Another good start to a new year perhaps one of our best years coming up in many years. God Bless America.

It took a few QSOs to knock the rust off this OTs fist but after a while the groove came back. By that time it was time for a wrist rest. Good to hear George W0UA on 80 meters and he was the only one worked on 80. A nice long one hour QSO reminiscent of the old days or perhaps the duration had to do with us moving along at the blazing speed of 15 WPM versus the 35+ during the contests I always run into George during. Good to know he seems past his cancer bout at least for the time being. George we can't last forever but happy you are back in the saddle.

Met several good 'ol boys during this SKN all with colorful histories and even one YL in Florida who moved right along on her bug. Good to meet you Bonnie, WB4FSF. I will be looking up your pal here in Claremore although the white pages aren't of much use anymore. I will see what I can do.

Let me see, there were many good fists on the air. My vote goes to K3KLC which could be a bit biased as he put the Navy Air swing on me bringing out the best that Charles Whiskey has to offer. Several interesting QSOs but my vote goes to AJ1G/M/QRP who kept merrily sending along his story and exploits even though he was in and out due to QSB. I caught most and especially at the end when his bodacious QRP mobile signal peaked at S6. Thanks Chris you brought out the best in my Proset earphones and listening skills of yesteryear.

Hearing W3LPL begging for a Q just minutes away from the end on Sunday was a treat seeing how Frank had lowered himself to a J-38 and some kind of Edgar Johnson TX. Good signal Frank too bad you can't duplicate it during the WW and ARRL DX tests friend. Keep working on those CW skills and one day you can join the big boys like Timmy K3LR. W0AIH, Paul stopped by but only as a bystander because he was here and then gone on up the band I guess having simply dropped his call in along with a feeble HNY. Thanks Reverand always glad to hear you still cranking. How's that 80 yagi hanging BTW? 

Thanks to all for the wonderful QSOs to start off this New Year. Your friendship is much appreciated and let's keep CW going forever. CU in 2018 and beyond hopefully.

Jerry - K5YAA