Launched on a beautiful Boxing Day. I finally got to sail the Firebug and I felt proud to be sailing something I built. I couldn't quite believe it. It actually tacked and gybed just like a real boat, oh, it is a real boat! My nephews suited the size of it better than I did but it was so good to be out there on the water. I didn't have to borrow it, or have to have it back at a certain time, it was all mine. I can imagine the feeling of owning a large yacht could be very exciting and daunting at the same time.
Well, step 1, I'm out on the water when I choose to be. Now I can get back to thinking about that Pacific cruise one day in between some sailing lessons for the youngsters and maybe some mini expeditions around the Waitemata Harbour for me.

All the hard work is paying today as I get to put it all together on the front lawn. I'm itching to get down to the water!

I've gone all out on top quality paints and I'm happy with it. I made the centreboard and tiller which took a bit of planing and sanding to get right.

It's great to have finished the building part. I'm choosing some paints and will name it 'Imp', after a yacht my late grandfather once owned.

Great, it's really taking shape. I've added some epoxy here and there to make it nice and strong. Next is getting the seats in and putting some more 4mm ply on the deck.

It's taken a while but I have built the jig and added the bulkheads, chines and gun'ls. It's time to start adding some 4mm ply to the sides and 9mm to the base.