I started on my first n scale layout which was only planned to be a maximum 28" by 50" in size.  I knew that I had a lot of skills and techniques to learn so I was anxious to really finish the small layout through final scenery.  That was a good decision as it let me see how great it was to have a completed layout and I did learn a lot.  There was no stopping me now as I had a empty full car garage to work with.  The fictional Elizabeth & Austin Divisions of the PRR was born, one completed section at a time.  I kept some pictures of the old E&A on this site to remind me of how much fun I had with that layout.  The layout was sold after five years prior to a move.