Mike Swanton

Just starting to fit out a 40' springer. Would love to hear from anyone who has design ideas. I am wonderful with the hammer and wrecking bar. Would love to hear ideas. Mike

Having her out of the water we can see what needs to be done. I never knew that I was such a demon with a hammer and wrecking bar. We have almost stripped out the interior and got down to the basic hull. I was clearing out the engine compartment of oil and water mix this morning. I managed to get it everywhere. When I got home I was imediatley directed to the bathroom and given a brillo pad. I now have a pink glow! On of the hardest parts is the planning of the new interior. We also found where rodney the rodent was living. The steel arrived today to make the new top, so that should start to take shape this week. I have ordered the new multi stove (with back boiler). To say that she looks sad at the moment is an under statement, but with all things is it always darkest before the sun shine.

On Friday we had the boat lifted out. Having not had a boat for long, that was an experience. We had to be towed by other boaters to the marina to catch the crane. We were stood on the side of the canal waiting for a passing boat, but as the canal was very quiet we waited and waited. Eventually there was a boat coming. I then knew how Robinson Cruso felt when he saw his first ship. After that experience I know what makes the canal tick. You help other and they help you. It's that simple and thats how it works. We are having a new top made in steel and we plan to get the engine out as it was under water so it will need some TLC. Looking forward to it and cant wait to get her back to her former glory.