I had the pleasure to meet Charlie(aka txlabman) today, and to enjoy a few hours visiting. He's a genuinely nice fellow, and I had a blast shooting the breeze. He was passing through on another of his epic adventures, and was kind enough to while away a few hours here at the Chop Shop.
It was great to chat, and Charlie, being the gentleman he is, showed up with a gift-and a fine one at that. Thank you, Charlie.
We did some palavering, a bit of trading and back to the blacktop Charlie went, a puff of Steam and several Empire left in his wake...
Good to see you today, Charlie, come back anytime!
I knew he was headed your way, but not so soon... Many of us just had the great opportunity to spend the day (or two) with Charlie only 4 or 5 days ago in Michigan, He's a busy man! And as you say, one of the nicest people out there... hope to spend many more visits with him as well
Nice to read about a forum meetup.
Nice to read about a forum meetup.
Yes, but where are the pictures and video
Yes, but where are the pictures and video 
Yes, mug shots are always nice to see
good bloke that Charlie...heart of Gold.
Ya know, sadly I didn't think of a camera until he was gone...i was just enjoying the moment. I reckon i need to get better about taking pics.
I've been busy getting the trade goods ready for their moment in the limelight. I hope to be able to post some pics and whatnot by the weekend.
I know the feeling! I have also neglected the camera during visits.
I am sure you had a great day when Charlie dropped in!
Gil
We had a grand visit.
I only took one picture.
Benny’s Man Cave is so overwhelming. I was on sensory overload.
And you didn't help him lay all that track?!?

Did those Empires stay with Benny?
Great stuff, must be so cool being able to meet up like that...
Thanks for sharing Benny !
And you didn't help him lay all that track?!?

Did those Empires stay with Benny?
I don't do well at ground level Nick. So, no, I did not help him lay the track. But, the layout is magnificent.
Yes, the Empire engines stayed with Benny. I got a rare Weeden No. 43 in very nice condition and a Pericaud Press in exchange. Here is a link to the Weeden No. 43 from Frank's website:
http://weedensteam.com/unique.html#43I have been hunting one of these Weeden #43 for a while and this one is in great condition. It was missing the burner, but I already had the burner and so I have a complete one all original. I tested it on air last night and it runs great. Just needed new gaskets.
Neat model with the stairway Charlie, different from the later Weeden 43 that I'm used to