Higher Poynton

New camera in action here. This was the rainbow that appeared before the rain last night pretty eh.

We left the mooring around 10 am following a a plastic cruiser boat. We caught up with him at Higgins Clough Swing Bridge, lucky for the both of us there was a boat in front whose crew kept the bridge open for us both to go through. When we got to Wood end Lift Bridge as we were there first I opened the bridge for the 2 boats behind, the plastic cruiser stayed put as he was going to turn round but the narrowboat went through. Then as luck would have it at Turfield Lift Bridge a BW guy had opened the bridge to let a work boat through so less work for me.

Stopped at the sanitary station on the Macclesfield nr the junction, it is really tight there, a struggle to get two boats on and as there was already a boat filling up with water Paul had to do a lot of shunting to get moored up, needless to say with both boats filling up with water it took forever but at least there are plenty of water points on this canal its the elsan points that are few and far between. While filling up a hire boat decided it would be a good idea to Tbone us but super hero Paul averted the collision.

Passed these deer laying under the tree now what did they know that we didn't.

Had to stop under a bridge to retrieve this from round the prop certainly had more power after wards. Paul thought he might find the tyre that went with the inner tube or even the bike.

Made our way along to Higher Poynton and this is tonight's mooring. Tomorrow its off to the Engine Museum, think I will wait outside or may be not I don't want him in charge of MY camera.

Found this sign on a bridge guess who took the picture and it wasn't me, all the time he was faffing about he was swearing and cursing at MY new camera but once he got the hang of it he hasn't done too bad a job with the snap. I am not letting him get his hands on it again because he has been really abusive about MY camera. It is going to take a while to know what is what but does he take that into consideration NO HE DOESN'T.

Talking about Take That my daughter and granddaughter are going to see them at Wembley tomorrow they didn't invite me, cheek.
It is now lashing it down with rain so those deer were very wise to be laying under that tree.

Another trip on a very hot bus.

Wellllllllll, we are now the proud owners of a 7inch flat screen TV. Caught the bus this morning back into Stockport, oh what intrepid travellers we are. Popped the prescription into Boots to be collected on the way back. Found Maplins and once inside Paul was like a kid in a sweet shop, all this electronic stuff makes him so happy. On checking out the small TV's he decided that the 10inch one was too large so after chatting to a salesman who looked about 12, 7inch one was selected then of course all the connections had to be bought as well. Wallet was opened dust blown off card purchase made. Just as we were leaving the shop Paul saw a solar powered spot light (2 in a box 4.99). "That's just the thing to put the camera in and I need a solar unit to power the remote" was his retort, so back to the desk and a fiver was found to pay for that. What are we going to do with the spare one I wonder as we already have 3 lights on top of the boat. I then dragged him out of the shop before he found something else he could adapt for some job or other. Prescription was picked up then it was back to the bus station and eventually the boat.
Needless to say as soon as he was on the boat Paul had everything out of the boxes, yes the camera does fit inside the casing of the solar light so that's okay, now he is surrounded by wires, soldering iron is out and hopefully everything will be up and running by this evening or else I can see us staying here until it is. He did find a bit of dodgy wiring when he took the ceiling panel down but he sorted that out before he started on the camera wiring. (there was a lot of swearing though).
At this moment in time all I can hear behind me is a lot of expletives as things don't seem to be going to plan. But knowing Paul he will stick with it or until he has had a nervous breakdown. Better get the beers in the fridge.
Found out that there is a festival at Marple locks this weekend apparently the locks are 100 years old so there is some sort of bash going on, we need to be well away from here by Wednesday at the latest or else we are going to get caught up in it all.
There has just been a very loud EUREKA so I gather that we have lift off with regards to the camera relaying pictures to the screen if your lucky I may take some pictures with my NEW CAMERA watch this space.

All jobs done!

