NB Bendigedig

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SALLY

2012-01-27T19:00:00.001Z

Sally and David

Tomorrow is my daughter Sally's birthday, no numbers she'd kill me if I divulged her age! She's currently suffering with no voice due to laryngitus and a cough as she has a chest infection too! I hope she feels a bit better tomorrow.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SALLY

Australia Day 2012 On Llangollen Wharf

2012-01-26T20:00:00.002Z

The shark's back in the canal

Eric all wrapped up

Today the Australian flag was flying on Llangollen Wharf as we celebrated Australia Day. We even had two Australian holiday makers Adam and Jack on a hireboat who'd extended their stay in Llangollen to come to the barbecue. Although it was bitterly cold in the wind and at one point hail stones delighted the Aussies, something new to them. Lots of different sausages tasted delicious and the dogs hoped for a taste which they got when the adults were full. The 'grog pot' was a treat and helped ward off the chill but I left them all to get warm back on the boat.......I know....... a wimp but I was so cold.

A New Walk- Plas Newyd And Cae Madog Wood

2012-01-25T19:00:00.000Z

Looking across Llangollen

The last few stiles and we're back in Llangollen

Yesterday we made the most of a dry day and tried out a new walk from 'Walks Around Llangollen And The Dee Valley' by David Berry. We warned Nick and Eric we'd be gone a few hours and didn't get back til after one o'clock. The walk started with a route up to see Plas Newydd home of the 'Ladies of Llangollen' and then up Vicarage Road to a path into Cae Madog Wood which skirts Barber's Hill. According to the walk book the hill was named after a barber who was hanged on the summit for killing his wife in 1739. The dogs enjoyed the woodland and Connie was soon nose down following scents.

We decided not to walk the country lanes skirting the Vivod Estate and did the shorter walk which meant following the road towards Glyn Ceriog and then taking the signed bridleway back down to Llangollen via some unusually high stiles. Lovely views from the bridleway which climbed down into Llangollen but it started to drizzle which was a pity. Checking the route in the book meant it took us longer than it should have but then again it was nice to walk a new route. Next time it won't take so long.

Upcoming Events........ A Barbecue On Llangollen Wharf

2012-01-24T15:40:00.001Z

Liz, Nick and Connie are back after visiting a friend Heather on the Chesterfield Canal. They'd been called on to do a bit of lock wheeling as there were loads of locks. Liz said Connie looked at her dried food after being spoiled by a taste of Heather's cooking. It didn't take her long to eat what was on offer as she rarely leaves food for long while Ben leaves his food until he feels like eating it.

A view on our Valle Crucis Abbey walk

Yesterday we did the Valle Crucis Abbey walk......again but this time we squelched in mud and didn't see anyone else. The road back to the mooring basin seemed to be longer than ever and then the dogs had a very necessary wash in the shallow section of canal used by the horse drawn boats in the warmer months. On the way back we noticed that there didn't appear to be any sheep on the hill with the ruins of Castell Dinas Bran on so today's walk was soon planned.

The low lying mists

Today we walked up the hill......lots of puffing and panting.....with lovely views of the low lying mists. No sign of sheep so we walked around the back of the hill but there was loads of mud. We walked a short section of road down hill and then back across some sheep fields to follow a track then back down the hill and alongside Dinas Bran School and back to the boat. As we didn't come back via the canal dog washing place it was out with a bucket of warm water which ended up mud brown. I had plenty of mud on me too.

Nick and Liz are hosting an Australia Day Barbecue alongside the boats (NB Henry & NB Bendigedig) on Llangollen Wharf on Thursday 26th starting about midday. If you're in the area come and join in. The 'grog pot' ( a hot punch) of NB Blue Toad fame will be awaiting contributions. Unfortunately Mike and Moira who started the trend in 2010 are back home in Tasmania ........just a bit too far away! I know quite a few bloggers are heading up to Llangollen but they've not got here yet! They're too far away as well when you can only move slowly by boat.

Australia Day 2010

A Walk In The Woods With Eric And Ben

2012-01-20T17:00:00.002Z

Another view of Llangollen looking towards the mountains

Llangollen again

Today I was fed up with towpath walking so asked Eric if he could cope with a walk in Pen-y-coed Woods. He didn't really know what he was letting himself in for as it's a climb but I knew we'd be fine as long as we had pause for breath moments. It took us about an hour and a half to complete a circular walk but he did it! Ben had a lovely time off his lead keeping an eye on us to make sure we were still following the track. Nobody else in the woods perhaps it was too chilly for them today.

On the way back we stopped for some shopping in the Coop as Ben waited outside attached to a convenient post, cowering if any lorries went by. Back on the boat we had a plougman's lunch and later I made some chocolate chip cupcakes as I've bought a new recipe book 'Cupcakes and Muffins'. Other than that we had a lazy afternoon.

Happy Birthday Lisa

2012-01-19T21:00:00.002Z

Lisa is the blonde one!

Thirty years ago today my little bundle of joy arrived safely nearly ten pounds in weight. Today she celebrates her birthday......................doesn't time fly! Eric says I sound like a real old granny writing that.......well I'll admit to the granny bit but I'm not that old!

Where Have I Been?

2012-01-18T17:50:00.002Z

I've been on a visit to Newport as I had a dental appointment today and now have to go back for a filling and a crown.......£179...... it's not cheap on the NHS! Luckily Arriva's Club 55 is back on until March 28th so at least my two visits will be £17 a time instead of £40 ( with a senior railcard). I didn't stay long just an overnighter giving me time to meet daughter Clare for coffee in the afternoon and then down to stay with my dad. Paula popped in with the mail so we now have up to date boat licences displayed on the boat as well as new insurance documents. The TV licence made me smile it's valid until 2016 as long as we continue to pay the direct debit to save paper. You can now receive it by email and view it online or print if off yourself.

My dad

My cousin Alison had a family get together at her house in the evening, organised as we only seem to meet these days at weddings and funerals as we'd had no weddings for quite a while. My Dad whose 83 was the oldest member of the family there, as his older brother isn't up to evenings out. I don't know how much he heard of the conversations as he also leaves his hearing aid at home.......deliberately. Lots of catch up chats with some of the the family, we'll have to do it again. Hello to Jen and Malcolm who read the blog, nice to see you both and thanks for the lift back to dad's house.

Eric stayed on board NB Bendigedig and had the job of taking Ben walking in the rain this morning. It's my turn tomorrow let's hope it's dry and warm.

The First Frost Of 2012

2012-01-14T18:58:00.000Z

NB Bendigedig on her Winter Mooring

Today we woke to temperatures of -3C and quite a heavy ground frost and the inside of the cratch had a coating of ice. The rabbits were under the bird table after some the seed we'd left for the ground feeders, while two robins sat on the table eating dried meal worms. They stayed until the blackbird came and then he was scared off by two big black birds- don't know what variety!

Nick was off hedge laying down alongside the Montgomery Canal so Liz and I were going walking with the dogs. We decided to walk the Valle Crucis Abbey circuit and it was a lovely crunchy walk rather than thick mud which made a pleasant change. It was great to see blue skies and sun after all the rain we've had. The fields were white although we did have to walk through one which had been visited by the farmer's muck spreader. Lots of people out walking and we could hear a hunt in progress. A few of the dogs came down the hill to us, one hung around calling as he didn't know which way to go but eventually heard the horn and off he went. Another dog got caught up on a fence by his foot and was yelping but managed to free himself so I hope his owner looks after him when he gets home.

The rest of our walk was uneventful and the dogs were nice and clean so didn't need a wash in the canal. Just as well as the water would have been very cold today. Back on the boat at lunch time, with the sun streaming in through the windows......it's been a lovely day!

A Walk In The Woods And An Afternoon Out

2012-01-13T13:00:00.001Z

Yesterday Liz and I took the dogs to some woods the other side of town and it was lovely as we had them to ourselves so the dogs had a really good run. We were out about an hour and a half as we had plans to go out to lunch somewhere different- Nick and Liz were taking us in their car. We enjoyed the journey taking in the scenery around the Horseshoe Pass and arrived along a pot holed road to Bodidrid Hall. Very nice inside with oak beams and an open fire where they looked at us and said £5.95 menu...usually they just give you the menus! Apparently in the lounge it's a that price, dearer in the restaurant but no one told you about this. Eric asked to see the other menu with two courses at £9.95, three courses at £12.95. Not a lot of choice but we chose our meals and enjoyed the pleasant surroundings. Service was leisurely but the meals arrived and a few drinks and a pudding later we were ready to leave the warmth of the log fire. Brr it felt cold outside! Nick took us to have a quick look around Mold- a place we've never been to but we weren't there long as it was so cold Eric had the shivers. Thanks To Nick and Liz for a lovely afternoon.

More Walks Around Llangollen

2012-01-11T19:00:00.001Z

Another view of Llangollen

Yesterday Liz and I took the dogs up around the back of the hill on which Castell Dinas Bran sits. It ended up being mostly an on the lead walk as there's sheep everywhere. So today we decided to walk on the other side of the valley, where the dogs could run free once we were off the roads. It's been a lovely day and so warm walking up the hills that the jackets soon came off. We came down the road to cross the A5 at Berwyn and walk back over the bridge crossing the River Dee near the Chain Bridge Hotel and then back along the canal towpath to the boats. Ben had a nap while Eric made us some lunch!

Llangollen and Castell Dinas Bran

Mooring In Llangollen

2012-01-09T18:45:00.012Z

Llangollen Mooring Basin (48 hours only)

Yesterday Eric and I had a walk through the Mooring Basin to play ball with Ben in the field. There's just one boat moored up as it's 48 hours only despite our winter mooring permit saying the moorings are in Llangollen Basin. Actually they're online and have been for the last five years but obviously BW don't know this. Ben had a few dips in the canal with his ball, played for a while before we headed to the shop to get the Sunday paper and then headed back for lunch and a lazy afternoon.

This sight made me smile

Today Ben and I headed up past the school on the footpath towards the ruins of Castell Dinas Bran, but I didn't want to go to the top of the hill, so we followed another footpath leading past the houses and a farm house before walking back down the country lane to Llangollen. One of the ladies in the houses has chickens and she showed me one of the chicken houses destroyed by the high winds. Luckily it was empty at the time. Walking back to Llangollen I had a smile when I saw the sheep on top of the hay, making sure she didn't miss out!

Back on the boat I cleaned up Ben's dirty feet before leaving him with Eric as I was off to get a haircut in Wrexham. I usually go to Hair Station by the Bus Station as you don't need an appointment and they are quite happy to cut it short. Yes, it is short but that's how I like it!

Thursday, Friday And Saturday

2012-01-07T16:30:00.001Z

On Thursday Liz and I took the dogs on the bus to Trevor and then we walked back along the towpath to Llangollen. Ben's used to buses now and hops on willing and sits himself down on the floor. My feet were hurting by the time we got back from the walk but I soon recovered on the boat. Ben enjoyed a nap after his walk. Eric had been busy doing the boat chores, emptying the cassette and filling up with water as well as doing the dishes. He even had a cup of coffee waiting for me. It was really cold and the wind was blowing in our faces so I had very rosy cheeks from the wind. In the afternoon the wind dropped as forecast which I was pleased about as the tremendous force of the gusts of winds we'd been having overnight worried me as I lay in bed listening to the row.

On Friday we were up bright and early as Eric was going on a day trip to Newport, south Wales for his appointment at the Eye Clinic. His train arrived at Ruabon on time but there was a delay in his journey due to someone being taken ill on the train in front of his. He was OK as he had an hour before his appointment. The good news is his eye is much better and he just has to slowly reduce the number of drops he puts in and they don't want to see him again unless he has a problem. He arrived back in Llangollen just a few minutes after Ben sat on the front step.......did Ben know he was nearly home?

On Saturday Eric and I went into Wrexham on the bus after we'd taken Ben for his walk. We did some shopping before having lunch in Les's Fish Bar. You can't fault this cafe for excellent fish and chips, courteous service and prompt attention. They go out of their way to help the older folk with their walking frames- although we're not like that yet! After lunch we walked to Asda to do some food shopping before returning on the bus to Llangollen. Ben was waiting -we'd bought him some chew sticks, and as usual he was pleased we were back.

Mud Larking Near Valle Crucis Abbey

2012-01-04T15:45:00.000Z

Valley Crucis Abbey (November 2011)

Today we decided to don the waterproofs and the walking boots and head along the tow path as far as the bridge by the Motor Museum and follow the walk near Valley Crucis Abbey. Liz and Connie were up for it and prepared for the mud, just as well as there was certainly plenty of it! No living sheep in the field we walked through, although we saw one dead body or should I say what was left of it. Other fields had dead sheep only. They must move all the sheep to other fields when the weather is bad. At the moment there's lots of sheep grazing on the hill on top of which are the ruins of Castell Dinas Bran, which is something we've not seen before.

We thoroughly enjoyed our two hour walk and the wind certainly blew the cobwebs away. We managed to escape the rain but I got incredibly muddy as did the dogs. They had a wash in the canal when we threw some sticks, my clean up had to wait til later although we used the puddles to get the mud of our boots.

The photo was taken when the sun was shining in November 2011, today it was dull and overcast and I didn't take the camera.

