Diary of a middle age gamer

Happy New Year!!

2012-01-01T19:57:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year to one and all!!! I hope this year is filled much peace, joy and happiness.

Looking back at 2011, it was an interesting year. Here are my thoughts:

Historicon 2012 gets moved to Fredericksburg.

All I can say is what a bunch of nonsense. The BoD got themselves into this mess by trying to hit "The Next Level" with Baltimore. Now they move the convention to VA. Frankly, I hope it bombs out. I never believed in rewarding stupidity. This point of view angered allot of people, especially those that thought we should tow the line. Sorry, not my cup of tea. I'm frustrated with the Board's lack of concern for all those that made Historicon what it is today. Time will tell if I'm right with this one. The one high spot with this move is that I'll be attending more local cons, e.g. NJ CON, and moving away from HMGS.

Old Glory and Crusader Minis split

I really felt bad about this one. I bought allot of Crusader from Old Glory over the years. Now you can only get them from Northstar in the UK. Northstar is a good company, but they have some pretty big shoes to fill with this will. I'm also losing the Old Glory discount. We'll see how this pans out.

Getting back into GW

For the longest time, I resisted getting back into Games Workshop. Well, I now own a Tomb Kings army for Fantasy and a Necron army for 40K. What can I say? They're nice models - even if they do cost an arm and a leg!!

WAB Armies of Antiquity

This is a nicely laid out book. However, it does shorten the lists and seem to change the flavor of some armies - e.g. Viking can now have mounted troop and can move in Shieldwall. The book seems to be aimed at tournaments. We'll see how well received this is. I'm on the fence about this book.

On the painting table

Currently, I'm painting 40K Necrons, WWI Arabs and Turks, ECW Scotts and some pirates. Let's see if I can finally focus this year!

Until we speak again....

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T07:47:00.001-05:00

To all my friends near and far, Happy Father's Day. May you all be blessed today!!

Inspired

2011-02-02T21:40:00.002-05:00

Ok - so this is my first new post in 2011!! Happy New Year.

Not that long ago, I started following another Blog by a gentleman named Dave Taylor http://davetaylorminiatures.blogspot.com/

His Napoleonics have now inspired me! I've start to put together my Victrix Old Guard. Soon, we'll have both a French and British army. Let the fun begin!!

Last Post for 2010

2010-12-31T20:51:00.002-05:00

Well, here we are. The end of 2010. It's been an interesting year. It was a time for healing. It was also time for a new job (much closer to home). Black Ops has recently taken my painting time, but that will change soon. All I can say is good bye 2010 and welcome 2011.

December 1st

2010-12-01T05:47:00.001-05:00

Wow, what a year it has been. Where has the time gone? Still working on my HYW English. What have you been working on?

November

2010-11-27T08:21:00.003-05:00

Ah yes - November is almost over and Thanksgiving has just passed. Ah Thanksgiving... one of my favorite holidays. It's a time when we come together, eat and enjoy each others company. It's a time to be thankful for what we have and those around us. It also ushers in the Xmas season.

Oh well, I've been steadily painting my 100YW English. Coming along nicely - except I was interrupted by Black Ops for XBOX. Pictures will soon follow.... Enjoy!!

November

2010-11-05T06:09:00.003-05:00

Ok - For the longest time, I somehow enabled this blog to translate into Hindi! I finally figured out how to turn that off.

The new job is great!!! I'm painting up some more of my HYW English in preparation for Cold Wars. I'm enjoying myself.

What about WAB? Well, with Rick Prestley gone, I have a feeling that WAB may eventually go the way of the Dodo. However, I'm looking forward to the newest entries into the field, one from the guys at Warlord and another from Scarab miniatures. Exciting time ahead!!

October 1st

2010-10-01T05:46:00.002-05:00

Ahh yes, anyone who knows me knows that I love the Fall. I've settled into a new routine and my painting has been getting more regular. A few weeks ago I painted some Torrie AWI for a friend of mine and now I've gone back to painting some more 100 YW English. Happy Fall everyone!!

New Job

2010-04-24T07:49:00.000-05:00

Ok - I just got a new job - more money, more vacation time and closer to home. And what does that mean?? MORE TIME TO PAINT!!! Whoo hoo!! Expect to see more movement on this blog!!

It's a year

2010-03-20T08:39:00.002-05:00

Wow

A year since my brother went to be with the Lord (3/20/2009 - 2:30pm). Last year it was lightly snowing in the morning, this year it's going to be 70.

I want to try and take this day as a day that I move forward. I need to put the sorrow behind me and rejoice that he's in Heaven.

I've started a Royalist English Civil War army. So far, four cavalry are painted. Let's see how far I get with this....

Xmas Time

2009-12-12T18:36:00.002-05:00

Good evening all

This year, Xmas seems a bit less merry for me but I'm doing the very best I can for my son and wife. My 6 year old son told Santa he wanted big boy drums (he is six after all) and Rock Hero for the Wii.

Looks like it might be a good Xmas after all.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

New pictures coming

2009-08-21T06:35:00.001-05:00

Good morning all

Needless to say, my brother's passing has taken quite a toll on me mentally. I've slowly started to getting back into painting. I'm working on some Perry HYW English. Pictures will be coming soon.

Thank to everyone for your kind words and prayers. I appreciate it.

Rest in Peace, Beloved Brother

2009-03-24T18:02:00.003-05:00

Today was my birthday. It was supposed to be a happy day, with cake, phone calls, funny cards making fun of my age and presents from the family. Instead, we buried my younger brother today.

