tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44810487705275653422024-03-13T03:14:44.425-07:00W6EOD's Amateur Radio AdventuresThis blog is my attempt to share with you what is going on in my world. I'm a big fan of taking my two kids along with me and incorporating them into my hobbies. QRP portable ranks right up there at the top! Both of the kids love the outdoors so there is no telling what exactly we'll be up to next. Stop in often and don't be a stranger!
Steve W6EODW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-22123406961762416122013-12-18T15:36:00.001-08:002013-12-18T15:36:40.767-08:00Long Time...Holy smokes it's been a long time since my last post!<div><br></div><div>A lot has gone on since June of 2011. I returned from Afghanistan and made another trip to & from. I'm settled in and getting back to the normal routine.</div><div><br></div><div>I haven't been very active on the radio in the last 3+ years but I'm easing myself back into it.</div><div><br></div><div>I've found a local repeater in Swansboro that has some great Hams on it. Their encouragement is motivating me to break out a rig and get back on the air.</div><div><br></div><div>My code is a bit rusty as I'm only able to reliably copy 15wpm but I'll get back to form soon.</div><div><br></div><div>Happy holidays and stay tuned. I'll make a post soon that is worth reading!</div><div><br></div><div>72,</div><div>Steve W6EOD</div>W6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-6842111238691434432011-06-21T21:41:00.000-07:002011-06-21T21:42:23.923-07:00T6SHT6SH is now QRV. Active on 40 & 20 Meter CW. QSL via K1BV. See you on the air!<br /><br />72,<br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-2477743331970300982011-04-03T12:20:00.000-07:002011-04-03T14:15:12.195-07:00NovemberI'm headed out tomorrow and will return in the fall. I'm taking gear with me and will keep an ear open for you. I will be unable to transmit so I will be a SWL only HAM for the duration. See you in November!<br /><br />72,<br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-16884808264489784402011-03-26T05:43:00.000-07:002011-03-26T06:21:15.180-07:00W6EOD Maritime MobileA few days ago I borrowed a friend's canoe. I thought it would be fun to take the kids out and enjoy some time together on the water. I also thought it would be neat to take my VX-8R with me and see if I could get one of my beacons to hit the digipeater.<br /><br />The kids and I drove up to Stella, NC and launched the canoe on the White Oak River. The goal was to give canoeing a try. None of us have ever been on a canoe before so it was a new experience for us. Just getting the three of us in the canoe was interesting. With the kids situated up front it was my turn to climb in. In the process the canoe pitched and rolled and Tyler was none to happy about it. While we didn't turn over it was an interesting few seconds there.<br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view&current=Ann017.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/Ann017.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />While underway we talked and pointed out interesting things to look at. The weather was nice so paddling was an easy job. The kids especially liked going under the bridge and all of the noises it makes when a car passed overheard.<br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view&current=Ann018.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/Ann018.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Paddling the canoe and keeping the kids still was more time consuming than I had anticipated. Mostly keeping the kids still...I had the radio on but didn't pay much attention to it. There wasn't much activity and I didn't hear the VX-8R sound the note that it had received its position beacon back from another station.<br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view&current=Ann022.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/Ann022.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Last stop on the way back to the boat launch was a quick stop at a marshy island for the kids to walk and use the restroom. As we were getting close to the shore Tyler starting shouting "Land Ho!" I had a little pirate on board and didn't know it.<br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view&current=Ann015.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/Ann015.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />We had a good time but I'm not sure that canoeing is for us just yet. The kids didn't like the pitch and roll that a canoe has and I didn't like the idea of us taking a swim. Maybe in a couple years we'll be more sea worthy.<br /><br />72,<br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-66567431838474819472011-03-22T18:23:00.000-07:002011-03-26T05:20:11.767-07:00Antenna For My PFR-3 & KX 1I have been asked a few times over the past week about the antenna I use for my portable ops. I use alot of different antennas while portable, but for the purpose of this writing I will limit it to my PFR-3 and KX-1 and the antenna I use with them.<br /><br />Each portable op has been a lesson for me in gear load out, power sources, antennas etc. I have tried to streamline my load out to facilitate ease of setup. I have learned that a good understanding of antennas is a must to give you an idea of the options available to you both at home and in the field. Conversely, there is a big difference between ideal and compromise. Typically the more requirements you place on a particular antenna the less ideal and more of a compromise it becomes. Weight, size (bulk), Disassemble/Assemble (Dis/Ass) time and multi-band operation are all factors that can cause a compromise to your antenna. I don't know a portable operator that doesn't factor all of these things into their equation.