Got kind of a chuckle from a comment a reader just made. Something to the effect "you don't have time for this" or something similar. That's the problem with a Do-It-Yourself blog like the Virtual Boatyard, ya gotta actually DO something to write about it. That is, unless you want to blow smoke or regurgitate press releases.
Having spent all spring and most of the summer either in the hosptial or recovering kind of put a crimp in things. I'm happy to say that things are a changin'. I've just finished an article on fiber rigging for the next issue of DIY Boat Owner Magazine, an article on roller furlers in the current issue of Small Craft Advisor Magazine, an article on www.ActiveCaptain.com for both Small Craft Advisor and Long Island Boating World, and there is an article on www.MadMariner.com about the new EPA fuel regulations. Most of that content will end up here as soon as the contractual period ends (most magazines restrict republication for a certain amount of time).
There is also another BIG project underway. Eric White, founder of the Columbia Yacht Owners Association has decided to go cruising. Before he left, he passed on the Columbia archives for me to manage. I've been madly scanning all the literature so I can make it available to others. Haven't decided the best place to it that but some will probably end up here. I also ran across a treasure trove of original metal name plates and cloth patches for both Columbia and Coronado sail boats. Most will be offered on my website, www.captnpauley.com. In terms or actual projects, I completed a portable gangplank for the little boat, which finally made it into the water and her slip. I also am finishing up building new drop boards for the companionway of the big boat. These are made from StarBoard instead of the more common teak or mahogany and has a solar vent installed.
So, you can see things have been active in the Boatyard even though the posting haven't been. Like I said before, you gotta do it before you can write about it!
Take care,
Capt'n Pauley
