Joan Barrett of Bear Mountain Boats has granted me permission to proceed with building a canoe for the purpose of raising funds for a charitable cause. In this case, the Bolivia STEP mission, to which we are partnered for three years, will be the benefactor.

I have completed the canoe seats. Based on plans designed by the world-class boatman Martin Step, the straw colored, hand-woven natural rattan cane webbing looks stunning against elegant, golden varnished maple frames.
All gunwales are scarf jointed together to make them a full 18 feet long. The yoke is being carved as you read this and the decks are slated for completion by April 28th.
Stripping begins on May 1 and should be completed over my 14 day vacation time. I never thought I would be a stripper! =) After my short venture as a stripper, I can get dressed while the month of June finds me sanding/fiberglassing the exterior. July is time for more sanding/fiberglass of the interior, and August is good for varnish and trim of the whole boat.
Please pray for me as I proceed on this project. Power tool safety is always on my mind.
I will try to post pictures at church so you are all aware of the progress. I will soon post pictures on "photobucket" for all to see.
If anybody wants to assist me for any of the build portions which lay ahead, please contact me any time.

In Christ,

John Hidber