<br /><br />My antenna is based primarily on it's single greatest attribute. Speed of dis/ass. It is nothing more than two wires fed directly at the TRX. The radiator is 34' and I deploy it as vertical as possible. The counterpoise is 31' and I lay it on the ground at a 90 degree angle or as close to that angle as possible to the radiator. The two ends that connect to the TRX have male banana plugs from Radio Shack that I soldered to the wire. The wire is from The Wireman. I don't remember the size or name, but it is 24 or 26 gauge and very strong. The insulators are nothing more than tape bridals made out of electrical tape.<br /><br />To erect the antenna I use cheap, light weight rope on a flat spool. I use a plastic water bottle with a slip knot around the neck and the Armstrong Method to launch the rope over a tree branch. Once the bottle is chest level I take it off and connect the antenna. I then raise the antenna, wind the excess rope and stash the spool out of the way near the tree. Setup and on the air is less than 5 minutes.<br /><br />This particular antenna fits my needs and consistently yields good results for the three bands I operate portable. 40, 30 and 20 meters. Keep in mind that both of these transceivers have a built in ATU. SWR for each band after tuning with both transceivers are as follows.<br /><br />40: 1:1<br />30: 1:1<br />20: 1:2<br /><br />This leads me to my final point which is that I get good reports and lots of questions about the antenna. I am not naive in that I know that I did not "create" this antenna. I used openly available information from the Internet and ARRL books to help me build my antenna. There are many antennas that are much more "ideal" but they do not offer the ease and simplicity that I needed. Who says compromise isn't a good thing?<br /><br />All of my gear minus the rope and water bottle fits in a Pelican case. Model 1120 for the KX-1 and 1150 for the PFR-3. These are small cases if you have not seen them before. Not too shabby considering the load out is a TRX, paddle, head phone (ear buds), log, pencil, antenna and spare batteries.<br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view&current=Ann024.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/Ann024.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view&current=Ann023.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/Ann023.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />I hope this information is beneficial and helps you in your portable operations. Best of luck and hope to work you soon.<br /><br />72,<br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-17927931497259267982011-03-16T16:55:00.000-07:002011-03-16T17:15:09.663-07:00Beautiful Evening & QRPI took my KX 1 out on the front porch this evening to see how the bands were and was treated to two great qso's. The first was with Mike AA1TJ from Roxbury, VT. Mike was calling CQ on 20m. I threw my call sign back and the QSO was on. Both of us were QRP with myself running 2 watts. We talked the usual until the band faded out.<br /><br />With 20m gone I moved down to 30m. The second QSO was with Dave K1DCT from Preston, CT. Dave was running an Icom at 5 watts. His signal was a solid 579. Dave sent me a 559 back which I was very happy with. After all my antenna consisted of an end fed wire with counterpoise. I have never been to CT so Dave and I talked about the differences between there and NC. I got a good laugh when Dave said he wished he lived south of the Mason Dixon because the weather was to cold during the winter and the food and drink are better here. I told him that we get the worst of each season, hi.<br /><br />It is evenings like tonight with a nice sunset, great weather and great QSO's that make me love this hobby. Too bad I've got the bug to be back on the air again so close to leaving.<br /><br />My report on the TX trip with APRS is forthcoming. I have to load my pictures up and don't remember how...<br /><br />72,<br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-31541986985279099782011-03-10T11:55:00.000-08:002011-03-10T12:12:15.759-08:00Tick Tock, Tick Tock...The time is flying by for me and the family right now. I am getting close to leaving for an extended amount of time and there is so much to do. If you've ever been in the military you know exactly what I'm talking about.<br /><br />Reba, Ann, Tyler and I are headed to Texas this weekend to welcome home my little brother from Marine Corps Recruit Training. It should be a lot of fun teasing the new Marine in the family although I am very proud of him.<br /><br />I will be running the VX-8R on 146.520 simplex and 144.390 APRS for the duration of the trip. You can follow us at http://aprs.fi/ and http://www.openaprs.net/ . The latter of the two allows you to send an APRS message via internet to me if you would like to. My callsign/designator for APRS operations is W6EOD-7. I would love to hear from you if you get the chance. It will help break up the monotony of the drive.<br /><br />I plan on taking the PFR-3 with me and a couple of wire antennas. I'm not sure if I'll have the time to get on the air but if I do keep an ear open for W6EOD/p on 20, 30 and 40M. Ops will center around the QRP calling frequencies.<br /><br />On a side note I sent my Yaesu FT-817ND off to Yaesu for the second time today. Previously a couple of diodes went bad which caused the receive on 20m to be stone cold deaf. The rig was under warrenty at the time and was fixed with no charge. The problem now is that the PA/Finals are blown. To make matters worse the rig is no longer under warranty. I hope that Yaesu doesn't charge too much but I'm not expecting it to be cheap... The good news with it though is that my father in law Mike K7ELI will be using it this summer on his hiking and camping trips in the scenic Pacific NW. Make sure to keep an ear open for K7ELI Portable!