He had been sick for a while and it looked like he was coming through - but this time he just couldn't pull it off. I should have known when he told my mother a few days before that he heard my voice. Then he saw people on the ceiling. Rather than trying to pour my broken heart out all over again, I'll copy my eulogy to this blog....

Beloved Brother Matthew

You can tell allot by looking at the hands of a man. Matthews hand's were strong yet gentle - reflecting his personality.

When Matthew was young, our father wanted him to wear shorts - and Matty was adamantly opposed. Daddy told him, "Look Matthew, Daddy's wearing shorts". Matthew responded by telling Daddy, "If Daddy wants to look like a fool that's your problem".

With those hands, Matthew was able to transform his passion, working on cars, into a living. From his days at De****is Auto where he learned his trade, he grew to perfect it when he and a friend bought a repair shop, Indian Head Shell. They made it more profitable and sold it. Eventually he found employment at R**p Chevrolet. At R**p he discovered that he was not only a superb mechanic but a great manager as well. While he was Service Manager, R**p Chevrolet received the "GM Mark of Excellence" - an accomplishment Matthew was always proud of.

Matthew was also a gentle guy - the type of brother who was always ready to help - whether you needed your car fixed, needed a loan, advice on an issue or you just wanted to talk. He had an incredible business mind and I would never hesitate to ask his advice on what I should do with any situation at work.

Matthew's humor was also one of his finer points. The people he worked with told me you could never wait to hear what was coming out of Matt's mouth. He once send me a birthday card with a picture of a monkey on it. When I opened it up, he wrote that he could swear this was one of my baby pictures.

December 2002 is a date that will be forever etched in my mind. That was when a doctor's carelessness sent Matthew into physical decline. From then, Matthew tried as hard as he could to heal himself, work his body back into shape as he had done before, but this time it didn't work.

Finally, on March 20th, I received a call from Chris telling me Matthew didn't have much time left. As physical life slipped from Matthew's body - I held those hands. No longer were they strong and warm, but now cool and weak with a bluish color. Christopher and I held his hands for as long as we could - finally turning him over to Jesus. From that day forward, there will always be a "Matty" shaped hole in our hearts.

The book of Matthew's life has been closed. The final chapter has been written. Yet as we look on the body that once housed Matthew, I don't see the end, but the beginning of a beautiful promise.

In the Garden of Eden, God told Adam and Eve that the day they eat the fruit of the knowledge of Good and Evil, they shall surely die. Once the fruit was eaten, into this world came corruption, sickness and death. Mankind was separated from God. Yet because of the redemptive work on the cross, Jesus bought salvation to mankind for those who believe.

As the sun rises, I can assure you the grave is not the end. Jesus tells us much about heaven .

John 14:2 - 3
There are many rooms in my Father's house. If there were not, would I have told you that I am going away to prepare a place for you? And if I am going away to prepare a place for you, I will come back again and welcome you into my presence, so that you may be where I am.

Rev 7:16 -17:
16 Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun
will not beat upon them, nor any scorching heat.
17 For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he
will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every
tear from their eyes

Rev 21:4

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away

Martin Luther King said it the best - Free, free, I am free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!

More Pictures

2009-02-01T12:00:00.001-05:00

Tournament in Manhattan

2009-02-01T11:53:00.002-05:00

Good day

Yesterday we had a tournament at local hobby store in Manhattan, The Compleat Stratgist. What made this special was all the proceeds of went to cancer research. Here is some background and highlights:

In August 2008, a well respected gamer and friend Al Garnache passed away from cancer. As a community, we decided not to take this sitting down but do something. This tournament was the result of this. Here are some highlights of how everyone pulled together to make this a success:

Gripping Beast and Perry miniatures donated figures and a battle pack
to be "diced off" - you pay $5.00 to roll five dice and then $1.00 per
dice after that.

Al's wife donated his Ottoman army to be diced off

The Compleat Strategist normally charges $5.00 per person to play -
that fee was waved. The Strat also gave 25.00 gift certificates for
best general, best painted and best sportsman awards.

WAB donated books (Art of War, Siege and Conquest, etc.)

People paid the admission fee even though they could not attend - just
to help the cause.

We had people come from the UK and Boston to play!!

It's nice to see that a group of gamers can play their favorite game,
have allot of laughs, a great time and contribute to help fight a
terrible disease. I was proud to be there. Here are some pictures of the event - enjoy!!

Happy New Year!!

2009-01-01T00:14:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year all

Let's hope 2009 brings us all health and happiness throughout the year!

LIG

And to all, a good night

2008-12-26T00:07:00.003-05:00

Xmas 2008. Hard to believe it's already a memory. There was allot to be thankful for this year - my job, food on the table, my general health, my house and my family. There was also some heartache this year as well - my brother lost his leg back in February and he's still in the hospital, friends of mine lost jobs and others are struggling to make ends meet.

For Christmas my son got a Wowwee tiger cub that purrs, growls and makes noises like a real cub (at least that is what the box says). The cub had to sleep with him so the cub could feel safe tonight, since it's the cub's first night in his new home.

My wife took this picture. As soon as she saw it, the first thing she said was, "And to all, a good night".

To all my friends near and far and those just passing through, Merry Christmas.

Garbo Speaks

2008-12-17T20:24:00.003-05:00

Garbo speaks.... Planteater bakes.