As it was another nice day yesterday Paul managed to get the tow path side of the boat touched up, then as that tired him out he sat down for 3 hours and watched MOTOGP. I went to the PO and got the post, had a nice chat to the lady behind the counter, why do people seem amazed that you live on a boat all the time, normal comment is "don't you have a house?" well no we don't actually. But it is nice explaining the in's and out's of our life afloat. In the evening Paul walked to the fish and chip shop, oh how we were looking forward to our cod and chips. When he came back (with a very long face) he said "who ever heard of a fish and chip shop that doesn't do cod" apparently it is too expensive to buy. So I had haddock and Paul had a very anaemic looking pie and a sausage. Well the pie was only fit to be used as a mud anchor so half of it ended up in the canal and even the ducks wouldn't eat it, my haddock was okay though.
This morning dawned another nice day so Paul got stuck into his usual fortnightly clean up of the engine bay and a quick inspection of all moving parts. I heard a load of expletives coming from down the hole don't ask me what it was all about but Paul had found something else he was not happy with around the weed hatch area, all I know is it was something to do with when the boat was built and all Paul could say was "they are f******g" doughnuts" no explanation as I wouldn't understand, do I want too!!! Stern deck was scrubbed down and the back of the boat was polished. While all this was going on I was up to my elbows in bubbles scrubbing the carpet, dogs weren't impressed as they were on the back with Paul. I was a good little scrubber and the carpet now smells a lot sweeter and looks a lot cleaner. Halfway through this clean himself comes rushing through the boat (on my damp carpet ) to inform me that some woman had let her dog cock its leg up one of the jerry cans while she stood by and watched it. Paul asked her if she was going to wipe the can down to which she smiled and walked on, SOME PEOPLE eh. I'm sure if the dog had left a nice pile Paul would have thrown it at her. As it is most mornings we have to clear up some dogs mess by the boat.
We are going to have another trip to Stockport in the next couple of days to visit Maplins. Paul has been trying for ages to find a small TV and Maplins have a 10in 12v flat screen one which he is going to install on the back of the boat. This will be linked up to the CCTV camera which will be re sited on the front of the boat to allow us to see if there is any thing coming on dodgy bends and junctions. The camera is going to be radio controlled so that it can be rotated 180 degrees to see left or right. (clever eh) At the moment the camera at the front is inside the cratch and was connected to the main Tv but because all you could see was the inside of the cratch cover it was disconnected as a redundant item. But as usual his little mind has been working overtime and he has now found a new use for it.
Although it is still very muggy it is raining again but the forecast is very warm for next week cant wait.
A lady walked past with her dog stopped and said she had read our blog, transpired it was Carrie from nb Blackbird who had left a comment the other day, nice to meet people who actually read the blog makes it worthwhile.

Nice day in Stockport.

Yesterday we were hot on the heels of Dot and Derek nb Gypsy Rover, they left the basin before us as we did a quick (and it was quick) Tesco run. I don't think I have ever been in a supermarket so early, well for me it was early, 9am I am normally just eating my breakfast. Any way we got back to the nice mooring by Swing bridge 30 Dot and Derek had the kettle on so we spread ourselves out on the tow path and had a nice cuppa. The tow path here is quite busy with cyclists and as it is has a good surface they go past at a rate of knots. After lunch we walked to the P.O to ask if he accepted post which they do. Dot and Derek were up here too so we all bought an ice cream and had a slow wander back to the boats. We did look at the bus time table and decided a trip to Stockport was on the cards. Late afternoon saw Paul and I with our chairs out on the tow path. Saffie decided it was cooler for her to lay across the tow path in fact she acted as a speed bump certainly slowed the cyclists down.
This morning Gypsy Rover set off for Marple and Paul and I set off for the bus stop. As we got to the road the bus sailed passed never mind they are every half an hour and it was such a lovely day we just sat on someones garden wall and waited for the next bus. Journey took about 45mins which is quite a long time in a hot bus. First stop was a little cafe in the market for breakfast as Paul was starving. We then had a good wander around, still in our minds was a new camera, had a look in Jessops no luck there, popped into Argos for some fishing scales to enable Paul to weigh all these monster fish he is going to catch. Found a Comet so into there saw the Sony we liked made a note of the price and on to Currys, I left Paul to it, after about half an hour it was decided that the Sony it would be but no, there was another problem they didn't have a memory card to fit, would have one next week, so yet again we left a store empty handed.
Now Dot had shown me her camera which was a compact digital Canon and she was very impressed with it. So back into Comet as they had more choice than Currys and AT LAST I am now the proud owner of a Sony 12 mega pixels Cyber Shot. Best of all it was on offer at HALF PRICE with a case. Had to buy a memory card but we spent a lot less than we had planned. Now have to work out how to work the thing. Do I take bets on how long it will be before Paul decides its a crap camera? He was with me when I made the choice so it isn't entirely all down to me. With all this walking and Paul in is new sandals he now has blisters so he was glad of a nice cold beer when he got back on the boat, only problem was I hadn't put any in the fridge OH DEAR.
Will pick up the post in the morning, there is painting to be done and MOTOGP is on. So we are going to be busy and of course I want to get the carpet cleaned I am so not looking forward to that job.