Sunshine In Llangollen- A Walk To Horseshoe Falls

2012-01-02T13:00:00.002Z

Horseshoe Falls on the River Dee

Just come back from a walk in the sunshine, which makes a pleasant change from all the rain we've been having. I must remind myself it's much better than all the snow of ice of last Winter. Liz and Connie came too and the dogs got filthy with all the mud and puddles on the towpath. That section of towpath hasn't been resurfaced yet. There's plenty of water in the River Dee and a few canoeists were braving the rapids. Even in the sunshine the wind was cold but we were wrapped up so it didn't matter. The cold didn't stop the dogs having a wash in the canal by the marina basin when we threw sticks in the shallow edges. It was the quickest way to get rid of the dirt. Back on the boat for a towel dry and Ben was happy.

We met some walkers looking for the waterfall- we hope they weren't too disappointed to see the weir at the Horseshoe Falls!

Another Trip To South Wales

2011-12-30T16:20:00.011Z

Yesterday Eric caught the afternoon train back to Newport as he had another hospital appointment Friday afternoon. So it was just an overnighter at daughter Clare's house. They had a chinese take away so they didn't have to cook. Clare is suffering at the moment with a bad back........what a family! I've just spoken to Eric on the phone and he's on his way back to north Wales. But the bad news is he's got another appointment at the Eye Clinic next Friday afternoon as they're not very happy with how his eye is progressing and need to keep an eye on it!

Today Liz was feeling better so she came walking in the woods with Connie. The dogs had a good time even though it started to rain, running in the woods while we took our time as it was a bit slippery underfoot and we weren't feeling particularly energetic. As usual Ben was interested in big sticks and Connie was following scents.

Now I am going to make a beef curry for tea- with a jar of Patak's sauce of course, so I know it'll taste OK. Ben will get a taste of the beef before I add the sauce, I know I spoil him!

Back On NB Bendigedig

2011-12-28T19:10:00.003Z

Yesterday after an uneventful journey we've returned to Llangollen. We had a few hold ups around Hereford but as our route was A roads rather than motorway it didn't cause us any problems. Ben was a very good boy travelling in the boot area (with the parcel shelf removed) just looking out of the rear window. I was surprised he didn't curl up and go to sleep but he did that when we were back on our floating home.We stopped on the way for comfort breaks and to pick up milk, bread and a cooked chicken for tea. It's nice to go away but it's always nice to be back home. We need a couple of days to relax after a hectic week. I expect our daughter Clare is glad to have her house back!

Today it was back to normal with a walk with Liz and Connie, not a long one as Liz is suffering with a cough and a cold. The weather further north is certainly cooler than down south, with a cold wind. I've been busy catching up with the washing, it's just as well we've got a drier although the shirts get hung up on coathangers so it still looks like a laundry. They soon dry with the heat from the fire.

Christmas Eve In Rainy Newport

2011-12-24T20:00:00.002Z

Since we came to Newport it's been hectic and today was no exception, first I had to collect the presents from my dad's house. I'd bought and wrapped them on my last trip to Newport and left them at his house until today.

Ben with his Christmas squeaky bone.....it didn't last the day! (photo by Clare)

Next it was Ben's walk as he needed to be exercised as we were out all afternoon at our daughters Christmas Eve Party as she was working over Christmas. The weather was wet wet wet and there we were playing ball at Tredegar Park........we must be mad. There were other dog walkers over there too.

The dummy tree ( photo by Robin)

We had a lovely afternoon made extra special by granddaughter Gwenllian opening some early presents. The Christmas tree was a little unusual as hanging on it were numerous dummies. Her mother's idea was to let Father Christmas have the dummies in exchange for a pet so Gwenllian is swapping her dummies for a pet rabbit.

I took some photos but didn't bring the lead to download them onto the computer......we always forget something! All that remains for me to write is we hope you have a................................

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Mudlarking In Wales

2011-12-23T10:12:00.001Z

Ready to paddle.....plenty of mud

Apart from shopping and visiting family I've been walking some familiar haunts including the Alt-yr-yn Nature Reserve area which runs alongside the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. You may have seen the canal if you've travelled the M4 between Brynglas Tunnels at Newport and Tredegar Park roundabout and you've certainly heard about that section of the M4 if you listen to Radio 2 as it's notorious for accidents. It was strange for Eric to drive along as it's now got variable speed limits on this section of motorway.

There was certainly plenty of mud about and it was a case of me squelching with the boots getting heavier as the mud accumulated but Ben light footed through it. Luckily I'd planned our route back to include a paddle in a shallow section of canal and a bucket of water, a cloth and a towel were waiting outside Clare's house to clean the dog and my boots!

Eric's been busy with an appointment at the eye clinic and the specialist said 'oh dear' when he looked in the offending eye, followed by 'the iritis is back with avengeance'. Eric wasn't thrilled either as it can be painful and it means weekly visits from north to south Wales for about six weeks. Luckily the one set of drops dilate the pupil and therefore ease the pain.

Today it's more visiting and a cleaner walk over Tredegar Park with a ball thrower in the rain. Ben will be dirty but we'll be cleaner as there's hard pathways rather than mud. My dad will have to provide the bucket and the cloth when we get there!

Back Home For Christmas

2011-12-21T20:50:00.000Z

On Tuesday we did the journey by car rather than going by train to stay with our daughter Clare in Newport for Christmas. We weren't sure whether we'd actually have a car after a phone call from Enterprise telling us they didn't have a car although we'd had a booking since the beginning of November. They knew another firm so they gave us their number to ring them up and it was all arranged. Enterprise did actually pick us up as arranged and take us to the new place called 'Jolly Good Van Hire'.....they also hire cars! We ended up with a VW Golf with just 6,000 miles on the clock and as we only needed to show a driving licence it was certainly less fuss than Enterprise who always ask for several proofs of address.......so we'll probably be using them again.

The journey down was uneventful with no hold ups other than slow traffic through Hereford. Ben travelled in the luggage area with the parcel shelf removed so he was a very good boy. Basically it will be easier to keep the car hair free if he travels in the boot. He was quite comfy with his blanket and he had a few comfort breaks as it took us four hours to make the trip. It's quicker by train but not as convenient due to the lack of transport over the holidays and the fact that lots of taxi drivers in Newport don't want dogs in their cabs. The evening was spent relaxing, Eric's got achy arms as he's not used to driving a car on a long journey. We had a chinese take away and Ben sampled the chicken in batter.

On Wednesday it was time to face the Asda crowds and fill up the cupboards and fridge ready for the Christmas festivities. First of all I needed to exercise Ben the dog so we headed for Tredegar Park with plenty of room for him to have a good run. We had the company of a 16 week old pup who wanted to play chase and come with us rather than her owner. Eric stayed with Ben in the car while I filled a trolley with lots of nice food. He thought I'd got lost I was so long but I had to make sure I got everything on the list as I wanted it to be my one and only trip to a superstore.

Eric woke this morning with a sore eye so I made him an appointment at the doctor's in the afternoon. It's uveitis (again) and he's off to see the specialist at the eye clinic tomorrow. You can't fault the NHS in this case. I'm glad the shopping's done as Eric won't be able to drive with the drops they put in his eye.

We've been visiting our granddaughter Gwenllian this evening whose counting down the days or should I say nights until Father Christmas comes. Only four sleeps to go! It's great having a youngster in the family again as it just makes Christmas!

Sunday Lunch At 'The Cowshed'

2011-12-18T17:30:00.004Z

We've been lucky, we've had rain, hailstones and sleet but no snow on the lower ground although it's certainly cold enough for snow. Our walk this mornings took Liz and I through the town and up to Pen-y-coed woods following tracks new to us. The dogs had a lovely time as we did a circular route before coming back through the town. The views were great as we could see all the snow on the Llantisilio Mountains as well as views of Castell Dinas Bran and Trevor Rocks. It was a change to walk new territory as the dogs could run in the woods which were so peaceful. We'd passed the kissing gate leading to the woods but hadn't ventured through before. We try to avoid the towpath walks at the weekend as it can be very busy.

Dogs walked we left them on the boats to have lunch at 'The Cowshed'. I had no idea where we were going at Liz and Nick were taking us there. We arrived at the Plassey Shippon and found the restaurant to be a converted cowshed with the tables having the names of cows in each individual stall. Our table was in Ethel's stall! A lovely meal with good friends, although we were surprised to see the restaurant was really quiet with lots of unfilled tables even though it was Sunday lunch. Now I know why Liz told me we were going to 'The cowshed!

Connie's Back After Her Holiday

2011-12-15T18:25:00.001Z

Ben pinned down by Connie (taken 2009)

On Monday Connie returned to Llangollen with her owners Liz and Nick and Ben was first to spot her return by whining at the window. They were soon reunited and Ben was delighted as they played as Connie was in chase me mode. It was great to have our neighbours back, it's been very quiet here on Llangollen Wharf.

On Tuesday Liz and I took the dogs to Horseshoe Falls along the canal towpath, it was very cold wind so we didn't fancy taking to the hills. Plenty of water in the River Dee and the water was certainly crashing over the weir. It was a good walk with lots to talk about as they'd been away a few weeks. While we were out walking and talking the coalman delivered some coal so we're prepared for the forecasted bad weather now.

Overnight we had loads of rain which meant it was hammering on the boat roof so I resorted to ear plugs. Today we were out for a couple of hours as we walked the Valle Crucis Abbey Walk and we didn't meet the ram on the hill which was good news. Connie was soon head down on the scent of something once we'd walked through the sheep fields, but she didn't go too far. It was incredibly muddy after all the rain, so we squelched along. Our route back was via the mooring basin so Ben and Connie could have a wash in the shallow canal to get rid off some of the dirt they'd managed to cover themselves in.

We came back to the boats to find NB Henry across the canal on a long rope as Nick was decorating a Christmas tree on the offside bank, it now looks very pretty. I wonder if we'll wake up to snow in the morning, we've escaped it so far.

Update on Eric- he's much better after the doctor prescribed antibiotics for his chest infection.

A Little Bit Of Christmas

2011-12-11T20:50:00.004Z

A little bit of Christmas has come to NB Bendigedig with some dangling baubles and twinkly blue lights adorning the windows and a tiny live tree with lights and baubles on. Ben's not sure what to make of it so he just sniffed it. It's not big enough to be the kind of stick he likes to carry when we're out walking. Ben's walk this morning was later than usual as the rain was hammering down. It stopped for a while so he managed a walk without getting too wet although he usually manages to find some mud and puddles to splash in. I'd prepared a beef casserole which was simmering nicely when we left ready for Sunday lunch.

After lunch Eric's caught the afternoon train back to Newport as he's suffering with a nasty cough and it's getting worse not better so he needed to see a doctor. If he goes to our doctor he doesn't need an appointment in the morning as it's an open surgery while in Llangollen it's an appointment which may be days away. He took advantage of the Arriva trains Club 55 deal £18 return between two Welsh stations but the deal finishes on the 14th of December. It's a pity because the fare is over £50 unless you've got a railcard or book in advance.

So tonight it's quiet on NB Bendigedig, Ben is stretched out on the sofa having a little sleep after a ball playing session with a squeaky ball. I can't believe he still hasn't destroyed it as he usually bites through and tears any soft toys. Eric's staying with our daughter Clare but will be back tomorrow so I'm only home alone for one night!

Wind, Sun, Rain, Hailstones and Sleet

2011-12-09T21:30:00.005Z

Llangollen- a view from the canal

This week we've had lots of windy weather but we seemed to have escaped the dreadful storms seen on the news. There's been rain most days so it's been a case of donning the waterproofs for dog walking. This morning the sun was shining, the sky was blue and it looked as though it was going to be a lovely day and then suddenly the weather changed just as I was going out with the dog. Hail stones, sleet and rain but no snow yet! Ben didn't mind having his coat covered in hail stones as long as we went for a walk.

We headed towards the Horseshoe Falls walking along the towpath which overlooks the town of Llangollen. In the photo you can see 'The Bridge Inn' which does lovely Sunday lunches. On the walk we met some people enjoying canoeing on the canal, Ben was very interested in their floats marking out their course as he thought they were balls and he loves a ball. The River Dee was very fierce with lots of white water but nobody was mad enough to be canoeing on the river.

Can I have that ball? (it's a float)

Back on the boat it was time to dry off Ben the dog and leave him with Eric while I walked down to change my library books at Llangollen Library and picked up a loaf of bread to make a sandwich for lunch. After that we had a lazy afternoon and Mr Tesco did a delivery for us at four o'clock including some bags of dog food. It certainly nice to have the heavy stuff delivered to the boat.

A Sprinkling Of Snow On The Mountains

2011-12-06T15:00:00.000Z

Hoar frost on an Ellesmere Sculpture

This time last year we were iced in in Ellesmere going nowhere and the above photo was the view from our window. Although the wind is icy here in Llangollen and there's a sprinkling of snow on the mountains, we have only had a few sleet showers.

Today I wrapped up warm and headed up towards Castell Dinas Bran with Ben the dog. He was all for climbing the zig-zag paths to the top until I called him as my route skirted the hill side with lots of slippery mud. Back through a sheep field and then we walked down the road to pick up a footpath through some more sheep fields taking us back down past Dinas Bran School. It was a lovely walk as we didn't meet any people or dogs......so peaceful! As we came down past the school we had a heavy shower, it could have waited until we were back on the boat.

Ben needed a bowl of water to wash his feet and legs, he was filthy! Soon though he was clean and fairly dry curled up by the fire with his head on my rag rug. My boots needed a clean too as I'd brought plenty of mud back too. At least we weren't slipping and sliding like this time last year. I've bought some spiky things to go on my boots to improve grip as I'd like to stay upright this year. Last year I had a fall and hurt my wrist which was painful for quite a while.

A Quick Update- It's December!

