Finally meeting old friends

[Texman]

So, a long time ago (10 + years) I did some beta work for
an FG designer by the name of Rob Carleen. I have done some beta work
for a repainter by the name of John Bowden, and listened to his
wisdom of repainting.

Fast forward many years, many emails and pm's, and several betas
and collaborations later.

I get a message from John, who is also part of the Ecardmodels
staff with me, that he, his wife, Rob, and his wife are heading
to Branson, MO for a vacation. Branson, being a small (ish) drive
from me, I invited myself to meet them up there and enjoy a contest
I have been going to for about six years now.

Deciding to meet at a great BBQ place, I finally met another group
of fellow paper benders, who I have "known" for a long time.

Eating great BBQ, swapping stories, and enjoying the visit and display
of models, both plastic and paper, I am grateful to have finally
added to my actual, in person meeting of paper model names!

It was a great weekend time with my wife who accompanied me, of models, friends, a new real type of friendship, and just overall relaxation.

John, Sheila, Rob and Linda. Thank you for a good visit!



Myself, John and Rob.

I look forward to our next get together!

[Vermin_King]

I bet DWest would have been interested in meeting the crew. He's in SE Missouri, I think

[Don Boose]

I've known John Bowden on this Forum for many years and have been the beneficiary of many of his recolors, knowledge of aviation history, and general kindness.

I recently built one of Rob Carleen's Fiddlers Green designs- the F-84F - and am happy to say it was beautifully designed, and the parts fit perfectly.

And, of course, I have been friends with the Flyboy, in the Forum, by email, and in person for many years.

Sounds like a memorable gathering. Wish I had been there.

Don

[John Bowden]

Had a great time! Almost too much good food......almost as you can tell from the picture. And finally meeting Ray and his wife DeAnna was just the topping to a great week with Rob and Linda!

I hope to emulate Ray and meet up with a bunch more of you guys that I so enjoy yapping with on this great site!

Almost had to go to rehab with it being down for so long!

Thanks Jason for all your hard work getting my fix back up and to all your helpers/moderators for doing such a good job!!

[rickstef]

I am surprised you and Rob survived Ray, IPMC hasn't been the same since.....

[modelperry]

So, while I was not in Branson for this great meeting of the minds, I did meet John the week before last while on my way to New Orleans. He told me he was going to Branson and was going to a contest there with Ray and Mr. Carleen. As it happens, I had some plastic building friends there as well. One currently a member of the club I'm in here in Iowa and another who moved to Branson a few years ago.

Man I wish I was able to be there....

Greg

[MacSongLi]

Great news. I'm glad it was a good time had by all.

Gary