Bugsworth

Finally made it to Bugsworth, as we got to the basin Leon and Rae on Old Bovine were on the sanitary station just got a quick hello in before they set off. Met up with Dot and Derek on Gypsy Rover at last, had a pleasant couple of hours sat in the sunshine having a good old chinwag.

The basin here is very nice with plenty of room although we did make the mistake of going onto our mooring forwards thinking we could wind but we couldn't so we are going to have to reverse out. Will walk to Tesco in the morning wont even mention that I am just going for a few bits because that is fatal. I think its best I go on my own as it will be down to me to carry it all back. We were going to stay here for the 48 hours but we liked it so much where we were last night that I think we may leave here after lunch and return there to spend the weekend. If it stays nice I am going to attempt to clean the carpet it certainly needs it. After lunch we went off for a very pleasant walk although the sun was out it was very breezy, still the dogs enjoyed themselves.

Nice hat and sandals.

Such lovely scenery probably not quite the same in the rain.

We just had to pop into the Navigation dogs weren't too impressed at having to sit still for half an hour but they managed it.

Peak forest swing bridge 30

Buggerlugs left last nights mooring first but they needed to top up with water at Marple. They have family on board for a few days. We weren't that far behind them, at least it wasn't raining, in fact it has been very muggy today no sun but warm. When we got to Marple Junction Buggerlugs was on the visitor moorings opposite the sanitary station and the boat was being given a quick wash down. We only had to empty the cassette so were on our way fairly quickly following a trip boat with disabled children on board who were really excited at seeing our dogs on the boat. Of course the trip boat got to the junction and proceeded to turn round so they were facing us a bit of quick manoeuvring and we were heading for Whaley Bridge and they were heading back the way they had come. This is a lovely canal with some spectacular scenery the further along we went the more the weather closed in.

Negotiated Turfleet lift bridge which is windlass operated. At the next lift bridge 2 boats had come through and the lady off of the first boat very kindly let us go through before closing the bridge and returning to her boat. Bridge 25 is a swing bridge it was a good job I had my BW key with me, had to read the instructions as I hadn't come across one of these type of bridges before.

Bet this house has a good view of the valley.

Nice canal side property.

It had by now started to rain spitting at first then the heavens opened and we got drowned had planned to stop at Newtown but there are only long term moorings here so we had to keep on going and going. I had put the umbrella up but there were so many overhanging trees it was more of a hindrance, especially when at one point I tilted the umbrella forward and Paul couldn't see where he was going "oh silly me" that's not what Paul said more along the lines of "move that damm umbrella" or words somewhat similar if you get my drift. So umbrella came down and we continued to get wet. Finally just before Carr swing bridge we found a nice stretch of armco with a space for us, quite a few boats here probably because it is near to the road and not too far from Furness Vale.

