way to deliver the famed Gettysburg Address. However that train was sold out the day prior and so I had to book tickets for their other train to Glen Rock, roughly the half way point from New Freedom to Hanover Jct.
Although we almost missed it! My mom got caught up with some issues with her airline boarding pass and we left a half hour later than we wanted to. We got to New Freedom 4 minutes shy of departure and thankfully there was a lady there who had our tickets in hand! So once we took our seats aboard the train both my mom and I let out a sigh of relief. The both of us were looking forward to the trip as it had nearly been a year since we last saw each other. It was good to actually spend some time together.
It's an interesting operation. On runs that go to Hanover the train steams tender first and pulls the train to Hanover Jct. Once there the locomotive will switch to the lead end and haul the train back to New Freedom in a more traditional manner. As for the Glen Rock Train the York pushes the train backwards, as there is no means to run the locomotive around the train. So when we departed Glen Rock the train steamed forward in the traditional sense.
The Glen Rock Train is a 1 hour round trip and an enjoyable one. It was a surprisingly scenic line and the old time atmosphere of the train and ride itself only enhanced the experience. Our Car host was dressed in period clothing and the conductor... somewhat was. He had a lot of Pennsylvania RR memorabilia on him, including his conductor's hat. Which is all well and good, but this is supposed to be the Northern Central Railroad! XD
Although he was packing a Colt model 1861 Army on his hip, so that was cool! I have a photo of him and our Car Host, I'll upload those shortly.
I remember passing through the areas, by road, that the train traveled. My Great Uncle Bill used to live in Glen Rock so I was used to going through the area. Such as the sleepy little town of Railroad, PA. And yes, that IS the town's actual name. I had also been to New Freedom a long long time ago when I was much younger. Things had changed so much in the 10+ years it has been since I was last there. All those towns used to be tired and sleepy, run down even. The York replica and the Steam into History train is more than just another train ride and tourist attraction. This train alone has boosted the entire economy of the local area! Buildings that were once abandoned are now being refurbished and renovated! Inns, hotels, and Bed & Breakfasts are opening up all over the place! And many of them right by the tracks too! Steam into History has been running the York and train since July of this year, 2013 and every train has either been sold out or nearly full! And My trip to ride was no different! And for $20 a person it's a fantastic deal!! This one attraction is a blessing to the area and a Godsend for the historical and railroad community.
And I would like to give a sincere Thank You to all those there who make that operation possible. For they are a non-profit organization run by volunteers! If you ever find yourself to be in the New Freedom area, PLEASE take the time to visit Steam into History and the York replica! Take a rid on it if you can!
And before I draw this journal to a close, here are some videos I uploaded onto YouTube. Apologies for the lack of quality, I don't have the best camera. But I'm sure you will enjoy the clips all the same!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dM2y1Lyp-84
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZm6p550_bc
Gotta' LOVE that whistle!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-rDqinQ1AU
My Grandfather's Memorial
Posted 12 years agoHey all, sorry it has yet again been a long time since I last filled anyone in on what's been going on in my life.
The last journal I posted was when I was still in Indiana and I lament to say that I did not get my CDL. Before going to IN I had heard bad rumors about the C.R. England Co, but I was only going to get my CDL and then find another trucking company to go with. The school ended up treating me and the rest of my class more like cattle rather than students. On my last try at the CDL test I was doing just fine on the driving course and made a small mistake when changing gears which caused me to coast just a bit too far. (I forgot to bring the gear selector up when switching from 4th to 5th for those interested.) So the company sent back to GA. I tried to find another school to go with, but nothing was presenting itself in the small window of time I had. So in desperation I called up my Uncle to see if he could help me out somehow. Fortunately he and two of my cousins were able to . So now I'm Living in St. Augustine, FL!
Not only did they put a roof over my head, but also gave me a job at the new company they're all working for!! I'm technically part time and "on call", but because business is picking up I've had more hours. It was something I wasn't expecting when my uncle called me back before the move.
