Dave Joy: Wolfe Island Metal Fabricator and Farmer

Dave Joy has known Steve's family since 1980 or so, when Steve's dad was still alive. Dave, a farmer who employed more modern, technological methods, was also trained as a welder. He's been a metal fabricator on the island as long as Steve can remember. We drove down to his farm this morning trailering Buzzy, the family's 55 year old Aluminum Thornes 14ft boat that was in need of some welding repairs on the keel. A few hours later, Dave has already called to tell us we can pick Buzzy up early this afternoon! 

This was very lucky for us because Dave Joy has long since retired from farming and most fabricating. He still finds use for his tractors, see the "extra photos". ;o) It is a lovely short ride out to his farm and more than anything I enjoyed seeing the many wildflowers along the roadside. We also stopped at the dump (no garbage trucks here) and Steve took me out to a local Breakfast joint called Ernie's. Garth left yesterday and some of the cousins have left too, so it is a lot quieter here on the property! More family will arrive soon I'm sure. 

It has been pouring rain and thunderstorms for days in Bradenton, FL so Steve & I are glad we are here. We find it a lot cooler than we are used to (80F), but very nice and less humid. We'll take it!