I feel like such a cheater. I used a power plane and a belt sander. Even though I have sharpened knives all my life, I have never learned (or taken the time) to properly sharpen any one of my numerous old hand planes. Power tools have both spoiled me and robbed me of the knowledge of proper hand too use. I envy your skill and resolve.
Great pics. I'm sure your blog will prove to be both informative and interesting. Let me guess...oiled interior, paint over epoxy exterior and a plywood shoe?