Personal News Affecting Launch Plans - Episode 245 - Acorn to Arabella: Journey of a Wooden Boat

[@Phoeff99]

So sorry to hear the bad news but know she is and will be proud of your accomplishment no matter what date Arabella hits the water. She’s raised a good one and that’s not nothing. Hang tough. 🙏🏻💕

[@lelandchalmers1658]

Steve I know it was difficult to share something so personal. Thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.

[@triksox]

So sorry to hear about your mom. I lost mine this time last year in similar circumstances. Spend as much time with her as you can. Arabella (and we) will be waiting for you when you're ready to return. Love and hugs from the UK.

[@AcornToArabella]

Thank you for sharing the memory of your mother, Andy. Peace and comfort to you.

[@ShipHappensUK]

Oh Steve I'm so sorry to hear the sad news about your mum, you are all in our thoughts 🙏

[@Paul_Lane]

May God give your mom, you and all your family strength. I lost my mom to cancer 11 years ago. It is not fun watching a parent suffer with cancer but her having you there will be priceless for you both. I am active military so I couldn’t be there until the very end, even then it was special being with her. Your mom must be very proud of your accomplishments.

[@AcornToArabella]

Hello Paul-sorry to hear about your launch, and thanks for the kind words. Glad you’re watching!

[@Paul_Lane]

@@AcornToArabella Thank you. I look forward to hearing about your journey with your mom and the precious time you will be with her. The boat will happen in time and hope she sees the launch.

[@bryanruss5167]

Aaron is probably my favorite person in any of your videos (and I’ve seen them all). He never has a phone in his face, he’s curious, and likes to work on things. But most of all, no matter what time of year or the temperature, he always looks prepared to head out duck hunting with eskimos. I’m telling you, the boy has the right vibe! Each episode needs some Aaron in it man!

[@JacqueHarper]

. . . wait . . . Eskimos hunt ducks??? 😄 Seriously though, you're spot on @bryanruss5167 : great to see a kid growing up with curiosity, learning about the world in real space not from a screen.

[@SuperKingslaw]

Life happens Stephen, and dreams don't die. Just keep on remembering the most important things to you. My father used to refer to deadlines as "Dead Lions". You will get there in due time. Sending you and your family my prayers. Wishing you all great blessings. Godspeed.

[@etepeteseat7424]

As the son of a cancer survivor and the survivor of other cancer victims, my condolences and best wishes to you, your mother, and your family. It's rough, but it's good that there will be plenty of people to help and comfort her and one another. Y'all are in my prayers. Merry Christmas, and I hope you find new helpers ASAP to ease your burden and speed up the launch.

[@badcat4707]

Good morning Akiva and Crew , Merry Christmas to all , Prayers sent for your Mum Steve 🙏🙏🙏

[@rickestabrook4987]

The courage and diligence you've shown through this mammoth project reflects, I assume, some great strength and optimism in your mother. Optimism, positivism, and grit are all part of beating cancer, or at least living longer with it. Carry on Steve. All of your collective supporters send you and your mom hope.

[@aaronallen4647]

Beautifully said.

[@johnanderson8096]

@@aaronallen4647 Agree.........

[@Tomhohenadel]

Wow, sad news Stephen. Our prayers are your mom’s speedy recovery. Every Friday is always a joy with A2A at 7am. Thanks guys. Merry Christmas

[@AcornToArabella]

♥️🌲❄️

[@philwilliams8328]

My prayers are with your mother. Dealing with cancer myself. First numerous chemo sessions followed up with major surgery and then more chemo sessions again.

[@Jakfilm]

I’ve just lost my Mom to cancer. Please know that we’re all with you, that your team is vastly larger than the few in the boathouse. You’ve shown your toughness and determination; keep it up. You can do this.

[@AcornToArabella]

So sorry for your loss. Wishing you peace and strength. ❄️🌲⭐️

[@MAndersenbamboorods]

After the holidays I will be buying some T-shirts. My wife went through colon rectum cancer. Two very hard year in our life and mostly hers. Deadlines are great but the time one needs to be with love ones is more precious and never can be brought back. When I lost my father to lung cancer. He never saw my career, or my children. But I do have those memories of time spent with him. I will pray for your mother and hope she gets to see your dream come true. Please have a great and blessed holiday. Love you all Michael Andersen.

