Well, just got back from town so thought I would post what I promised,
For everyone who has ever considered attending the Sowbug, I beg you to
start planning now to attend next year. Having the chance to sit and observe
the "Artistry" of the VFB tiers in person is priceless. I have memories that
will be with me for life. I can surmise them as follows,
Rene, he added a flavor to the event that can not be expressed in words. His
enthusiasm and willingness to share with others is commendable. He sat and
tied for both full days, not wanting to miss a single opportunity to meet
new friends and extend the hand of friendship from across the big pond. In
the evenings it was a pleasure to sit and just relax with him and share our
thoughts on our families and friends. ***Also, Rene, Amanda loves "Fritz",
she took him to school today and shared him and where he came from with her
friends. They were totally impressed.
Dr. Doug, what a hoot. Him and his daughter were great. His ability and fun
loving nature kept you on constant guard. He has an exemption repituar of
simple small flies that are not only eye catching, but apparently very
affective. You do need to watch your materials though... Ask Rene...;-)
Mark Delaney and his wife Valerie were great. He never had a quiet moment at
his station and was one popular tier. He was one of the few tying salt water
flies and was watched very closely and shared lots with the folks. Also, it
is amazing to just sit and chat with him, he can floor you with his
knowledge of many subjects.
I didn't have a lot of time to spend with Bruce Whittle, but what I did get
to do was great. The second day I got to sit and watch over his shoulder.
You really have to experience his work to appreciate it. One thing that
amazed me was his organization, I kinda hope Theresa doesn't take to many
notes when she comes, otherwise I will have to remodel my tying bench...;-)
And Finely, Our Host, Tony Spezio, I am incredibly sad after attending this
year, that I had to miss last year, but sometimes life throws you some
curves. Him and Dot were the finest host and hostess. From the time I rolled
in, ( he was waiting and watching at the Wall Mart for me), I knew I was in
good hands. Theresa was nervous because I was about 3 hours later than my
projected time and they were all working to find out why. No question went
un answered, every concession to make sure everything went as smoothly as
possible and great concern for everyone who attended. I have conversed with
him now for well over a year, closer to 2 years now that I think about it,
and he is an exceptional person. His hospitality to all that showed up is
beyond compare. I only wish that I had felt good enough to have been able to
fish with him, but that will come next year.
I must also thank Tony for something else, someone didn't show so he was
able to arrange for me to stay at the Wildcat Shoals resort with Jerry and
Dennis, ( we had Rene as a room mate as well for 3 nights). Both of them
were exceptional people and the fun was never ending. I must add that Dennis
is "Dennis Conrad" of "Conrad Hackles", supper fine person and did a great
job of "Educating" this country boy in what makes a hackle a hackle. Class
was continues and I think I actually understand it for the most part. All in
all it was quite a memorable time and one I would highly recommend to
everyone.
As some of you know I had to leave early because I wasn't feeling well the
entire time I was there. Well, seams I have at least 2 raging ulcers, acid
reflex as well as an irritated bowl. Doc wanted to know how I even managed
the trip. He wants a new battery of tests to determine all the problems and
the current damage. I am very dehydrated as well as other things associated
with it and it will take a bit of time to try to balance some things out. He
did prescribe Nexium, ( Do Not Ask What this Stuff Cost, It floored both me
and Theresa), so we are looking at the homeopathic route for a bit and see
what we can do. Seams that not only did my stress cause a heart attack, it
affected other things as well. All in all it is just another day for us, and
we are planning our trip for next year.
Folks plan on it because you will not regret it, and like I said, maybe we
can make this an annual event for us all...
Night folks,
Jimi
