Another good evening at IPMS

I really must say just how much I enjoy participating there. After 5 years of membership in the local Chapter I have met some great folks in the local modeling community. The life knowledge and modeling expertise is truly something to savor for me. Both old established members, and new blood who seem to come in to each meeting that i am fortunate enough to attend. Talking with other modelers face to face I get ideas on how to tackle road blocks that I may hit or help out a fellow modeler with how to overcome snags they have hit. Not to mention the guys who come in to each meeting with boxes full of kits as they thin out their own stashes. Last night I was able to snag a 1/48 Tamiya Beaufighter for $20... Sweet! But the crowning moment for me last night was in the monthly contest. The chapter rules are that after five first place wins in a given category and you are promoted to the next level. In about 4years I made it to Master, so needless to say the competition is tough because the builders in that category are so good. Last night was no different and I entered three kits, with hopes of at least one snagging a 3rd place award. I was floored when the contest director announced that my Academy 1/350 Graf Spee took 1st place. I am still so jazzed today. So a few hours of good company, a nice bargain find, and a totally unexpected placing in the contest... all in all a VERY good evening. (and then the after meet for more chat and chow at Denny's )

Folks, if there is an IPMS chapter near you and you are not a member, I highly recommend that you go and check it out...