12/12/2005 | KB1CJ Tough conditions! Had one opening late Saturday night from the Boston area into the southeastern U.S. Sunday afternoon, had a few openings, varying from S.E. U.S. to mid-west and, briefly, the southwest. Very brief opening Sunday afternoon into South America. On the other hand, all I had up for an antenna at the time was a sloping vertical with snow on the feedline. As always, a strange, interesting band, which adds to the fun.

I worked mostly CW, which is unusual for me in a contest. Being a casual contester at best, I find contest code speeds too intense, even though I can copy fairly comfortably in the 15 to 20 WPM range. Because conditions weren't very good, I think a lot of people were taking a little more time, which made CW contacts more manageable and fun. A nice way to ease into contest CW.
-- KB1CJ