I have the most wonderful family in the world. As great as my wife is, she really doesn't enjoy cooking or baking of any kind. Her aunt told her that when she got married there were no microwaves. My wife (the Planteater) said, "Oh no, how did you cook"? Her aunt answered, "With the stove".

Any time I can get her in the action of cooking, baking, etc. it's rare. Here is a picture of her working on a gingerbread house. Yes, it's the pre fab type. Yes, she really did it for my son. It's the though that counts here.

Happy holiday from all of us to all of you!

Something new

2008-12-16T22:12:00.002-05:00

Good evening

What a day. I was out sick today with a sinus infection (I get at least one a year). I went to the doctor and got an antibiotic and hopefully I'll feel better tomorrow.

It's snowing here on Long Island, NY. Although I don't like driving in the snow, it's fun to watch.

On the painting front, I've returned to painting Orks for a while. I started painting Orks back in 1988 and I've always enjoyed them. Here are some shots of recently painted Orks and some more pictures of me and my son... Enjoy!!

November

2008-11-21T22:13:00.004-05:00

Oh wow...

It's November. The last time I posted, it was the beginning of September! Life has kept me busy...

First my house. The "new roof with one layer" that I supposedly had when I bought the house? Well, the inspector was quite wrong! It was an older roof with two layer and allot of wood rot! Guess what I got myself for Xmas - was it a new army that new crusader army I've been wanting for a year now? Nope. Was it the new Foundry Paints that I've wanted? Nope. It's a new roof - uugghh.

My son is in Kindergarden and he's starting to enjoy it. Him and my wife were attached before this - they did everything together! Now both of them are trying to adjust (I think my wife is having a harder time than he is!). I'll admit it - he's my pride and joy! His face says it all in the picture that I attached to this post.

As for my job, it's there. The big advantage is that I get to play WAB two or three times a month with a good friend of mine, John Bianchi at the Complete Strategist. If you're ever in Manhattan, stop by the store. You'll be pleasantly surprised. I've been working on my Arab Conquest army and I can't wait to get it done. Once that is done, I'll find a way to get my Early Crusader army!!!

Oh well, I'll post again soon - I promise!!

LIG

September

2008-09-01T19:12:00.002-05:00

It's September. I've always viewed September as a time of change. When I was in school, it was time for a new grade - and hopefully new friends. It's a time when we usher in Autumn and start to witness the changing of the leaves. Thanksgiving and Xmas are just around the corner. This time of year has always excited me.

My new job is great. I'm more focused on the areas of technology that I want to develop. The commute to the city is nice - I have an hour on the train to read, listen to podcasts or just goof off. So far, the honeymoon is going just fine.

Today I painted four Perry Arab spearmen for my WAB Arab Conquest army. Since I didn't want to match my other spearmen, I painted them a soft yellow and purple. They came out rather nice.

I'll be posting picture of my army soon...

Ready for the New Challange

2008-08-22T15:54:00.004-05:00

Well, it's finally done. I'm unemployed - at least until Monday :). My last week was wonderful. My immediate boss bought me breakfast ( he called the local deli and had a Hungry Man delivered - Hmmm good). My former boss took us out to lunch. It was all good.

I'm looking forward to my new position. We'll see on Monday how everything shakes out.

LIG

Back to painting

2008-08-14T05:26:00.002-05:00

Well, the nonsense is dying down at work. One more week to go before I start my new position in Manhattan. Flatiron building, here I come!!

I've been back to painting. I want to finish my Arab Conquest army that I have been working on for the last two years. Of the four units of cavalry, I have thee done and one half done. Of the four units of infantry I have one half done. It's going to be a pretty army once I'm done.

I've included a picture of the building I'll be working in....

New Year in August

2008-08-07T20:44:00.003-05:00

Well, I've done it. I gave my notice at work.

It's really a bitter sweet thing. At my current company, I started as a helpdesk person almost nine years ago. I worked my way up to an Email administrator, then a senior Email admin. I enjoy and will miss the people I work(ed) with. I'll always be grateful for the opportunity I was presented with, working with the other admins (who are some of the best) and enjoy many fond memories.

However, like an old flame, sometimes the bad starts to outweigh the good. I get up in the morning and I'm not happy to be there. I've spoken to management a few times about the issues that disturb me and we cannot seem to come to an agreeable solution - at least not until a year from now! It's nobody's fault; there is no "bad guy" or "wrong person" in this story. It's just two parties that disagree.

Rather than remain unhappy, I've decided to move on like a gentleman. My new boss was disapointed that I'm leaving. Frankly, I'm disapointed I'm leaving. However, I'd rather preserve my integrity. Yes, I'm giving my two weeks notice. I'll make sure everything is in place, to the best of my ability. Do to any less would be an affront to Jesus. I guess a part of me will always be there. I just have to remember why I'm leaving and keep myself focused on the facts, not some fantasy of how I think work could be.

I called a friend of mine and he explained that I'll have a chance at a new start. A new challange. I can make a new name for myself. I'll admit that does get my blood pumping and I'm excited again.

Ever hear of Christmas in July? This is New Year in August :)

Winds of Change or Winds of Opportunity?

2008-08-06T18:46:00.001-05:00

I'm back from Historicon. While Historicon is going on, I enjoy every second of it. This year was especially nice because the weather was in the mid 80s (as opposed to 100+) every day and we went down on Thursday morning. Next year we might even leave Saturday night - we'll have to see.

