Welcome to my blog.  This started as I was thinking about keeping a photographic record of my model collection.  Originally, I was just thinking of a private document.  But the more I thought about it, making a public blog seemed like a better idea.  My main idea still is to have a record of my own work I can see, and maybe show off, anywhere.  But I made this public so my many friends on-line can see what I’m up to, and even join in discussion about it if they’re so inclined.

The main focus here will be World War II aircraft in 1/48th scale.  After the jump, I’ll get a little more specific.

So a few thoughts about what I’m up to.  Broadly speaking, I just love World War II aircraft and want to build everything.  My particular interests are the Pacific war, especially carrier operations; so expect a lot of attention there.  I just generally get really, really excited about US aircraft.  British and Japanese subjects are not far behind in my fascination.  Most WWII fanboys seem to go gaga over German stuff, and I like that too, but it has a little bit less romantic allure for me.

I’ll occasionally do “hypothetical” subjects.  That can mean a few things; from operational types in bogus markings (you know I’ll always have a story for that!) to prototypes or paper projects done up in front line glory.

I will also do a few armor/vehicle subjects.  There are fewer available kits in 1/48th scale for vehicles, and the preponderance of German subjects is even more pronounced (I would say more than half of what’s available is German).  But German tanks are really cool, and who doesn’t love a Tiger?  But I still have hopes for a Stuart, Lee,  Amphtrac, Chi-Ha, Char B, M13/40…

Because this site is just about Dave having fun I’m not following any sort of rigid review guide-lines, or how-to tutorials, or historic analysis.  For each subject I’ll write what seems most interesting about it to me.  That will involve a lot of history, mostly of the “gee this is so cool!” variety.  But I’ll occasionally get in to more serious stuff.  I’ll also talk about actual model building concerns on occasion, especially if I think there’s something interesting or challenging about a kit or project.  I will always try to at least mention what kit I used, and any after-market products involved (most often, that just means decals).

Although history is my first passion, painting and markings are my favorite part of model building.  So when I discuss builds expect that part of it will get the most attention.

I look forward to whatever input readers may have to offer.  Of course every builder loves to hear “good job”!  But I’m also open to constructive criticism, especially if I’ve mentioned some part of the build gave me fits (but hey, be nice! I’m a sensitive sort you know).  I would particularly love more discussion of the history related to my various subjects.  If I say something factually in error let me know.  We’ll either argue about it or I’ll fix my post (!).

I hope some of you will find this site fun and drop by from time to time.  I hope to have new subjects up about once a week.  I currently have about 90 kits built.  I build anywhere from two a month to two a year.  But I’m guessing that means I can keep up one a week for a couple years anyway!