Just what the doctor ordered…

I almost didn't go... 'it's a long way / I'm tired / I'm poorly / I only went on Wednesday' - but I'm so glad I did for whilst it was no rest cure, it has certainly helped me with my mental health, my resilience and my self esteem...

The life of a gigging model railway builder is lonely - and with a busy family home life with a few challenges more than the average I certainly do feel it more than perhaps if I still went to work for a multi-national pharmaceutical company...

Walking into the hall at Porthmadog and greeted with a smile and wave from old and great friend Charlie was just right to settle me in and relax. A gentle preamble about and some kind souls recognising and talking with me - all very good for my self esteem - and the quality of the modelling and pace of the atmosphere just right for a recharging of the resilience battery. 

I’ve shared some photos below, but the exhibition was for me so much more than seeing some nice model railways… a nudge to remember what makes me who I am, and that others value that…

'Bangor' by Charles Insley - 009

Minffordd by David and Rob Waller - 00/009

Artists Valley by Craig Owen (and probably Paul Bambrick?) - 00

Ynys Atgofion by John Roberts - NG7

Tan-y-bwlch by Nigel Smith - 009

Minffordd by the Ffestiniog Railway - 12" to the foot.

I also met fellow modeller Matt Owen for the first time - we’ve exchanged emails and messages for years but finally made it to a show together. Great to meet you Matt. John Roberts who was exhibiting a part built layout reminded me of our email conversations during the pandemic - a rather lovely conversation followed. I bumped into Harry Saville, friend and customer as well as a quick hello with Rob Waller who was operating otherwise I’d have had more of a chat too… as mentioned Charlie, who I probably bent the ear of for far too long and then John Wooden too… finally Martin Jones who has been an avid support for many years, said hello as I was wandering off for some lunch with Matt and lovely to meet in person.

I don’t think a narrow gauge layout will follow - despite the inspiration - but certainly well worth going. On the way home I stopped into Minffordd to see Lilla with the Bachmann and Peco wagons, with Paul a Lewin being interviewed on camera for some such… onwards the drive home had the odd spirited moment where the Up! entertained - all in all… just what the doctor ordered.

Until next time, more soon…

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