The other evening, I was meticulously assembling and painting one of my many model airplanes. I carefully constructed wingspan of this F-15C Eagle, gently sealed cockpit and began to brush whisping strokes of color upon this small, plastic aircraft.

As I completed final coat of what was to be base color of model, my oldest nephew sat across from me and began, in great detail, to tell me "how to paint" this particular plane; as I was not "painting it to standard." I promptly decided to ignore him and continue with my artistry. Shifting my head from side to side, I admired miniature, mechanical replica.

Setting plane aside, my eyes turned towards my nephew. I said, " ... now, there are many planes. Many look identical, but there were quite a few that stood out among massive air fleet," I paused, " ... my plane is still not complete. It will be unique from other models, as were those squadron fighters who took special initiative in painting their own, unique designs and decals."

Smugly, he retorted, " ... well, I was just trying to tell you how they're SUPPOSED to look."

Yesterday, I almost finished my aircraft. It still needs some minor adjustments and its decal applications. The final product has appearance of an alligator. Large, piercing eyes adorn nose. Olive green, tan and yellow-tinted scales grace bottom of this intricately designed craft as well. In addition, white, glossy teeth line sides of 1:48 scale plane.