<br /><br />I'm taking the camera with me and a post of our adventures will follow when we get home. Looking forward to a QSO (digital or CW) with you and best of luck.<br /><br />72,<br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-42668226194079191212011-03-07T05:56:00.000-08:002011-03-07T06:06:47.015-08:00D.C. & APRSThe family and I went back to the Washington D.C. area this weekend to visit my best friend John KJ4KRU. John is recovering from injuries sustained in Afghanistan at the National Naval Medical Center.<br /><br />The trip is 6 hours one way but with the family and 2M APRS it goes by quickly. I have used my VX-8R many times to send out my position information. The rig works well at 5W. I am still learning about APRS and how the system works. It is a very intersting system. I do like the weather reports I get from stations along the route.<br /><br />I did not receive any APRS messages which I hoped for this trip. I am curious about how the process works and would like to see how well the radio performs in that capacity. Maybe the next trip I can score a couple of messages and try sending a message back.<br /><br />72,<br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-80345786865073023012011-03-04T15:12:00.000-08:002011-03-04T15:18:29.175-08:00To D.C. With APRS OnboardI am headed to Washington D.C. tonight, and will be headed back to Swansboro on Sunday. I will have the VX-8R running 146.520 and APRS on 144.390. Please check my progress if you get the chance at http://www.openaprs.net/ . I would like to see how well I am able to send and receive messages so if you get an opportunity shoot me a line. My designator is W6EOD-7. I will post a report with pictures on Sunday to show my results.<br /><br />72,<br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-10011009100063546992011-02-26T12:27:00.000-08:002011-02-26T12:44:39.989-08:00February 2011 PBMMEIt has been a LONG time since my last post. Almost the same amount of time since I was last on HF!<br /><br />First and foremost, all is well here. We are settled in to our new home in Swansboro, NC. The kids have done well with the move and adjusted much better than expected. I am busy with work and will be headed to far off lands here in the near future.<br /><br />With that being said I decided to join in the Polar Bear QRP group's Feb. event. I didn't put a ton of effort into the cause, but I did have fun and make some contacts.<br /><br />I kept it simple and used my PFR-3 with a random wire & counterpoise. My location was the very scenic front porch of my house. I wasn't expecting much, but by my results speak for themselves.<br /><br />Prior to getting on the air I performed a mod to my PFR-3. I never really liked the play and sloppines in my paddles so I shortened them. The difference was exactly what I was looking for. Less paddle travel and better response.<br /><br />My first QSO was with my friend Aaron N9SKN in Illinois. As always Aaron's signal was good. I sent him a 589 and got a 579 in return. I wasn't expecting a decent report back considering my antenna selection. We had a few minutes to chat which was great. I will apologize to Aaron now for my fist and copy ability. I AM VERY RUSTY! QRM from another station forced us to end our QSO but it ended with a smile on my face.<br /><br />My second QSO was a quick one but impressive nonetheless. I heard 9A5W calling CQ in some contest. I didn't know what contest or what country he was from. I threw my call out and he came right back. One quick exchange and he was back on his way. It wasn't until I sat down on the computer that I looked him up and saw that he was in Croatia. Not too shabby.<br /><br />Thanks to all my friends and family who follow the blog. I will try to get on the air a few more times before I head out. So many people to talk to and so little time...<br /><br />72,<br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-10055479470144213242010-06-13T16:43:00.001-07:002010-06-13T16:45:17.838-07:00The Move Is HereI am moving this week from Florida to Hubert, NC. I will be busy setting up a home but rest assured that I will be on the air soon. I've got the bug to get on the air with Field Day right around the corner. I hope to operate portable somewhere in coastal North Carolina for the event itself. Will keep you updated.<br /><br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-64670654954566171682010-03-04T16:54:00.000-08:002010-03-04T16:57:45.568-08:00Hello ???I'm still here. This winter has been miserable. We have been bombarded with freezing weather this year in Florida. This, needless to say has kept me from outdoor ham radio activities.<br /><br />I've got an upcoming move to North Carolina in June. I will do my best to get out and go portable before the move. I want to operate from the beach before I go. Of course a full report will follow. Will keep you updated.<br /><br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-6773770931063508192010-01-03T11:45:00.000-08:002010-01-03T11:51:20.631-08:00RustyI decided that today was the day to get my gear back on the air. I have not been on HF in over 2 months. I found my Sierra and hooked it up to my doublet here at the house. After a few minutes of fumbling around with the coax and tuner I got everything setup.