[@AcornToArabella]

Hello Michael, so sorry to hear about how cancer has touched your family. All the best to you, and thank you for your support. 🌲⭐️❄️

[@chevypu35]

sorry to hear about your mom. lost mine a year and a half ago and my dad has been through 2 rounds of chemo and is fairing good and was able to be here for xmas. if i was more skilled in finish carpentry i would come volunteer. stay strong for your mom and rest assured that all the good people you have reached will reach out. long live arabella and best wishes to you and your family in these times

[@AcornToArabella]

Hoping for strength, peace, and health for your dad and your family.

[@lory2622]

That little gentleman is a gift! 22:31 “I don’t understand half the things you just said so if you think it’ll work, sure, it’ll work”. Classic!

[@inveterateforeigner2780]

There's always been a mythos surrounding mariners and their vessels. Watching Arabella 'grow', unfurl, so to speak, I think about all the memories driven into her with every nail and screw. The stories bound within every timber and each bend you've shaped into her. It seems fitting now to be building the house, a place to be warm and secure from storms the Sea might throw at you, during a time when you're weathering one of the Storms life throws at us. Best wishes for Steve, his family and all the crew. Here's to a Happy Christmas, a wonderful New Year, and the best of all possible outcomes.😊

[@AcornToArabella]

Thank you for this thoughtful note, friend.

[@SamanthaDowns]

I always keep meaning to buy some shirts and forget. Glad you re-opened the campaigns and I was able to help support the channel while things are tough. This is one of my favorite shows. My wife and I call it "boat show" and usually watch while having breakfast on a Saturday morning. Hope everything goes well with Steve's mum.

[@leoncolyer9420]

God bless your/our MUM (your family is our family) 💖💖💖💖💖 i had bladder cancer 3 years ago and sofar got good results 🤞🤞🤞🤞 from the treatment i had 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼 be strong MUM safe and well 💖💖💖💖💖 and to the rest of OUR family 💖💖💖💖 from Victoria Australia 🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺

[@AcornToArabella]

Here’s to your continued good health, Leon!

[@eyema_pierat8993]

So sorry to hear the news about your mum. We lost our oldest daughter to cancer 13th April this year and have lived the ups and downs involved. Our hopes and wishes are for a good result for your mum. Best wishes for a wonderful Christmas and we hope the chemo gives you the best of outcomes for the new year.

[@AcornToArabella]

So sorry for your loss, and thank you for sharing your daughter’s story. ♥️🌲⭐️

[@paulhoneyman6923]

Sad news about your mum Steve and my prayers are that she doesn't suffer painfully. I lost my mother 13 years ago and we knew it was coming so were able to prepare, but we all still miss her. Make as many memories with her as you can. They will help when you can't make more. As far as the launch goes my friend, FAMILY FIRST ALWAYS and I for 1 will wait as long as it takes. Have a Happy Christmas to you all at Acorn to Arabella and be safe

[@nathaniellang7919]

All the best wishes for you and your mother and family Steve! Just lost my grandfather last year to cancer and my grandmother a week ago after she suddenly got ill while on vacation a month ago. Was very fortunate that my and my mothers employers let us have the last month to be with her out of state while she was in ICU and fought as hard as she could to try and come home. They both were a very big part of my life just as it looks like you are with your family. I lived with them when I was younger and they were basically my second set of parents. Its not easy to go through what your mother is going through nor is it easy to be there by their side powerless to fix anything. Make sure to take every moment you can to spend with her and treasure every second of it. There isnt any take backs or shoulda coulda's that will replace that time. Best wishes again for a full recovery and make sure to have a wonderful time with family and friends over the holidays. Will most certainly be adding to my collection of Arabella gear! Already have one of everything but getting the chance for new colors and styles is very welcome indeed.

[@paulrunnels8409]

Such sad news, delivered with more grace than I could ever muster. My thoughts are with you and your mom. You are doing fantastic work with Arabella and are blessed with a supportive crew and friends - both in person and online. I love watching young Aaron process information and learn. He is such a smart kid and you are a great mentor! These are memories he will have for a lifetime. Carry on.

