SPA Modeler

I met a few of my friends for the first time at this year's Nats. It is sorta strange knowing someone for so many years, and then meeting them for the first time at a contest one summer.

But, in the course of the discussions we had, in various combinations of groups of us, I found out things that helped with one aspect of my research, found out that a couple of others needed info that I had already found, and really connected with a fellow Navair student. (I don't call myself an expert, because I am constantly learning, which has been my intent all along)

So, I promised one friend (that I had already met in person years ago) that I would give him all the research I had in one area, because he has a need for it to produce some model products, even though I am pretty sure it won't be in my own chosen scale. But, he's a great guy, and does quality work, so I don't mind. I promised another that I would CC him with all that I share with that friend, for his own products. (they don't conflict, just overlap)

Another friend that I had just met gave me some info that is going to really pay off in my USN color research, and gave me the encouragement to not worry about the sacred apple carts that I would be tipping over,,,,,,,,,just finish the research and give the results and let people "take it or leave it", but to make sure it was all true and accurate.

And another talked me into busting out one portion of my squadron and air group research and write a book about that topic, something that has never before had much time in print.

Why does that all matter? Well, like others in the hobby, I have only so much time that I can spend on model building, researching, posting on forums, singing, and all the 1/1 things that a person has to do to keep real life going so that I can spend the time on 1/72 life.

So, if you get to wondering where Rex is,,,,I'm just busy with my "keyboard time" doing that book, or digging out photos or specs or what have you. I'm not ignoring the forums,,,,,,,,I am just not going to be as active as I have always been. I don't want to be one of those "talks but doesn't build" guys,,,,,,,so, I had to cut time out of somewhere in order to still build.

Edit to add this line,,,,,,,,I also still want to continue working on the masters for various things for my models that the model companies and aftermarket don't make, figuring that if I don't make them myself I will never get them for my builds.

To be honest, I'd rather be busy and needed than post and wonder if anyone cares about my ramblings, anyway. There are worse things in life when you are almost 60 and retired than being busy. So, I'm happy.

I will of course still poke in from time to time to read and maybe post a thing or two.

Just thought some of you would like to know what is up.

Rex, the Accidental CAG

So that is what you've been up to... Well it's good to hear that you're alive, well, and busy.

Hey Rex... any chance you're heading out to Syrcon (IPMS show in Syracuse area) on October 16th? I'm planning on being there.
Here's the link to the show:

http://www.ipmssyracuse.com/

Sorry Tom, but all of our traveling is done for 2016.

Our next two trips are in early 2017, one to Chattanooga for the two day show, and one later that week to Texas.

I don't know yet what is in store for from Feb on.

I'm running the show for our friend the next two weeks, he covered for me while I was out of town, and it is my turn to help him get a well earned vacation, his first in about 8 years. Covering for me means that he had to sing twice as many songs as normal, and set up the equipment alone while I was gone.

I need to keep that show in mind for next year, though. We could combine a trip to Buffalo and Watertown with a stop in Syracuse for the show.

I am thrilled that you are busy and doing what you love while helping fellow modelers both known and unknown. Someday I also hope to meet you at a Nationals. Maybe Phoenix in 2018?

Anyway, I know the feeling. I hadn't been posting much, or even building because this work I'm doing is taking all my time and exhausting me as well. I have some time now, so maybe I can make up for it. Meanwhile, you keep going man. We'll keep the light on for you.