[PappyB]

Originally Posted by Gort

If it makes you feel any better Trex, I’m right there with ya. Rising model and shipping prices, lack of will power on my part (that amplifies this cockeyed scenario ever so much more), and a screamin’, non-stop, four-year diecast buying spree have forced my hand. Not to mention gas and food prices that are bound to get worse. Much worse.

That Gaincorp F-22 Spirit of America I just bought from The Flying Mule? It represents my last-ever diecast model. One week ago, anticipating the end of my diecast collecting days, I purchased a Corgi 1/72 RAF Coastal Command B-17 from Perry’s and four new incredibly cool jets from TFM (including that Gaincorp Su-27UBK). Love those things. But this insanity has gotta stop.

Still, it was a swell ride.

As for Bush ... the faster he leaves, the better.

Wow Gort, hopefully this does not mean another hiatus! Anyways -- how 'bout some pics of your collection one of these days, I've always been curious what a boxed display looks like

If you have indeed stopped... (I've said that a few times and we seem to be like-minded individuals when it comes to will power, or lack thereof) least you went out with a bang with that "final" order.

Good luck! Let us know how it goes -- be kinda nice to know you can actually go cold turkey.

[timbo]

Originally Posted by Gort

That was partly the reason, trex. I had to regroup and pay down my cards a bit before I could join in the fun again.

Problem is, it’s all coming to a screeching halt. To continue to purchase diecast models would be fiscally irresponsible—if not reckless.

So, I’m happy as a lark with my collection and will remain so. All of this was good fun, and I loved every minute of it. But things change; economics change; people change. I’m just happy I had a chance to share my mania with like-minded screwballs.

I here you there Gort - I think that the last TM haul has pretty much been it for me. I was just about to pull the trigger on the CW A7 last week, but the voice of conscience forced me to back-off. Yes I love my collection and there are plenty of birds out there that are very tempting, but I have to stop.

Family needs must come first, and diecast is unfortunately at the bottom of the pile. But hay you guys' keep spending so when I'm flush again there will still be an industry out there to give me those jucy models!!!!

[stwhite]

Look on the bright side, you WILL receive a tax refund. This year I got the royal screw job-had to pay AMT and NO May refund. I was looking forward to the refund until I found out I was not entitled to it (Married, with 3 kids--my wife doesn't work either). I just don't understand how a typical family runs on a budget, yet my state/federal goverment continues to need more funds to run. Maryland taxes continue to increase yet I have no clue where the money is going.

I better stop now, my blood pressure is inching upward

[roowalker]

Just placed my "stimulus" order with Sally at Aikins,one of my favorite dealers,and good to know I'm helping an independent business South of the Mason-Dixon line,as well. I think more and more of our money,despite our feelings to the contrary,is going to support the expansion of "The Middle Kingdom",I know mine is. The Asian craftmanship evident in my Honda Auto,its superb fuel economy, speaks for itself.The vast majority of my book collection has been printed in China,again superb. My diecast auto collection has all been produced in China,and my emerging diecast 1:48 A/C collection is also Chinese made. My last scale modeling efforts have been with Tamiya kits... who tops them ? For our self centered infatuation,amusing political system,and refusal to believe that our "American Way" has serious faults,we are where we are today. American products,lets see: Beer,Tobacco,and Prostitutes....Thats how we can stimulate our very own economy. I can't drink,my lungs are shot from an auto-immune disease,and I have no desire to mess around on my wife........SO?

[1250ships]

Originally Posted by roowalker

The Asian craftmanship evident in my Honda Auto,its superb fuel economy, speaks for itself.

As someone who loves Hondas you should note that many Hondas are now built here in the US. Just depends on which model you have. Both of ours were built in Japan though.

[roowalker]

Ours was built in Ireland! Hows that for International sourcing! Do we recon it's in the engineering,assembly supervision,or what? I remember marvelling at the "German craftsmanship" in my first CMC 1:18 car,only to find the beauty was made in China,shipped to Germany,and thence to the States...

[brunowbe]

Originally Posted by roowalker

Ours was built in Ireland! Hows that for International sourcing! Do we recon it's in the engineering,assembly supervision,or what? I remember marvelling at the "German craftsmanship" in my first CMC 1:18 car,only to find the beauty was made in China,shipped to Germany,and thence to the States...

I got duped into the whole "German craftmanship" thing too when I bought a Volkswagen Jetta. Biggest mistake I've ever made when it comes to automotive purchases. Das auto is a piece of crap. I had to replace the starter 3 times in 4 months or so and VW still couldn't tell me what was wrong. What good is a car that won't start? I found out it's not even German made, it was manufactured in Mexico. Thankfully it held it's value as I got more in trade for it than I paid for it. I'm quite content with my Hyundai.

[1250ships]

Let me guess- Ireland = CRV?

Both Honda and Toyota have proven they can maintain quality while producing in different countries. I'm sure it is not just one simple thing they are doing, but the overall program sure seems to work.

[Captain Eddie]

I LOVE my Toyota Corolla (made in Canada!)

[roowalker]

G.M. has been using engines made in Mexico,and Transmissions from Brazil,at least since '76,thats when I ordered a new 350 for a customer and found it cast right on the side of the block! Re. V.W. starter issues,find another Dealer or Tech.,Bosch electrical parts virtually all come from Turkey and their Q.C. is top notch....Somebodys overlooking the obvious in their diagnostics.A new set of eyes and ears can work wonders on D#%#&@* auto electrical troubles,regardless of who built the beast. And yeah , it IS a CRV! 3rd Honda,I serviced 'em as an independent since the 70's, and Toyota is right there as well. Used to tell my customers to make their choice between the two based on what color they liked and if the Salesperson had nice looking legs.