Taking Time for Me

I've been pushing myself to keep going (even though flat surfaces attracted me like a magnet), through a cold and accompanying asthma attack. I had a time constraint on finishing my prep for AEP (Annual Enrollment Period for Medicare). Fortunately, I managed to do so with my top 4 providers, and with the Marketplace, too (that's (Un)Affordable Care Act for the rest of you).

So, I was able to check into QSO Today's Virtual Conference, and learn how to build a kit for some ham radio components. I already have a transceiver (just have to get my husband to bring it up on the next trip).

I had a stellar time, and am looking forward to reviewing the video created, and finishing my new little toy. I got stalled with the project when we started winding a toroid, and my hands kept cramping. That, and my vision started getting too blurry to continue at that time. I put in drops, and will get back to it after a little down time.

There were other sessions, too - Setting up a long-distance antenna in a small space (even if you are burdened with an HOA, which I am not) was particularly interesting. We're on a lunch break for now.

That conference had been around for a while, but really took off when COVID hit. I'd attended before, but the numbers really soared when they were the only get-together in town. It's only $10 for the 2-day conference, which to me is a bargain.

I'm going to be checking into the conference tomorrow, as well. The NOARS (Northern Ohio Amateur Radio Society) has a meeting the next day. so I'll be refreshed and ready to tackle AEP prep after that.

What do any of you do for fun?

Amateur Radio for the Newb

Which, although I've had a license for 5 years, would be me.

I've been semi-active on UHF and VHF since the beginning. Just too busy for regular comms.

I bought an HF radio (for long-distance communication), but have seldom used it, even on 2 meter band. I was beginning to work HF this last summer, thanks to friends with good antennas, but I hadn't been able to persuade my husband to OK putting up the feed.

When I bought the house in Lorain, I looked into getting an antenna that could also be used in portable operations. I considered the magnetic-loop type, but members of my club warned me that they emitted a LOT of high-energy radiation (RF). So, I looked into vertical types.

And, I found the Eagle One vertical, made by a gentlemen in the lower part of OH. I ordered it, and it arrived in short order. I've only had it out 1 time since arrival - either I had other things I had to do, often away from home, or the weather didn't cooperate.

Well, today is free of rain/high winds, so I'll be putting it up and testing it out later today. I'd like to leave it up until a little later this evening, and take advantage of using bands that are more active at night.