Hello all readers: this is an off topic message to give all a touch of momentem: The stuff you learn here is important......really!......I have in the last year built a 12 foot fishing boat, a 15 foot open boat once again for fishing and fianally an 18 foot deep water power dory for salmon and tuna fishing off the California coast. The stuff I learned from this NG was invaluable in the successful compleation of these projects.I have been unable to row for some time now beacuse of 'carple tunnle' but my next project will be another kayak. The kayak is the perfect boat for the craft builder. You can build 'fast and dirty' -or- you can make furniture for the water. After six stich and glue kayaks and three trailerable boats I am ready for the challenge of a strip built hull. This winter I will build and paddle a work of art.......some art mine and some art of Nicks. I just offer this to remind us all we are the sum total of the best we can be......God bless and Merry Christmas.........Rich........'a work in progress'