2011-12-02T18:30:00.004Z

What I have been up to this week........nothing earth shattering. Ben and I have been walking our usual haunts taking in the scenery around Llangollen. One day we climbed Castell Dinas Bran , another day I did the round the hill route and we've been on a few walks along the towpath towards Sun Trevor as well as playing ball in the field by the mooring basin. Some days it's been busy and other days we didn't see anybody. It's certainly colder today and out came the scarf and gloves.

Today Eric and I went by train to Shrewsbury to do a little Christmas shopping, with planning we got back in four and a half hours as Ben was OK home alone. He didn't even want to go out for a comfort break (a wee!) when we got back. Sometimes he's an odd dog easily freaked out by any strange noises, flashing lights and this means we can't get him off the boat unless we both take him! We had to stand on the train going to Shrewsbury as there's Wales v Australia Rugby International tomorrow in Cardiff and Arriva trains put a two carriage train from Holyhead to Cardiff.......are they mad? Luckily we had seats on the return journey.

A Walk To Valle Crucis Abbey

2011-11-28T09:20:00.001Z

I've been having problems with my AVG Internet Security as it kept downloading the same huge 55MB update and then not recognising it had already done it. After it repeated itself four times I realised there really was a problem and 'Help' was needed. I looked on the AVG website and found a repair option in the installation downloads and after an even larger download the problem was solved......fingers crossed!

A view of Valley Crucis Abbey and Coed Hyrddyn (Velvet Hill)

On Sunday I decided to walk to see the ruins of Valle Crucis Abbey which was founded in 1201 for Cistercian monks until it was closed in 1536 by Henry V111. The name means the 'valley of the cross' as Eliseg's Pillar which once stood 20 ft high with a cross on the top is nearby. We began our walk with towpath walk heading as far as the bridge before the Motor Museum.Then we walked up the road until we saw the sign advertising Abbey Farm Tea Rooms and camping pods and followed the sign with lovely views of Velvet Hill.

We climbed a stile, Ben jumped it (on his long lead) and crossed a sheep field to the next stile and then another taking us out onto a green track leading round the hillside back to Bryn hyfryd and down the Dinbren Road back to Llangollen with great views of Castell Dinas Bran. We had fun on the track as we met a huge ram with curly horns and I decided to get out of it's way and sit on the benches off the track at the viewpoint overlooking Valle Crucis Abbey........hoping it would move off the track! A few minutes later a horse and rider came past so I warned them about the ram. We then carried on walking, no sign of the ram.....thank goodness.

A walk wouldn't be complete without a dip in the canal, no not me.... Ben! We walked back through the field near the mooring basin and Ben headed for water and had a wash, just as well as he was dirty after our walk. Back to the boat for a towel dry and some biscuits and I had a cuppa while lunch finished cooking. Yes I did take the camera, here's a couple of photos on route.

A view from the green track

A view of Castell Dinas Bran and Trevor Rocks from Dinbren Road

Windy Weather In Llangollen

2011-11-27T08:30:00.001Z

When I left the boat last Wednesday it was covered in leaves and now the wind has blown them away. Eric was right saying it was a waste of time and effort clearing them all off when high winds were forecasted.

Where have I been , you ask? Well I've been to Newport as it was time to pick up our three monthly supply of medicines waiting at our chemist. It goes like this, we post the prescription repeat to the doctors and the chemist collects it and fills the prescription. Sometimes it goes without a hitch but I usually find something is missing so I have to go back to the doctors!

Back in Newport I had the opportunity to do some visiting and catch up with old friends for a lunchtime curry at Weatherspoon's. My daughter Lisa made me a lovely chilli con carne which Gwenllian, my grandaughter tasted for the first time. She had more fun saying 'chilli con carne'. She was keen to tell me about the rabbit Father Christmas was going to deliver......let's hope he's got enough to go around.

While I was at Lisa's my daughter Clare came visiting as did Eric's sister Paula who also brought the post. She was also good enough to give me a lift back to my dad's house the other side of town as I didn't fancy walking through the subways at nine o'clock at night. Lately there have been a few attacks in that location.

I didn't get to see my daughter Sally as she's out of the country with her job flying with Virgin Atlantic, but we'll see her in a few weeks as she's having Christmas Eve party before she flies off to spend Christmas somewhere exotic.

The next day I met my pals for a curry and a catch up and then did some Christmas shopping. I managed to do most of the shopping, it was so heavy I needed a taxi to get to my dad's as his house is a long way from a bus stop. It's wrapped and waiting in his house for Christmas Day when we return to Newport. As usual I am cooking the dinner and daughter Clare will be helping. She's getting invaded for Christmas but she doesn't mind and she loves Ben the dog......hairs and all!

A Misty Walk To Castell Dinas Bran

2011-11-20T20:03:00.000Z

Looking towards Velvet Hill

Llangollen becomes very busy at the weekend and the towpath is not the place to walk the dog. Today we headed for the hills and followed the track past the school and up along the part of the History Trail with a sculpture showing the way. Plenty of mud not that Ben cared!

This route took us around the back of the hill on which Castell Dinas Bran sits. It's prime position is on the site of an iron age fort. It was built in about 1260 by a Welsh prince and then abandoned and deliberately destroyed by fire in 1277 so it couldn't be used by the invading English. That's the history lesson for today.

Ben found a bottle to carry

We then slowly climbed up the back of the hill, stopping at a seat for a breather while Ben patiently waited. A good place for a chat with my daughter Clare as the signal is excellent up there. A few walkers also appeared going slowly down the back of the hill being careful not to slip. Some were heading for the Offa's Dyke Path and Trevor Rocks.

A view of Trevor Rocks from the seat halfway up the hill

Ben waiting for me to catch him up!

The views from the top were misty today but I took a few photos before we climbed down the zig-zag path overlooking the town of Llangollen. The views are always worth the climb even on a misty day.

Looking down onto Llangollen

Velvet Hill with the mist clearing

Back on the boat just in time to make a shepherd's pie for lunch and while it was cooking we had a tap on the window and it was the Julia and Mark of NB Poppy who are on their way to their winter mooring here too.

We've Been To Specsavers!

2011-11-19T18:00:00.001Z

We haven't had our eyes tested for years so we decided to visit Specsavers in Wrexham after booking online with a date and early afternoon as our choices. They rang us in the morning to give an exact time and check it was suitable. We chose early afternoon as mornings are always busy with walking Ben the dog. In all it was a good experience with pleasant, helpful staff and we weren't surprised that we both needed new glasses. We knew what it was going to cost as we'd looked on the internet and found a 25% off offer for the over 60's which turned out to be the best option for us. We chose reactolite and varifocal lenses so the world will be a little clearer in a weeks time when our new specs are collected.

Just A Towpath Walk

2011-11-18T10:00:00.002Z

A view from the towpath

The lift bridge.....always left up

Yesterday Ben and I went on a towpath walk just as far as Sun Trevor, Ben didn't want to go any further, he just stood and looked at me. At least it was a nicer day and Castell Dinas Bran wasn't shrouded in mist. The sun managed to shine and we had blue skies. On this walk we always pass the lift bridge which is left in a raised position as I think I've only ever seen it down once when the farmer was moving animals. Last year we had to tell an enthusiastic boater not to lower it as the sheep could then walk across it to escape. It's a case of leave the lift bridges as you find them. We walked back along the towpath, it was very quiet as no boats are moving on this stretch of canal. Sometimes the peace is shattered by the youngsters from the school doing their run ........ but not yesterday.

A Quick Update

2011-11-16T09:20:00.000Z

It's quiet at Llangollen Wharf this year with just six boats moored up for the winter although I know of one boat on her way to moor up in December. The weather has been kind to us as we've only had one bitterly cold day, so lots of walking has been done. After our long walk Saturday to Trevor Rocks Liz and I had a shorter walk the next day just enjoying walking along the flat towpath as far as Sun Trevor, the new towpath surface means what was an extremely muddy path in places is now a good walk. During the weekdays there are few people about but at the weekends it's still busy.

Some boat trips across the Pontysycyllte Aqueduct are still running from Llangollen Wharf mid week and at the weekends making the most of the weather and the canal being open as last year there was a stoppage until after Christmas. Liz and I took the dogs on the bus to Trevor and we walked down to the aqueduct and then back along the canal towpath but I forgot to take a camera so no photos were taken. The dogs had a great time, as usual Connie was nose down seeing what she could chase and Ben was carrying big sticks, or should as I say branches and you had to keep out of his way. He did leave it behind after a bit and carried a plastic bottle instead!

On Monday after his morning walk Ben stayed on the boat while Eric and I had a trip to Wrexham. Being in Wales bus travel is still free. We sampled the fish and chips in a cafe before going to Asda to get some shopping. Excellent fish and chips in Les' and the staff were very friendly and helpful. It was nice to have some choice in Asda as the Coop is rather limited in Llangollen although there's a good butcher, fruit and veg shop as well as a very nice deli.

On Tuesday Eric and I had a walk with Ben to the Horseshoe Falls walking alongside the recently repaired section of canal where a new handrail has appeared possibly because of the sloping canal sides. On the way back we did a diversion over the canal bridge and through the field by the marina so Ben could have a wash in the canal as he was so muddy. The towpath has lots of muddy puddles which are difficult to avoid when you're a dog.

Today the coal man is delivering to us on the wharf, so we'll be all set for a few more weeks. So while Eric waits for his arrival, Ben and I are going out........walking or maybe I'll ride my bike!

Views From Trevor Rocks

2011-11-12T16:30:00.001Z

Castell Dinas Bran from Trevor Rocks

Castell Dinas Bran and the hills

Another view from Trevor Rocks

Velvet Hill is on the right

Today Liz and I took the dogs on a long walk taking in part of the canal towpath, foot paths up along the top of Trevor Rocks and back via the foot path around the base of Castell Dinas Bran.

Trevor Rocks is part of one of the finest carboniferous limestone escarpments in Britain extending northwards which is nationally important due to the extensive scree slopes and is an Area of Special Scientific Interest according to the guide book 'Walks Around Llangollen And The Dee Valley' by David Berry. A very useful book with some lovely walks with detailed maps and descriptions.

We were out about four hours and we thoroughly enjoyed the scenery although I was in need of a cuppa by the time we got back to the boat. After all the rain we've had the dogs got really muddy but it was soon washed away. Next job is to clean my boots!

Another Walk- Trevor To Llangollen On The Flat

2011-11-09T15:00:00.004Z

The Mandarin Duck family

This week Liz and I have been out walking with the dogs enjoying the beautiful scenery around Llangollen. On Sunday we set out for a less strenuous walk around the bottom of the hill on which Castell Dinas Bran stands and ended up climbing up the back of the hill to the ruined castle. We were trying to avoid the busy towpaths and give the dogs a good run. The views were great although we have had days when the mist hung low obscuring the hills so a walk along the towpath was a better idea.

On weekdays the towpath is much quieter although there's more cyclists now the path is a designated cycle path. Several times a day hordes of teenagers run along the towpath past the boat to the lift bridge and retrace their steps back to their school accompanied by their teachers. Ben watches them and barks as he does to anything that moves, often we shut the bank side curtains to shut him up. Eric and I managed to miss the children on our walk to Sun Trevor yersterday but today Liz and I met them today.

Today (Wednesday) we caught the bus to Trevor and walked the canal from Trevor Basin back to Llangollen passing Bryn Howell and Sun Trevor. The canal is so clear you can see the bottom as there's little passage of boats in the winter months. It was a pleasant flat walk which made a nice change from our hilly walks. The hills were shrouded with mist but we managed to escape the rain which came later in the afternoon.

It was great to see the Mandarin Duck family still here- mum, dad and their male offspring. This month's IWA calendar has a picture of the drake amongst the Autumn leaves floating on the canal, taken by Eric although it does say it was on the River Dee.

A Bus Ride And A Walk From Trevor To Llangollen

2011-11-05T17:00:00.002Z

The Pontycysyllte Aqueduct ,looking back towards Trevor Basin

Our walk today started with a number 5 bus from Llangollen to Trevor with Liz, Connie, Ben and myself onboard. We then walked down to Trevor Basin and over the Pontycysyllte Aqueduct, which carries the canal 126 feet above the River Dee in an iron trough 1007 feet long supported by 18 pillars. It was built by Telford between 1795 and 1805 (end of history lesson) and will be closed on November 7th - 11th for maintenance.

Up above Pontycysyllte aqueduct

We then walked along the canal to cross it at Froncysyllte Lift Bridge. We crossed the A5 and began the climb up the hill to walk along the top edge of the former Pen-y-Graig Quarry with lovely views from a viewpoint overlooking the Pontycysyllte Aqueduct, the Dee Valley and of course Castell Dinas Bran. We continued our walk along a track, then a road and across a field of sheep, who all stopped and stared at the dogs. It would have made a good photo but the sun was straight at us.

The Llangollen Canal, Trevor and the Pontycysyllte Aqueduct

At last we were walking downhill along a track around and down the hillside of Croes yr Esgob with a short stop at a viewpoint for a snack and a drink. The track overlooks Pengwern Vale and we then followed the road to pass the Outdoor Adventure Centre and climb up the hill through Pen-y-Coed Wood. At this point the hill seemed endless as we'd been walking for hours! Finally on the downhill section into Llangollen and back to the boat. Mucky boots off, coat off and dinner was already cooked as I'd left a casserole in the oven on Gas Mark 1 to cook while we were out. It was delicious!

