I knew what I was getting into. Not an enormous project, but a project none the less. This boat needs a lot of work. Some of it major. Most of it not. Some necessary to keep from having something major happen. Its all work that should be done.
The work, goes like many other projects I have encountered through the years. It starts off positive and with good intentions. But the initial plan of attack is impacted by the facts on the ground so to speak. New items show up and supersede the current work; others take longer than expected (always) or costs more money than expected (always again!!!).
So the first phase gives way to a bit of disillusionment. Did I bite of more than I can chew? The jury is still out on that one. Will I be able to finish in time? No. In fact I will never finish. That is the problem with boat projects, house projects or any other project that is not designed to be thrown out, but where the subject lives on accumulating wear. There is always activity on a boat. At some point you have to cast off. I will test that this week. Casting off for just a day sail.
I think you need to enjoy yourself along the way. If its all just work you forget why you are doing this. There are only so many hours of YouTube that can occupy the spot where YOUR dream should be. Its great watching “La Vagabonde” or “Sea Change”. Its even better taking your own boat out for a sail. In doing this you recharge your battery that powers you through the work and you get to see how the work you have done performs. Unless you are trapped in the yard.
I have put off going into the yard for as long as I can. I am only about 2 weeks away from Ventolines hitting the slings. She will probably be there for several months. But when she comes back, we will feel much better about her seaworthiness. At that point we can start to consider fixing her in more exotic locations.