Building a Wood Stripped Canoe #Simple Living in Practice #Weekly Menu Plan

It took two summers for my husband and kids to make a cedar wood stripped canoe. Many hours not spent playing video games or frittering away on social media were spent to make a family heirloom. 

It is so satisfying to create something that has lasting value and will provide years of enjoyment. To paddle around on our lake in this boat is closer to art then sport. I don't think that the joy will ever fade that my family has when they look at this boat and say:

 "We made this."

Three generations of Balchs involved in the planning: My nephew, husband, and his father.

First the frame for the canoe had to be made. 

Then the cedar had to be striped. 

Stripes of wood were attached using the frame as a guide.

Sanding the wood. 

Putting resin over fiberglass fabric. 

Sealing the inside of the canoe.

Making the gunwhale and scuppers to line the inside edges of the canoe.

Gunwhale, scuppers, and seat installed.

Maiden voyage in the canoe. The paddle was handmade and given to my husband by his father. 

Weekly Menu Plan:

Sunday: Spaghetti with Trader Joe's Olive Tapenade and TJ's Frozen Cod Pieces with a Tomato Red Onion Salad

Meatless Monday: Mushroom Risotto with Green Salad

Tuesday: Paprika Chicken with Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans 

Wednesday: Mexican Shrimp Avocado & Corn

Thursday: Sauteed Scallops, Swiss Card, Quinoa 

Friday: Refried Bean Tacos, Guacamole & Sour Cream

Saturday: Leftovers 

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Meal Plan Monday Organizing Junkie