The life changing call came in. The negotiations are done. I just need to have this in print before I can move forward.

It's all similar to the Chinese water theory. Put your hand in a bucket of water. Now take your hand out. You'll notice waves in the water but it eventually settles back down again. Such is life.

Above are some pictures from Historicon.

LIG

Historicon

2008-07-23T21:48:00.000-05:00

Good evening all

It's that time of year - HISTORICON! I'm playing in the WAB tournament, buying rules and figures, taking allot of pictures and basically having fun!

I also got an interesting email today that just might change my future for the better. I'll find out more on Monday when I return from Lancaster!

LIG

Gug in Black

2008-06-26T21:18:00.002-05:00

Well, we're finally settling into our new house. The boxes are almost unpacked and now comes the work.. uugghh!

Anyhow, here is a picture of my son before he graduated Pre-K. With those glasses on, I call him "Gug in Black".

NOTE: "Gug" was the first word he spoke to me when he was an infant. The name just stuck with him.

Home baby!!

2008-05-29T20:43:00.002-05:00

Finally! The movers came and we moved into our new house today. It feels so good to be in my own home. I'm still waiting on my television and furniture and my painting room is still to be set up, but I'm happy. Right now I'm just too tired to go into all the details of moving (although I'm sure everyone knows moving stinks!!).

Talk with everyone soon!

LIG

Finally

2008-05-24T08:47:00.002-05:00

Good morning all

Sunday night we're finally getting the keys to the house - and none too soon. The last week I've been stressed out - my paints are packed so no painting; work is crazy busy as we bring in a company to run our helpdesk; there are boxes everywhere in our current dwelling and my brother is still in the hospital (four months in the hospital and they finally decided to amputate his foot below the knee - my prayers and heart go out to him daily).

Once I'm in the house, I can begin to paint the walls, place furniture (and the new flat screen TV) and unpack. Then I'll be able to paint and post pictures of newly painted little men!! That should put me at ease. See you soon!!!

Finally we're going to closing

2008-05-18T15:32:00.004-05:00

Oh boy was last week fun!! I was two days in Moreno Valley, CA and two days in Atlanta, GA. This whole time my mortgage broker and insurance broker had a hissy fit on each other and almost postponed my closing. My wife called them and said if this closing is postponed because of either of them they would both be replaced!!

Long story short, they pulled through (they both needed a kick in the butt) and now the closing is tomorrow, 5/19/08! I have to wait a week to take possession of the house but my lawyer told me not to worry about it. The woman we're buying the house from is really a nice lady and I'm sure she's not about to do anything malicious.

Now that most of my miniatures and paints are packed away, there is little I can do. Once I'm unpack I have to finish the following:

For Warhammer:

An Orc army,
A Bretonnian army
An Empire army

For WAB:

My Landsknechts
My Arab Conquest Army
WWI British
Pirates
Old West

It's going to be a fun summer!! I can't wait to start hosting campaigns at my house!!

High Elf

2008-04-27T20:53:00.002-05:00

Good evening

Today I had the desire to paint a High Elf. A good friend of mine is starting a High Elf army so I thought this would be a welcome way to start his new army.

Hope you enjoy it!

Pictures of the Orc Archers

2008-04-20T13:09:00.004-05:00

Good afternoon all

I needed a break from packing, gluing and painting so I decided to take pictures of the Orc archers. I wanted my Orc army to take on a "Viking raiding party" theme. These guys are the skirmishers. I can;t wait to get to the regular rank and file guys - then my Black Orcs!!

I hope you enjoy them.

Slightly distracted

2008-04-19T14:49:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone

The last month has been crazy. At work we're bringing up two warehouses and the new corporate office. I've decided to throw myself at the warehouses until they're fully functioning and then jump in on the Corporate office move. I have more resources for the corporate office - I just need to learn to delegate a little bit more.

Regarding the house, I'm waiting to hear back from the lawyer on the title search and we've been packing like crazy (ok, my wife has done most of the packing). Since I'm going to move into the house the last two weeks of May (God willing) and the Corporate office is going live on July 14th, I don't think I'm making it to Historicon this year. I spoke to my wife and we agreed on Fall In (provided the finances are there).

I decided to switch gears and start to paint an Orc army for Warhammer Fantasy Battles. I needed a break from the Landsknechts and the Arab Conquest armies I've been painting. It's allot of fun painting fantasy armies and I've always had a soft spot for the old Green Skins. Stay tuned for pictures!!

Oh taste and see that the Lord is good......

2008-03-21T03:52:00.008-05:00

Good morning

For years, one of my last remaining goals was a house. Every time we were ready to buy, the price of houses shot up and I always felt like home ownership was just out of reach. We've been renting for the last nine years and I've been praying for a house most of the those years. Last night that changed - we went to contract on a house!

I am convinced this is an answer to my prayers. We were looking at two bedroom houses (since it's only me, my wonderful wife and my son) further away from my job and we really didn't see anything we liked. In the back of my mind I worry about our parents - what if they got sick and we needed to take them in? I also have a brother that is sick - what if I had to take him in? This would be difficult owning a two bedroom house.

The house we went to contract on is a beautiful three bedroom ranch with a full basement (man cave - here I come!). If I need to take family members in I can. The inspection went extremely smooth with only minor issue coming up (the house even has a new roof!). This house also has gas heat - not oil and it's closer to work!! This will cut about 15 - 20 minutes off my commute each way.

