I made a decision. It is done and I have to live with it. I switched my quick build kits to slow build kits. Like with everything in my life, I am now going to second-guess that decision forever. But it is made. I am officially a slow builder in every sense of the word.

Van’s has been having some issues. I still believe 100% in the company and believe I made the right choice in my kit, but because of some of the issues, I decided that the control freak in me needed to have complete control over my build and not trust any of it to unseen workers in plants that I have never even seen pictures of. I am sure the quality is there. But this is the biggest project of my life. So slow it is. And it’s not like I am in a hurry. I would not have even started this if time were an issue. Since I am on a song quote kick today, the late, great Harry Chapin sang, “It’s got to be the going, not the getting there, that’s good.” You were so right, Harry.

In the end, if I get my act in gear, it shouldn’t add that much time to the time that is already being added by Van’s for all the inspections and rebuilding that is probably going to be happening on some of the quick build kits.

I will say this. Van’s has been wonderful and responsive during all of this. I know some people are having doubts. I do not. I still believe they make the best kit on the market and have the best customer service on the market. I have not been compensated in any way for that endorsement (but if anyone from Van’s is reading this and wants to send me a t-shirt or something, I wouldn’t turn it down).

In high school, a few of my friends called me Poodle (you know, because of the hair and the frenetic pace of my life). I am now changing that to Turtle. Or maybe Snail. Or Sloth. You all can choose. It’s probably a good thing that the universe is telling me to slow down. Enjoy leisurely morning flights. Stop and smell the 100LL.

Now that all that is out of the way, I will update everyone soon on my new space heater (heater for small spaces, not a heater that is OK’d for use in space although that would be really cool). The hangar gets a little chilly this time of year. The guy at the Ace Hardware assures me it will change my life. I told him if it does not, I know where to find him.

And for all you builders out there, shout out to Mountain Ride Aviation (https://mountainrideaviation.com). He makes some great 3D printed tools at insanely reasonable prices. I just got my latest shipment with rivet measuring guides and a bolt length gauge. Both are great, but the nice surprise was a few other 3D printed goodies in the bag. Thanks Mountain Ride! Nothing makes a girl feel special like a free rivet set bumper and cleco protectors. You made my day.