RIP Stumpy

 Exactly one year ago we planted "Stumpy" at Don and Kim's in Daytona.  He survived an Atlantic crossing to the Bahamas and back bouncing around on the boat, getting stepped on and falling over frequently.  Unfortunately he did not survive the extended periods of frost Florida experienced this winter.

                                                        Stumpy May 31, 2025

                                   Stumpy with his dying leaves and blackened, squishy stalks.

    

                                                       Stumpy's replacement.

Today we headed out early since rain was forecasted for noon.  No sooner did Paul start using his electric angle grinder with a cutting wheel - rain.  He persevered while I protected the connections between extension cords.  Thankfully there were only two corners that extended too far.  By the time it began pouring everything was tucked away.

We headed inside for the duration.  With temps in the low 40s, we kept a fire going while watching a movie and had lunch.  Then sun.  Not in the forecast but when we checked the radar, it looked like we had at least an hour window to work.  Out we went.

                                                    All four corners now have trim installed.

Not as much progress as we had hoped but only a few more trim pieces need to be installed and then we can start with the roof panels.  We just need the rain and wind to be minimal or happen overnight.  (And maybe the tsetse flies can take a vacation!)

Word of the day - kinnikinnick.  I came across this word in the book I am presently reading.  A true crime novel set on an island in Washington state, the foliage included kinnikinnick and huckleberries.

Meaning a mixture of dried leaves and bark.  Also known as Bearberry.  An Indian word.