Dunks

To accurately portray a suburban Boston scene, I had to figure out how to build a Dunkin Donuts.  Those things are within throwing distance of each other out there.  I thought about scratchbuilding this, but then I found the Walthers DQ Grill and Chill kit.  With a few modifications, and an accurate paint job, it more than fit the bill.  Most of these are similar but not completely standardized - so all I had to do was keep it within the prevalent style.  

I also built the Walthers Glover Park Hardware kit to be a small plaza building.  I installed a styrene partition down the center so I can divide it into two stores - a package store and something else. 

Two steps forward, one step back: we've had a really cold stretch of winter here, and my layout suffered more instances than usual of parts of flex track warping.  I read that it has to do with the temperature and humidity in the basement and how the wood and homasote shift.  I tried to build in some gaps when I laid the track but I guess it wasn't enough.  Rather than start cutting track, I'm going to see how soon it reverts back to shape.

Lessons learned:

1. Having some scrap styrene around is handy.  When you need to add something to a kit, like a partition, or a sign.
2. I have yet to figure out how to be careful enough while gluing windows.  I always get some glue on there and it's impossible to get off.  I tried Goo Gone and it did nothing.  

What's next: pouring more plaster (ick) for parking around these buildings; signage for the plaza building; some railings and a sign for the commuter platform; and hey, maybe it's time to plant some grass.