Another view of Castll Dinas Bran

Big Bangs And Lots Of Little Bangs

2011-11-04T21:10:00.001Z

This week has been a bit of a trial for Ben as every night we'd had firework noises and Ben just hides and shakes. I think fireworks should only be allowed on November 5th and then we would a scared dog for one night only. Tonight we had a huge bang on the boat roof about 8 pm and wondered what an earth is was, so went outside to investigate. A wooden planter complete with plants had been dropped on the roof by some individuals. It was heavy so it wasn't easy to put this on the roof as we found on when we returned it to its home by the BW hut. But the reason why it was put there.......I just don't know!

Just Another Walk

2011-11-02T14:15:00.001Z

Overlooking the River Dee and the Llantysilio Mountains

Castell Dinas Bran from the other side of Llangollen

Today Liz and I took the dogs along the canal towpath towards Horseshoe Falls, but we crossed the Llangollen Canal over an iron footbridge near the Chain Bridge Hotel. This led to the road taking us over the River Dee to the A5 to pick up our route up the hill. Once up there the views were lovely of the river and the Llantysilio mountains. Ben and Connie enjoyed some off the lead time along green tracks to a viewpoint giving a clear view of Castell Dinas Bran on the other side of the town. After a rest we continue our journey which was mainly downhill taking in a wood which lots of fallen leaves which meant it was very slippery but we managed to stay upright. We walked quite a few miles today and I knew it but Ben still wanted to play ball when we got back to the boat.

A Walk To The Horseshoe Falls

2011-10-31T15:00:00.002Z

Ben paddling in the River Dee 'throw me a stick!'

Today we decided on a walk to Horseshoe Falls along side the shallow canal only used by wild life, canoes and the horse-drawn boats. Yesterday we saw the horse-drawn boats in action, but today the stables are shut up and the horses have gone to their winter pastures for a well earned rest. The dogs could run on the towpath with no chance of meeting a horse. Llangollen is much quieter today, half term is over and most of the visitors have gone. Just a few dog walkers on the towpath and a few walkers on their way to the falls too.

Horseshoe Falls is a crescent shaped weir rather than a falls and from here the water is taken from the River Dee to begin it's 44 mile journey to Hurleston. At the beginning (or end) of the canal is a valve house which controls the flow of the water into the Llangollen Canal. Ben enjoyed a paddle in the River Dee in the shallows and Connie came in for a quick dash into the water and out hoping Ben would chase her. She was so quick I didn't get chance to take her photo. All Ben really wanted was me to throw a stick, but there weren't any about.

To The Top Of Castell Dinas Bran

2011-10-30T16:42:00.002Z

Castell Dinas Bran in sight

Yes I remembered about the clocks going back, up bright and early for a walk before lunch. Liz was game for a walk up Castell Dinas Bran so off we went with the dogs, past the school, through a field with some sheep, up a lane and along the track leading to the large green area you can see in the photo.

Getting closer!

Nearly there!

We made it!

Every year we make this climb at least once, usually a slow process as we follow the zig-zag path up the hill. Connie went walkabout with her nose on some scent or other, but she came back eventually when she was called. Ben was more interested in a man and his ball playing with his dog and tried to join in the game. Ben knocked me over by running into the back of my legs but it was landing on springy grass so no harm done.

Back down the hill for a quick shower and a change of clothes as we were having lunch at 'The Bridge Inn' with Liz, Nick, Maggie and Bernie. It was very nice too, as always the Sunday roast is highly recommended.......by me.

Back In Llangollen

2011-10-29T21:00:00.001+01:00

Trevor Rocks

Yesterday the last bit of our cruise was completed, I walked ahead with Ben to check if other boats were coming through the narrows and rang Eric to let him know. Plenty of room on the moorings and soon we were moored up on the wharf at Llangollen. Shortly afterwards along came Liz and Connie followed by NB Henry. NB Blue Diamond are here now too, so we're all settled ready for whatever the weather throws at us.

This morning Liz and I set off with the dogs to do a circular walk around the base of the hill on which Castell Dinas Bran sits, giving us great views of Trevor Rocks. After seven months of fairly level walks the climb up wasn't speedy, but the dogs enjoyed the freedom until we came across some sheep. The rest of the walk was down hill along a country lane leading back to Llangollen Wharf. We were lucky we missed the rain.

Over The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

2011-10-28T09:12:00.002+01:00

Waiting to cross the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

Yes it did rain yesterday, but we donned the waterproofs and continued heading towards our winter home. We parted company with Liz and Nick after the Fron Lift Bridge as they needed water and continued on ahead across the aqueduct to get the diesel tank topped up. We had to wait for a boat to come across before it was our turn. It was coffee time at Anglowelsh so by the time we had refuelled NB Henry had caught us up. They were having pump out as well as diesel and planning to stay at Trevor, so we continued on our way and stopped at Sun Trevor. Not the quietest of places but convenient for Eric to get his eye checked out at Maelor. He tried to get an appointment at the doctors in Llangollen but the earliest was in ten days time. Not really good enough when you are in pain and it's possibly a recurrence of uveitus which needs immediate treatment.

Already moored here is NB Blue Diamond on their way to their winter moorings too. A little later NB Henry came and moored up in front of us, they'd changed their minds about staying at Trevor. The towpath from Trevor to Llangollen is now that grey gritty stuff which is better than thick mud.It does mean that the number of places to moor has been reduced as you can't really hammer pins into this surface. Luckily at Sun Trevor there's rings.

Eric was quickly back from Maelor Hospital in Wrexham after a thorough examination of the offending eye by several doctors. They diagnosed an infection and a course of antibiotics so that's good news as uveitis takes weeks to treat.

In the evening we all had a boaters reunion at the nearby Sun Trevor with lots to talk about as we'd all spent the summer cruising. We'll be doing a little cruising today as it's ever so noisy on this mooring it's so close to the road.

Two Tunnels, One Aqueduct , Moored Near Pentre

2011-10-27T08:30:00.000+01:00

Yesterday after a change of plan we left New Marton, Liz and I walking the dogs and the men on the boats. We decided to have lunch at Poacher's Pocket and then carry on to just past Whitehouses Tunnel. We needed to get to Trevor before Anglowelsh's busy Friday for fuel and a pumpout for NB Henry. On the way we also need water as if the tanks are full then it's an easier trip to Llangollen as the boat is more level in the shallower water.

Progress for the boats was comparatively slow as there was a steady stream of hireboats coming towards them which meant lots of waiting at bridge holes. Plenty of room at Poacher's Pocket but the walkers arrived first followed by NB Bendigedig and later NB Henry and Nick who had come across a man in his undies in the canal trying to find a lost hammer.......brr it's cold! Out came the magnet and a very happy German family had their hammer back.

We had a lovely lunch and Liz and I continued our walk with the dogs blaming the puddings for our need to walk off the calories. I had a tuck shop specials with three different chocolate treats......highly recommended as was the chicken tikka. We walked over the Chirk Aqueduct to find a queue waiting unsure whether anyone was in the tunnel.We could the shape of a boat and worked out it was going through away from us so we walked through the tunnel to see what was going on at the other end.

Finally through out came NB Bendigedig and a little later the deeper drafted NB Henry. A boat had found it's way across the canal as the pins had come out and an elderly couple (older than us!)were struggling to get it in so Eric came to the rescue and nudged it over so Liz could get the centre rope and then we managed to pull it back in just as the young couple who owned the boat came back. They'd left their boat with parents to go shopping in Chirk but the pins had come out with all the boat traffic.

One more tunnel, no queues this time and we moored up for the night. We couldn't get satellite TV so out came the fish aerial which found lots of channels but BBC wasn't very strong. We're never sure which way to point it unless you can a house with an aerial nearby, so we could do with a signal finder similar to the one we have for the satellite signal. We did manage to see the weather forecast although the audio was useless, so we know it's rain today.

Ellesmere To New Marton Locks

2011-10-26T08:40:00.009+01:00

NB Bendigedig in the mist

Yesterday we met up with NB Henry and set off on our travels.Despite the weather forecast it was not too windy and unpleasant. Liz and I walked the dogs as far as Frankton Junction (about three miles) while the men played dodgems with all the hireboats at the bridge holes. Eric and I stopped at Maestermyn to arrange boat blacking for April as well as new anodes. We're also changing the propeller back to it's correct size after having a smaller one fitted when last in the dry dock purely because we couldn't get the correct size in the time we were there. Eric noticed the loss of power and it also affected how quickly the boat stopped.

We caught up with Nick, Liz and Connie above New Marton Locks and moored behind them. This time Nick's down the engine hole servicing the engine which Liz and I have a cuppa and a natter......after all we've got seven months to catch up on!

This morning the boat felt cold as the fire had gone out, so on with the heating before we got out of bed. The fire was soon re lit. It looks cold outside too with the mist hanging next to the ground, but it seems to be lifting as blue skies are appearing. Today we're not going far, a meal at Poacher's Pocket is planned for this evening and lots more chatting.

Back Up The Frankton Locks, Back To Ellesmere

2011-10-24T19:30:00.001+01:00

We spent last night moored on the Weston Arm. Eric reversed in which was good as when we got up the wind was really bad and it was difficult to get across to the waterpoint. I pulled her across with the help of another boater and Eric filled up before heading up to the bottom of the locks. We booked our passage for Monday so up the locks we came at midday, battling against the wind. The lock keeper crossed us off his list!

We decided to take a right turn back to Ellesmere to stop on the Arm so I could get some bread, milk, and fruit. Lots of boats about battling with the wind too as it's half term. We moored at the end of the Ellesmere Arm and I went to get the shopping in Tesco so now we're ready to go to Llangollen, it just depends on the weather whether we move tomorrow.

NB Henry with Liz, Nick and Connie is moored at the Junction on their way to Llangollen too. They came onboard for a cuppa and a chat. Ben was a pain as he didn't want to share his boat with another dog......even if it was Connie!

The Montgomery Canal Restoration

2011-10-22T14:40:00.001+01:00

Looking back at the winding hole (last at the moment!)

The canal sides with growing vegetation.

Looking back at bridge 83

Looking towards Bridge 84

Looking back at Bridge 85 at Crickheath Wharf

Looking towards the stile after Bridge 85

A stile across the canal route

The pictures tell the story of the restoration in progress on the Montgomery Canal being carried out by the Shropshire Union Canal Society and the Waterways Recovery Group working on separate parts of the restoration. We'd moved from Aston Locks to Maesbury Marsh as I wanted to walk along the canal to have a look at how the restoration is getting on.

Ben and I walked along the section which is at present in water but unnavigable to give the vegetation time to grow and of course as there's no winding hole yet boats wouldn't be able to turn around anyway. I can see the progress made since we last came down with sections of canal sides and floor in place. The canal is beginning to take shape in sections which were filled with tree roots near Bridge 85. After that bridge the route was crossed by a posh stile with a slide so dogs didn't have to jump it, of course Ben chose to jump clean over it rather than go through the hole when the slide was lifted! The cows had access to the route so it was time to turn around and retrace our steps back to the boat.

Back on the boat Eric was feeling much better and decided to service the engine with new filters and oil changes. He's currently busy in the engine hole......time to make him a cuppa!

Reflections On The Monty

2011-10-20T12:50:00.001+01:00

A swan at the Aston Nature Reserve

Today Ben and I left Eric on NB Bendigedig and went for a walk on the Aston Nature Reserve. He's full of cold at the moment. We saw pheasants and rabbits, walked on carpets of acorns and tracked through wet grass and enjoyed the peace and quiet. Ben waited while I took the photo of the solitary swan with the water so still, it had a reflection.

Come on.....I'm waiting for you!

We walked back along the canal towpath to the boat, Ben got there first and posed for a photo by the boat. Staying put today enjoying the sun streaming through the windows.......it's a pity Eric's nose is streaming too!

NB Bendi and Ben

Down The Montgomery Canal

2011-10-19T15:30:00.002+01:00

Looking up the Frankton Locks

We'd booked a passage down Frankton Locks for today so as we wouldn't be moving until about 12 o'clock Ben and I went for a walk down the locks. We only got as far as Graham Palmer Lock before Ben decided he wasn't going any further. I sat at a picnic bench and phoned by dad for a chat while Ben waited by the lock. We got back to the boat just before the rain came down. About 11.30am the lock keeper was ready for us to go down the staircase locks. Colin the usual lock keeper is not well so he's not working at the moment.......I hope he gets well soon.

Going down the first lock of the staircase pair

We were soon down the four locks and we continued on our way to the Graham Palmer Lock and worked through it. Continuing on our travels we spotted a familiar boat coming towards us in the form of NB Blue Diamond with Bernie and Maggie on board. A little later we met NB Liberty Belle with Angela and Trevor onboard and I managed to get a photograph.

Angela and Trevor

We cruised as far as Aston Locks and moored up after the first lock. It's been a cold day today so the fire was soon lit to dry off our wet coats. We've had sunshine and heavy rain with some lovely rainbows and it's lovely and peaceful down on the Monty.

On The Move.......To Frankton Junction

2011-10-18T18:00:00.001+01:00

The Ellesmere Arm

Today we decided it was about time we had a change of scenery. First of all I took Ben for his last walk around the Nature Reserve woods, passing NB Liberty Belle and NB Blue Diamond near the waterpoint. After that we walked down to the Mere and back along the Ellesmere Arm to the boat which was moored near the oak trees just around the corner from Ellesmere. Then we untied the ropes and headed for the BW Services before a trip down the Ellesmere Arm to get some big bags of dog food while Tesco was next to the canal. We had some lunch and then set off while the sun was still shining. It was cold in the wind so Eric was well wrapped up steering the boat, even the gloves have come back out.

