2009?

With the year winding down you'd think I'd have the foresight to choose or alter a billboard that will keep my layout in the present. But no. I suspect I was just happy enough to find a decent billboard via Google, it didn't even occur to me at that moment. Furthermore, my search parameters were " Iowa Billboard"; after countless clicks I'd forgotten I altered the search to just " billboards". The end result - I used a billboard set in 2009 for a Honda dealer in New Jersey, not Iowa.

I have no intention of changing it anytime soon. If nothing else, it'll serve as a reminder to look before I hit print. Eventually I'll find a new one. But it got me thinking, maybe I want to set my layout permanently in 2009. It's common practice in model railroading; set the scene and stick to it. Many modelers find it useful for pinning down things like signage, vehicles, motive power...

I don't think that's were I'm going with this layout. I like the idea of being completely flexible with what I can model. Besides, I consider this particular layout to be an experiment, maybe for something bigger down the road.

Eric Brooman's layout, the Utah Belt, has always been appealing for its up to date setting. As time goes by Eric updates his rolling stock and roster according to the present date.

So the billboard stays for now, at least for another 12 days or so.