James Doan - A Blog

Personally speaking, I could never begin to repay the hobby for the thousands of hours of enjoyment it has given me over the years. When you think about it, there are very few ways to say ‘thanks’ to the hobby for providing such a wide array of pleasure. Model building is largely a solitary hobby. Most of us spend hours in our basements or workrooms at the bench with no social interaction. It’s nice to get away for a while. Building models can be a very relaxing experience. However, it’s not always good to hole yourself up. Modellers can get out to shows, attend club meetings, or hang out at the local hobby shop to meet people with similar tastes and talk to them about their favourite hobby. These are all good ways to share our hobby with others. Building a good drag race car model involves more than a kit and some glue. Proper research and planning can take up close to half the building time. Photos, magazine articles, TV coverage, and trips to the local speed shops are some of the wa...

In an era dominated by digital communication, the handwritten note or greeting card has become a powerful tool for connection and personalization. Far from being a relic of the past, these tangible expressions of thought and appreciation offer a unique opportunity to stand out. They communicate a level of care and attention that is often lost in the speed and efficiency of digital messages. Why Handwritten Notes Matter Standing Out: In a world of emails and texts, a handwritten note immediately captures attention. It signals that the sender has taken the time and effort to create a personalized message. Creating a Personal Touch: Handwritten notes allow for a level of personalization that digital communication often lacks. The choice of stationery, the handwriting style, and the inclusion of personal anecdotes all contribute to a more intimate and meaningful message. Building Relationships: Whether it's a thank-you note to a new customer or a holiday greeting to a loyal client, han...

Let’s talk about surviving winter with our green buddies. It’s that time of year, you know, when the sun decides to take a long vacation, and our homes turn into a desert thanks to the blasting heat. Not exactly a paradise for our leafy friends, right? But don’t you worry because with a little TLC, we can totally keep those plants happy and healthy all winter long. Light it Up (or at least, try to!) First things first: light. Or, rather, the lack of it. Winter means shorter days and less sunshine. Most houseplants will be pretty disappointed about this. So, what can you do? Location, location, location: Move your plants as close to a window as possible. South-facing windows are the gold standard, but any window that gets decent light will do. Rotate, rotate, rotate: Turn your plants regularly. This helps them get even light exposure and prevents them from leaning towards the sun. Consider a grow light: If your plants are really struggling, or you don’t have a sunny spot, think about in...

As the holiday season approaches, many individuals find themselves seeking effective strategies to manage their budgets while navigating the bustling shopping landscape. With the potential for overspending looming large, it becomes essential to adopt a thoughtful approach to holiday shopping. We can explore some methods that can assist you in making informed purchasing decisions, spreading out your spending, and utilizing flexible payment options to alleviate financial pressure. Planning Ahead: The Key to Budget Management One of the most effective strategies for managing holiday spending is to plan purchases in advance. This proactive approach allows shoppers to: Create a Comprehensive Shopping List: By identifying whom to buy for and what gifts to purchase, consumers can avoid impulse buys that often lead to overspending. Set a Realistic Budget: Establishing a budget based on personal financial circumstances helps in determining how much can be spent without incurring debt. Research ...