So I've been working for the past 2 and a half weeks. The company is called Fuzion Vapor and they make the flavor "juice" that can be put into electronic cigarettes. They have a multitude of flavors and what I do is label the bottles, fill them with the specific flavor, cap, and package them. It's not uncommon for me to work about 1,000 bottles in one day! So now I finally have a cash flow going into my pockets. I'm now debating on still perusing the trucking career. At the time it seemed like a great idea, but after what happened in IN I'm not sure if I want to be driving 90% of the time I'm awake. That and I've been on the move without being able to stay anywhere for a period of time. In short it just seems stable, at least in terms of staying in one place for any length of time. And I know that's part of the job, but still. Again, I haven't totally pushed that career aside and I still would like to get a CDL. It's a VERY good thing to have!
My uncle had suggested working for the county or state. He used to work for the county when we all still lived in MD. According to him I could get my CDL through that avenue. He's going to talk to some of his old co-workers and see if he can get some more information.
Now, on a more somber note, I'm in PA and at my aunt's house. Our family is finally having my grandfather's memorial this Saturday. It will be the first time all the family will be all together. It'll be nice and a good time. At noon tomorrow we're all going to this golf course to play a round of golf. My grandfather absolutely LOVED to golf and this was one of his favorite places to do so and it's where we're going to spread his ashes. After that we'll all have a nice dinner and just general family time.
Me and my uncle left FL the morning of my birthday, funny enough!! I'm now 26 years old! While on our way up to my aunt's in Red Lion we passed through Glen Rock. It's where my great uncle Bill used to live. Well we came across a railroad crossing and just before we did both my uncle and I heard and odd noise. It was obviously a train... but the sound was... different. I personally thought it was flange squeal, so as we passed over the tracks I looked for the track to see the train. What I saw made me squee like I've never don before. Although I didn't get a perfect view of the train, the best I could see was the last car. But what I saw was a big balloon stack and a red strap iron pilot! IT WAS THE YORK!!!
extras.mnginteractive.com/live…
We had just missed it rolling through the crossing so I only got to see the tail end of the train as it lumbered by. My uncle was having a field day as to how I reacted. To him it's just another train, but trains aren't his thing and I respect him for that. But then I found out how close the Steam Into History ride is from my aunt's place. So I'm hoping that before I head back to Florida I can find a way of riding it! It's less than 30 minutes away and the fare prices are fantastic for a 2.5 hour excursion from New Freedom to Hanover Jct. I'm hoping to catch one of the scheduled trains on Sunday. That have a few for today, Friday, but they're only to Glen Rock and that's a one hour round trip. So I'm keeping an eye out for other schedules between tomorrow and when we leave next week. But even though I only caught a glimpse of the York it was still a divine birthday gift from above.
Well, that about brings things up to speed with where I am right now. Again, sorry I haven't kept in better contact. Thanks for watching and I'll catch you all later!
The last journal I posted was when I was still in Indiana and I lament to say that I did not get my CDL. Before going to IN I had heard bad rumors about the C.R. England Co, but I was only going to get my CDL and then find another trucking company to go with. The school ended up treating me and the rest of my class more like cattle rather than students. On my last try at the CDL test I was doing just fine on the driving course and made a small mistake when changing gears which caused me to coast just a bit too far. (I forgot to bring the gear selector up when switching from 4th to 5th for those interested.) So the company sent back to GA. I tried to find another school to go with, but nothing was presenting itself in the small window of time I had. So in desperation I called up my Uncle to see if he could help me out somehow. Fortunately he and two of my cousins were able to . So now I'm Living in St. Augustine, FL!
Not only did they put a roof over my head, but also gave me a job at the new company they're all working for!! I'm technically part time and "on call", but because business is picking up I've had more hours. It was something I wasn't expecting when my uncle called me back before the move.
So I've been working for the past 2 and a half weeks. The company is called Fuzion Vapor and they make the flavor "juice" that can be put into electronic cigarettes. They have a multitude of flavors and what I do is label the bottles, fill them with the specific flavor, cap, and package them. It's not uncommon for me to work about 1,000 bottles in one day! So now I finally have a cash flow going into my pockets. I'm now debating on still perusing the trucking career. At the time it seemed like a great idea, but after what happened in IN I'm not sure if I want to be driving 90% of the time I'm awake. That and I've been on the move without being able to stay anywhere for a period of time. In short it just seems stable, at least in terms of staying in one place for any length of time. And I know that's part of the job, but still. Again, I haven't totally pushed that career aside and I still would like to get a CDL. It's a VERY good thing to have!
