Another great event and I thought I was going to miss it having been admitted to the hospital early on the 31st.  But, they let me out in time to snag a couple of good SKN QSOs!  I am truly blessed.

My 1st one (always significant) was way down in the noise - but we made it.  The 2nd was the most interesting.  I worked Carl, K5HK in Reno, NV.  I always enjoy QSOs with former "pros" - he was an Electronics/Radio officer in the Merchant Marine for 34 years!  It was a joy to work him and to hear his great fist (Carl gets my vote for both awards).  Working Carl made this one of the best SKN I've had.  Thanks Carl! (Both contacts were made with my Navy Flame Proof key - my favorite key in the collection.)

Jan 1 QSOs are significant for me because my very 1st QSO was with a great CW op, Earl Smith, W1BML (SK) on Jan1, 1978.  He was my Elmer and gave me my Novice test.  I keep his QSL card in front of me every SKN and enjoy the great memories we had during my Novice days.