"The Sweet Forever" - Progress

I spent the weekend in Charleston helping my dad work on the boat. We removed some rotten wood and worked on the engine. After an hour of trouble shooting we replaced the battery cables and were able to turn the engine over a few times just to lube up the pistons. Very good sign :) George is starting to build a step in front of the engine to hide the battery and bilge and a leaning post style helm seat. Won't be long now before we are crusing down the ICW. George wants all the Bates clan to use the boat or at least take a ride when he is finished :)

The Sweet Forever lives on!!!!!!

Homemade fiberglass reducers and new hose for exhaust system

NEW U SHAPED BENCH SEAT IN STERN WITH RECYCLED MAHOGANY SLAT FLOOR-
Very comfortable and attractive if you ask me :)

The Sweet Forever Update November 15, 2009

Fiished Window Repair Forward

Finished Window Repair Aft

The Sweet Forever Update 10-21-09

Hi Judy,
I've begun to clean the boat with putty knife and shop vac, and I am amazed at what good condition the boat is in. A testament to Roy's standards. All she needs is alot of time and little expense in materials. The best thing you did was to have her covered. I removed the engine spark plugs and squirted some light oil onto the cylinders and got the engine turned over manually. This is a good sign and I don't see why the engine can't be salvaged. Things are looking good. Each day I allow myself to love the boat more. I'll be sending you periodic reports on my progress. Love, George

The Sweet Forever Update 10-9-09

The work has begun!!! I had to redesign the steering system which now works fine. I've removed all the rot from the cabin windows and replaced the plywood. The lexan windows have cleaned up nicely so I will reuse them. Love, George