My uncle had suggested working for the county or state. He used to work for the county when we all still lived in MD. According to him I could get my CDL through that avenue. He's going to talk to some of his old co-workers and see if he can get some more information.
Now, on a more somber note, I'm in PA and at my aunt's house. Our family is finally having my grandfather's memorial this Saturday. It will be the first time all the family will be all together. It'll be nice and a good time. At noon tomorrow we're all going to this golf course to play a round of golf. My grandfather absolutely LOVED to golf and this was one of his favorite places to do so and it's where we're going to spread his ashes. After that we'll all have a nice dinner and just general family time.
Me and my uncle left FL the morning of my birthday, funny enough!! I'm now 26 years old! While on our way up to my aunt's in Red Lion we passed through Glen Rock. It's where my great uncle Bill used to live. Well we came across a railroad crossing and just before we did both my uncle and I heard and odd noise. It was obviously a train... but the sound was... different. I personally thought it was flange squeal, so as we passed over the tracks I looked for the track to see the train. What I saw made me squee like I've never don before. Although I didn't get a perfect view of the train, the best I could see was the last car. But what I saw was a big balloon stack and a red strap iron pilot! IT WAS THE YORK!!!
extras.mnginteractive.com/live…
We had just missed it rolling through the crossing so I only got to see the tail end of the train as it lumbered by. My uncle was having a field day as to how I reacted. To him it's just another train, but trains aren't his thing and I respect him for that. But then I found out how close the Steam Into History ride is from my aunt's place. So I'm hoping that before I head back to Florida I can find a way of riding it! It's less than 30 minutes away and the fare prices are fantastic for a 2.5 hour excursion from New Freedom to Hanover Jct. I'm hoping to catch one of the scheduled trains on Sunday. That have a few for today, Friday, but they're only to Glen Rock and that's a one hour round trip. So I'm keeping an eye out for other schedules between tomorrow and when we leave next week. But even though I only caught a glimpse of the York it was still a divine birthday gift from above.
Well, that about brings things up to speed with where I am right now. Again, sorry I haven't kept in better contact. Thanks for watching and I'll catch you all later!
Study, Study, Study!!
Posted 12 years agoHey all! I know it's been a while, not that it's a trend or anything.
Well I'm about to start my 3rd week of CDL school. And I still have a ways to go, but I've already been able to take a truck out on the road and I'm learning to shift the gears and how to back a semi into a dock or parking. And that's just the tip of the iceberg.
I have a full schedule, getting up at 4 am and going to be at 8 pm. Lots of things to learn and memorize. And class eats up my schedule, but it's all beneficial. It's preparing me for when I get out on the open road myself.
And someone has already given me a nickname, "Red Irish"!
Because to one of the guys here I was badly sunburned a few days ago.... and I apparently look like an Irish person. Whether or not that becomes my CB handle is still left up to debate. ^^;
I wish I could say more, but I'm tired so I'm gonna go sleep. Catch you all later!
Well I'm about to start my 3rd week of CDL school. And I still have a ways to go, but I've already been able to take a truck out on the road and I'm learning to shift the gears and how to back a semi into a dock or parking. And that's just the tip of the iceberg.
I have a full schedule, getting up at 4 am and going to be at 8 pm. Lots of things to learn and memorize. And class eats up my schedule, but it's all beneficial. It's preparing me for when I get out on the open road myself.
And someone has already given me a nickname, "Red Irish"!
Because to one of the guys here I was badly sunburned a few days ago.... and I apparently look like an Irish person. Whether or not that becomes my CB handle is still left up to debate. ^^;
I wish I could say more, but I'm tired so I'm gonna go sleep. Catch you all later!
Beginning a new career!
Posted 12 years agoOk, been a while since my last journal.
Well first off, getting on with PAM didn't quite work out. Unfortunately there was a minor technicality kept me from getting on board with them. That actually got me kind of down because I was REALLY looking forward to going to trucking school!
Well it has been a few weeks since all that and I've been putting more applications here and there. And then I put one in for C.R. England last week. I finally got to talk with some of their representatives the past few days and... well... Trucking School starts on Aug. 12th!!
So now I am FINALLY on my way!! The school should be 3 weeks long and after that I get two months paid training. I'll have to work for the company for 9 months to a year to fulfill my obligation to them for paying my way through school.