<br /><br />I figured that 20m was the place to go to start scrubbing the rust off of my CW decoder (brain). I was not disappointed. Plenty of activity to go around. One problem though. The rust is caked on pretty thick right now. I'm running as fast as I can to keep up and I'm being left in the dust!<br /><br />No worries though. I've got all the gear up and running, and I'll get all this rust cleaned up in no time. Looking forward to a QSO with you soon. 72!<br /><br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-51518481420989978252009-12-18T13:23:00.000-08:002009-12-18T13:26:09.757-08:00Happy HolidaysI have not been active on the bands lately. I hope to fix all of that after the start of the new year.<br /><br />Until then have a safe and happy holiday season. Best wishes to you and your's.<br /><br />72 and talk to you soon!<br /><br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-35695219380150879442009-11-26T04:58:00.000-08:002009-11-26T04:59:29.313-08:00Happy ThanksgivingBest wishes to you and yours. Have a happy Thanksgiving!<br /><br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-39639830830395125202009-11-14T06:23:00.000-08:002009-11-14T06:27:07.690-08:00November PBMMEI will not be able to operate in the Polar Bear event today. My Marine Corps turned 234 years old on November 10th and we are celebrating tonight. The birthday ball is a time honored tradition amongst Marines and is ALWAYS a good time!<br /><br />So while I toast one (or more) to the Marine Corps tonight, I will make sure to sneak one in for all of you guys out on the ice shelf. Best of luck and 72!<br /><br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-12428540849682092332009-11-11T05:44:00.000-08:002009-11-11T05:46:29.919-08:00Hurricane Ida PostmortemAll is well in Baker, FL. We had minimal wind and maximum rain! No damage to report. Hope to be QRP/p soon. Will keep you updated. 72!<br /><br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-44040091326393643552009-11-09T10:16:00.000-08:002009-11-09T10:27:37.865-08:00Hurricane IdaHurricane Ida is due to hit some time tonight. My house is in the area of the Northeast quadrant of the storm. I don't believe that it will be too bad but never the less.<br /><br />I will have my Sierra setup in the garage. I have a 40M dipole in the attic for this specific purpose. She does not run much power and the antenna is not the greatest but it is something.<br /><br />I do not have a 2M rig in the house so in the event that power/phones go out I will be using that setup as my communication means. Please consider monitoring 7.040+/- because this is where I will be in the event of any emergency communication needs.<br /><br />Best of luck and see you when the dust settles.<br /><br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-56356316924367173922009-10-28T13:23:00.000-07:002009-10-28T13:24:30.068-07:00AC/DC THIS FRIDAY!!!I'm headed to Jacksonville, FL this Friday to see my all time favorite band, AC/DC. Will catch up with you when I get back.<br /><br /><br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-645488491483878762009-10-14T17:01:00.001-07:002009-10-15T04:23:16.993-07:00Snakes, Family & Ham RadioQuick update with interesting pictures from the river this past Sunday. With the PA QSO Party going it was no suprise that all of my contacts were from PA. The following stations are listed in my log book. All contacts were made on 20m CW.<br /><br />KC3M - PA QSOP<br />KA3BMV - PA QSOP<br />K3QIA - PA QSOP<br />N3BNA - PA QSOP<br /><br />K3CHR - John from Philadelphia & fellow QRPer. John was using a FT-817. It sounded good John and keep up the good work!<br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01954.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01954.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01951.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01951.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Conditions were good. The PA stations were like shooting fish in a barrel!<br /><br />Ann, Tyler & Sand Castle<br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01964.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01964.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />On the way home from the river we ran into a very ornery fellow. When we pulled up he wouldn't look at us. When I asked him how he was doing he gave me a "come any closer and you're dead" look. So I gave him plenty of space.<br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01970.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01970.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01974.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01974.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />He was an Eastern Diamondback. He was about 3' long (small) and had aproximately 4 rattles. I have mentioned before on this blog how much I like snakes. My opinon hasn't changed.<br /><br />Hope you enjoy and 72!<br /><br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-10936948162406193342009-10-04T06:04:00.001-07:002009-10-12T07:18:24.973-07:00October PBMMEWe made it to our spot on the river and had a heck of a good time. Since the kid's return from Oregon & Washington we have not been able to get to the river. Starting in July we have had lots of rain that has kept the river high. I won't let the kids swim in the river when it is high for obvious reasons.<br /><br />Our drive in was eventful. I have mentioned before that to get to the spot on the river you have to drive through the bottoms to get there. There are a few bumpy, muddy, deep etc holes to pass to get there. They are not anywhere close to the worst roads I have driven but yesterday they made their case for it.<br /><br />We worked our way in like always. 