Dive into the intricate rebuilding process of Elixir, focusing on the essential structural components of a wooden boat—the keel, stem, stern timbers, frames, and floors. Learn how the team navigated the complexities of boat construction, with each floor and frame uniquely crafted to fit the boat's shape. Despite facing unexpected rot and structural damage, the team relied on classic boatbuilding resources to overcome the challenges, turning their zero-experience into a hands-on education in wooden boat restoration.

Rekindle friendships and relive cherished memories in this heartwarming tale of reconnecting with old friends in Maui during a shakedown cruise aboard Elixir. From playful adventures under the iconic Lahaina Banyan Tree to celebrating personal triumphs and sharing the joy of sailing, this story captures the beauty of friendship, resilience, and life in the Hawaiian Islands.

Escape to Kauai's hidden coastal gem, where ancient caves, vibrant windsurfing, and breathtaking landscapes converge. Explore the magic of this secluded beach south of Nawiliwili, a serene haven away from Kauai's bustling tourist hubs. Discover its rich history, natural beauty, and environmental reflections.

Discover the extraordinary story of the Elixir Project—a four-year journey of grit, creativity, and audacity. From hauling massive 65-foot masts with a Mazda truck to crossing the Pacific Ocean without prior sailing experience, this inspiring tale highlights the power of taking bold steps without a clear roadmap. As we face 2025's global challenges, the Elixir Project serves as a metaphor for navigating uncertainty, proving that progress is possible with vision, perseverance, and the courage to move forward one step at a time.

From vegetarian roots to hosting a traditional turkey dinner, this heartwarming tale reflects on the joy of adaptability, gratitude, and the special connections formed through sharing meals with family. A lesson in hospitality, flexibility, and the meaning of giving during the holidays.

Discover the unique homeschooling journey of a 10-year-old in 1987 Hawaii, navigating distance learning through mailed assignments, library explorations, and life lessons in a boatyard. A heartwarming tale of education beyond the classroom, blending tradition, curiosity, and hands-on experiences.

Explore the challenges of restoring Elixir as we uncovered extensive rot, sought rare hardwoods for structural repairs, and transformed prized rosewood into a hidden masterpiece. A tale of craftsmanship, resourcefulness, and the unseen beauty behind boat restoration.

Follow our journey of restoring the schooner Elixir on Kauai, starting with gathering scattered parts, tackling piles of sails, and using ingenuity (and a Canadian dime) to piece together a vision of the ship’s rigging. A story of determination, discovery, and diving into the world of boat restoration.

Dive into the challenges of restoring Elixir, from evolving workshop setups with tarps and tools to tackling unexpected rot and redesigning the deck layout. Discover how a simple plan grew into a four-year journey of creative problem-solving and synchronized steps—all before the days of digital project management!

Explore the magic of Sundays spent on Kauai's Secret Beach in the 1980s, accessible only by a jungle trek through guava-slick trails. Discover the joy of swimming with playful dolphins in the bay, a breathtaking experience of connection with nature.

Daily swims in Nawiliwili Bay, near the Jurassic Park breakwater, and life in a stunning cliffside rental overlooking Kauai Lagoons Golf Course made for unforgettable moments—including the time I unknowingly asked a celebrity golfer to move his car!

Discover the challenges of removing cement ballast from a boat’s bilge during a restoration project. Learn how we tackled tight quarters, a jackhammer, and embedded debris like engine parts and steel shot while preserving balance and addressing structural rot.

As with some projects, this one began a few years before we knew it did, with a trip to the boatyard on Kauai. On that original visit, Tosh visited with the previous owner. Walking under the stern, he looked up to touch her planking and felt an overwhelming wave of wonder and magic at the beauty and symmetry of her lines. Little did he know how that moment would determine the course of the next chapter of our lives.