Good Day and Welcome Back Mr. Maclean!
It's always good to hear from folks who travel a bit and then return to the hobby. If I had to say how things have changed over the past year, I'd say that the hobby is a bit quieter. I notice this most from a business prospect, but on the whole I think that folks are attending fewer events. I'm not saying that events are not as good, or have lower standards, it's simply that everyone seems to be cautious with their ready money and tend to pick and choose their events carefully, or around payday mostly.
I've noticed that over the past year, many folks are selling off stuff they don't use, especially in the fall prior to the holiday season. With so many folks selling items, you can find some nifty bargains, but at the same time I think it might frighten newcomers to the hobby. For instance, consider how much time it took you to build your impression, for someone new just starting out, it does seem like a daunting task, especially in this pokey economy. Notice how loaner trunks are getting quite full these days with folks changing impressions and selling off unnecessary items, the excess finds it's way to the L-box.
Speaking for myself, I also am doing fewer events and am participating with those that have the most meaning for me personally. I think that a major part of the decision making relates to which friends that I participate with, and how the event will be a challenge for me interpretively. If you cannot attend 'em all, then you must choose your battles carefully, so to speak. I think that plenty of others are taking this philosophy.
At any rate, good to see that you've returned. The next upcoming events that might interest you are Fort Point and Tres Pinos.
How are things?
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