Well, it's the end of three years now and for the last few months I have relaxed some because I can see the light at the end of the tunnel! Starting with the basic completed fuselage, this year we painted the interior, mounted the wings, built the panel and bolted on, wired, and plumbed the engine! I was given a great price on an Aerosport Power 0360 engine with a Sensenich 7456 prop. Both have 133 hrs...barely broke in! 180 hp on wheels at 1050 lbs or so will make the Alaskan rebel a screamer! Later on amphibs it should be a stellar performer. Challenges this past year have been less frequent. At this point when I mess up a part or realize something is not going to work I just roll with it and say "Oh well!" Honestly, there aren't too many parts I couldn't make myself or know who to ask so there aren't many emergencies. One aspect of the build which I've enjoyed in the past two years was prevalent this past year: the buying of specialized tools. I'm a tool guy and although I may never use some of them again...you never know! The panel was a real challenge because I have no experience and didn't even know where to start. I ended up having the radio and transponder done at the local shop and their work showed me alot about what was needed. A high point was looking at the synthetic vision on the Dynon screen and seeing terrain that was directly outside my shop! I mean right on the other side of the wall! Wiring and plumbing the engine was also a challenge-again because of no experience. Lots of reading and phone calls to my builder friends helped immensely. Thanks Si, Matt, and Dennis! I have to say that I'm very proud of the engine and the panel, two very complicated (for me) areas that appear to have been tackled with success. Speaking of success, I wanted to start the engine this month but conversations with engine builders have convinced me that bringing oil temps up enough to get rid of any moisture created by starting it, would be difficult if not impossible in our 30-40 degree weather. I'm afraid the cylinders would overheat before the oil got hot. So, I'll keep it preserved like it is and move on to other fun things like paint and finishing touches! So when's the big day? I have been very naive each yearly update about when we will fly. The home page actually says 18 months! ha ha! I leave that on there for laughs. This time I feel strongly about it. I will fly our plane in May of next year. Guaranteed! Onward!