Day 8, 6/1/10

The beginning of this particular evening finds me seated next to a workbench reading as my anxiousness to resume work tempts me to stand. Pages turning, reading slowly and adding numbers. Like waking up in an unfamiliar room, I begin to clarify where I left off and finish shaping the ends of the gunwales. With everything planed, chiseled, and mortised I find myself at a stage I have longed after since the first blade was place on new wood six months prior. The gunwales, in a matter of seconds, bend and flex into the shape of my kayak. I am completely silent. Beautiful. Only after spending the better part of my life studying the lines on sails, fish, waves, surfboards, and boats could I fully appreciate this moment. The temporary braces that hold the gunwales in this shape can be moved to sculpt the boat into many different personalities. I carefully make adjustments and then I notice it..my kayak is crooked.