Quote from: Tank on March 22, 2024, 02:16:59 PMThere really wasn't. 

Some weeks on, I've just had a minor epiphany on this. I always used to browse the forum on desktop regardless of device. Now it won't return the desktop version on mobile, hence my having not realised the experience used to been the same on mobile! 

13 Guests at once! A new record. I do hope my readers are enjoying these tales.

As they walked on, the only sounds were the crunch of their footsteps on the fresh snow and the whisper of the falling snowflakes. It was a peaceful, serene moment, a perfect backdrop for Eli to process her thoughts and emotions.

The moonlight played on the snow in a magical way. It cast a soft, silvery glow over the snow-covered landscape, making the snowflakes sparkle like a million tiny diamonds scattered across the ground. The light reflected off the smooth surfaces, creating a mesmerising pattern of light and shadow. The moonshine also enhanced the serene beauty of the winter night, making the snow appear even more pristine and untouched. It was a breathtaking sight, one that added a touch of enchantment to the winter landscape.

As Eli strolled alongside Giles through the snow-covered castle gardens, her thoughts raced with anticipation. Giles, once merely a friend and business client, now occupied her mind as a potential life partner. His admirable perseverance during the crisis, facing adversity head-on to steer his business back to stability, was endearing—a testament to his character. Eli greatly admired his adaptability, which shone through as he skillfully navigated the business through the crisis, demonstrating flexibility and resilience—traits she also valued in a partner. Moreover, Giles conducted business with unwavering integrity, valuing honesty, transparency, and accountability—all qualities Eli cherished.

Leadership skills came next. Giles was not solely focused on personal success; he cared deeply about his business partners' growth and well-being. Giles took young women seriously. He listened to their ideas, valued their contributions, and treated them with the same respect he afforded everyone else. He valued Sylvie's and Angela's input, embodying his high regard for others. Appointing Amanda as office manager showcased his trust in their capabilities. Eli found his empowering and trusting leadership style irresistibly attractive.

As they continued their walk, their boots sinking into the deep snow its crunch under their feet the only sound in the serene garden, Eli found herself more and more drawn to Giles. Not just for his business acumen but for the man he was—resilient, determined, respectful, and full of integrity. She realised he was not just a man who could run a successful business but also someone who could be a wonderful life partner.

Eli's gaze shifted downward, drawn to a tiny creature darting between snow-covered plants. There it was: a mouse, its fur a muted grey against the pristine ground. It moved with cautious steps, whiskers twitching, eyes alert.

The mouse's path traced delicate arcs, weaving through the plants. It paused, its tiny paws brushing the snowflakes aside. What treasure lay hidden there? Perhaps a seed, forgotten by summer's warmth, now cradled in icy soil.

Giles leaned closer, his curiosity piqued. "Remarkable", he murmured. "To think they survive in this frozen world, finding sustenance where we see only barrenness."

Eli nodded, her heart echoing the mouse's determination. In this wintry realm, survival demanded resourcefulness—the ability to glean life from the seemingly lifeless. The mouse embodied resilience, reminding her once more of the man by her side.

Despite the cold, there was a warmth between them, a shared understanding that transcended words. As they walked gloved hand in gloved hand through the snow-covered garden, they found comfort in each other's presence, their bond deepening with each step they took. It was a walk they would always remember, a moment of tranquility amidst the whirlwind of emotions and revelations. It was a testament to their connection, a moment that encapsulated the complexities of their relationship.

A Beatles train like Hornby have released in OO 

Quote from: Newportnobby on Yesterday at 09:56:16 AM

Quote from: Trainfish on April 25, 2024, 12:49:20 AMThe bottom line is that the work I and others do still needs to be done and they will have to use contractors to do it which will cost them more but what do I know eh?

Can you get to the top of the contractors list and then charge them more than if you were employed by them?

I have my first consultation meeting on Wednesday and it is an avenue to explore. I'm just not sure it's an avenue I want to drive down right now 

Quote from: jpendle on April 25, 2024, 10:49:46 PMHopefully it'll be at my local Post Office tomorrow, we'll see.
John P

And they've arrived and look none the worse for their extended travels.

I hesitate to add a smiley as this is still the unhappy thread. 

John P

No, I had not asked for one, but they knew it was a Motability car and never mentioned needing to ask for one - as the user is disabled, it seems rather odd not to provide one by default. They certainly could have mentioned it when the car was booked in.

Stupidly, it turns out that they do not provide courtesy cars, but hire cars for Motability users - and will not provide them where the car in in for less than 48 hours!

Oh go on the, can't do any harm:

Locomotive: LNER V1/3 (big gap in N for a large LNER passenger tank, and already exists in 4mm)

Carriage: Ideally NER clerestory non-corridor as also used in Scotland and East Anglia. At a push a generic Bain one which could also be issued in midland/LMS livery.

Wagon: really can't think of any.

Relivery: Nope.

Sounds like you had better luck than John Grant (obscure film reference there!)

Hmm, tough one...

Loco: LMS Garrett
Coach: Not sure what it's called, the type of coach used in push-pull trains, with a driver's cab. In LMS livery.
Wagon: no idea, haven't researched freight yet