4WD High for a couple of the holes and 4Low for the bad one.<br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01754.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01754.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01751.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01751.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />The last one was deep! Usually there is not much water in it or it is fairly hard bottomed. Not anymore. This hole has been rutted up and the mud is really thick. You drive up and then immediatly down to get through it. The "down" is at a steep angle and with nasty mud waiting for you it requires a bit of speed vs creeping through it. We heard a thud as we passed through the hole. Reba shot me a dirty look!<br /><br />From there it is easy sailing. We arrived and setup all of our gear. Before I can think about the radio I have to get the chairs, umbrellas, cooler and shovels setup. If I were to reverse these steps I would be in deep Kim Chee!<br /><br />The kids were thrilled to be back at the river and they wasted no time jumping in. The went to their favorite log and started doing their "1,2,3...JUMP!!!" game that they play.<br /><br />Meanwhile I made it over to my operating position and got started on my setup. Reba had the camera and snapped the pictures of the setup.<br /><br />Setting up my antenna launcher. Setup consists of a water bottle, rope and the "Armstrong Method".<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01741.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01741.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Antenna launcher in action.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01742.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01742.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Once the rope was in the trees all I had to do was tie off and pull the antenna up. The antenna for the day was 44' doublet fed with Radio Shack twin lead.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01744.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01744.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />After I finished the setup I tuned up on 20M. I couldn't believe how much activity was centered around 14.060mhz. CQP was all I could hear. I did not check the contest calender prior to leaving the house so I had no idea what was going on. For all I knew these guys were looking for Portable Operaters. Either way there wasn't a whole lot of room for us PB's.<br /><br />I was about to change bands when I heard a "CQ CQ CQ PB". THIS WAS GREAT! It was Martin VA3SIE/VE2 PB#20. I replyed and he came right back to me. He sent me a 559 RST and I sent him the same. Martin's KX-1 was sounding great! We had an great ragchew. Martin mentioned that it was 17C, hot and sunny. I got a chuckle because I guess in Canada in October that is a bit warm. This was the best PB QSO I've had to date. QSB was not terrible and it was not a generic conversation. Thank you for the QSO Martin.<br /><br />By this point the kids were really starting to get loud in their log jumping game. I decided to run full speed in and join them. The weather has been freezing lately. 85F highs during the day and 50's at night. Well I forgot all about that during my run into the water. I was reminded instantly. The water was cold! I felt like I was going to jump out of my skin! For some reason Ann & Ty thought this was really funny.<br /><br />Once I had my fill of cold water I got out. I decided a cold beer and more PBMME was what I needed. I sat down and tuned up on 30M this time to avoid the mad house of CQPers. I found some room on 10.115.5mhz and gave a couple of "CQ CQ CQ PB PB". Just like clockwork Aaron N9SKN PB #126 replyed back. I really enjoy a QSO with Aaron. I sent him a 559 RST and received the same. We had a great chance to talk about the weather, antennas and our radios. Aaron knew where I was and asked how the family was doing. It was about that time that the skeeters showed up in full force. I was trying to work my keyer and kill mosquitos at the same time. I am certain that my CW reflected my inability to do two things at the same time. Thanks for hanging in there with me Aaron.<br /><br />In QSO with N9SKN wishing the skeeters would leave me alone.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01747.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01747.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />It was starting to get on in the day so I made it a point to play with the kids some more. I didn't want the radio to eat up all of my time. We played in the sand, and I punished myself by jumping back in the freezing Blackwater River. With the sun falling below the tops of the trees I decided to get out of the water and start to pack it up.<br /><br />After the pack up we headed out. When we arrived back to the bad mud hole I noticed something in the road. It was a black plastic piece.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01748.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01748.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />I got out to see what it was. After all I did hear a "thud" on our way in.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01749.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01749.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Oh great! The front license plate had come off!<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01750.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01750.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Ann, Tyler and I thought it was pretty funny. Reba didn't. We made it home with no problems. Everyone was tired so the mission was accomplished! I was really happy to get out with the family and do some QRP/p ops.