Looking Back - Launch Day 2002

After numerous weekends and Tuesday nights work, Bluster's launch day had finally arrived.  Most amateur boat builder would likely agree, finding the time (away from young family) and money to complete the dream seems oh so daunting at times.  I had never in my life taken on such an ambitious project so I was feeling rather proud of myself when the basic boat was done. 

Without yet spars, sails or rigging we decided to take her to the water.  We chose the public boat ramp at Stave Lake, not too far from my folks' farm where I had been completing the work.  Lisa, Jacob, Sam and my parents joined me for the occasion.  I remember being just thrilled as she settled smartly in the water at the dock and then easily carried the whole crowd for a short cruise around the end of the lake.

My parents are both now gone.  Jacob is now taller than me and Sam not far off.  We have had many happy family times with our little boat and expect many more to come. 

And I am still proud of her.