God - thank you for this opportunity. I'm humbled by God's amazing grace in all areas of my life!

Psalm 34:8 - Oh taste and see that the Lord is good. Blessed is the man that trusts in Him.

Happy March!!

2008-03-06T06:27:00.002-05:00

Oh man, here it is March 5th and I forgot to wish everyone a happy March. Before you know it, Spring will be here and my Landsknechts will be done.

Happy March!

More Landsknechts

2008-02-15T20:46:00.005-05:00

Good evening all

I just got done with two units of Landsknechts - a total of 48. They are going to be two units of 24. These guys are pretty tough in WAB so I'm really looking forward to seeing how they work in battle.

These are mounted on Gale Force 9 magnetic bases with Litko movement trays. I need to finish off the bases and add terrain features to the movement trays. However, for now I am quite happy with them.

Without further adieu, here they are:

Winds of change.....

2008-02-08T06:36:00.000-05:00

To go completely off topic...

Work has been rough for the last year. There has been allot of talk of outsourcing, re badging and retrenching. All this boils down to the fact that I might be working for a different company.

Yesterday it came to a head. The CEO mentioned outsourcing on the company wide conference call. When he told us that anyone can do helpdesk, a few people got quite upset (Ok, I laughed because I agree with him and I hate doing helpdesk).

An old boss told me, "When the weather gets colder, do you put a coat on?" I decided to look at this situation not as the winds of change, but as the winds of opportunity. Yes, things are going to change for me, just not the way management expects :)

TTFN

LIG

Italian Wars

2008-01-20T18:28:00.000-05:00

Good evening all

Now that school is over and my schedule has settled down, it's back to painting. Over this weekend I got 6 Landsknechts done. So far I have one unit of 25 done and 21 out of 25 for the second unit done. I still have a couple of more infantry units to go. Once these are done the calvary should go quickly.

Once I at least have the infantry done I can start to practice for Historicon '08.

Best Wishes

LIG

Happy New Year

2008-01-01T10:24:00.000-05:00

Good morning all

Happy New Year!! This is my first post of 2008!! Yesterday I cleaned up my painting table and now I'm gearing up for my Italian Condotta list. I have roughly 43 of 50 pikemen done then I can start on the rest of the army.

Oh well, here's to a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year for each of us!!

Plans for the New Year

2007-12-29T12:39:00.000-05:00

Happy holidays all

Christmas is over and once again, my wife managed to sneak some miniatures under the tree for me!! This time it was Late War WWI British. With WAB coming out with a supplement, I wanted to be ready for it. So now on the painting table....

1) Foundry Landsknechts - these need to be finished for a campaign we're going to be playing at LIWA and for Historicon '08

2) 28mm Arab Conquest - I have always loved these Perry minis and the period. I'm finishing these as a labor of love - maybe for Fall In '08??

3) 28m WWII Americans. I have the Germans done and now I need to finish the Americans. I'd like to get in a couple of game of Disposable Heroes before Historicon '08 rolls around.

4) WWI British - another groups I would like done before Historicon '08.

So as we get ready to say goodbye to 2007, let me wish everyone a happy and healthy New Year.

Christmas

2007-12-21T20:38:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone

It's Friday night and I'm sitting in front of the computer (what else is new). Four more days until Christmas. As I reflect back on my life and what Christmas means to me, there is something that needs to be said.

Christmas is not about how much money you make. It's not about what you can put under the tree. It's not about the TV specials, the music and the parties. It's about Christ.

When Jesus came into this Earth, God became man. He walked among us, felt our pains and sorrows. Even though He lived among for us, He lived the perfect life that none of us could live. On Christmas Day, Jesus came into the Earth for one purpose - to die for our sins. To break the chains that bind us. To pay the price we could never pay. Your value does not come from what someone else thinks about you. Your value comes from the price that Jesus paid for you. He died for you.

People, get excited! This life is not the end all, be all - thank GOD for that!!! There is a Heaven, waiting for those that have accepted Jesus as their Savior. People always ask me what if there is no Heaven and no God. I respond and say what if there is?

Merry Christmas all

LIG

Goodbye John, rest peacefully

2007-12-15T18:16:00.000-05:00

Good evening all

The holidays are a magical time of the year to spend with family and friends. It's a time to look and be grateful for all the wonderful blessings God has poured into our lives. It's a time to remember the Christ child was born to free us from the debt of sin that we could not pay. It's also a time of the year that some people are so depressed that ending their lives seems to be someone's only option.

Last year on Christmas day a old friend of mine took that path. I found out almost a year later and I'm heartbroken. John was a great guy to be around and always allot of laughs. He inspired me to reach for the stars. I know his family loved him (and now misses him) dearly. I miss him dearly. There is no replacing him and I'm sure there are voids in allot of peoples lives now. I feel what Spurgeon meant when he said tears are liquid prayers that need no interpretation.

My message is this - If you feel like your life is coming apart at the seams, GET HELP! There is nothing that you can do that will not be forgiven by God if you ask. Getting help doesn't mean you're weak, crazy or looney. It means you have a chance of recovery and freedom - the same way a cancer victim seeks a doctor's help.

I can't reach into the grave and pull John back. I can't tell him that he's a great guy. However, if you're feeling like John did this time last year, please remember there are people like me out there who will miss you.

Rest in peace, old friend........

Paint Rack!

2007-12-10T20:30:00.000-05:00

Good evening all

It's been a while since I've posted (my apologies), but I finally found something that really excites me!!

