What is this thing called railfanning?

Webster, does not define it, but I do, in a loose sense:  The art of watching railroads in action and recording their activities, in written word and photos.  In a more personal nature, I call it a lifelong passion.

So what is it, about this thing called railfanning?  To me, the sight of watching BIG, industrial machines do their daily chores is fascinating.  You know, BIG things doing their daily jobs, such as earthmoving equipment, ships, airplanes, trains, semi-trucks and stuff like that is enough to make my blood boil.

I inherited my love of trains from my dad, just as he inherited his love of trains from his father.  I guess it runs in the family.  My youngest brother, Paul, likes trains, my other brother Michael is indifferent to railfanning, although mildly interested, and he will even sometimes accompany me by the tracks.  Me?  I like trains!

I've always been a history buff, and railroads have played an instrumental part in the development of our great nation.  History aside, watching trains can be just plain fascinating.  I love to jump in my truck, get out of town, relax, and just observe the day-to-day operations of a railroad.  

I can't really put my finger on exactly what has fascinated my about trains for all these years.  Perhaps, I'll never know...

One thing that I do know is that, like cancer, when railfanning gets into your blood, you can't get rid of it.  Yeah, I've been addicted to it for 40-something years.  I've been doing it longer than I can remember.

Relax and enjoy the ride.