<br /><br />The bands were in good shape here in Florida. I didn't hear near as many PB's as I had hoped but I got two great ragchew QSO's with two really cool PB's. Equipment today was:<br /><br />Rig: PFR-3<br />Ant: 44' Doublet w/twin lead feeder<br />Key: PFR key from Hendricks<br /><br />Hope to hear you next time and 72!<br /><br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-88734808394485119932009-09-28T17:26:00.001-07:002009-09-28T17:33:00.516-07:00River Ops This WeekendThe plan is to be on the river this weekend with the family. As long as the weather cooperates I do not foresee anything changing the plan. I plan on making a QSO with Kelly K4UPG. Kelly is a fellow QRP guy and his website is http://k4upg.com/ . We both have Wilderness Sierra QRP rigs http://www.fix.net/~jparker/wilderness/sierra.htm . The goal is to get a Sierra to Sierra QSO. I'll also have the PFR-3 out with me. I hope to hear you on the air and of course a full report will be posted after we get back. 72!<br /><br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-15224150296692087722009-08-24T18:00:00.000-07:002009-08-30T13:16:04.882-07:00Oregon/Washington TripWhat a great 10 days back home! I flew out of New Orleans on August 12th bound for Portland, OR and returned to Florida on August 23rd. The main purpose of the trip was to pick up the kids and bring them home from their summer up in Oregon. I love getting back to my home. The weather, people and scenery can't be beat! The weather was perfect. I also took the kids along with lots of my family to some of the best places in western Oregon and Washington.<br /><br />I arrived late on Wed the 12th. My Dad picked me up from the airport. I was amazed at how much cooler the weather was than in Florida. This summer has been a hot one in NW Florida. I had to get my fleece out of my luggage to keep from freezing to death. The temp was around 58f that night! As soon as we got to my parent's place I went to bed. I was tired from traveling.<br /><br />The next morning my Dad dropped me off at Ham Radio Outlet in Portland, OR. I was waiting for my father in law to pick me up. He is a recently licensed ham. He is Mike KF7EFU from Eugene, OR. I had a good time looking around the store while waiting for him to arrive. I took the oppurtunity to show the guys my PFR-3 which they liked. Once Mike showed up we walked around the store and I explained everything to him. From there we loaded up and went to Eugene where the XYL's family lives.<br /><br />I spent the next few days with the kids running around the Oregon coast and Willamette Valley. I always make it a point to head over to Florence, OR to see the beaches and beautiful coast line. The huge trees, hills and sheer cliffs above the ocean are an amazing sight. Ann has been hounding us to death for a couple of years to take her to the Sea Lion Caves. I finally gave in and took her. We also went to Bob Creek. This is a spot on the beach north of Florence, OR that has some great tide pools for the kids to explore.<br /><br />Ann taking a moment to pose at the Sea Lion Caves.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01537.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01537.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Neat picture of the inside of the cave.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01540.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01540.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Heceta Head Lighthouse from inside the caves.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01539.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01539.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Bob Creek<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01546.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01546.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01543.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01543.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Tyler and Daddy at the tide pools.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01550.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01550.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Ann posing again.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01552.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01552.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />From Oregon the kids and I went back to Washington where my family lives. We spent the next two days in Woodland, WA on the Columbia River in their RV. The RV site was very nice and it was located right on the river. I was able to get on the air twice while there. While the conditions were tough the following pictures will show you how much fun it was to get on the air.<br /><br />Tyler and Daddy making contacts on the Columbia River.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01576.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01576.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01597.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01597.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Sunset on the Columbia River<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01598.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01598.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01599.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01599.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />During the two days that we were in Woodland my Dad and I took the kids to the Johnston Observatory at Mount St. Helens. More info is located here http://vulcan.wr.usgs.gov/Volcanoes/MSH/NatMonument/PointsInterest/johnston_ridge.html . What a truly amazing place! We also took Ann & Tyler to the Portland Zoo. The kids had a great time and Tyler had a chance to see his favorite animal of them all. The elephant.