A better place

After nearly a year of too many obstacles (health mostly) punctuated by a few fun moments, I feel good enough to write again. I still have a ways to go with my health, but the trajectory is good.

Let’s focus on the fun part.

For starters, I’m building again at a pace I enjoy — essentially completing one model a month (on average). I finished 2023 at 12 and I’m on pace in 2024 to repeat that. But…it’s not about completion rate. It’s about enjoying making smaller versions of bigger things. I’ve branched out into other genres, including printing my own kits and then building those. The models were a true joy to build, even if I had the usual frustrating moments. My skills have definitely improved as well.

I’ve suddenly passed that learning curve point in IT where I’m more productive than learning, specifically with websites (okay, limited to WordPress.org and zero hard programming like PHP) including e-commerce in addition to the usual blog/information pages. I’m actively managing 4 sites but I hope to reduce that by 1 with the new year. As a trade-off, I resigned as the Commodore of the local Sailing Club. Too much administration for too little gain, even though I enjoy being on the water and spending time with friends. I can continue to sail as I am still a member, but my admin duties are near zero (I’m still managing their usage tracking app for them). I’ve even learned Discord and I’m trying my hand at social media (which I really don’t like).

We’re traveling more. And I’m going to more shows than ever. 2024 had me at HeritageCon up in London, Ontario, AMPS Nats in South Bend, IPMS Nats in Madison, and I’ll be at SMC in Eindhoven later this month. Plus all the usual local shows within a few hours drive of Southern Maryland.

I let go of a huge drain, both emotionally and physically. I donated my ’69 Jeep CJ5 this summer to a cause that helps disadvantaged kids learn a trade restoring old vehicles. She was too hard for me to drive regularly, which is needed, and I was struggling to complete minor sub-projects on her. While the Old Girl is in great shape she still needs lots of love just to go for a short drive…and every drive is short due to high fuel consumption and slow speeds. You have to love 50’s technology…gas is cheap and nobody is in a hurry. The school will properly do a body-off restoration as part of their curriculum. And the students will get a fun ride once done.

I’ve joined the Model Geeks Podcast. This keeps me sharp with latest trends and new kits/accessories and I get to be more social with this hobby. Speaking of which, my local Club now meets weekly at the local airport terminal for lunch and a bit of modeling while we chat. We had our first show last October and we’re starting the planning for the next one (PAXCON 2025, 4 October 2025) — be there, it’ll be fun.

And finally, earlier in the year I accepted a position as President of Modellers Without Borders. You can read more about that on their website.

I have met many more people over the last year and now have more true friends than I ever thought possible. It’s all due to this hobby. Is there ever a wonder I’m so passionate about it?

Thanks for reading…

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