[@samrodian919]

@Paul Runnels, Yes I couldn't have put it any better myself. With Aaron, you can see the cogs turning in his face as he processes something new. It's always good to see that happening with a child when one teaches. Working with children, was one of the happiest times of my life, teaching woodwork and metalwork and shaping young lives to be as practical as possible. Even if they ended working in a bank or supermarket! My prayers are with Your mum, and the family at this time Steve, your crew will support you. I hope you get the skilled people you are seeking.

[@DarkSoulBaja]

I lost my mother about 6 yrs ago from a very rare form of cancer that also yielded a very large tumor, it was inoperable, and she only lasted maybe 4-5 months once it was discovered, so, unfortunately i know exactly how hard this is for you and your family. All i can say is to hang tough, stay positive, and keep going. You have an amazing crew, and an amazing support group, i have no doubt that even through these tough times, you will get through it all. I'm also sure your mom is incredibly proud of you and all you have achieved, keep that up by getting your boat finished and launched, I'll bet you she would want you to charge ahead.

[@AcornToArabella]

Thank you for your kind message.

[@Dman911011]

Lost my Mom to Breast Cancer in 2011 not an easy thing for the Cancer sufferer or the Family to go through best thing you can do for her is to continue to be there and support her my man , sending prayers for a speedy recovery for your Mom and all the A2A Family . That being said another Great Episode be bobbin on the waves in no time.

[@mikewatson4967]

I went through a very similar situation with my Mom 3 years ago. This is a difficult time. My advice is be there make memories and be patient. All my prayers and support.

[@AcornToArabella]

Sorry to hear about your mom, Mike. Thanks for being here an me sharing your story.

[@ElMirageRacer4763]

No words Steve. I can't even imagine. Positive Waves to you,your mom and everyone that knows and loves you all. A positive outlook is half the battle. Best wishes. Peace

[@ryanhowell9257]

Steve I’ve followed along since we all started this wonderful journey. I just purchased a shirt and will continue to help. We are all with you.

[@AcornToArabella]

Thank you for your support, Ryan.

[@Joe___R]

I'm sorry to hear that. Cancer is a terrible thing and can be extremely difficult to get rid of. The treatments can be extremely rough, but with love and support from friends and family, it can be fought through.

[@LiquidCheney]

Family is more important. The boat will always be there. I wish you and your family the best. You are all amazing people doing something great.

[@allanrichards3752]

This project is one of the best and most inspiring that I know of. You tenacity in getting to where you are and growing the project proves your strength. Your mum must be very proud of you and I am sure you will provide her with every bit of support she needs. I pray for the very best of outcomes for your mum and Arabella.

[@AcornToArabella]

Thank you for these very kind words, Allan.

[@user-MRG1130]

I don’t know how I missed this, I’m truly sorry to hear the news about your Mom. I received similar news 4yrs ago, it’s something you hear about happening to other ppl, but never expect it to happen to you. It was kind of a blessing for my family, oddly enough. We’ve all started families of our own, and without noticing it, we began seeing each other less and less. I have 3 brothers, and it was reality check for all of us, and made us reevaluate what’s really important. No more maybe next time, at least I really try not too these days, but I’m far from perfect. I wish your mom the best, and I’ll be looking forward to seeing her there for the launch. 🙏🏻🇺🇸⛵️

[@AcornToArabella]

Hoping the best for your family, and sorry to hear how cancer has touched your life. Thank you for your support and for watching!

[@manfredschmalbach9023]

All the best to You and Your loved ones from my side of the pond. Lost my Mom to a tumor after a fierce battle she fought like a trooper for more than two years three decades ago. Not much to add than "it might need strength by time, while it needs not hardening and steeling oneself against it even more". I'm with You in my thoughts.

[@AcornToArabella]

Thank you, Manfred.