This is our mooring for tonight.The sun has come out now but we are still having the odd shower.

Buggerlugs still hasn't passed us hope he is feeling guilty for washing his boat down and making it rain!!!!! Haven't seen Gypsy Rover either may be we have missed them after all we are going very slowly.

Bridge 11 High Lane

Funny old day very misty and damp, we left Kerridge around 9.45 slowly did it passed the old mills in Bollington they are very impressive buildings.Just leaving Bollington and there are some nice houses with gardens down to the canal. We were admiring one such garden when we noticed the lady of the house cleaning the upstairs windows(from the inside) she waved hello when Paul reciprocated he nearly run aground as this lady was wearing a very low cut top and was very well endowed made an old man happy though. There was a boat in front of us who pulled over to let us past as he thought we were going faster than him. Us, go faster then any one, that's a laugh. In doing his good deed he ran aground, must say we found some real shallow bits especially when passing other boats one of whom we had words with as at a very narrow spot he didn't have the manners to hold back and let us through, just kept going so we ended up in the trees and he was up the bank all for the sake of 5 minutes. Stopped at Higher Poynton for water and rubbish, Paul wandered into Braidbar Boats to be nosey and ended up talking to a chap who whose boat was nearly finished, apparently this boat builders changed hands last year and they don't have a slot for a new build until June next year nice to see some builders have a full order book. I managed to talk to a local who was admiring the boat and it would appear that this spot is really good for walking, there is also the Engine Museum and Pit Visitor Centre within 5 minutes walk so on our way back I think we will stay here a couple of nights and explore. Engine Museum is only open Fri Sat and Sun but in July and August its open Wed afternoons so we will have to make sure we get back there for one of these days.
We carried on a bit and have ended up here at High Lane moored in front of nb Buggerlugs who followed us up Bosley Locks. Tootled off for our lunchtime reccy of the local hostelry. The Bulls Head is right on the canal, so convenient but doesn't open till the evening. We spied another pub called The Horseshoe Inn which was about 5 minutes further down the road (also passed a nice looking Thai Restaurant). The Horseshoe is a nice small "Proper" pub not themed or a wine bar just nice atmosphere and Robinsons beer (thought they made squash) anyway we decided to have a sandwich as we were there looked at the menu and saw these things called BARMS what the hell is a BARM, we asked the landlord and he said they are like Muffins well I thought a Muffin was a cake but there you go what do I know and we are North of Watford after all. I had a bacon barm and Paul had a bacon and egg one, very delicious they were too just like a big burger bun but more tasty. Food is reasonably priced but they don't do food in the evenings just until 6pm. We investigated the rest of the shops and there is plenty here to keep you topped up a Costcutter, PO, Medical Centre and a Pharmacy also another pub which did a carvery for 3.95 whether that is just weekends I don't know as we didn't walk right up to investigate. Hoping Paul's friend contacts us tonight and we can arrange to meet him for a meal.

Raining yet again

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NO.1 son 40 today and no doubt already bladdered.

Last evening we met up with our friend from Spain her friend lives 10 minutes from here so that was handy. We met at the Lord Clyde pub which is a short walk from bridge 29 although not in the books. It is only a small place but the food looked good, expensive though. We plan to get the bus this afternoon once qualifying has finished (got to get your priorities right).
Was woken in the night by the rain on the roof, must say I love it when you can hear the rain and you are all nice and cosy inside. This rain has continued on and off throughout the day so no doubt we will get soaked while we are out, will just have to light the fire when we get back. Have been lazy today Paul has done a bit of tidying his tools and stuff but as we are staying here till Monday I can do a bit tomorrow.
Paul has a friend who works in Manchester and we are hoping to hear from him Monday evening and hopefully he can come and find us wherever we are on Tuesday. Will be nice for Paul to have some male company to chat with about engines and boats (boring). Understand Gypsy Rover is in front of us and heading for Whaley Bridge we will probably pass somewhere I hope so will be nice to make their acquaintance.

