Trains, trains and (more) trains

One of the best-kept secrets in Woodstock is a model train store on Route 176, just east of Route 47. You have probably seen St. Aubin Nursery on the north side of the road as you've flown back and forth along there, but did you know about St. Aubin Trains?

I met the sales manager, Matt Drennan, recently at the model train display in Huntley at Sun City. The railroad club there (membership limited to Sun City residents; doggone it!) has a large indoor display and an even larger outdoor display of operating trains. (Click on the image to enlarge it; then click on the Back button on your browser to come back here.)

Do you know what "garden railroading" is? It's an train lay-out in your yard. Just imagine all the fun your grandkids will have with it, if you let them play with it. Stop by St. Aubin Trains at 11100 Route 176, Woodstock. Got questions? Call Matt at 815.334.9100 and visit www.staubintrains.com/

Here's an idea for your summer vacation. Instead of burning through gallons of $4.00 gasoline, why not set off on a family adventure to create a living example of family entertainment? Gather up the kids and grandkids and build a train lay-out. Do it outdoors or indoors, or both.