Cruising towards Frankton Junction

As we got a little nearer Frankton Junction Ben and I got off for a walk, it was actually warmer walking and Ben enjoyed sniffing (and peeing on) everything in sight. He also had the compulsory paddle when he found a spot with soft sides. We crossed the bridge before the junction and walked to the visitor moorings. Eric turned the corner and moored up in a space, there was only one other boat facing the other way. We've booked to go down the locks tomorrow, so I'll get my change of scenery.

Moored above Frankton Locks

We Have A Winter Mooring In Llangollen

2011-10-17T19:30:00.001+01:00

Well the Winter Mooring Launch finally happened at half past three and I succeeded in getting a mooring at Llangollen within the designated time limit. Shorty afterwards the search engine disappeared because of a problem, but it did come back later on. You had to print off mooring licences for display but at least this year you could choose your months and pay by card or direct debit. Last year we had to book it online, print off a form to fill in and then send it with a cheque. I'm happy to have a winter mooring as we don't want to have to cruise in the winter, and Llangollen is one of our favourite places.

An Email From BW

2011-10-14T18:40:00.007+01:00

Last night we moored at Grindley Brook and tried not to moor under a tree but one branch was overhanging so we had acorns dropping on the boat roof for starters. Next the cows made loud moos in the middle of the night. We'd already decided to turn around at the top of the locks and head back for Ellesmere where we knew we could get a good signal for the Winter Moorings Online Launch.

At 16.57 this afternoon we had an email from BW (BW Moorings & Enforcement Teams) basically asking if their records are correct in that we don't have a home mooring and if we do would we tell them so they can update their records. If included information on the new guidelines for boaters without a home mooring.......nothing much has changed really, just clarifying 'bona fide navigator'. Narrowboat World has the details on their site.

Then it told us about the winter moorings launch on Monday 17th October around 3pm......as if we didn't know! Oh for the good old days when a phone call to Diane at Northwich meant our winter mooring was arranged much earlier in the year. It was nice to have someone to talk to rather than this system where we book it online just three weeks before the stoppages start and hope we can go where we want. Doesn't give anyone any time to make alternative arrangements.

A Waste Of Time And Energy On The Prees Branch

2011-10-13T16:50:00.000+01:00

On the Prees Branch

Going through the first lift bridge

Today we headed off down the Prees Branch, me on foot with Ben the dog and Eric steering the boat. At the end of the branch is Whixall Marina and it meant lifting and closing two lift bridges to get there. Some good news in that the second lift bridge is now geared and I didn't have to dangle on a chain to open and shut it! On the way the signs advertise opening hours and the cost of fuel, much better than at Ellesmere BUT when we arrived the shop was shut and the diesel machine was broken!

Apparently it's now winter in Whixall and the shop is now open an hour in the morning, an hour in the afternoon and closed on Sunday and this Thursday. What a waste of time and energy, surely someone could have changed the signs and informed boaters there was no fuel! From what a boater said it's not likely there'll be fuel for a while as there's an ongoing dispute.

So our plans changed and we headed for Viking Afloat at Whitchurch Marina where the fuel was £0.99/£1.49 for domestic/propulsion compared to £1.10/£1.60 in Blackwater. It would have been cheaper at Whixall where the fuel was £0.89/ £1.39 but no good if the pump isn't working.

It did mean that I had to lift five more lift bridges but it was nice to be on the move. There was no room on the Whitchurch Arm so we carried on to moor above Grindley Brook knowing we could get a satellite signal and and the dongle worked there too. A Virgin hot air balloon came over so Ben is on the bed out of the way........fast asleep!

A Walk In Wales- Whixall Moss

2011-10-12T19:00:00.000+01:00

Ben and I in Wales

A little bit of Wales, looking at Whixall Moss

Ben found a very big stick!

Today we had a lovely cruise as far as Whixall Moss, the weather was kind to us with just some light rain showers and no wind. Eric and I took Ben for a walk in Whixall Moss which straddles the English/Welsh border, so we decided to follow part of the purple trail which took us into Wales. I say part of the trail as we couldn't complete it due to a sign on the section along the old tram line which said it was closed due to engineering work. At the entrances to the Mosses there are boxes with a leaflet all about the Nature Reserve which made interesting reading as well as including a map showing the trails. Ben found a very big stick too!

A Fox Moth Larva

Eric took the photos today and he spotted this larva in the grass, according to the leaflet it's a Fox Moth larva - not that I know anything about moths- I'll have to google it!

Eric's Back On Narrowboat Bendigedig

2011-10-11T16:20:00.001+01:00

I have had a very quiet few days without my other half. Yesterday NB Ami Bovard (am I bothered!) moored next to us and we did have a lovely chat. They tapped on the window to apologise for having to run their engine, but inside the boat you couldn't hear it. As they are continuous cruisers we had plenty to talk about as the dogs sniffed each other. We continued our chat as the dogs watered the hedges when I let Ben out first thing in the morning.

Paul of Waterways Routes stopped to chat as he spotted NB Bendigedig. He was cycling from Ellesmere to Chirk researching the route for his new maps of the Llangollen Canal. Apparently you can download the Droitwich ones for free to try them out.

Eric arrived back on the bus from Shrewsbury and I met him outside Tesco as I had some shopping today before our trip to Whixall to get some fuel. The price of fuel at Blackwater Meadow Marina is steep and we fancy a cruise anyway. So tomorrow we'll do the water, cassettes and get rid of the rubbish and we'll be on our way. I'm sure Ben will enjoy a different walk as we walk with the boat.

Eric's had his stitches out and the good news is the lump was benign.

A Cruise To Blakemere To Turn Around

2011-10-08T16:25:00.000+01:00

Near Blakemere

Today we needed to use the BW Services but we were pointing in the wrong direction so we had a cruise past Blakemere to the nearest winding point. Ben and I walked and on the way Ben had a paddle and I threw sticks for him to get. He looks evil as the flash caught his eyes! We also heard the sound of guns and passed a shoot in the field by the canal. At this point Ben was walking by me with his tail down, he doesn't like that noise!

Ben in Blakemere

No problem at the turning circle as it's not windy today and then we headed back to Ellesmere to use the services and then moor up near Ellesmere as Eric is off to Newport on Monday to get his stitches taken out. No crashing in the tunnel today and I took a photo as the boat as Eric came out with his light still on.

Ellesmere Tunnel

We walked back along the towpath and got back on the boat by Blackwater Meadow Marina to go to the services. Ben had a play with another dog at the services until he had to go with his crew. The water tap is incredibly slow so it's just as well it was only a top up after doing some washing. Finally full we moored a little further by the oak tree, moored by a grassy towpath rather than the gritty surface which seems to find its way into the boat.

Ben waiting for me to catch up!

No Longer Home Alone

2011-10-06T15:30:00.001+01:00

On Tuesday Eric came back minus his lump and complete with stitches which means he's off on his travels again next week to have them taken out. We met him off the bus and Ben was delighted to see him and so was I! It means my ball throwing arm gets a rest. I always find it very quiet without my other half, it's just that bit too quiet.

On Wednesday I took Ben out for a nice long walk and he then stayed on the boat while Eric and I had lunch out in The Black Lion. It made a pleasant change followed by a lazy afternoon. We just don't feel like going far until we know what's happening with winter moorings. The October 5th launch has now been delayed until the 17th - just three weeks before the stoppages start.

Today we've moved ourselves as far as the BW services to fill and empty things and get rid of a weeks rubbish. The wind is very strong so we didn't attempt a turn around but decided to moor up by the footpath to the Nature Reserve. The Ellesmere Arm is a bit of a no go area unless you want to listen to the noise of a giant drill breaking up the concrete which was the base of the previous buildings and bulldozers moving earth around with lots of dust. Lots of noisy activity which can't be heard where we're moored.

A Woodland Walk In Ellesmere

2011-10-03T13:45:00.001+01:00

Ben and his big stick

Today Ben and I went for a walk along the Mere Woodland Walk and we had a good time crunching through Autumn leaves in the sunshine. Ben found a big stick which he carried around for a while. There were loads of conkers around, don't kids collect them anymore. I know they can't play conkers in school yards anymore- health and safety gone mad!

A Sculpture in the wood

We came across these steps leading through the trunk of a tree and down some steps the other side.......an unusual sculpture. A sign said sculpture by water, more to come.

Another view of the sculpture

We walked past all the wild life on the side of the lake and spotted the steamboat Lady Katherine moored on the lake. She can only be reached by boat so she's quite safe.

Lady Katherine

From the Mere we walked through Castlefields and on through the Nature Reserve back to the canal. It's a lovely day although the wind maybe causing a few problems for boaters on the canal. Lots of boats going past the boat shouting hello and waving during the day but I find it quiet in the evenings with just Ben for company. Lots of chats with Eric of course on the mobile phone and he should be back tomorrow.

Just A Short Cruise To The Otherside Of Ellesmere

2011-10-01T15:00:00.000+01:00

The need to fill and empty things made us move down past the Ellesmere Arm to the BW Services. We did a load of washing on the way and it was soon dry in the heat. We didn't want to go far as Eric has to go to Newport to have a cyst removed on Monday and there's a bus service from Ellesmere to Shrewsbury. He planned to go Sunday but there are no buses so he's gone today instead.

Not much going on here other than dog walking and food shopping. Castlefields now has cattle in but it's such a big field they're usually a long way away from the footpath. Of course we've been walking in Ben's favourite place, the Nature Reserve Woods. Shopping at Ellesmere is a really convenient place to stock up on the heavy items when you can moor outside Tesco. The Ellesmere Arm is full of boats and lots of people are enjoying the sunshine, which is highly unusual for the 1st of October.

Still loads of hire boaters about and we've already been hit by a Viking Afloat. All the crew said was oops! Sorry would have been better. I wonder how many boats they've hit since Whitchurch! I hasten to say there was loads of room and there wasn't a boat coming towards them.

Moored At Ellesmere- A Quick Update

2011-09-29T19:50:00.007+01:00

On Tuesday Ben and I walked while Eric steered the boat to Ellesmere where we moored up.We passed bloggers NB Beefur mooring up at Colemere and shouted our hellos.I packed my rucksack and headed off to catch the bus to Shrewsbury for t athe train to Newport in south Wales. My blood pressure reading was required by my doctor and it was nice to go visiting. On my trip I had a little retail therapy, a visit to the seaside at Porthcawl with my dad and a visit to see my daughters and granddaughter. Paula also brought the post including a package with some alternator belts .......just in case the generator chews up another one!

The seaside trip was an epic journey as we used our free bus passes to get there. First it was 45 minutes to Cardiff and then an hour and a half to Porthcawl stopping at every stop of course. We got there in time for a fish and chip lunch and it was a beautiful sunny day so it was very busy. We didn't walk very far, mainly because Dad was quite happy to sit in the sun. After a while I found a shady spot. The journey back too even longer but despite the journeys my dad enjoyed his day out. The bus was very full, most of the passengers were free bus pass holders with very few fare paying customers.

Today, Thursday it was another journey taking two and a half hours by train and bus back to Ellesmere.........a much more comfortable journey! The train wasn't packed and it was a pleasant journey with my MP3 playing some of my favourite Cd's.

Nice to go away but nice to come back, I always miss my man and my dog!

Wrenbury To Grindley Brook

2011-09-26T09:00:00.002+01:00

Yesterday we woke up to the sound of rain , so it was a very leisurely Sunday start. We waited for the rain to stop and made our move at 11.30am, Ben and I walked to Marbury Lock after upsetting the locals by lifting the Wrenbury Lift Bridge. There wasn't a car in sight as I shut the road barrier but as I waited patiently for the bridge to raise the queue built up and by the time the three boats went through a dozen vehicles were waiting. Perhaps because it was Sunday I wasn't shouted at today!

As we approached Marbury Lock the gates opened as a waiting boater above the lock saw the lock was empty and ready for us. Not long after that we pulled in for a stop as Eric wanted to watch the Singapore Grand Prix. The dot in sky found and he only missed the first three laps. We decided to move on after the race as the sun was shining and I wanted a Sunday paper. So it was three more locks to the moorings below Grindley Brook, where a walk to the garage got me a paper.

A nice quiet spot once boat engines were turned off at eight o'clock. We did however get hit by a tidal wave as a private boater speeded past in the dark. The waves that followed him were like the sea! It took a while for normality to return after all the rocking and rolling.

Five Locks And One Lift Bridge To Wrenbury

2011-09-24T18:30:00.001+01:00

Ben and I walked today, first of all past Swanley Marina to the first of the two Swanley Locks. We were following a hireboat with four Americans on board and as they were unsure of the procedure we helped them through. We caught up them at the next lock closing the gate on an oncoming boat, so I reopened it after I refilled the water that had leaked away through the leaky bottom gates.

Ben and I continued our walk reaching the three Baddiley Locks and some boats coming towards us made life easier. It was back on the boat then to avoid the stretch of wet and muddy towpath just before Wrenbury. The first lift bridge was open and the lady let us through after her boat and we thanked her. We managed to moor up before the electrically operated lift bridge.

We locked up the boat and headed for the Cotton Arms for lunch and had a pleasant surprise to find it was a Lunch Club day, with two courses for £5. Eric had garlic mushrooms and I had a prawn cocktail for starters with Eric having rabbit stew, while I had chicken with a sauce for the main course. The food was delicious and the other customers were friendly and chatty to, so it was a very pleasant lunch.

Back on the boat we ended up playing ball with Ben the dog, who was very pleased to see us. They do allow dogs in the pub but I prefer to eat my meal without sad eyes looking at me wanting some of my chicken.