[@Torbiera]

This gives this journey a whole new perspective, depth and meaning. This moves me, specifically when the crew comes to your aid to explain the struggle you and your family is in. I realised I feel part of this crew, just by beeing a witness to this beautiful proces of creation. Thanks for sharing and I hope you will find what you need. Only love for everybody here.❤

[@cabinfourus]

I just watched the news story about your project and wanted to reach out to support you and your mother through this tough time. My uncle was diagnosed with stage 4 terminal cancer a little over a year ago. His doctors were telling him to get his affairs in order. My family came together through prayer. We asked God to step in and help. I received news two days ago that my uncle, after months of radiation and chemo, is cancer free. Doctors have said they have no idea how this happened. Stay strong and know that many of us are praying for you and your mother.

[@AcornToArabella]

That’s wonderful for your uncle! All the best for continued good health, and welcome!

[@michaelbotelho2714]

I wish your mom a speedy recovery!! Sending good thoughts and well wishes to her and all of you!!❤❤❤❤❤

[@shadetreewelding]

Sorry to hear about your Mom, sending prayers. I lost my mom last year, spend all the time you can with her.

[@billhartsfield424]

Arron is an amazing kid. Your patience in teaching him is wonderful . He will cherish this experience all his life. Sorry to hear about your mom, hopefully all works out well. Boat is looking great.

[@atown4428]

I just logged on to say the same thing. The patience Steve shows in teaching Aaron, and in allowing him to use the tools himself, to learn and grow, is as valuable as anything the Acorn to Arabella project represents. Keep up the good work.

[@James02876]

Aaron is becoming a fine young man contributing to Arabella. It is wonderful to see him learn.

[@jimindyjim]

Aaron is a great kid who will gain a great perspective on life by watching Steve and asking all kinds of questions. Curious as why he is always wearing waders tho’.

[@jwkmpli]

you and your mum are in our thoughts and prayers may you feel the healing and comforting embrace of God, I,m thankful that I have 7 years following throat cancer , thank you for sharing with us

[@grasshopperhawk]

Godspeed to you and yours, Stephen. My mom also had her fight, and it's not easy on anyone. You are a hero for taking it head on, and I'm certain your mom knows it. I looks like a Bilge Dragon is in my future.

[@MrBcummings8521]

The team of people you have placed around yourself and the fans including myself want the very best for your Mom, You, and Arabella. I have no doubts we will all come through in the end and I'm hoping your Mom is in the spirits to enjoy the launch as she would want to. I'm so sorry this has hit you all. Myself loosing my Mom only a few years back I can tell you please enjoy every moment you get with her. I know I wish I had known now what I didn't then.

[@GG-ty4mi]

Steve, it took guts to share your grief. Balancing the need to support your mom and your goal to launch Arabella may force hard decisions in the future. Arabella is important but can actually wait. I'm sure everyone who follows you will be supportive whatever comes. Sincere best wishes for you, your family, and most of all, your mom. 👍

[@frmoregon]

Be of good cheer Steve. My wife got the worst news 9 years ago. She had Cancer. We spent 2 months in the hospital trying get her stable and another year at home battling with all kinds of wicked hard meds. But praise to our Lord. We came thru it. She is in remission now and it has lasted 5 years. Stay strong my friend. Do all you can for your mom, even if it delays Aribella for a little while. This journey will be hard but victory awaits you and your family.

[@AcornToArabella]

Glad to hear of your wife’s remission! All the best for continued good health, and thank you for the kind words.

[@MrMichaelcurran]

Your call for aid for mother touched me. It is my calling to had her this day to my prayer list. Morning and evening she will be included, mid day as well. Christ be with you both.

[@timschaller]

Steve, I am so sorry to hear about the fight you mother is having. I can only imagine how hard this is for you and your family (both by blood and spirit). I sincerely hope for the very best of outcomes. I also wanted to say it was wonderful watching you and KP talking to, and interacting with, Erin. It is always refreshing to see kids being treated as little thinking people and not small idiots. This is how we raise the next generation to be thinkers and adventurers. BRAVO!

[@stephenwilson561]

Family First....You can build another boat...you get one Mom...Your presents and a goal in mind will help your mom fight with the determination that you've shown through out the years....best of luck from California

[@ericmiller5559]

My heart goes out to you and your family. I pray that God brings strength, peace and comfort to you and family through this difficult time. Losing a parent is one of life's most profound experiences that changes you as a man. Once they are gone, your lifes legacy begins and your mom's legacy will continue through you. She has raised a fine young man of good character and must be so proud of you and your accomplishments. Spend time connecting with her, loving her and seeing her through this and we'll all still be here to support you and the project.

