About a month ago, I discovered in "Classic Truck Magazine" a truck show - not just any truck show - a FORD VINTAGE TRUCK SHOW and it was in Branson, Mo.!

I knew I could sell my wife on a trip to Branson and I began dreaming of taking my 1951 F-1 to the show - there was only a few problems.....my truck was still without fenders, glass, wiring, upholstery, carpet and paint and I was doing all my own work. I begged, borrowed and although I didn't, was tempted to steal to get it done.

Having never attended a truck or any other vehicles show as a participant, I was very apprehensive. A very nice and assuring lady, Bj, made me feel as though I was a welcome, long lost friend and encouraged me to attend the show.

I busted a gut, often working 18 hours or more per day on the truck. I managed to complete everything except the wood bed, electric wipers and door panels. I drove my baby to and from work for about a week and everything seemed fine. Our journey began with my wife following in her car. We thought if we did have any problems, she could get parts.

Everything was great, until about 50 miles from our home anyway. I noticed I was losing oil pressure - dangerously low at around 6-8 pounds. A tow truck took my baby with the flathead V-8 back home. Once home, I was ready to totally give up on the Branson show but all the other reasons I wanted to attend were still there - others with the love and passion for those beautiful "effie" trucks would be there!

Yesterday morning, I took pictures of my baby sitting at home in the driveway - all alone. I figured I could show them off to anyone interested. This morning I went to the Branson Wal-Mart and utilized their 1-hour photo services for the enclosed pictures.

I'm disappointed my truck didn't make it this year. I've already seen some beautiful trucks and gotten some ideas on what more I'd like to do with my truck. Maybe "hard luck" isn't the best way to describe the trip here - after all, everyone has made me feel welcome, I've got some terrific ideas now and there is always next year!

#35 - Philip van Alsdorf