Saying hi !

[Allen B]

I'm Al in Canada. Joined back in Oct,. Been drifting around on MSW even before I moored myself to MSW's dock.

Thought It's about time I come ashore and introduce myself. Happy New Year.

 

 I was bitten by the wood model ship hobby in 1978  I think the hobby was a natural transition for me 

because since my youth I've had this fascination with the early ships of sail and the history.   When I first set eyes on the

wood model Cutty Sark I had to jump on board. However, even though unaware of all the pitfalls and "cautionary tales" a neophyte can

fall into, and no tools I forged ahead.  I bought the necessary books and minimum of tools.  Things were unfurling nicely until I went away

for two days and upon my return the cat had chewed the bulkheads and deck to sawdust. Away to the deep six she went. The cat stayed

 and lived happily.  I don't know, maybe she thought a mouse had got aboard. She got the benefit of the doubt anyway. 

 

Next attempt 20 years later in 1998 with AL's Charles W Morgan. Again, the pitfalls. Didn't have the skill or knowledge and didn't understand

the instruction for the most part. Just too much for me. However I had a computer and joined a ship modeling site and found Micro Mark.  The

awesome members on the ship modeling site helped me so much. My skills, knowledge and confidence improved. I got the hull completed and 

deck. However, life's responsibilities kept pulling me against the wind. Eventually the Morgan laid on her side against the rocks for 10-years, and sunk.

A sad demise for a ship of her historical significance that I still regret. I even had bought a full set of plans of her from Mystic Seaport that somehow 

have been lost through my travels or tucked away in some forgotten crevice.

 

These past attempts were a great learning experience. There were never any failures, just many steps toward what will be eventual success, and the

knowing that I would someday return to this hobby that still fills my sails with a fair breeze.  Now at 70-years, retired I'm deciding what ship(s) to build.

No final decisions yet, but I will keep in mind the " Cautionary Tales For Beginners " and keep my endeavors on an even keel.

 

"May you all have fair winds and following seas".

 

 

[allanyed]

Hi Al

Warm welcome to MSW and Happy New Year

Allan

[Jim Lad]

Hello Al, and a warm welcome to MSW from 'Down Under'.

 

John

[Allen B]

Thanks Allanyed and Jim . The welcome  is very much appreciated. 😀

[mtaylor]

Hi Al, welcome to MSW.   As embark on this voyage, feel free to ask all the questions you have.  There's places to ask and you will get answers.  Enjoy the building of whatever model you choose because that's the important part.

[Duanelaker]

Welcome!  Everyday is a great day to start the hobby!

[JeffT]

Welcome to MSW 

[Allen B]

20 hours ago, Duanelaker said:

Welcome!  Everyday is a great day to start the hobby!

I certainly agree. Always great to set course toward new horizons. 

 

Also, thanks to all for the kind greetings.