Behind the scenes, frustration (Patreon)

Hi Guys

I made decent progress this week, but I'm getting a little frustrated. I seem to be having a lot of problems getting materials and stuff actually to show up. I don't know if this has anything to do with covid or what is causing it, but here is a small sample of some issues.

• I ordered a bunch of medium polishing belts. I got told only six were in stock. That's okay - 6 will do. Only one showed up, and none of the places I've talked to can supply any in less than four weeks.
• I ordered solar panels one week ago. I haven't heard anything from the company. I have sent two emails asking for delivery information or tracking information. No replies.
• Ten fine and ten medium polishing pads were ordered. I received 20 medium... and 0 fine.
• The high output alternator was supposed to be a bolt-on-good-to-go solution. I was told there would be an adapter included with the pulley kit (if needed). Twenty-two emails later, the issue is still not resolved. It seems to be a communication issue with the guy (Mark) that made the custom pulley kit. He's now claiming that an adapter is not included - this is a $1412 kit!. I feel sorry for Bruce (Ocean Planet Energy) - he's stuck in the middle of this situation.
• The wireless remote and chain counter (for the windlass) was listed as being in stock. Turnes out to be back-ordered (1-2 weeks).
• The stanchion was supposed to be back in stock this week after waiting for almost two months. No stanchions showed up, and there is no new delivery date.

Those are just a few examples from this week. I don't want to come across like I'm complaining! I'm very fortunate to get to work full time on Athena! Having said that, it would be a lot easier if the right stuff would show up at the right time ;) My stupid mistake of ordering too short bolts for the headsail track was also frustrating, but at least that was 100% my fault ;)

On a much more positive note, the pulpit turned out way better than I had hoped! I love the flat front of it. I think it goes really well with the dodger and arch, and more importantly, it's incredibly sturdy. The new pulpit will last forever, and there should be plenty of room for the cables from the nav light and the Garmin GC20 camera (the same model at the top of the mast). In return for Martin's help with the arch and the pulpit, I've promised to help fair the cement boat. We'll get started as soon as the weather improves.

Like I mentioned in the video I'm going to dedicate today to polishing the last of the arch. It'll be really nice to get that check off the to-do list. I need to get my hands on some non-self-destructing sanding belts to sand the welds on the pulpit put hopefully, those will show up without any issues ;) I'm off to the workshop! Thank you so much for your support! :) Stay safe :)