For over a year I've been looking for a nice quality pant rack at a reasonable price. I wasn't impressed with the carousel - style racks and every other rack I saw didn't impress me either. While I was looking on The Miniatures Page (http://www.theminiaturespage.com), I saw a color conversion chart from a company called Silicon Dragons. While I was poking around the website, I found a paint rack!!

(http://www.silicon-dragons.com/site-news-and-information/55-new-releases/78-paint-rack)

The more I looked at it, the more impressed I was. The rack seemed solid and holds 45 Vallejo bottles! I contacted the owner (Joe Klutz) and I decided to order a rack for myself. Since I really don't enjoy putting anything together, I ordered the pre-assembled rack.

I was happy to see that as soon my rack was shipped, I received a UPS tracking number. This eliminated me asking when my rack was coming and made me feel more comfortable about my purchase. Shipping took roughly seven days.

When I got home tonight there was a package on the table for me. It was the rack! As soon as I unpacked the rack, I have to say I was extremely impressed! This is every bit as solid as the picture shows! I can't say enough good things about this.

Moral of the story - if you paint allot, you really should have one of these on your painting table!!

Happy Holidays all

Arab Conquest Army

2007-09-15T09:10:00.000-05:00

Hello

I finally took a snapshot of some of my Arab Conquest minis. These are Perry miniatures.

The little boy

2007-09-15T09:01:00.001-05:00

Good morning

Last week my son started Pre K. I couldn't help but look at these pictures and know that he's growing up. I know that my job before God is to raise him in such a way that he will be prepared to leave us and live on his own, but I still can't help but to look in silent amazement.

Stepping Out. He loves these sneakers because he saw them on High School Musical.

Stepping Out 2

Walking with his Batman backpack that is almost bigger than him.

In his car throne

Now this was a surprise. I came home to find him completely engulfed in a Disney computer game.

Saturday Night Gaming

2007-09-02T07:17:00.001-05:00

Good morning and Happy September!!!

Last night we gamed over Chris' house. Everyone felt welcome and there were two games going on - both Rome against Carthage. Rome won one and Carthage won one. However, the highlight of the night was seeing an old friend and the originator of LIWA (Long Island Wargamers Association) Rob Jones. Rob moved down to Florida last year and was deployed to Iraq. Unfortunately, he'll be going back to Iraq next year.

Here are some pictures from last night. Enjoy!!!

Ian with the Carthiginians (I think Ian is really starting to enjoy WAB - but can't bring himself to admit it)

Rob Jones

Lou's Romans

My favorite picture, the whole gang. Ok, so I'm missing because someone had to take the picture!!

Painting again

2007-08-09T05:42:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone

I'm back to painting! I've decided (for now) to paint my Arab Conquest army for WAB. I have Perry miniatures from 5 or so years ago. The calvary that I originally painted looked terrible and found its way into a jar of Simple Green! I developed a new technique that is working very well on these minis. My only problem is that I can normally finish off about 10 men a night. With calvary, I can finish off one a night - and this is a calvary heavy army! I hope to have some pictures posted in a few days.

Thanks!

Historicon 2007

2007-07-29T14:07:00.000-05:00

Well, Historicon 2007 has come and gone. Here is how this weekend played out...

Wednesday night we went to look at cars. My Grand Prix was sideswiped in a parking lot earlier in the month. Originally, I was interested in a Chevy HHR but I heard there were possibly some issues with the brakes. We went to Ramp Chevrolet in Port Jefferson and picked up a Chevy Mailbu Maxx with 15,000 miles on it. The car is loaded with leather interior, DVD player in the back for my son, XM radio and all the options I could possibly want. The dealer had the car ready for me on Thursday at 2:30pm - just in time for me to jump in and drive to Historicon!

I stopped out in Manhattan to pick up a good friend of mine - John Bianchi - and we talked about the newest supplement that is being prepared for WAB (HINT: Mongols). It was a pleasant ride.

The next day I played in the WAB tournament. The first games was again Gil Bates and his Viking army. The game came down to the last two turns where I foolishly charged his army. If I stood away, I might have eeked out a draw, but instead I lost.

The second game I had was against Ralph Krebs and his Sassanid Persians. A mounted army with allot of missile fire. I knew I was in for a shellacking - and I was right. Still, Ralph is a great guy and allot of fun to lose to.

Lastly, I played against Dan Eiche and his Samurai army. I eeked out a win against his army, but only barely! Sorry, no pictures :(

To top off the tournament, I won the best painted award (see blog below) - whoo hoo!! (My army is the one with the back towards us in the picture below)

Dinner on Saturday night with John Bianchi and Rob Broom was at the famous Millers in Lancaster, PA. An hour wait but well worth it - good food and good friends. If you ever get to Lancaster, try to eat at Millers. You will not regret it!!

All in all, I think I'll take a small break from painting for a few days. I can't wait for Historicon 2008!

Back from Historicon

2007-07-29T13:51:00.000-05:00

The big news....

I won best painted army for the open division in the WAB Tournment! I am so excited! I've always fancied myself a good painter, but this is an honor! Once I get all the pictures together, I'll post more.

Thanks!!!