<br /><br />Mt St. Helens from the Johnston Observatory<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01600.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01600.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01601.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01601.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01604.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01604.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Elephants at the Portland Zoo.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01613.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01613.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Tyler on the train at the zoo.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01622.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01622.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />From Woodland we went up to Forks, WA. Forks sits way up on the NW side of the Olympic Penninsula. If you like rain, rivers, trees and everything green then this is the place for you. It is truly an amazing place. My Dad and I took the kids to Rialto Beach and The Hoh Rainforest while we were there. More information on the Olympic Penninsula can be found here http://www.nps.gov/olym/index.htm and here http://www.olympicpeninsula.org/ .<br /><br />Driving through Aberdeen, WA.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01628.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01628.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01629.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01629.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01633.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01633.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Me and the Welcome to Forks sign.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01728.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01728.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>]<br /><br />Main St. Forks, WA<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01723.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01723.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Ann & Tyler in front of the truck used in the movie "Twilight"<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01716.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01716.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Pictures of Rialto Beach.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01639.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01639.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01636.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01636.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01637.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01637.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01638.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01638.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Ann posing on a HUGE piece of driftwood.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01643.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01643.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Ann showing off her driftwood house.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01691.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01691.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Tyler enjoying the driftwood.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01658.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01658.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01670.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01670.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />W6EOD at Rialto Beach.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01648.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01648.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Sunset at Rialto.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01671.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01671.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01675.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01675.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01683.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01683.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />My Dad and Tyler the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center sign.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01704.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01704.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Hoh River<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01699.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01699.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01698.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01698.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Tyler trying to climb a 200' spruce tree.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01695.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01695.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Phone booth at the Hoh Rainforest visitor center. Remember that this place gets 100+ inches of rain every year!<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01705.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01705.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Pictures of us on the Hall of Mosses trail.<br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01707.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01707.