Blustery day

Today was an exploring day, wandered to the shops not too far to walk, there is a co-op, butchers, bakers and PO here plus a couple of other shops so if you need to top up with supplies its quite easy, there is also a doctors and a vets so that about covers every ones needs. Walked back along a disused railway which is now a designated walk very pleasant it was too and everyone that we passed said hello, in fact this is a very friendly place. It has been quite blustery today, when we went out the sun was warm then it clouded over and now it is very chilly we have lit the fire how stupid is that a fire in the middle of June. Where we are moored is relatively quiet, lots of tow path walkers probably from the village a few of the boats in front of us appear to be in the process of fitting out. 3 boats up is a sunken one with the clothes still hanging in the wardrobe hate seeing narrow boats like this. Still feel shattered after yesterdays long day but I'm sure my recovery will be quite swift. There is a bottle of wine in the fridge need I say more.

Kerridge

Had no Internet connection yesterday so you have had a day off from us. We travelled from Congleton to the moorings below Bosley locks, we didn't go far, all of an hour and a half because we knew there was bad weather coming our way. It started spitting about just before we got to the mooring but nothing too bad. Once moored up the weather closed in on us and it rained on and off for the rest of the day. In one lull I walked the dogs up the locks to see what we were in for. These locks are of stone and I hate to think how long they took to build with all the stone dressing. These skills are now few and far between.

In front of us in the distance was a hill with a BT tower on it, while the weather was bad you couldn't see the tower and this morning you could.

Around tea time the heavens really opened and boy did it rain. Around 9.30pm a boat pulled in front of us and when we got up at 7.30am this morning they were gone so desperate to get somewhere I would think. We got going around 9.15 and when I got to the bottom lock someone was just leaving it, so yet again I faced a long flight with every lock set against me, it was really slow going but I did my usual get Paul in one lock start to fill it then walk to the next one to empty that. At one point I caught up with the people in front and they told me there was a single handed lady in front of them that's why things were a bit slow. I didn't mind we weren't in a rush. About half way through the 12 locks we met a boat coming down so the lady off of the boat following us was able to catch us up. She was being hassled by the boat behind them as they had to be somewhere at a certain time, she gave them a piece of her mind because at the end of the day none of us could go any faster. I was glad to see the back of those locks. While in the top lock Paul nipped off the boat to empty the cassette (in the sanitary station) and I did the rubbish then it was onwards towards Macclesfield. Through the swing bridge at Oakgrove where I had to stop the traffic "oh the power" at the next swing bridge which was a manual one we had caught up with the single hander and she left the bridge open for us which didn't really help as I had already got off the boat so it was quick scramble across the stern to be able to shut the bridge after Paul had gone through. We had to pull in to the side anyway as Paul had to put his arm down the weed hatch to remove a load of weed. We were nearly in to Macclesfield I was down below making a cup of tea when all of a sudden the boat was slammed in reverse "what the" I thought, Paul was shouting for me so I thought there was a major problem. But no the boat that had just passed us was Libertybelle with Trevor and Angela on board, we had met them last year when we were stuck on the Thames so we had to stop and have a quick chat then it was on our way again. When we saw the old Hovis mill we knew we were in Macclesfield. There was only one mooring just by bridge 37, a chap on the water point took our centre rope for us and said it was best to stay as there were no more moorings for at least another hours cruising.

Well if we hadn't had the dogs we would have stayed there but it was just too far from the bank even with a board. So on we went and on and on and on, we met about half a dozen boats going the opposite way hate to think where they were going to moor up. We negotiated three narrow spots. All along this stretch between Macclesfield and bridge 29 it is impossible to moor any where. Yet again we had something round the prop so we had to stop under a bridge to enable Paul to put his arm down the weed hatch and "voila" one pair of tights (in blue, was told if I wash them out I could wear them tomorrow " I DON'T THINK SO") and a load more weed. At last we saw a space opposite the dry dock at Kerridge so here we are completely shattered, 6 hours cruising is just too long, will probably stay here now for the weekend(British F1 COME ON JENSON) and hope our friends from Spain can find us, we know there is a pub nearby so that is a good meeting point.

