K3WWP's CW Stories

When you are through reading this page, close this window to return to the Stories index - or - click here to go to my home page if you came here from elsewhere.

Alan - KB7MBI

John, some time ago I requested from you some guidance as to what are proper operating procedures including the use of prosigns. Well, thanks to your help I feel like a real pro KNOWING I was using proper format. I think that is just as important as the sending itself. I try to treat my QSOs like going on an interview and trying to make a good first impression. It makes me feel real good when I get an occasional compliment on my CW. Also being a little more professional kind of rubs off on the other fella; I know it does on me. I am finding more and more many of the operators are taking my lead now in a QSO regarding format. I think this emulation is an indication that they like what they hear. In the same vein I am more sensitive to others sending format and pick up a few procedures I like or have forgotten about. Good sending is not really a goal but rather a journey. Thanks for the help. I know it is not much but in my own little way I think I am helping to make a difference too....and it feels good. In spite of my "Texas Drawl" on the key, I really feel at home in the FISTS family and spending a lot more time on the FISTS frequencies.

Just when you start to get a bit sidetracked with life's events you get a little reminder of what is important in life and ham radio. Trying out my new Sierra last night (April 22) on the 40m Novice band I had the pleasure of running into a gal that was in recovery from a recent brain surgery and had to relearn code and how to send. Tucked away in an apartment with an indoor antenna and operating QRP, she was doing a pretty darn good job. We chatted for about 35 minutes fighting some weak band conditions and static crashes. I came to find out this YL in CA land is a 4th generation ham. She apologized for her sending, but I reassured her that her sending was better than a lot of fists I have heard lately. It is said that it is good to slow down and smell the roses once in a while...in this case it was good to slow down and meet a pretty interesting ham. I am glad to have taken a break from the DXing and contests to just enjoy ham radio at its best.
Alan KB7MBI in Woodinville, WA
FISTS 5702 Proud member of ARRL

When you are through reading this page, close this window to return to the Stories index - or - click here to go to my home page if you came here from elsewhere.