[@David_Walker16-3-51]

I am so sorry to hear your news, but I can tell you, from experience to stay positive and enjoy each day as it comes. Enjoyed the latest episode of “Educating Aaron” he is pretty sharp and you are giving him the opportunity to learn stuff that will be with him for life. My Dad was a Scot, who did his best to instil a feeling for his heritage. We would have a session where I would pronounce Scottish surnames as he spelled them out to me, I’d do pretty well until we got to MacHinery when he’d fall over laughing. Never figured out why.

[@TheREBwater]

I did burst out with a chuckle when he said he didn't understand half of what got said at one point. Me, too. A good and honest answer. But still thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated. Aaron certainly knows more about a boat than I ever will.

[@James02876]

Steve, I will be keeping you and your mom in my heart, thinking of you and hoping for the best. I'm fortunate these days, so I have upped my Patreon to try to help out. I am not a supporter because of the launch date, I'm a supporter because I'm lucky enough to be able to be a small part of this incredible community you have built. Arabella is not just a boat, she is a tribute to your character. Thank you for sharing it with the world. Much love from Canada.

[@AcornToArabella]

Thank you so much for your support, James.

[@barrybush9363]

Hi Stephen so sorry to hear about your mum. Hope every turns out ok . I am really enjoying the progress of Arabella she is going to be a beautiful boat. So to you and all the crew wishing you all a merry Christmas and a happy and healthy 2023. Regards from me Barry Bush from Melbourne Australia and give mum a big hug from me specially

[@AcornToArabella]

🌲⭐️❄️ thank you, Barry!

[@davidripplinger2711]

I'm so sorry to hear the news about your mother. 😥 Sending best wishes. On another note... love that kid!!🥰🤣 Such a kind, spirited soul, so eager and ambitious to learn. "I didn't understand half of the things you just said, but if you think it will work, sure it will work." 🤣🤣❤️ "Education is simply the soul of a society as it passes from one generation to another."

[@JenkinsBoatWorks]

I'm so sorry to hear your news Stephen. I will share something with you from my own experience. First, i pray for your strength and for your Mom's as well. I lost my Mom about two years ago from Alzheimer's. It was rough to say the least. I remember having moments feeling guilty because I had my own boat that I wanted to work on but felt like i should see my Mom as much as I could. One day I was there at her memory care place and mind you, at this point she couldn't remember if I'd been there yesterday or even an hour ago. So we are visiting and she looks at me and says, "What are you doing today?" I said, "I'm here with you" and she replied, "No, I mean later". I was thinking, she doesn't want for me to leave. I said, " I can stay all day if you like" and she looked at me and said, "You should leave. Now!" Caught me off guard for sure. I said, 'What? Why?" and she gave me the biggest gift ever. She said one of the most lucid things I had heard in a long time and quite honestly, the last, most lucid thing that I would ever hear from her. She said, "You have things to do, go out sailing, go hang out with your kids, go build your boat. I appreciate you coming to see me but we are wasting Your Time." I replied, "Yeah but Mom, I feel like I should be here with you." She said, "I know and thank you but you can't do anything for me and I want you to go do your thing. It must be difficult for you to see me like this and it is actually hard for me to see you, see me like this. Now go, make me proud" It was brilliant. It was her last gift to me. It was wisdom shining through her weakened brain. She realized that time was short, not just for her but for all of us. She still, as she had done her whole life, only wanted what was best for me. She was proud of me. Somehow she may have known the guilt that I felt if I didn't see her as often as I thought I should. She let me off that hook. She showed her friends pictures of my boats. She loved me. Wish I was retired from my insurance business, I'd come help you. Best of luck. you are all in my prayers. Chuck

[@AcornToArabella]

Chuck, thank you so much for sharing this memory. It’s beautiful, and we’re thinking of you and your family. 🌲⭐️❄️

[@Kcsailing]

I’m so sorry to hear about your mom’s cancer! I’m sure she is proud of you and your accomplishments with a2a. It’s my hope and prays that your mom finds her way back to good heath!

