No - I haven't disappeared!!

Been quite awhile since I posted but that doesn't mean there hasn't been progress.  I've been pretty short on layout time recently but I have managed to get the control panel roughed in, with all the control switches:

It still needs a little work to get it to the finished product but it is a great addition and makes controlling the routes MUCH easier!  The close up below shows the red/green lights on the track schematic that indicate which route is open.  Simple to just throw a switch as a loco is making its way around the layout.

Speaking of locos - here's the latest addition.  Thanks to Sheila for my Father's Day present of the infamous "Vomit Bonnet"!!!

Finally, Sheila & I took a weekend getaway to New Bern, NC & I managed to sneak in a little 1:1 scale train view.  Here's the benefit of that quick stop:

Those stairs were awfully tempting but I opted to avoid a trespassing charge!

Stay tuned, more to come later on down the road!