I'm Done

2007-07-25T07:25:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it. Despite everything that has happened, I finished my Viking army last night. I think this is the first time I painted an entire army. I just have to flock my movement trays and I'll be off to Historicon! I'll try and post pictures of my army later. Of course, once Historicon is over, I'll have allot of pictures to post :)

Different turn

2007-07-13T06:43:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone

On a slightly different note, I was on vacation this week (I needed it!). I took the family to Sesame Place in Pennsylvania. Two days there and my son was upset when we left (trust me, Sesame Place is not all that big). Initially, I couldn't understand why he was upset. I realized this was his version of "Historicon" and it all made sense. Here are some shots of my son basking in the glory of the moment...

Skirmishers done!!

2007-07-09T06:10:00.001-05:00

Hahaha

My plan is coming together! This weekend I finished my 15 Skirmishers. I have to finish off 18 Gestir and 4 Command. If I get the miniatures from Musketeer by this weekend (7/14), I should be in good shape. If not, then I'll have to paint up some old Foundry minis.

Historicon 2007 with a fully painted army - it looks like a reality!

More Done

2007-07-02T05:38:00.001-05:00

Good morning all

This weekend I managed to get my unit of 15 skirmishers 90% done. They need hair, base and clear coat before I move on. I now need to get another twenty figures finished and I'm ready for Historicon!!

Side note - a friend stopped over with his car - which gave me inspiration to move faster on my studies

Gaming last night

2007-06-10T08:28:00.000-05:00

Good morning everyone

Last night we had our "Saturday Night Gaming". Lou and I played WAB (Viking on Viking) while everyone else was busy playing Armati (Rome versus Carthage). I won (Ok, so I had a 400 point advantage - I'm a newbie!) and Carthage took a smackdown (OUCH!). Here are some pictures

Quick update

2007-06-03T21:45:00.000-05:00

Ok

Yesterday and today I managed to finish 10 of the Hirdsmen (I just need to grass up the bases). The other six Hirdsmen I need to finish off the hair (hopefully I'll have that done tomorrow night).

Once these Hirdsmen are done, I need to finish 15 Skirmishers and 18 Gestir - then I am DONE!! Will I get this done in time for Historicon 2007? I sure hope so!

May you always roll sixes - unless you're playing against me!

LIG

Hmmmm

2007-06-03T05:27:00.000-05:00

Hi all

Happy June!! Whoo hoo!!

It seems that life has taken an interesting turn. I figure I better step up my painting because if things go as planned, June is going to be a very busy month for me.

So far I have seven Gestir done (Musketeer Miniatures which look beautiful painted!!) and nine Hirdsmen done. Last night I started on my other 16 Hirdsmen. The armour and their shirts are done, the skin needs one more layer and the paints, shoes and details need one more layer. CanI get it done in a few days?? We'll see..

Brief Update

2007-05-26T06:15:00.000-05:00

Good morning!

So far, I have to complete.....

25 Hirdsmen
15 Thralls
25 Gestir (changed them from English Freebooters)

Last night I completed two Hirdsmen and two Gestir (actually Musketeer Saxons)

I have done:

30 Bondi
18 Bondi archers
25 Hirdsmen
4 Berserkers

So what does this mean? This might be the first time I finish an army! Usually, I paint up to 90% of the army, play it and sell it on Ebay. Will Historicon 2007 be the year I go with a fully painted army in the WAB tournament? I sure hope so!!

If I get a chance, I'll post pictures soon!

Thanks

Coming closer to finishing my Vikings???

2007-05-13T08:29:00.000-05:00

Happy Mother's Day all!

Last week was fairly productive. I finished 18 Viking archers and I'm half finished with 15 Hirdsmen (the other ten are already done). I got my flags from Rick the Flag Dude (very nice I might add) and now I need to order more Crusader minis to finish my second unit of Hirdsmen. So far I have finished:

18 Archers
30 Bondi
10 Hirdsmen

I still have to finish:

35 Hirdsmen (that includes the ten that are half done)
13 Skirmishers
20 Saxons (English Freebooters)

Will I get done in time for Historicon?? Time will tell....

Thanks all!!

It's an update!

2007-04-22T18:44:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone

I know, it's been a while since I've posted an update. I've been to Cold Wars (that was fun!), I've been sick with a terrible stomach flu (yes, me and the family) and I am now in a campaign with the gaming group I'm with - The Long Island Wargamers Association.

Last Saturday, I played a WAB Viking on Viking game. I didn't used Berserkers and my opponent did. Three Berserkers hit my unit of Hirdsmen with the Jarl and I quickly found out how much damage Berserkers can deal out! A unit of 25 quickly became a unit of 10 and ran like little school girls! Once this unit ran, they all ran!!

There were some things I did wrong - forgot about stubborn on one group, I didn't know the difference between thrusting and throwing spears and I didn't have skirmishers. One call to Crusader Miniatures USA took care of the troop problem!

Well, I also painted a command for my Hirdsmen and attached a flag from Rick the Flag Dude (I love his flags - See the links on the side for his contact info) . Here's a picture of my command unit - enjoy everyone!

It's been a while

2006-12-26T15:39:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone

I know it's been a while, but between the holidays and work schedule - there has been very little time for painting.

One of the guys on the WAB forum wanted to know how Gripping Beast Carthaginians stack up against other minis. I took pictures of my Landsknechts and the GB Carthaginians standing next to each other.

As a side note - I woke up on Xmas morning with a new digital camera (Canon A630) and new Foundry miniatures (Alexandrian Greeks!!) Time to do the Greeks and the Landsknechts together :) Do I have the best wife in the world or what???

