Introduction

    The CC&M (Cinnamon Celeste & Max) Railroad (HO Scale) started when Woodland Scenics released the lightweight layout kit for the Grand Valley.

    This is Celeste’s first attempt at building a layout, while I have built several layouts and HO modules.

    From the Woodland Scenics description: “Grand Valley is a complete HO scale layout in a box. It contains all the SubTerrain, Terrain and Landscaping materials a modeler needs to build a 4 x 8-foot layout from the base to the trees. The only other items you'll need are the track, train, and buildings.”

    My comment - well almost complete, however, there are several other items required as discussed later overall an excellent kit.

    We also purchased the City & Industry HO Bldg Set, which as described by Woodland Scenics as “A collection of 15 individual architecturally-detailed HO scale building kits. The kit includes more than 160 accessories and 130 Dry Tranfer Decals. Though created to complement the Grand Valley Lightweight Layout Kit, these buildings will create an authentic city environment on any layout.”

    This is an excellent collection of DPM models and additions. Only thing missing is a water tower for the town. Most small towns have a water tower. Therefore I bought a water tower kit.

    Finally we purchased HO Scale Track Pack for Grand Valley, which once again as described by Woodland Scenics as “Contains enough Atlas HO Code 83 (brown ties - nickel silver rail) track to complete the 4x8-foot Grand Valley layout track plan. For modelers of all skill levels, the prototypical fine brown ties and nickel silver rail looks realistic and is reliable. Easy to use and made by one of the leading manufacturers of model railroad track.”

    This was just the right amount without any track plan modifications; however, we did modify the track plan and therefore require additional track, but I wouldn’t be a model railroader if I didn’t change the track plan.

    We also purchased the additional tools and supplies needed to build the layout as listed in the instruction book including extra knife blades and glue sticks.