Up The Hurleston Flight

2011-09-23T13:45:00.002+01:00

Going up the Hurleston Flight

Today started with a cycle ride from our moorings above Cholmondeston Lock to Hurleston Junction with Ben the dog. The locks were very busy but nearly all the traffic was going up. At one point there were two boats waiting in the first pound and two boats changing places between the locks......chaos! For a change boaters were helping each other opening a paddle to speed up the climb through the flight.

So we're back on Eric's favourite canal on the first day of Autumn..........who knows what this winter will throw at us? It's a pity we still don't know about winter moorings as BW in their wisdom are making us wait until early October. This is gives us little time to make alternative arrangements.

More Polishing!

2011-09-22T16:00:00.000+01:00

Ben before he went walkabout!

Today the sun was shining but not on the side that hadn't been washed and polished, so before we left our mooring near Aqueduct Marina we did the jobs. It looks so much better as there was an unfaded section where the side hatch doors go back but now it's looks the same.

While we were busy Ben went walkabout without us, I just saw his tail ahead as he went out of sight. I know we usually have a walk in the morning but he could have waited for me. I went to find him calling him and eventually he ran speedily past me to sit back by the boat, perhaps he thought I hadn't missed him.

Polishing finished we had elevenses and Ben and I had a walk to Venetian Marine where Eric stopped to top up with diesel, buy a bottle of gas and some bags of coal. Just one lock to do before we moored up for a late lunch and the sun is still shining. Hopefully we won't need the coal now we've bought some.

The Windy Middlewich Arm

2011-09-21T14:30:00.001+01:00

Ben enjoying the grass!

Washing on the line (1)

Washing on the line (2)

Before we could go anywhere today Eric had to put a new belt on the 240v Travel Power generator, it had lost the V's of the belt . This is the second one he's put on this year yet the previous Goodyear belt lasted four years. That done I could do the washing while we cruised the Middlewich Arm.

It's so windy today we decided to be green and dry the washing on the rotary line. Eric hammered in the spike but after ten minutes the line was leaning over in the wind. Second try was putting it near the boat so we could tie it to the plank rank so it's not going anywhere. I expect it'll rain now!

Ben's sat outside for a while enjoying the grass but soon came in when I came back on the boat..............he didn't want to be outside on his own

Back To Middlewich

2011-09-20T20:00:00.001+01:00

We decided to sit out the rain and it stopped at lunchtime so we cruised all the way to Middlewich working through the four locks and then Wardle Lock after getting water at the junction. Ben and I did have a walk in the rain before we moved but we didn't go that far and Ben was quite happy to turn around and go back to the boat.

Every lock was against us so had to be emptied before we could go up. I left Eric with the boat in the lock with the water going up slowly while I went ahead to empty the next lock. By the time I'd done that the boat was level and ready to leave the lock. Ben had to stay on his lead while I did the locks as there were lots of walkers, dogs and bikes about.

We moored up on Middlewich Visitor Moorings, which wasn't empty this evening. We had a beautiful orange sunset, before we knew it was dark outside and it's only eight o'clock.

Back Up The Anderton Lift

2011-09-19T19:55:00.001+01:00

Anderton Lift

Today we cruised to Northwich as it's a place we've never visited by boat or by car. First stop was the BW Services and then we moored up between the two swing bridges. There's an unusual sign which says 'Boaters wishing to moor have priority' so I take it to mean the anglers have to move! Lots of old timbered buildings in the old town but I didn't take the camera! I did find a M&S but they didn't have any long sleeved cotton jersey pyjamas which Eric likes just short sleeved ones.......no good in winter!

We then decided to go back up the boat lift if we could and arrived on the holding moorings at 2.30pm just in time for the 3.00pm lift to the Trent and Mersey Canal. I went up to ask if there was a space and we were in luck for the 3.00pm. If you prebook a space you have to pay a booking fee of £5, otherwise it's free.

So we're back on a canal and Ben is delighted as we jump off the boat to have a walk with the boat. It was good on the River Weaver but walks had to be completed before we cruised as you can't just hop off the boat. Moored near the Billinge Flashes with four other boats, all spaced out of course!

Cruising Down The Weaver In Pictures

2011-09-18T15:40:00.000+01:00

Approaching Saltersford Lock

An old BW boat passing us by

Acton Swing Bridge is ahead

NB Roach is ahead of the two working boats

Approaching Dutton Viaduct

Today Ben and I followed some footpath signs and a much shorter route to the shop in Barnton to get a Sunday paper, there and back in under an hour. If you ever moor at Barnton Cut take the first footpath sign you see heading back towards Anderton. You end up overlooking the tunnel air shaft and then it's a right turn to walk over the tunnel mouth and it's a left turn at the main road into Barnton village.

Ben exercised we were ready to cruise and a quick phone call to the lock keeper meant the gates were open ready for us at Saltersford Lock. Leaving the lock we let the old BW boat who shared the lock go ahead as we weren't in any hurry. We passed through Acton Swing Bridge and he pulled in onto the moorings anyway.

Two working boats were coming towards us and we recognised NB Roach with his coal on board. We arrived at Dutton Lock and once again the lock was ready for us as the previous lock keeper had phoned ahead. We continued our cruise under the magnificent Dutton Viaduct (built in 1837 by Joseph Locke) and through some secluded wooded stretches of the river. We passed one boat moored at 'Devil's Garden', but I don't know where the name comes from.

We cruised near Frodsham and under Sutton Weaver Swing Bridge before turning round and stopping for lunch on the Visitor Mooring while the water tank filled up. We headed back to stay at the moorings below Dutton Lock for the night.......the lock keeper told us he starts at 8 am tomorrow but we won't be ready that early!

Gwenllian Having Fun On A Carousel!

2011-09-17T20:53:00.000+01:00

Aunty Sally and Gwenllian

My daughter Sally put this lovely photo on Facebook for me..........I just had to share it!

It's So Peaceful At Barnton Cut

2011-09-16T19:45:00.001+01:00

Under a swing bridge

Going downstream to Barnton Cut

Moored at Barnton Cut Moorings

Down at the bottom of the Anderton Lift we turned right and headed downstream to Barnton Cut recommended by the lady who arranged our passage down the lift. It's so quiet and peaceful and the water is so calm here with no visible movement at all. Ben and I went for a walk to Saltersford Lock not far from our mooring, and on the way back the heavens opened and we got rather wet. Ben needed a rub down with a towel while had to put dry trousers on!

Down The Anderton Lift In Pictures

2011-09-16T16:17:00.000+01:00

Waiting for the barrier to be rasied

Entering the caisson (tank)

Ready to go down

One tank up and one going down

The giant ram supporting a caisson

Nearly at river level

Today we cruised up the final stretch to Anderton passing Wincham Wharf where out boat first went in the water to be taken to Sandbach for fitting out. Arriving at the 24 hour visitor moorings we moored up and went to see if a passage down was available today. We were in luck so got the next passage down onto the River Weaver,

It's Amazing What Wax Can Do!

2011-09-16T08:30:00.008+01:00

When the side of the boat cooled down in the evening we decided to wash and polish one side of the boat. First we washed the side with Craftmaster Carnauba Wash and rinsed it off with clean water. Then we dried it off with a chamois leather, put on the Craftmaster Carnauba Wax and rubbed it off. We couldn't believe our eyes, one side of NB Bendigedig is back to it's original colour with the weathered paint removed and it's nice and shiny too!

Of course there's still some rust spots to tackle and the grass hides a multitude of sins.......the battered gunnels which need paint. We'll have to polish the other side when its towpath side.

Moored At Billinge Green Flashes, Trent & Mersey Canal

2011-09-15T14:00:00.001+01:00

Wardle Lock

Despite being all alone in Middlewich, it was fine. As I said yesterday lots of noise from a barking dog in nearby garden of a house but it didn't keep us awake as it eventually stopped. Everyone in Middlewich must walk their dog along the towpath so we woken early by Ben seeing them off.

The boat felt cold this morning so I put the heating on for half an hour to take the chill off. Outside the sun was shining and it turned out to be a lovely day. Ben and I walked down to Wardle Lock , the lady who is normally in the cottage seems to be gone as all the brass plaques have been taken off her door.If she was there she usually came out to chat and help open a gate when she was fit enough.

We turned left then reversed back to top up with water at the junction, and Eric popped over King's Lock Chandlery to get some oil. He came back with some Craftmaster polish so he must be going to tackle the sides of the boat. We had four more locks to do and I knew we were back on the Trent and Mersey Canal as the gates seem so much heavier and the paddle gear is stiff. We waited at Big Lock, a double lock to see if the following boat was coming our way but there was so sign of them even though I lifted a paddle to fill each lock in readiness for them. They must have stopped to shop in Middlewich.

We moored up opposite Billinge Green Flashes and the view out of the window is below. There's a few other boats moored here but we're spaced out enjoying the peace and quiet.

Billinge Green Flashes

Moored At Middlewich

2011-09-14T18:30:00.002+01:00

While we were moored last night we had a surprise visitor, Tom owner of NB Waiouru currently residing on NB Kelly-Louise. We had a great chat before he set off to find some friends on a hire boat on the Middlewich Branch. He obviously found them because he passed later on a hire boat.

Today was a busy day, down one lock and first stop was at Bob's at Venetian Marine to fill up with diesel. They were fine with self declaration too. After that I cycled for a bit with Ben the dog to the next lock. It was an incredibly bumpy ride so I put the bike back on the boat at the lock.

It's been pleasant cruising the Middlewich Branch as the weather has been so much better. Also there are not many other boats using this stretch of canal. Arriving in Middlewich there was plenty of room to moor. There's a few noisy dogs barking opposite the Visitor Moorings so that may be why it's so quiet. We moored up and headed for Tesco to get some food before we cruise up the Trent and Mersey Canal tomorrow towards Anderton. Last time we headed that way shops were few and far between.

NB Bendigedig at Middlewich

We couldn't stop in Middlewich without fish and chips from the shop at King's Lock and yet again they were delicious!

On The Middlewich Branch Of The Shropshire Union Canal

2011-09-13T14:30:00.000+01:00

Going down the Hurleston Flight

A view down the locks.

Ben and I walked to the waterpoint while Eric battled with the wind, it felt worse than yesterday! We watered up above Hurleston Locks, a hireboater asked how long we were going to be but I didn't know the anwer to that! We then went down the flight of four locks. The lock keeper was chatty this morning and made a big fuss of Ben the dog. He doesn't usually have much to say but he was telling me my favourite lockie at Hurleston Linda now runs Cheshire Cat Narrowboats.

A left turn and we were heading for Barbridge Junction with a right turn on the blind corner to take us on the Middlewich Branch of the S.U.C. Of course we sounded the horn, heard nothing from any other boats and nearly met a boat in the bridge hole. We had to go backwards, great fun in the wind and then we were passing long lines of moored boats.We moored up above Cholmondeston Lock. Tomorrow we need diesel at Venetian Marine which is below the lock.

A Very Windy Cruise

2011-09-12T16:58:00.001+01:00

Today despite the wind we decided to cruise, it certainly made an interesting afternoon as a few times the boat tried to escape the lock moorings with the force of the wind. We were in luck as the automated Wrenbury Lock was open when we got there so we just slipped through in convoy so to speak. Ben and I then went on ahead to use the windlass to open to Wrenbury Church Lift bridge and let the convoy through.

Then it was back on the boat until Baddiley Locks as the next section of towpath is a mud bath! We were following a pair of single handed boaters, but they both fitted in the lock so it wasn't too slow. Ben and I walked between the locks while Eric battled the wind. We did meet a few boats coming up the locks but most of the traffic was towards Hurleston.

Back on the boat until Swanley Locks and between the locks we passed NB Kelly-Louise, but we didn't see the crew. We'll look out for you when we return to Llangollen in October.

NB Kelly-Louise

After that it was stop at Burland Stores to get a few bits of pieces.......and some chocolate! The shopkeeper lives on a boat so it was good to shop there. We moored up a couple of bridges further on with the wind pushing us against the towpath side making mooring easier. Relaxing, battered by wind but we're OK!

Weekend At Wrenbury

2011-09-10T21:24:00.000+01:00

On Saturday we left our mooring below Grindley Brook Locks with an overnight stop in Wrenbury in mind. I cycled on ahead with a windlass and Ben the dog getting some exercise. It worked out well if a boat was leaving the lock so the gates stayed open for us, otherwise the lock was ready by the time NB Bendy got there. Sometimes people just don't look to see if another boat's coming, they just close the gates. Coming towards Marbury Lock on the bike I waved, but the crew still shut the gates!

Going with the flow of the water on the Llangollen Canal is so much easier and by lunch time we were moored up before the Wrenbury Lift Bridge. Eric found a satellite signal and just caught the qualifiers for tomorrows Grand Prix. The visitor moorings were soon full, you could hear stakes being hammered in when there were no more rings.

We've decided to stay put tomorrow so Eric can watch the Grand Prix. The weather forecast isn't good but Ben and I will still have a walk to Marbury Lock and back before lunch. After that we'll have a lazy afternoon.

Down Grindley Brook Locks

2011-09-09T18:34:00.001+01:00

Grindley Brook Bottom Lock

This morning it was a walk with Ben the dog doing the three lift bridges on the way to Grindley Brook. A lovely warm day although Eric didn't like the wind blowing the boat making it hard work. At Grindley Brook we topped up the water tank and then made our way to the top of the locks to see the lock keeper. We had to wait for a boat to come up and one go down, then it was our turn down the staircase of three. Then we did the three single locks with no boats came up the locks so every lock had to be filled so we could go down. At the bottom of the locks we found the Visitor moorings and stopped for lunch. After a leisurely lunch it was already two o'clock so we decided to stay put rather than do any more locks today. We'll see how far we get tomorrow.

