The old adage, 'measure twice, cut once', was no doubt set centuries ago. While I spent excess time checking my measurements on this top deck, I still managed to screw it up by 1/4"!!!

Not the usual miss. 1" is the classic with a tape measure. While the mind focuses on the fraction, the subconscious lazily registers the wrong inch #.

How did I manage to epoxy and fasten the bridge deck piece 1/4" out of parallel with the aft deck piece? Measuring the bottom side: sliding the end of the tape measure under the deck pieces to the well-which is a perfect 90 degree square. You only see one side of your mark, you have to be extra vigilant when that happens(that's my new adage )

I was looking for 17 1/4" on the tape. You don't see the '17' because it is under the deck(get it?)! Somehow, I was able to transpose the two measurements as the same(17 1/4" and 17"). To give myself a break, I noticed (after the misetake), the numerals and lines are a bit worn on this tape.

I would have found it easily had I stretched the tape from outside to outside, on each end of the decks. The cost: Some cutting one side and adding material to the other side,... Can you see it?