Thanks so much, stinger, Madda, Jason, saltydog, blackwolf, & kik36.
stinger - the temperate scheme of RLM 70 & 71 was applied first, with Model Master flat white sprayed free hand over it. Here's what she looked like before:
Madda - the places where the PE broke are VERY small. Its gonna be tough to align it, have enough area for CA, and not have the CA show as blobs. But I'm gonna try.
Jay - I scanned the decals, adjusted levels & saturation in Photoshop, & printed it. I then took drafting tape (the kind I use is translucent), placed it over the markings that I needed, & cut masks with a fresh #11 blade.
saltydog - I try to build them solid. If there's one thing I don't like, its a flimsy-feeling model. Mine fell because I currently have nerve damage in my right hand, and I can't grasp things too well right now.
blackwolf - I'm sure gonna try. I'm too far into this one to turn it into a burned out wreck (its NOT an LTD kit, after all !)
kik36 - I use a Badger 150 airbrush. I've had it for about eight years, and I don't feel the need to even look at another one. I'm really satisfied with it.
Thanks again, all. I was so disheartened when this happened, and your kind words have restored a smile to my face. You're ALL the best !