07-03-2011, 11:45 PM
Galen, this is certainly an interesting question, and I see no harm in thinking about it. Although I am an NMRA member, I have no idea what it takes to be an MMR. I've never been interested, mainly because my modeling is for my own enjoyment. I do admit that I get satisfaction out of having my work admired here at Big Blue. I'll also be on the Houston Layout tour this fall. But other than that, I have no desire to get further recognition. Pursuing the MMR thing seems like it would turn the hobby into a chore, making me feel that I had to do certain things when perhaps I didn't really want to.
My mention in the other thread that I don't think I am a model railroader yet - just my feeling. Until I have completely finished a scene and made it look realistic, I just don't feel I am in the same league as some of the accomplished modelers here. I certainly don't use that to judge others. It is only my self-imposed criteria. I have my own goals for my layout, and achieving those goals is what will qualify me as a model railroader.
Back to the question: This is just my opinion, but it feels like someone with the MMR title should have quite a few years in the hobby. I'm not prepared to throw a number out though. The term "seasoned veteran" comes to mind. Perhaps achieving all the criteria for MMR practically guarantees that? That it takes many years to complete all the requirements?
My mention in the other thread that I don't think I am a model railroader yet - just my feeling. Until I have completely finished a scene and made it look realistic, I just don't feel I am in the same league as some of the accomplished modelers here. I certainly don't use that to judge others. It is only my self-imposed criteria. I have my own goals for my layout, and achieving those goals is what will qualify me as a model railroader.
Back to the question: This is just my opinion, but it feels like someone with the MMR title should have quite a few years in the hobby. I'm not prepared to throw a number out though. The term "seasoned veteran" comes to mind. Perhaps achieving all the criteria for MMR practically guarantees that? That it takes many years to complete all the requirements?