[@mikecox9214]

I'm sure that your mom is very much looking forward to the launch and that she must be very proud of you. So cudos for doing what you are to try and stay on track in a tough tough time. Celebrating the time when a boat goes from land to water for the first time is also asking for a blessing on the boat and all who sail on her. May God bless you and keep you!

[@eagle1de227]

Sad news. As many others i lost loved ones to cancer. I wish your mom the very best and all of you the strength to endure this crisis and to hopefully overcome it. For me it doesn't matter when this boat will be afloat. If you need a date, your motivation and healthy distraction it shall be. Good luck to all of you and merry Christmas.

[@allisonbenfield6104]

Cancer sucks, and has affected so many of our family's. I hope your mom feels good more days than not and that you all have a happy holiday.

[@AcornToArabella]

🌲⭐️❄️

[@jimclester4754]

Jim from Arkansas, a follower from the beginning. It has been a long journey to this point. And I wish to express my position of grieving along with you on the health situation with your mother. I pray to God to comfort your heart and your mothers to ease her pain and yours. I truly hope and pray for extended days of life for her, God willing. I have only recently begin to feel The excitement at the conclusion of your project and the lunch of Arabella. I ‘ed like to see that also for myself. . For now just know I am praying with you and for her, and your family.

[@wolfparty4234]

I know what your going through Steve! So sorry to hear about your mom, I know she will make the launch date! There’s a lot of friends and supporters I know will step up and make it happen 💪🏼🙏🏻❤️🌲🎁

[@reddogleader1968]

Kindest regards to the entire crew during this difficult period. The housetop is an innovative and thoughtful piece of shipbuilding.

[@AcornToArabella]

Thanks for saying, Joseph!

[@jedfreeman559]

Do whatever it is that you will not regret later and let that guide you through this, but be careful of conflating your honor and duty with the insidious and nefarious plan breaker that is cancer. What an amazing thing you and Alix started that has inspired, educated, and entertained so many. I'm 100% sure your Mom is beaming with pride. Keep living your dreams and good luck to you and your family.

[@alexandermarken7639]

I pray your mother goes into full remission. I have enjoyed the video's while going through my own health struggles. I have a light at the end of the tunnel and if it goes well for the first time in 10 years I will be able to move with no pain. The work your doing is inspirational and your mother being so close is a blessing. Savour the time you have and pray for gods grace.

[@philipmasters7491]

Stephen, Our Love and Prayers this morning included a Special Prayer for You, Your Mother and the whole A 2 A Project. That your Mother shall see Arabella’s launch with joy and comfort and that all those things which you have asked will come to pass! Many Blessings for Christmas, the New Year and the launch.

[@phatputer]

So sorry to hear, the tone in your voice really emphasizes the magnitude of this news, hopefully you can also get the support you need to get through this hugely emotionally draining time.

[@jasonblair393]

Much love to you and the Arabella crew Steve, and most of all to mom for pulling together during this difficult time. Wishing you all peace and comfort, and will chip in where I can!

[@AcornToArabella]

Thank you, Jason!

[@redknight1322]

Stephen, this kind of news at this time of year is always hard to hear and deal with. I've experienced it, and it is never easy... for anyone. I hope that your mom's chemo goes well and she'll be able to put paid to this bit of grief. Stay strong and never fear reaching out to someone... anyone for support when it starts to get to be too much. You've got a great group of friends and family, and I wish you and yours the very best in the coming new year. 😀

[@BenjaminGerrans]

So sorry for what your Mum (and the whole family) must be enduring. My thoughts are with you all. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all the team!

[@bobdesilets2077]

Wishing you and your family strength and love as you are there for your mom. I've loved watching this channel over the years, and am looking forward to when you're able to sail off on the boat you and your team built, Stephen. I just ordered a t-shirt to help in a small way.

[@TXPhred1]

Prayers for you mother’s rapid recovery. ❤

[@bchdsailor]

Sorry to hear Steve, may all good things come your mother's way. Lost my mom to cancer and it was hard for her and for the whole family. Hope the best for you.

[@The01sportster]

I am glad you can be there for your mom. You do what you need to do and everything else falls into place. Your comment on when it's nice something went right, it's all right. We are all here for a short period of time. There will always be trials and tribulations. We all love ya and your journey.

