Ugh! Gout Again --

Well, I've been very 18th century of late . . . at least my left foot has been (and continues to be). I came down with another attack of gout a few days ago.

For those who've never had it, count yourselves as lucky. It is very painful. While the typical area of attack is a big toe, it can strike any joint. This time it is my left heel. So I've been mainly confined to bed, but occasionally hobbling about the house with a walker, zonked out of my head with pain meds (that don't seem to allow me to sleep).

One of the most frustrating aspects of the meds is that coherent thought seems to be impossible . . . and one of the blessed aspects is that they really do reduce the pain.

All-in-all not much progress with anything . . . but fortunately the bout seems to be easing a bit . . . but it still HURTS.

-- Jeff

Colonial Map Updated --

Those interested in following my Colonial campaign should take a look at my updated map at Colonel Hud's Colonial Blog.

-- Jeff

Colonial Blog Updates --

Over the past few days I've added a few posts to my "Colonel Hud's Colonial Blog" for those who would like to find out more about my Colonial project plans:

http://colonelhuds.blogspot.com/

-- Jeff

A Change of Pace --

After reading Stephen Luscombe's Jarania Campaign rules, I've decided to put together a somewhat similar campaign using my troops . . . and, yes, that means that I intend to concentrate on Colonials this year -- although be assured that I will not be forgetting the 18th Century (or those vile Stagonians).

By the way, Mr. Luscombe is the author of the extensive "The British Empire" website . . . which is well worth some time spent exploring it.

To the left you will see an early version of my heavily revamped campaign map. Each player will be responsible for one of the "rivers" (roughly a quarter of the map).

Each "river" command will contain nine territories . . . only one of which is truly under the control of the ruling Pasha.

The rest will, as in the Jarania rules, need a constantly roving Imperial presence. The longer a territory goes without being visited by Imperial troops the more likely it will be that they will rise in a revolt and attack.

If you look closely (click on image for a better view), you will see that each river has two settlements in a single territory . . . those are the "loyal" ones. You will also see some purple-outlined triangles . . . those are missionaries (and you KNOW that they'll get in trouble).

Each player will have some starting troops and slow replacements (sort of per Jarania) . . . and will have to try and keep the peace in their territory. Of course, when a battle does happen, the other players will get to play the Natives.

Of course there is a lot still to do. I'm painting more Pathans at the moment; then I'll have to paint Zulus, Dervishes and Egyptians . . . so it looks like I'll be spending more moola at Great Eneavors as I get a bunch more Ral Partha Colonials (via their subscriptions, which also allow one to get existing figures at a substantial savings).

I should have enough troops ready soon, so I'm hoping that a "learning battle" can be set up soon.

-- Jeff