Thanks all

LIG

More Landsknechts

2006-11-18T19:04:00.000-05:00

Ok

Painting these guys definitely takes more time! This is going to slow me down a bit. Why couldn't I have done something simple like Romans or Greeks???

Oh well, for your viewing pleasure...

Thanks all

The LIG

Progress has been slow, but....

2006-11-05T09:08:00.000-05:00

Hi all

During this last month, progress has been rather slow. Business trips, Dawn of War - Dark Crusade and allot of side jobs all cut into my painting time. However, I finally finished off my 25 man strong unit of Militia and I've begun my armoured Landsknechts.

More pictures to follow

Thanks

LIG

19 men done...

2006-10-07T14:23:00.000-05:00

My latest update...

I got these minis on the 18th of September. Now is October 7th and I have 19 done. Not too shabby. I have another 6 of these to complete and then I move on to my next unit (which is already on the painting sticks and ready to be primed).

Let's see if I can keep this pace up. If I can, I would like to have this army ready for April or May so I can get some playing time in before I hit Historicon 2007!

Thanks

LIG

More pictures

2006-09-30T13:05:00.000-05:00

Ok

I've had some feedback from good friends of mine telling me that there should be more colour in the units. No stripes, just more colour. So without further ado, here are 10 men done.

So far, I'm on schedule. Here is 1/3 of one unit done. Whoo hoo!!

BTW - if you're looking a good, friendly news group, look no further than the WAB groups...

WAB: http://games.groups.yahoo.com/group/WABlist/
WAB Medieavl Groups: http://games.groups.yahoo.com/group/WABMedievalBattles/
WAB English Civil War: http://games.groups.yahoo.com/group/WECW/

Enjoy everyone

LIG

6 Pikemen done

2006-09-23T07:12:00.000-05:00

Ok

So far, I'm excited about this project! I decided that the militia are going to be in rather dull colours - blacks, browns, grays and whites. The Landsknechts are going to be bright colours - reds, yellows, purples, blues,etc.

So far I have finished six militia men. So here they are for your viewing pleasure!

Enjoy

LIG

They have arrived!

2006-09-18T19:15:00.000-05:00

I got home tonight to find both my WAB Age of Chivalry and my Foundry minis!! Whoo hoo!! 62 minis that need priming, painting, basing and love!! Time to get these figures on a base annd start my project!! I'm excited!!

LIG

The figures are on order..

2006-09-17T20:19:00.000-05:00

Ok

I ordered some minis from the Foundry direct, some from Age of Glory in Maryland and some I found off of Ebay. Can I paint 120 figures by the time Historicon comes about? Roughly ten months, that's 12 figures a month, painted and based. Time will tell....

LIG

My bold plan takes form

2006-09-10T14:07:00.000-05:00

Ok

I've got my WAB Vlad the Impalier.
I've ordered my WAB Age of Chivalry book.
I've signed up on the WAB Medieval mailing group (great group of guys in anyone is interested).
I painted up my first Landsknecht mounted officer.

After talking with a friend of mine who is very knowledgable about the Renaissance (thanks John!), I've decided to go with a Holy Roman Empire army. I just love painting the Landsknechts!! But now the million dollar question - Can I get 2000 points ready by Historicon 2007??

I'm ready to place my first order for Pike (Foundry miniatures). Now I need to get Age of Glory to pick up their darn phone so I can order! If I don't get a response by close of business Monday, I'll either order from Foundry directly or I'll switch gears and go with Old Glory. Aauugghh...

Thanks

LIG

Done with my first Landsknecht

2006-09-06T16:39:00.000-05:00

Ok

I finished and photographed my first Landsknecht. He's from Wargames Foundry. I saw the piece in a LGS (Men at Arms Hobbies in Middle Island, NY - great place to go if you're ever in the area) and I just had to paint it.

The purples didn't come out as nice as I would have liked and the yellow seems a bit too weak for my taste, but such is life. However, I was reading an article by Tom Weiss in Wargames Illustrated about doing flesh. I have to say, I was happy about the flesh tones on the model.

Next group I do will have more greens, blues, reds and whites in the uniforms.

Enjoy everyone

LIG

Landsknechts

2006-09-04T18:58:00.000-05:00

Ok

Once again, I feel the need switch gears and paint something else. This time, we're going for something colourful - Landsknechts!

My goal is to have two armies painted for Historicon 2007 - one for ECW and another one. I'm just about complete with my Carthiginians, half way done with my Vikings and I haven't even started the Landsknechts. I have a mounted general from Foundry that I bought about a year ago that is going to be painted this week. Once I have pictures of the finished mini, I'll post it up.

Thanks

LIG

Man of La Mancha

2006-08-19T13:42:00.000-05:00

Hey all

I have wanted to paint this mini for some time now (probably about three or four years). This mini reminds me so much of Don Quixote de la Mancha and the impossible dream.

Lately, my boss took a slight interest in miniatures so I explained Historicon to him. He couldn't believe that a bunch of grown men get together to play with toy soliders!

I painted this mini with him in mind. Enjoy everyone!

LIG

Viking Army

2006-08-05T07:58:00.000-05:00

Ok

I promised some pictures so here we go. This is part of my Viking army for WAB that I have been working on for over three years now (Ok, more off than on).

Today, I get to spend time with my son while my wife works. Tonight I'll probably paint some of my ECW army.

First Post

2006-08-05T07:52:00.000-05:00

Hi all

I've created this little space on the web to share my views on wargamming, computers, etc. Pictures and comments to follow!

Thanks

LIG