Thanks JOhn (@johnb) and Spiros (@fiveten). I decided to do this before applying the clear coat so that I could spray the model in one session.

Unfortunately, the poor fit of the landing gear, and my fumble fingers made it difficult to get these on without incident and I ended up with a couple of small glue spots from my fingers on the upper surface. So I am feeling somewhat deflated at the moment, but have smooth sanded the small areas in question and will apply some paint touch up today.

The markings are real standouts on this one, Carl (@clipper). I am positive that you couldn't have obtained the same results with decals.

Slowly but surely getting this done. Wing fold detail painting based upon a washed out color photo I have.
I have to do a gloss coat on this area (the rest of the plane was already done), then I'll do some washes to bring out details.

Looks really nice, my friend @clipper!

Thanks George (@gblair), Spiros (@fiveten), and John (@johnb). My mojo has been a bit week the last few days so the progress has been somewhat slowed. One of the last remaining tasks on the main build is to get the missiles built and painted. For some reason, I've been avoiding this even though it's only three missiles.

However, the real test of mojo will be when I complete the aircraft and then need to start working on the carrier deck base. I'm hoping that it will be different enough that it will be more amendable to working on given my current state of mojo.

Thanks Spiros (@fiveten). The deck will be a first for me, and I have some good references on how to finish it, so we'll see how it goes.

Shifting gears a little is always a good way to regain some mojo, Carl (@clipper). What always works for me is to attack something really simple, without any additions or scratchbuilding. Something like an old Revell or Monogram. I also have my train layout. When models lose their mojo, working on trains always helps. Or go watch an old war movie.