After so many months the job offers full benefits and pays well, I can make up to $50 to $60k a year! It will still be a little while before I get to that point, but still It's a better paying job that I didn't have prior.
In other news I got to go to the Eagle Point Railroad in Tennessee this past Sunday. I went there to helps a friend build a storage shed for the locomotive he's building in 7.5" gauge. Off an on the past few weeks he's been talking to me about Live Steam, which I've had a strong interest in since about 2004. However I never thought I could afford such and extreme form of model railroading. Though he did show me some pretty surprising numbers when it comes to cost.
For $60 a year I can have access to the Eagle Point railroad and its club equipment! Where as I would putting down, sparingly, $200 for a single small scale locomotive! Hmmm... one engine in small scale... VS an entire railroad. Yeah... that's a real tough choice! So needless to say, I am venturing out into 7.5" gauge live steam, hence my recent submission with my little 2-4-0, "Emma".
Now no worries! I'm not scrapping my small scale modeling. I still full well intent to continue working in On20 and On30. I'm still quite attached to those scales/gauges, but I may be focusing more on 7.5" gauge Live Steam.
I did take some pictures while at Eagle Point and I'll get to posting them at some point. Anyway, that's all for now. Thanks for all your support!
Well first off, getting on with PAM didn't quite work out. Unfortunately there was a minor technicality kept me from getting on board with them. That actually got me kind of down because I was REALLY looking forward to going to trucking school!
Well it has been a few weeks since all that and I've been putting more applications here and there. And then I put one in for C.R. England last week. I finally got to talk with some of their representatives the past few days and... well... Trucking School starts on Aug. 12th!!
So now I am FINALLY on my way!! The school should be 3 weeks long and after that I get two months paid training. I'll have to work for the company for 9 months to a year to fulfill my obligation to them for paying my way through school.
After so many months the job offers full benefits and pays well, I can make up to $50 to $60k a year! It will still be a little while before I get to that point, but still It's a better paying job that I didn't have prior.
In other news I got to go to the Eagle Point Railroad in Tennessee this past Sunday. I went there to helps a friend build a storage shed for the locomotive he's building in 7.5" gauge. Off an on the past few weeks he's been talking to me about Live Steam, which I've had a strong interest in since about 2004. However I never thought I could afford such and extreme form of model railroading. Though he did show me some pretty surprising numbers when it comes to cost.
For $60 a year I can have access to the Eagle Point railroad and its club equipment! Where as I would putting down, sparingly, $200 for a single small scale locomotive! Hmmm... one engine in small scale... VS an entire railroad. Yeah... that's a real tough choice! So needless to say, I am venturing out into 7.5" gauge live steam, hence my recent submission with my little 2-4-0, "Emma".
Now no worries! I'm not scrapping my small scale modeling. I still full well intent to continue working in On20 and On30. I'm still quite attached to those scales/gauges, but I may be focusing more on 7.5" gauge Live Steam.
I did take some pictures while at Eagle Point and I'll get to posting them at some point. Anyway, that's all for now. Thanks for all your support!
I started a group!! *Please Read*
Posted 12 years agoHey all, how's it going!
Anyway, for all of you watchers who are Deviant Art users also, I started a new group on DA. The FRU, or the Furry Railroader's Union!
The group intention is to have a safe, fun place for furs to gather, talk, share, and fellowship in their common interest in trains and railroading. Here's a link so check it out!
http://the-fru.deviantart.com/
The FRU is still in its infancy, but I certainly hope it will grow into something awesome! And it can. So if you're a DA user and are a fur, and/or love trains and railroading AND arts about them! Then please be sure to join!
Thanks again! Catch ya' later!
Anyway, for all of you watchers who are Deviant Art users also, I started a new group on DA. The FRU, or the Furry Railroader's Union!
The group intention is to have a safe, fun place for furs to gather, talk, share, and fellowship in their common interest in trains and railroading. Here's a link so check it out!
http://the-fru.deviantart.com/
The FRU is still in its infancy, but I certainly hope it will grow into something awesome! And it can. So if you're a DA user and are a fur, and/or love trains and railroading AND arts about them! Then please be sure to join!
Thanks again! Catch ya' later!
