Gentle Friends,
Since retiring, it has been my morning custom to pour myself a hot cup of coffee and go into my study where many of my toy soldiers are on display. I set down my coffee, turn on my computer, and read my e-mail. Next, I log on to the various toy soldier forums and reveiw the latest postings. Once I complete reading the postings and, if so moved, making my contributions, I pick up my coffee and swival my chair to begin a panoramic view of my collection.
Usually, my attention is first drawn to those figures that are presented in matte finish. My gaze settles on the K&C Battle of the Bulge figures. I notice the Germans advancing in their winter dress. I see the SPG slowing creeping forward and I note with interest that there are American prisoners under guard.
Next I observe the U.S. forces as they bravely defend Bastogne. All of the figures look incredibly cold and I wonder how anyone survived the battle in those frigid temperatures.
Having my fill of the cold weather, I turn to my K&C Ancient Egyptians. I see the Pharoah in his Sedan Chair. I watch the stonemasons working on Pharoah's statue. I note with amusement that the Queen of the Nile, Cleopatra, is entertaining guests, all of whom are watching the delightful dancers and listening to the music of the Nile.
I also look at my American Civil War matte finished figures. There is the Conte Confederate artillery line. What a remarkable sight! I also see the Britain sets where the figures are engaged in a raging battle. What a remarkable time in American history!
Finally, I turn to the glossy figures in my collection. I see the Trophy Boxers charging the German Infantry line. I note with awe, the Britains Zulu's attacking Rorke's Drift, which is so valiantly defended by the 24th Foot. I see the Monarch Regalia glossy Ii Clan Samurai figures charging the bamboo barriers which are defended by the Ishida Clan.
I turn further in my chair to observed the wonderful glossy figures of American Civil War camp scenes that have been created by Ted Deddins of Tedtoy. I see the soldiers fleeing the tent that has been invaded by a skunk. I see the young drummer chasing a chicken and, doubtless, the drummer is hoping for a great meal. Then there is the soldier in the bathtub who is attempting to retrieve his pants which are being held captive by a camp dog.
Next, I see the glossy Beau Geste Military Bands and I think how impressive they must have been as they marched in parades. Trophy Mexican-American figures come into my view, as well as the vintage sets of Britains, JoHillCo, Cherilea, Crescent, Minikins, Franchel, and others. Golly, what wonderful figures they all are.
At this time, a recurring thought rises to the surface. It is no mystery to me how one can admire the matte finished figures so deeply. They are wonderful and exciting figures. The mystery for me is how one can look at those wonderfully charming glossy finished figures and not be completely captivated by them. That is the mystery. And,...doubtless,...it will remain a mystery to me.
See you down the road!
Warmest personal regards to all,
Pat
Since retiring, it has been my morning custom to pour myself a hot cup of coffee and go into my study where many of my toy soldiers are on display. I set down my coffee, turn on my computer, and read my e-mail. Next, I log on to the various toy soldier forums and reveiw the latest postings. Once I complete reading the postings and, if so moved, making my contributions, I pick up my coffee and swival my chair to begin a panoramic view of my collection.
Usually, my attention is first drawn to those figures that are presented in matte finish. My gaze settles on the K&C Battle of the Bulge figures. I notice the Germans advancing in their winter dress. I see the SPG slowing creeping forward and I note with interest that there are American prisoners under guard.
Next I observe the U.S. forces as they bravely defend Bastogne. All of the figures look incredibly cold and I wonder how anyone survived the battle in those frigid temperatures.
Having my fill of the cold weather, I turn to my K&C Ancient Egyptians. I see the Pharoah in his Sedan Chair. I watch the stonemasons working on Pharoah's statue. I note with amusement that the Queen of the Nile, Cleopatra, is entertaining guests, all of whom are watching the delightful dancers and listening to the music of the Nile.
I also look at my American Civil War matte finished figures. There is the Conte Confederate artillery line. What a remarkable sight! I also see the Britain sets where the figures are engaged in a raging battle. What a remarkable time in American history!
Finally, I turn to the glossy figures in my collection. I see the Trophy Boxers charging the German Infantry line. I note with awe, the Britains Zulu's attacking Rorke's Drift, which is so valiantly defended by the 24th Foot. I see the Monarch Regalia glossy Ii Clan Samurai figures charging the bamboo barriers which are defended by the Ishida Clan.
I turn further in my chair to observed the wonderful glossy figures of American Civil War camp scenes that have been created by Ted Deddins of Tedtoy. I see the soldiers fleeing the tent that has been invaded by a skunk. I see the young drummer chasing a chicken and, doubtless, the drummer is hoping for a great meal. Then there is the soldier in the bathtub who is attempting to retrieve his pants which are being held captive by a camp dog.
Next, I see the glossy Beau Geste Military Bands and I think how impressive they must have been as they marched in parades. Trophy Mexican-American figures come into my view, as well as the vintage sets of Britains, JoHillCo, Cherilea, Crescent, Minikins, Franchel, and others. Golly, what wonderful figures they all are.
At this time, a recurring thought rises to the surface. It is no mystery to me how one can admire the matte finished figures so deeply. They are wonderful and exciting figures. The mystery for me is how one can look at those wonderfully charming glossy finished figures and not be completely captivated by them. That is the mystery. And,...doubtless,...it will remain a mystery to me.
See you down the road!
Warmest personal regards to all,
Pat
Sorry, I am the Vampire you know