Bob,
I won't argue that that physical ability goes downhill with age. Let's face it, our physical peak is probably in our early 20's. Hopefully knowledge and skill can make up for the loss in physical ability for awhile. I model in S because the smaller scales are too small. When I took a lighting course some years ago, I learned that after your 20's, the light required for minimal seeing doubles every decade. I used to build models with just my regular glasses, then came taking them off, which led to bifocals and then trifocals, and adding an optivisor. Now I even have a pair of glasses with the bifocals on the top and the bottom. They're great for working underneath the layout. I have some arthritis in my hands, but I think I can still build better models than I could 10 years ago. I have some musician friends that had carpel tunnel surgery on both hands and can still play well. But at some point we will all stop. You bring up the good point of people waiting until they retire before building a layout. You never know what's in your future, so do something now. You can get a lot done even if you only spend a few minutes a day. I remember reading a comment by a famous model railroader on how he accomplished so much. He said he got up an hour earlier than he had to and worked at his modeling at the start of the day. A different approach than the usual evenings. I know I've accomplished the most when I tried to do something every day, even if for a few minutes. Sometimes lowering your living standards and retiring earlier is a better approach, including for your health. (Just my opinion.) Actually, visiting with other model railroaders and going to a convention or train meet can act like a little blue pill for model railroading. Dave Heine Easton, PA From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Bob Werre Sent: Wednesday, June 20, 2012 12:12 PM To: [email protected] Subject: Re: {S-Scale List} redoing older models Not to counter what Dave is saying, but there comes a time when there's less energy, less time, and dimmer eyes. At that point it can become fustrating, because you can't model as good as in the past. At that point you have the choice of having someone else complete your models, you accept lesser work from yourself or you give up with a closet full of treasures. I've had several really close friends who have put off building their dream layout till they retire. Much of that is a reasonable thing--bigger retirement home, maybe a long distance move, better technology, less work pressure or maybe one of the kids promised to help. However, with the retirement age being increased your stamina will not--and as far as I know they don't make a little blue pill for RRing! Bob Werre PhotoTraxx
