Hope it is going well. I guess cable ties are a lot quicker than twisting copper wire around. I don't know why but I am blessed (or cursed) with wanting to make things. I had a lump of cherry wood left over from the world's most expensive pelmet, and the garden chairs needed some new laths, so have had a chance to hone my woodworking before the kit turns up. I haven't used a spokeshave since school about 40 years ago. The chairs seem to function properly, so hope the same goes for the boat.
I look forward to having a go at the build. The sailing bit may be interesting once it's done though. I did bits a bobs whilst I was in the army, and we were lucky to be given a Drascombe drifter to play with for 6 months in the Falklands. We didn't get to do anything too exciting though as a rather conservative navy day skipper was in charge, but sailing around destroyers in Stanley harbour was interesting.
More recently we have had a share in a canal boat. The only thing in common is that it was on water, and had a tiller, so this new venture should be fun. We will probably stick to the lakes as they are fairly close.
Have fun with your build.