Thanks for saying that, Chris. I knew when we decided to do this, that it would be a pretty special gift (if we could do it). I tried to think back to when I was a young adult and realized how awesome it would have been to have a boat of my/our own. We borrowed equipment and saved up for trips and squeezed in every opportunity we could to backpack or take camping canoe trips. How much more we could have done if we'd had a boat. I can't believe I waited until I was 48 years old to get my own boat - a tupperware beginner kayak. What joy and peace and hours of delight it has given me.

I really want to encourage all of our children to get outdoors and to develop a love and respect for nature. I can't think of a better way to do it than to give them a way to get out on the water. I think of Rehd building a boat for his grandchildren, Shawn taking his four year old for a paddle on his lap, and others building kayaks for their children and it makes me have hope that we'll raise up a new generation who cares for the earth.

: My pleasure, Patsy.

: Sounds like you have a new burst for the wedding gift. It's been said before
: on this list, but once again won't hurt. This business of pouring out your
: heart and your energy for the newlyweds touches all of us. As boat
: builders, we already now how great it feels to craft a vision for
: ourselves. To send a new marriage off in this kind and lovely fashion, you
: have shared that vision with another generation. It couldn't be a sweeter
: picture.

: Chris Ostlind