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WEST BOUNTIFUL — A Utah man is proving you can do anything you set your mind to by building a 35-foot boat in his backyard.
Mike Stock, a cabinet maker, started building the boat from scratch more than 13 years ago.
"Coming from a cabinet markers background to build a boat you would think they were similar, but they're completely different," Stock said.
Stock said he's been following a step-by-step plan he found online. He decided to tackle the project when he learned the high cost of buying a boat. He predicted that by the time the boat is completed, he will have spent $180,000.
The 35-foot boat is complete with three floors and can sleep up to 12 people. Stock said he's built everything starting with the frame.
"Anything made of wood or the woodwork, I've done entirely," Stock said.
He said his secret to staying motivated over the years has been to not be in a hurry and to do a little bit of work each day. He said he has also learned how to handle setbacks.
"You have to step back and think about it," Stock said.
He said the greatest enjoyment he's received from undertaking the project is learning new skills.
"Now when I get on the boat not only do I know everything about the boat and what went into building it, but I have the confidence as well," Stock said.
Stock plans to have the boat completed by November. He and his wife said they will sell their home and sail the boat to the East Coast.
