Fill in the blank. My oldest friend, (from 1969), asked, "Steve, why do you do model railroading if it is so hard with so many problems"? For me, Model Railroading is 'Problems and Solutions': '*Knowing there will be 'Problems and Confident there will be Solutions*'. Weather it is a car that derails at *that* particular turnout only in that direction or a DCC loco that has gone crazy we know we can solve it. Okay, yes, there are problems with solutions that arn't worth it but at least we delt with it. Today for me it was mixing just the right amount of latex paints to get a nice tan paint for the ground. Did I mention I'm almost color blind? With, training from my mother (decades ago), and feedback from my wife several times an hour I was able to determine just the right ratios. What is Model Railroading to you?
Oh yes, it is FUN. For me it is an escape from the lunacy all around us, every day. When I get started on any activity, the rest of the world simply disappears. I can engage my mind in tasks which are positive for myself and of a constructive outcome.
Definitely fun. It's not dependent on weather, viruses, election outcomes, the price of food, annoying neighbors, and other general aggravations out there. When I'm doing model rairoad activities, I'm in my bubble and nothing else matters. Very Zen - I even learn new stuff and new skills and gain self-confidence. All while having fun!
Hmmm!! Unfortunately what you mention is my reason to find it lacking. Plus a few more. But I still found it a FUN part of life. Well maybe the second most fun part.
Boy - big question! choose you fav: a learning experience respite from the rest of the world not busywork ...more probably learning experience - How much have you learned about different disciplines? Electronics, Mechanical, Carpentry, Art, Operation, Software, Chemistry ... respite - wife has to come and find me when dinner/lunch is ready. Usually not the case if I am in the house not MRR'n busywork - you actually get stuff done, usually without much hoop jumping. Oh, and FUN Later
