I am waiting on a system update, and my husband brought this home last night. As a maker, I am in awe of Bandai kits.

This is a snap-together model, no glue or paint required. Perfect, if a wee bit intimidating. But having my very own highly articulated 1:12 scale classic stormtrooper? Must do.

My thoughtful husband also brought me some pro sprue nippers — I know, he’s a keeper. And although the directions are in Japanese, they are very well laid out with photographs and numbered parts and steps.

Yikes! I am in violation of international law!

System still updating, so I assembled the head. Adorable. The parts snap together almost seamlessly, and the level of detail is extraordinary.

First computer restart on the update, and here is the shapely torso. The head swivels and moves back and forth.

Head, torso and… crotch? The internal articulation assemblies are particularly interesting, and again, the level of detail! Those tiny black buttons extend beyond the armor the merest fraction. Very tactile.

Sadly, I mean finally, my computer has finished its task and I must return to work. To be continued…