[@claudehopper9813]

Steve , I've watched Arabella come together since the first tree fell . As much as watching your amazing construction skills , I've watched your focus and positive attitude when meeting challenges .Your Mom must be very proud of you , surely a launch date sooner or later will not change her feelings . Keep the home fire burning God bless my friend .

[@AcornToArabella]

Given the prognosis, putting launch off could mean that she won’t be able to be there-it’s not about grit or hard work in and of itself, nor is it about following through just because we set a date. We may not have more time. Thank you for your thoughts! -Anne

[@donbolles8995]

Steve, I am terribly sorry for the news about your mother. The advancements that have been made in treating cancer have been pretty incredible, but are by no means perfect. Your Mother and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. I will also be looking to add to my Acorn to Arabella wardrobe. I truly wish that I could do more. Sending you hope and love with my prayers for healing.

[@AcornToArabella]

Thanks for your support and kind words, Don!

[@mtsugarfree3982]

Steve, so sorry to hear about your mother. I lost my mom a year and a half ago to Covid. As I'm sure you know, treasure the time you have while you have it. I understand you want the boat done, for many reasons. I'd encourage you to not sacrifice time with your mom or family to see the project finished. Blessings.

[@direbearcoat7551]

I feel for you, Steve. I understand how you're feeling, and since we are all humans, I know that many, many, many others have all gone through similar circumstances. It is, after all, part of the circle of life. My mom has already passed. As sad as it was for me and my siblings, we take solace that her suffering has ended. The best thing, and you're already on the right track, is to spend as much time as you can with your mom. We can only hope that her chemotherapy will work out. I hope fervently that she will get well. In the meantime, your mom would not want to be the reason you failed to reach your goals. I wish the best for you and your family.

[@AcornToArabella]

All the best to your family. Thanks for being here every week.

[@TheAquaticMandolin]

I'm so sorry to hear this Steve. I send my best wishes and hopefully a speedy recovery for your mother. Dealing with disease / injury is never easy but having a community around you is how you get through it. Be strong until you can't and then know it's okay to not be. Lean on the people that love you and you'll see it through the other side. As for the project, take as much time as you need. This has been a wonderful adventure to be on, watching you create such a magnificent piece of functional art. I know personally even if you had to take 6 months or more off and not do a single thing to the boat. I would be right here for you when you got back. Best wishes, happy holidays.

[@AcornToArabella]

That’s so kind, thanks for sharing these thoughts.

[@camwoolnough7441]

Sorry to hear about your Mom Steve. I lost my Mum to cancer in 2016, and there is not a day or an event that goes by that i wish she wasn't a part of. I hope that you find 2 talented and dedicated build hands to help you out and allow you time to spend with your Mom. Carpe Diem! seize your time with her at any chance, and make that time count towards the launch of Arabella. as each moment building to that time will be a cherished memory, and many points beyond

[@michaelporter8053]

I am so,so very sorry to hear the news about your mother.Please do not give a thought to how long your project may be delayed,family is first and foremost.My best wishes to your mother yourself and all your family from Fremantle,Western Australia.

[@paulwatson6545]

So sorry to hear about your bad news, sending light and love, stay strong 🙏❤️

[@JacqueHarper]

I'm still catching up ... sorry for this news, but admiring your grace under pressure, and the heartfelt contribution by all the team members at the beginning of this video.

[@FR_1677]

The consistent solidarity in the comments on these videos tends to tilt my view of humanity slightly toward optimism. Thanks for building this community.

[@AcornToArabella]

Same, Ferdinand. And it’s everyone here individually keeping this wonderful community what it is. Thanks for being a part of it.

[@Mc20Hz]

I'm so sorry to hear about your mom. You seem like a rugged bunch and I have high hopes that even with a rough road ahead, your mom is gonna be ok. I'll keep you all in my heart. Gonna head over to your tip jar in hopes that may help you guys hire the folks you need. People out here love you, know that. Stay strong. Never stop fighting.

[@AcornToArabella]

Thanks for your support, James!

