We all know modelers who lost their primary source of income during this past year either through their own design or at the behest of others. There are several modeling company names that have disappeared from the landscape, some good, and some bad.

This year’s priority in Washington has been improving the nation’s economy and increasing the number of available jobs. The effort hasn’t been a total failure, but this will likely be the 2010 priority also.

Those who succeed in this economic upheaval are most likely those who take matters in their own hands milking dollars from as many sources as possible including self employment and working as independent contractors. For retirees, this is a “must do” formula as many had retirement savings swept from the board in stock losses.

Since I have yet to hear anyone discussing plans for a “Scale Modeler’s Stimulus Package”.

If you are going to get stimulated, you will do the stimulating. I got off the 9-5 “gravy train” five years back, and had to develop my own income sources. Here is the monthly portfolio I have built:

Retiree Do-It-Yourself Stimulus Portfolio
1.	Social Security Check
	$1,500 covers the rent and some utility bills
2.	Independent Contractor income  $1,000 plus
	Car and clothing budget.   You Can Do
3.	Website Income  $550 to $750
	Scale modeling costs, dining out, entertainment    You Can Do
4.	Quitting smoking 2 years ago, now saves $225 per month
	No Medical Costs thanks to the Veterans Administration

No, it is not as much as I made from my 40 hours-per-week, (totals to $2,400 monthly, but not bad at age 70-plus.

A side benefit from earning my own way is it keeps my mind active, keeps me moving and alert and to relatively good health.

It does a lot more for me than sitting back and saying, “I can’t”.

Got a Senior Citizen on your Christmas list?

Either parent or sibling, spouse or distant relative, you can solve plenty of gifting problems by introducing them to a hobby. This gift can pay a big bonus by desensitizing health issues.

It is important to realize, particularly as we age, that there are natural, non-drug and non-surgical cures for almost every illness and disease.

Here is a 10-point checklist to keep in mind when you are shopping for Seniors:

1.Hobbies are dependable prescriptions for physical health.
2. They challenge dexterity.
3. They teach resourcefulness and patience.
4. They are alleged to increase longevity.
5. They keep mental faculties sharp and lively.
6. Hobbies distract from worry and stress.
7. Hobbies reactivate your social life.
8. They expand your personal knowledge base.
9. Hobbies give you a reason to get up in the morning.
10. They allow you to go slow and do things right.

The more we advance in our "Boomer" years, the simpler this whole process becomes.

You can beat the crowds and save yourself some time by stepping into the Modeler's Mall.

2010 Modelers Resolutions