Got to work on the boat several evenings this week, most of the time was spent trimming the hull bottom flush with the side panels. As before, when you get stuff flushed up, it really changes the looks.

It probably doesn't show in the picture that much, but it really looks boatlike. I think the thing would actually float for a while (just a few small holes left). A bit later in the week I got the bow done. The first time I had to trim the hull bottom and side panels to fit (after the first layer of bottom skin), it took me a long time and a lot of thought before I could bring myself to start hacking away at it. This time it was much more obvious how to go about it and I got it knocked out in just an hour or two. Funny how knowing what you are doing helps.

 

I learned a couple of critical boatbuilding facts this week. The first involves pockets on your shirts. I always wear a shirt with pockets because I *have* to have my pen and pocket screwdriver handy. Well, if you are planing and cutting above your chest level, you would be amazed how much sawdust you catch in your pocket!

The other big learning experience of the evening involved working more of your muscles than you anticipate. I got one side of the hull trimmed within about 8' of the bow and the other side I got 10' plus at the aft end finished. I was getting tired, so packed up and called it quits. On the way into the house I reached up to brush some of the dust and wood chips off.

Have you ever had a cramp in the muscle that goes above your shoulder blade? I don't recommend it ... does not feel good at all. That side of my shoulder and neck have been sore ever since.