Moving On To Whitchurch

2011-09-08T20:53:00.000+01:00

Up in the morning and I decided to ride the bike with Ben the dog, even though the towpath was bumpy. We did about four miles before Eric stopped so we could back on the boat just in time for the first lift bridge of the day which is the road bridge to the scrap yard. I had to put the bridge down even though a boat was about 400 metres away as there was a queue of traffic.

Lots of speedy boats about in a hurry, some moaning about having to stop at a bridge as we were coming through, but we managed to have a very slow Viking Afloat boat ahead. It didn't really matter as we weren't going far. We stopped on the outskirts of Whitchurch opposite the dead tree near the motte and bailey marked on the map as it's usually a quiet spot away from road noise.

The boats continued to rush past, one going so fast we banged and crashed as the attachment to the Armco moved along so we were away from the bank. Eric got ashore and retied us! Peace came with the onset of evening, although the heavy rain in the night woke us up.

The First Fire Of Autumn

2011-09-07T20:00:00.003+01:00

Eric's back on board so things get back to normal. We decided to move on after using the BW services but before we could escape from the very busy Ellesmere we had to wind the boat in the wind. Eric used the wind to help him turn around and soon we were heading towards Blakemere through the short Ellesmere Tunnel. We met two Black Prince boats coming through the tunnel so had to wait but not for long.

We passed Colemere by and Lyneal Wharf before mooring by a wooden seat all on our own. Hopefully here we won't be woken by dog walkers and hedge cutters and grass cutters which is what woke me this morning.

I lit the fire this evening, the first one of Autumn! I know it's not officially Autumn until the 23rd but it certainly feels like Autumn! So it's warm and cosy and oh so peaceful out in the countryside on NB Bendigedig.

Eric's Visiting In Newport, I'm In Ellesmere

2011-09-06T16:10:00.002+01:00

Lisa & Gwenllian

Clare and Gwenllian

Sally and David at Wales v England Rugby Match

Eric's in Newport visiting while I'm here in Ellesmere with Ben the dog. He's been lucky this visit as he's met up with our three daughters Sally, Clare and Lisa and grandaughter Gwenllian. Today he's catching up with his sister Paula whose been feeling rather poorly lately, but he says she's looking a bit better today!

Ben and I have been busy exploring Ellesmere, we've walked lots of walks we've done many times before. Today we did a circular walk including a walk through the Woodland Trail by The Mere, of course Ben loved it but after two hours walking I was tired. We were lucky it didn't rain while we were out but it's extremely windy at the moment.

Ellesmere is getting ready for the Ellesmere Festival at the weekend and signs have gone with reserved mooring for boats who have paid handsomely (£50 so I'm told) for the privilege to moor for the weekend. There's going to be lots going on but we've decided not to stay as there's a fireworks display and Ben gets so frightened it's not fair to put him through it.

So Eric will be back tomorrow and we'll empty and fill as required and be on our way. We're heading for the River Weaver via our first experience of the Anderton Boat Lift...........it should be fun.

The Slow Boats To Ellesmere

2011-09-03T18:00:00.002+01:00

Today we left Grindley Brook at 9.30am hoping to get to Ellesmere before the forecast rain came. The journey involved raising and lowering five lift bridges, some not particularly easy but I got there in the end. Only one, across to the scrap merchant was a road, and of course two happy smiling car drivers waited patiently for the bridge to come back down. Not true of course they looked unhappy to have to wait! Ben and I enjoyed our walk but I was glad to get through all the lift bridges and get back on the boat.

After that progress was incredibly slow, we followed a very slow Viking Afloat boat from Prees Branch all the way to Ellesmere. Passing Blakemere a little Maestermyn Boat pulled out in front of us and they were even slower, we cruised on tick over as they couldn't decide which side of the canal to use ..........any slower we'd have been in reverse!

Yes we nearly beat the rain, it started as we pulled in to moor at Ellesmere.

Above Grindley Brook

2011-09-02T16:51:00.000+01:00

Today we had a busy day with nine locks to get through. I cycled ahead with Ben the dog to get the locks ready but it didn't make any difference as boats were coming down.......I was just there so the gates were left open for us to go up. Another lovely day so I cycled to the bottom of Grindley Brook with Ben. He still tries to eat my feet when I start off but a shout of no usually does the trick.

We queued at Grindley Brook with two boats going up ahead of us but some were coming down so it worked quite well. At the staircase we were in luck no one was coming down, so I asked the lock keeper if it was OK to come up. I can't say he's the happiest lock keeper we've met on the system. Finally above the locks we filled up with water as well as emptying the cassettes and got rid of a bag of rubbish. After that we found a space to moor although the wind wanted us to moor on the non towpath side.........it's always windy above Grindley Brook.

The First Day Of September

2011-09-01T19:00:00.002+01:00

A canal side house at Burford

A beautiful start to September with a glorious hot sunny day. It started well with a pleasant walk with Ben the dog as I thought the towpath was too bumpy for cycling. No real queues at Swanley Locks just one boat ahead of us and a few coming down. NB Kelly Louise was moored in this area and gave us a shout as the boat passed by, they read the blog.......Hello again.....perhaps we'll see you again on our way back. This is only a fleeting visit to Ellesmere Festival and the Llangollen Canal as we're off to the Anderton Boat Lift and the River Weaver to tick off two more places where the Bendy boat hasn't been.

Approaching Baddiley Top Lock

Five locks later I was back on the boat as I remember well the mud of the towpath before Wrenbury. A kind boater waited for us to go through the first lift bridge before we moored alongside the caravan park in Wrenbury. That bridge takes forever to wind up and down so it was lovely to just go through it. The boat was moored in the shade of some trees to keep Ben the dog cool as Eric wanted lunch out. We decided on 'The Dusty Miller' and the food was really good too.

After lunch we decided to carry on cruising.......it was such a lovely day. First we had to work the electric lift bridge, when we started there wasn't a car in sight but by the time it was back down there was quite a queue.......sorry folks for holding you up. Leaving Wrenbury we spotted the Combermere Abbey Monument in the distance on the towpath side of the canal, not that I know anything about it.....I'll have to Google it.

At Marbury Lock the stern button decided to droop as the weak link decided to give out although Eric didn't notice the button catching on anything, it just touched the back gate. So we had to fix that as it was interfering with the rudder. At the lock chatting to the crew of the boat behind found us talking to some people from our part of the world, their welsh accent was very strong yet we never notice our own. One man said we haven't got an accent....everybody else has!

It had been a lovely day but a wasp came and spoiled my day when he crawled on my back and stung me........ouch! As the lump started to grow it was time for antihistamines and a dollop of bite cream. We decided to moor up near Marbury. Tomorrow there's three more locks before the six locks at Grindley Brook so it'll be a busy day.......let's hope the sun is shining.

Back On The Llangollen

2011-08-31T16:25:00.001+01:00

Caught in action......cleaning the roof

Leaving Nantwich we followed the slow boat to Hurleston Junction.....they couldn't have gone any slower if they tried. They then missed the turn off for the locks, so tried to reverse but got there in the end. We followed then up the locks, while the lock keeper stayed at the top. When we reached the top we told him the water was a foot down in the second pound making it difficult to leave the lock so he let some water down.

We didn't go far just the moorings between Bridge 4 and 5 and we're all on own. This is Eric's favourite canal ...so he's happy. He even cleaned the roof......he must be happy. Ben was outside enjoying the grassy towpath after a game of ball, but he wouldn't look at me when I wanted him too to take a photo. I imagined him thinking the caption of the photo!

Not another photo of me!

Moored At Nantwich

2011-08-30T21:30:00.002+01:00

This morning we were woken at 8am when the boat behind us started his engine and used bow thrusters rather than give the bow a push out. Later we left Coole Pilate and headed for Hack Green Locks and were pleased to find no queue even though many boats had passed us by while we got ready to go. I found the towpath very bumpy so I didn't cycle for long but Ben still needed a walk so we continued on foot.

We crossed over the Aqueduct leading to the moorings and found a space but had great fun getting a pin in the ground as the rings were too far away for a 57 foot boat. Eric finally found a spot where the pin went in ......so let's hope we're still joined in the morning. Sue and Mac went past hoping we were going as we they wanted to moor up.

We walked into Nantwich to have a look around, lots of little shops and I came back with a cotton jumper and a replacement bean cutter as mine had broken after many years of service. We also got a few things from Morrison's to keep us going. I didn't bother with any heavy stuff as we're planning to go to Ellesmere and there's a canal side Tesco there.

Judith and John from NB Serena tapped on the boat to say hello as they read my blog. We chatted about winter moorings and here's a link to the BW Mooring Vacancies Site LINK.

Down The Audlem Flight

2011-08-29T16:00:00.001+01:00

NB Bendigedig on the Audlem Flight

Today we left about eleven o'clock as we hoped to meet some boats coming up the Audlem Flight as we went down the flight. We met a few boats but had to turn quite a few locks as few boats were coming up. It's quite cold today.......what happened to Summer? The evenings are getting darker earlier too.........winter's coming.

We stopped after lock 12 in the only space as the rest of the mooring is taken up by trading boats including 'The Cheese Boat'. I popped to the Coop to get fresh fresh and milk before we finally could get on the water point by 'The Shroppie Fly'. It's awkward because as soon as it becomes free a boat coming up the lock fills it, as well as only being room for one boat to get through because of a boat moored against another.......double parked!

Soon we were full with water and had just three more locks to do before we finished the Audlem flight of locks. At the bottom lock a lady was selling fruit and vegetables so I bought some tomatoes on the vine and some big potatoes for baking. She also sells meat, sausages and free range eggs but we didn't need any today.

Back on the boat it's a short cruise to Coole Pilate where we moored up. As usual the boats are all spaced out with less than a boat length between them. It's windy and cold typical Bank Holiday Monday weather.

A Short Cruise To Coxbank

2011-08-28T13:30:00.002+01:00

We haven't come far just a short cruise to Coxbank, we didn't go any further as there's a Beer festival at Audlem so we expected it to be busy down the bottom of the locks. We walked down the locks to Audlem with Ben the dog in the afternoon, it certainly lacked the festival atmosphere and was surprisingly quiet in the village. There was some live music outside 'The Lord Combermere' with a covered area in case of rain......which soaked us on the way back to the boat. At 'The Shroppie Fly' Eric had a pint, lots of keg beers on offer but he was happy with a pint of Pedigree. Outside the pub the wasps were a nuisance so we didn't stay long.

On Sunday morning we were prepared for the rain but it didn't rain while we were out on a walk down to Audlem to pick up a Sunday paper. Lots of people about with boats going up and down the flight and of course the dog walkers were out in force while the sun shone. Back on the boat to cook those lamb steaks from Adderley Wharf Farm Shop, they smell delicious as they cook..........and I'm sure Sunday lunch today will be better than last Sunday's even though I'll have to wash up.

The Farm Shop At Adderley Top Lock

2011-08-26T16:30:00.000+01:00

Leaving Market Drayton

We finally got moving at 11 o'clock as far as the waterpoint anyway to top up the tank. The flow of water tap was unbelievably slow. Finally with the tank full and ready to go I cycled although the towpath was rather bumpy and Ben got a good run for several miles. Passing a field of cows on the non towpath side was an experience we'd never had before as the whole herd starting mooing and rushing towards Ben and I.......luckily a barbed wire fence and the canal separated us.

Those nosey cows!

We stopped at the Top of Adderley Locks waiting for the boat to come up rather than turning the lock and wasting water. I popped across the lock to have a look at the goodies for sale. The farmer's wife told me she had fresh lamb so I bought some lovely thick steaks and some pork sausages. She took a while to get them as she had to wait for her husband to cut the steaks.

Meanwhile her pet lamb was busy nibbling at the hedges, not bothered at all by Ben tethered to a seat. I wish I had my camera when the lamb came and stood by Ben. The farmer's wife said her pet lamb thinks he's a dog and is not bothered by dogs at all. Even though she puts him back in the field at night he's waiting for her every morning at her back door, he crosses the lock gate lower down and walks up the towpath and crosses the top lock to get to the farm house. That lamb's not destined for the dinner table.

We continued down the flight and moored at the bottom on the visitor moorings..............lovely and peaceful here.

On To Market Drayton

2011-08-26T10:10:00.002+01:00

The Wrekin is there!

We cruised through Grub Street Cutting, glad the boat sounded much better and then along Shebdon Embankment with a feeling of great big skies. You can see The Wrekin although my photograph isn't good, it's too far away from my compact camera. Ben and I walked along the grassy towpath hopping on and off at bridge holes. Finally we found a space at Goldstone Wharf and tried out those wheelbarrow wheels as we couldn't get in close in the last space. Eric had fun hammering in a stake as the rings aren't well spaced.

After a quiet night Ben and I had short walk as we were close to Woodseaves Cutting..... a definate no go for walking........it's a paddle with standing water and mud and yes there's duckwood as I've no doubt told you before. A boat was coming towards us so we waited until he came through the bridge hole before entering the cutting. A speedy boater caught us up as we were enjoying the cutting, it's so green you imagine you're miles from anywhere and then some mums with children in buggies came rushing down a path so the children could see the boat.