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01706.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01706.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01709.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01709.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01712.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01712.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01714.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01714.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />This trip was definitely about being with family and having a good time. I did enjoy the small amount of time I spent on my PFR-3. I managed a few contacts into Texas and the midwest. One thing that really supprised me about making contacts up in the NW is how much quieter the bands are than back home in Florida. I know that the Pacific NW doesn't have nearly the amount of hams as 4 land, but I never expected there to be that little activity.<br /><br />Awesome trip back to my home state. It was also a great opportunity to spend the time with my family that I don't get very often. Hope you enjoy the read and hope to work you soon. 72!<br /><br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-56791928348474999572009-07-26T14:54:00.000-07:002009-07-26T15:51:03.643-07:00Flight of The Bumblebees 2009I participated in the Adventure Radio Society's (http://adventure-radio.org/wiki/index.php?title=Main_Page) Flight of The Bumblebees 2009 today. I registered for the event three or four weeks ago and was given Bumblebee # 72. I thought that was a great number considering how I use 72 vs 73 whenever I am QRP.<br /><br />I left out of the house at 1115 CST headed for the Blackwater. I wasn't sure where I wanted to go this time. I tried to go to Karick Lake (http://www.fl-dof.com/state_forests/blackwater_river_more_info.html#karicklake) but when I got there it seemed like all of NW Florida was there already. I bagged that idea and headed for my spot on the river. I arrived 1215 CST, 15 minutes after the start and wasn't happy with myself for being late. My plan was was to be setup and ready to rock at the start of the event.<br /><br />Upon arrival I setup my 20m ground plane and hooked it up to my PFR-3. Everything checked out ok. There were plenty of BB's hanging around 14.060mhz but making contacts was easier said than done. QSB was ever present. A few of the stations would be 599+ ,then gone all in the span of 10 seconds. Oh well, such is life. Equipment was as follows:<br /><br />Rig: PFR-3 (http://www.qrpkits.com/pfr3.html_)<br />Paddles: PFR-3 Paddles<br />Antenna: Hombrew wire GP antenna for 20m & 120ft center fed doublet<br />Batteries: (7) Energizer Lithium Ion AA's (internal to the PFR-3)<br />Head Phones: KOSS earbuds<br /><br /><br />Periodically during the event I noticed I was sweating profusely. I remedied that by running full speed into the river. I would dive in and suddenly, I wasn't hot anymore. Gosh I love the Blackwater River! On a side note, the last time we were at the river we (the family & I) saw a snake in the water. I kept thinking to myself each time I jumped in today that a snake was going to get me. It doesn't help that I wear glasses and didn't have them on when I would jump in. Everything looked like a snake! Turns out that without my glasses on, every stick in the water looks like the most ferocious snake you ever saw in your life!<br /><br />I made 9 contacts, eight of which were fellow Bumblebees. I proudly list the following bees in the log:<br /><br />W4ZV #223<br />W2KJ #4<br />NK9G #84<br />WD9F #29<br />KX0R #155<br />K9ESE #118<br />VE3OBU #177<br />N6GA #36<br /><br />The following station was my token QSO who was not operating /BB:<br /><br />N3XRV<br /><br />I switched antennas at 1500CST. I went from my GP to a wire center fed (twin lead) antenna. I was happy because my BLT in the PFR-3 made a good match on 20m. That wasn’t the case on 40m. I tried but never got the null that I was looking for. I will continue my search for the perfect length of wire for my PFR-3. If I crack the code I will post my results here. After my antenna switch, I got back on 20m and didn’t hear one single Bumblebee. What a bummer. As if on cue, Mother Nature sent a good size, Deep South Thunderhead my way. I raced to get everything put away. I had just loaded up the last of the gear when the rain started. Talk about good timing!<br /><br />This was my first Flight of The Bumblebees and it will not be my last. I had a great time in spite of the tough conditions, miserable heat and the ever present QSB. Nice scenery, cool river water and ice cold beer have a way of making the bad into good. 72 for now and hope to work you soon!<br /><br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4481048770527565342.post-38579792380835722952009-07-19T08:50:00.000-07:002009-07-19T08:55:28.534-07:00CW PaddlesI have accumulated a few paddles over the last year and wanted to share a little bit about each of them. It can be hit or miss when you are searching the internet for good reviews, pictures or specs on them. My intent is to provide a picture and a short review on the piece of gear.<br /><br />Below listed is a picture of the paddles (and one key) that I'll be talking about. I will follow up with a post on the individual paddle. Hope you enjoy.<br /><br /><a href="http://s568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/?action=view¤t=DSC01509.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss122/W6EOD/DSC01509.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />72 for now and hope to work you soon.<br /><br />SteveW6EODhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08513174704884863153noreply@blogger.com0