I've just spent a few N.Y. Eve hours watching Youtube videos of steam trains...especially a

superb collection "Steam Trains at Speed" ("Speed to the West") with 3million plus hits! 

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I thank heaven for the thrill of the steam that remains,

Once a boy - now a man, but still waving at trains.

As each image passes, so does my past,

With the toot of a whistle and the power-proud blast.

 

The gleam of the paintwork and the smell of hot oil

Bring back the memories that time cannot spoil;

On station platforms and bridges - or from windswept lanes,

I stand locked in time - still waving at trains.

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Happy New Year to you all!