Approaching Tyrley Locks we stopped and let the speed boater past with his bow wave and radio blasting out, we weren't in any rush. Boats coming up meant it only took under an hour to get through the five Tyrley Locks and lots of help from the crews too. The gent who lived at the Top Lock was helping too. Ben and I continued our walk and we moored up in Market Drayton. While Ben looked after the boat Eric and I visited the new Asda to get some fresh food. Due to its size there wasn't much choice in the fruit and veg section but it was so much closer than Morrison's. As we got our trolley to the only manned (womanned!) till she was closing. My comment about using the self service for a trolley load was a bit much was heard and she did let us through her till before she closed. Perhaps a longer walk to Morrison's would have better as I missed all the choices.

Back on the boat we enjoyed our chicken and chips, of course Ben had chicken too. Eric failed to get a satellite signal and Freeview gave us BBC channels and the radio, so it's just as well we like to watch BBC1. Maybe we just pointed it in the wrong direction! Tomorrow we'll be moving on.

Update

This morning as I lazed around in my dressing gown (on the laptop of course) I had a tap on the boat and Martin off NB Cherokee came to say hello.........he reads my blog.......I hope the scary lady with sticky up hair didn't put you off your breakfast. Lovely to meet you, we'll look out for you on our travels.

RCR To The Rescue

2011-08-24T19:30:00.002+01:00

At Norbury Junction

Yesterday we stayed at Norbury at the end of a long line of boats all the way to the junction. We finally did the other side of the blue on the roof as it was on the towpath side. Ben and I walked back to Gnosall while Eric prepared the roof for painting. When I came back we painted!

Today we planned to move in the morning but it wasn't to be. We got as far as the BW services and filled and emptied the usual things and then went across to fill up with diesel......it's much cheaper than Gailey. We didn't try to get fuel at Turner's because of the queue there. Fuel tank full but we weren't going anywhere........strange sounds and no drive. Eric only found a piece of thin rope round the propellor so RCR to the rescue even though we were stuck at Norbury Wharf. They were good enough to let us stay there until the boat was fixed........many thanks! The problem was due to a loose Aquadrive which was soon refitted correctly.........no clunks now.

So on the move much later than planned. While RCR fixed the boat Ben and I had a walk to that bridge with the stumpy telegraph pole at the start of the Grub Street Cutting. So glad we didn't break down in the cutting.

Bridge 39, SUC

Wheaton Aston To Norbury Junction

2011-08-22T19:00:00.008+01:00

Another lovely day so as planned we had a two and a half hour cruise to Norbury Junction. Ben walked quickly and I cycled the first three miles with stops for Eric to catch up, after that it was back on the boat at a bridge hole. Eric always enjoys the deep shadowy cuttings listening to the birds singing and the tall embankments on the Shroppie along its comparatively straight route. It's such a change after the narrow Staffs & Worcs Canal which meanders along. A long stream of boats was heading south towards Autherley, so we needed to give way at lots of bridges as the boats coming towards us had no intention of stopping, some says thank you others couldn't manage a word.

Gnosall Heath was busy with a few spaces but we carried on stopping at the end of the line of moored boats before Norbury Junction. Despite its name it's no longer a junction but there is a short section of the Newport Branch Canal in water used by Norbury Wharf. Eric found the satellite signal and then we went for a walk up the Norbury Junction Services as I had some books to swap and Eric needed a home for a pile of Waterways World magazines. Just one poor lonely book was sat on the table, the place had been cleaned out. Eric left the magazines on the table rather than put them in the rubbish, hopefully someone will take them to read before another big clear out happens.

Brewood To Wheaton

2011-08-21T19:32:00.000+01:00

We woke to beautiful sunshine so decided to cruise today. Ben and I walked into Brewood alongside the boat enjoying a walk as a change from cycling. Ben stayed on the boat while Eric and I did a bit of shopping and got a Sunday paper. On the way back to the boat we popped in The Bridge for a pint and a J2O and ended up having Sunday lunch, which turned out to be a bit of a disappointment. First they brought a very small dish with chunks of carrot, potato and a few green beans and then the plates came with mashed potato, roasties and a yorkshire pudding with two slices of pork. Most of the meal was potato although the roasted sweet potato was a nice touch, as we hadn't tasted that before. So we won't be going back there again for Sunday lunch.

We decided to move on in the afternoon and finally moored up at Wheaton Aston after working through the lock. The hireboater going down had only done the stop lock at Autherley before so our help was needed explaining what to do as they were very apprehensive. The boaters going up were also new to locks so were glad of some help too. A peaceful afternoon followed disturbed only by Ben seeing off any dogs who came anywhere near the boat. A young thrush very bravely hopped on the bow of the boat hoping for food, but he didn't wait around long enough for me to get him some crumbs.

Back On The Shroppie

2011-08-20T16:29:00.000+01:00

Bridge 1 on the Shroppie Canal

Today I cycled into Coven to go to the Coop as we needed some fruit, bread and some milk......it was certainly quicker by bike. Meanwhile Eric waited at Coven for me to come back to the boat. We had the narrows today before Autherley Junction and we waited nearly three quarters of an hour before the stream of boats finally stopped. There are passing spaces but it was busy we decided to wait a bit.

Wolverhampton Boat Club

So a right turn and we're back on the Shroppie, a favourite of Eric! Through the stop lock which foxes me everytime as it'll hard to tell if it needs filling or emptying it's such a small difference. We passed by the Wolverhampton Boat Club which looks so nice yet there's a barb wire protected bridge with a locked gate to get to it from the towpath side. BW always says not to more until after Bridge 6 .....there's been a murder in the past! We moored after Bridge 7 on the Visitor Moorings with rings and it's one of those places where the Shroppie shelf is not evident. Now we have some wheelbarrow wheels we shouldn't have a problem any way........haven't tried them out yet!

A Quick Update

2011-08-19T13:28:00.003+01:00

Yesterday was a yuk day for me, I picked up a sickness bug and boy did I suffer! Today I'm feeling a bit delicate but at least I can vacate the bathroom. Eric moved the boat on from Radford Bank to get a bit of peace and quiet above Deptmore Lock.

Today we travelled doing the locks along that noisy stretch of canal running alongside the M6 stopping above Gailey Lock to use the services and get some fuel. Self declaration was a no go 60/40 or nothing, but as we were desperate we got 50 litres to keep us going until we get to Turner's on the Shroppie where the diesel is much cheaper and self declaration is no problem.

The washing machine did a load while we were on the move, so when we moored up out came the rotary line and spike.......now the washing is blowing dry in the breeze.

A Visit To Newport

2011-08-17T18:20:00.002+01:00

Gwenllian and Aunty Clare

Gwenllian and Aunty Clare take two

After a lovely weekend with Gwenllian and Lisa on the boat, Monday afternoon came and it was time for them to go home. As I was going with them to visit my dad then the three of us set off to catch the train at Stafford. The train was pretty full but we managed to get seats, I had a space next to me so Gwenllian spent part of the journey with me and part with her mum. We changed at Bristol Parkway a much easier change than at Birmingham New Street as the next train came in on the same platform.

On Tuesday I had a walk around the park with my dad and later on I visited a different park with my daughters Lisa and Clare and granddaughter Gwenllian before we had tea. Later it was back to my dad's house for an evening of TV, chat and then it was bed time for dad...10pm on the dot! Hot milky drinks and no doubt he was away to the land of nod, I read my book for an hour or so! Not a good sleeper anyway I always find it difficult to sleep in a different bed. I was looking forward to my new mattresss delivered to the boat Radford Bank by The Bed Centre in Stafford, ordered Thursday over the phone and delivered Monday morning.....excellent service. They also do made to measure mattresses and have an online site. They advertise in Waterways World too.

Wednesday morning finally came and I caught the train back to Stafford, changing at Bristol Parkway. Now I'm back on the boat, a lazy evening ahead after a very busy few days.

Visitors On NB Bendigedig

2011-08-13T20:48:00.000+01:00

He's my grandad!

Lisa and Gwenllian arrived at lunch time and I met them off the train in Stafford. We got a taxi back to Great Haywood to save the trek across town to the hourly bus service with a three year old walking. She's a really good walker but we only had fifteen minutes if we were going to catch the bus. The above photo sums up today.......she only has eyes for her grandad although I did get a hug at the station.

Eric met us below Great Haywood Lock to save the long walk to the boat and I worked him through the lock. Lisa and Gwenllian climbed aboard and we headed for the waterpoint to fill up before our cruise to Tixall Wide. Gwenllian sat on the roof hatch next to her grandad and ate lunch. We managed to find a space past the wide section, but later boats were out of luck.

Filling up with water at Great Haywood

Gwenllian's upside down!

Moored At Great Haywood

2011-08-12T14:30:00.001+01:00

It was fun cycling from Rugeley to Colwich and Ben had a good run too! I must be getting used to it as the rear end feels better and my thighs don't hurt anymore. At Colwich Lock I got back on the boat after working through the lock and had a short cruise to Great Haywood. We're not that close, but close enough to walk into the village to get a paper.

Ben likes the walk between the canal bank and the railway line (non towpath side) as there's loads of trees which means he can indulge his delight of carrying big sticks, more like branches. Also he loves to have a paddle in the canal chasing small sticks, this morning it was deeper than he thought so he was in up to his neck! While we were out I also found some juicy blackberries, the first we've found this year so I've got enough to make a few crumbles to put in the freezer.......delicious with custard says Eric!

Ben looked after the boat while we popped to see the new Canalside Farm Shop which now has a butcher and deli counter as well as fruit & veg and bread and cakes. We came away with pork pie and strawberries. Just having a lazy afternoon today, tomorrow there's no chance of that as my granddaughter Gwenllian aged 3 is coming to visit with her mum.

Message To Artymess!

2011-08-11T08:16:00.001+01:00

For some reason whenever I try to leave you a comment on your posts I fail, so this is the message........... ' Sorry to hear you're flat on your back again, I hope you recover soon, Love Elsie x'

A Short Cruise To Rugeley

2011-08-10T18:27:00.001+01:00

Today it was just an hour and a half to get to Rugeley as I needed to get some fresh food in the fridge. We were in luck there was a couple of spaces which were soon filled with us and the boat behind us. Ben ran along with me as I cycled along the towpath, of course I stopped and let the walkers pass by rather than ringing the bell and expecting them to move out of the way. Ben was a very good boy staying next to me on the bike for most of the time.

Lisa and Gwenllian ( Photo by Gerwyn)

This weekend we're having a visit from my daughter Lisa and grandaughter Gwenllian. Gwenllian wakes up everyday and asks are we going today? She's been telling everyone she's going on a boat and she's going to sleep in nanny's bed, while Eric and I sleep on the bed settee. We're going to have a very busy weekend.

Four Miles To Fradley Junction

2011-08-09T17:00:00.001+01:00

NB Shush on the Coventry Canal

A four mile cycle ride today with Ben the dog, with stops at the bridges for Eric to catch up! Who should we see just past one bridge........NB Shush! Eiddwyn came out for a quick chat, their off towards Braunston in a few days. Lots of boats on the move today, some with shears cutting the overhanging trees, some pulling in so they could stay on the towpath side away from the greenery. Lots of shiny boats!

On the last section of the Coventry Canal are two waterpoints and after a short wait we were able to get on one of them. Unbelievably slow to fill the boat's water tank. Cassettes emptied, rubbish got rid off, and a visit to the shop and it still wasn't full. I bought the last two litres of milk as we're running low. Finally with a full water tank it was through the swing bridge and turn left to go up two locks and leave Fradley Junction behind.......no room to moor today.

NB Bendigedig at Fradley Swing Bridge

Hopwas To Streethay, Cruising and Cycling

2011-08-08T13:42:00.002+01:00

Yesterday we chatted to an American couple walking past the boat at Hopwas, who were interested in life on a canal boat. They are visiting various places where their English ancestors lived including Hopwas. They left me a message on the blog and surprise surprise we both share the same surname Fletcher....... I wonder if they have any Welsh ancestors? Eric's family was originally from Wellington in Shropshire a few generations ago, moving to Rogerstone when workers were needed for a new steel works. Believe it or not they made the journey on foot. An area of Rogerstone nick named 'The Nook' housed the many families who came and the streets had Shropshire names such as Wellington Street and Hadley Street. These houses were demolished to make way for a by pass road.

Today we decided to move and in doing so met boats coming in both directions in the first hour of moving. Many expected our boat to give way every time and what a miserable bunch of boaters they were today. Usually they are happy to smile, chat and cooperate but not today. Eric said he should have stayed in bed! Meanwhile I cycled and Ben walked beside me most of the time. We kept stopping for Eric to catch up. Cycling uses bits of me I didn't know had muscles, but it's been great to cycle instead of walking everyday.

Totally Celebrated!

2011-08-07T16:00:00.001+01:00

Today we had lunch at 'The Tame Otter' in Hopwas, a part of the Vintage Inn Chain. We booked online last night and yes we'd go again, excellent food and service, so we've certainly celebrated our wedding anniversary.

Before lunch Ben and I went on a circular walk taking in the towpath and a walk through Hopwas Woods alongside the canal. It's busy here on Sunday morning and we were also very lucky to miss the rain. In fact we'd just got back to the boat as it started.

Walking back to the boat after lunch we just missed the heavy rain again, so we decided to stay put in Hopwas until tomorrow. The rain certainly hasn't stopped the boats moving on this canal. Only one downside here no shop to get a Sunday paper, so we're having a lazy afternoon watching The Cannonball Run instead.

No photos as they were frightening.........Eric looked as though he didn't want to be there and mine looked like an advert for shiny white teeth!