[@clannishkobra8965]

My heart and thoughts go out to everyone involved with Arabella you guys are more than a group helping a man achieve his dream a project like this builds a family foremost than it does a boat. I'm unsure of your faith Steve but God always places people and events to support us for the life ahead. God bless your mother and you.

[@TheCloudhopper]

All the Best to your mother, Steve. I sincerely hope that she will able to witness the launch ceremony. My thoughts are with you, i have an idea what you are going through, as I've been down that path with my mom. I wish your mom, you and your entirely family all the strength in the world.

[@kennyforbes35]

My heart goes out to you as I have been through the cancer with my mother as well.but unlike you I had wood cut keel layed but did not no what way to start.i was building a clinker loch boat in Scotland. I mill the wood with a chain saw.made a lot of mistakes but got there in the end it only is 15 feet long.had a launching and it is named after my mum.she said I would never get it done. You have a long road in front of you.god bless you and your mum and family

[@AcornToArabella]

Thank you so much for sharing the memory of your mom and of building your boat!

[@plakor6133]

Well family emergencies 'most always come with the bonus of terrible timing, and priorities fall away and get reset. Peace and good health to everyone in your circle. Your Mom living in the midst of caring friends and family, and in what seems to be a beautiful setting, is a really positive scenario.

[@james1787]

Sorry to hear about your mom. Cancer sucks! We went through it with cancer in our family years ago. Family comes first but I totally understand wanting to keep the dates so that your mom can be there. Wishing the best for your mom and she and you / your family stay strong through this.

[@davidklug5623]

Sorry to hear the bad news, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your mother. There’s nothing in the world that compares to a Mother. Great work and best of luck! Happy Holidays!

[@boooshes]

A tip for others doing this type if fiberglassing is to consider the use of peel-ply for the to-be-finished surfaces. The amount of time and fairing compound saved is significant.

[@benfurbank]

Such devastating news, God Bless her and your family. Treasure the time you have now. Wishing you every bit of peace you possible can get

[@raychang9512]

Very sorry to hear your mom's cancer diagnosis. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I believe it is moments like this that requires us to think what we want to do with our lives. You, my friend, have done plenty and have been an inspiration for us all.

[@AcornToArabella]

That’s very kind, Ray. Thanks so much for being on the journey with us.

[@hangingwiththehunters149]

It breaks our hearts to hear of your mother getting ill. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your whole family.

[@gavinferguson]

Respect for being so open and we have your back i know the launch date now means so much for you; personally no rush..family always first. reopening the bonfire is a great idea i got a few of the tshirts and the quality is great so im happy to get more. I wish you, your family and all the team a safe, warm christmas and new year from here in scotland.

[@AcornToArabella]

Cheers, Gavin!

[@SoundwaveX7]

So very sorry to hear about your mother, I'll be praying that she'll make a full recovery. I had lost my mother a year ago last spring to COVID and I badly miss her presence very much. *hugs* God bless you and your family.

[@AcornToArabella]

So sorry to hear about your loss. And hugs to you, too. May her memory be a blessing.

[@HamiltonMechanical]

Holy hell, i don't know why i didn't catch this video 5 months ago, but I'm sure glad I did, just got my launch hoodie order in! says there's 7 hours left so i was JUST in the nick of time! and seriously, big hugs to you steve. I was there with my mom in 2016. Lost her and her mom both in the same year. Much love to you brother

[@AcornToArabella]

All the best to you for peace and health. Thanks for watching!

[@andywithers592]

Very sorry to hear the news about your mum. Take whatever time is needed. We’ll all still be here rooting for you, your folks and the rest of the team. Thank you for letting us know what’s on your mind. God bless and much love from Switzerland…. Oh, and thanks for the homework!

[@dlb603]

God bless your Mom and all of your family and crew. You will all be in our prayers each day.

[@cosmicinsane516]

I’m very sorry to hear about your mom, Steve. Prayers for her and the family as you deal with it together.

[@regularguy8110]

Prayers for your mothers health and you all. Rough place to be. Launch when you can. Best wishes for the holidays.

[@cf6282]

Ohhh so sorry to hear about your mother. Wishing you and her all the best.

[@AKM99705]

So sorry to hear about your mom. Please know that everyone who is on this journey with you is on the entire journey. We share your successes and your struggles. Prayers for you and your mom.