Congleton

Before I start this I had better warn you that Paul will be dictating certain parts, see if you can guess which bits.

Yesterday after we had moored up we did a reccy on the pub and as mine host was very pleasant and the beer was nice we decided to give it a whirl on the food front that evening. We got to the pub around 6.30 ordered some drinks and took our seats in the restaurant (only ones there oh oh ) and before long the young girl arrived with the menus. We thought it strange of her dress code as the restaurant was a teeny weeny on the plush side, she was dressed in low cut top cropped trousers and flip flops all you got as she passed by was flippy flop. We didn't choose anything from the specials board we pushed the boat out and choose our meals from the extensive menu (expensive menu). I had chicken and chorizo pasta Paul decided to have the DELUXE breasted chicken burger which came with chips and salad. After about 10 minutes the girl returned to say the chicken had run out, Paul quipped well hurry up and run after it. To which by the look on the girls face she was not amused. So Paul had to re-adjusted his taste buds and went for the DELUXE burger with bacon and cheese. The meal took a while to emerge from the kitchen as if the chef was rushed off his feet, and Paul wondered what had been dished up in front of him and why it took so long. It reminded him of a DELUXE Austin Maestro something the salesman told you it was NOT. My pasta looked as if it had been served up in the dish by an army corporal back in 1954 it was not very well presented, Paul's burger was served in a bread roll which looked like the crusts off of a loaf of bread, the bacon consisted of half a rasher and thinner than a fag paper, the cheese was the size of a crisp. As for the salads on both of our plates it would appear that we shared an onion ring and a lettuce leaf and it was probably prepared by the assistant chef who doubled as the pot man. All in all cant say it was value for money, even missed out on my pudding we weren't going to chance it. Got back the boat and opened a packet of Minstrels best part of the dining experience.

This morning left the mooring and slowly made it here to Congleton where we are now on the 48hr moorings by bridge 77 as you can see we have only done a few miles at tick over didn't want to get done for speeding!! but it was a pleasure in the sunshine. We knew there was a market in the town today so with slippers in mind caught the bus for the journey of a whole 5 mins, got chatting to a local lady on the bus and she pointed out the Weatherspoons pub for us. It was a successful shopping trip for Paul not only did he buy a cheap (£10) of sandals to double up as slippers he also bought an expensive pair for best (£20). Along with these I managed to get him to buy himself 2 shirts and 2 t shirts it has never been known for him to buy so much in one hit. The moths didn't know what to do with themselves with all that daylight. Into Weatherspoons for a spot of lunch good value for money but they had run out of my choice typical, here we bumped into the lady from the bus. Found a nice cake shop so Paul has a large custard tart to have for his pudding tonight I have a carrot cake bun.

Now if you have been following this blog you will know that we have a slight difference of opinion on my point and go camera, if Paul had had his way it would have been over the side long ago. However we have been looking into buying a new digital SLR camera and as we were passing a Curry's we got drawn in JUST FOR A LOOK. They didn't have a vast choice but there were 2 models that we were interested in and to give the guy his due he was very helpful and knowledgeable. After about half and hour we decided on the Pentax and we were ready to open Paul's wallet yet again. Obviously we wanted a new camera in the box not a display model but he said this is the one you get for the price we don't have any stock, this camera was covered in dust and finger prints so had been well handled, in Paul's mind this was now 2nd hand the guy wasn't willing to knock anything off the price but was willing to give us a £10 memory card. By the time I caught up with Paul he was half way out of the door so, no new camera for us and no commission for the chap in the shop. I bet Paul made his day. Was glad to get back to the boat, just have my cake to look forward to now.

Bridge 87 on the Maccy

As it was such a lovely evening yesterday we decided to take the dogs for a nice long walk in the woods near by. Insisted Paul came as he had spent all day in front of the tele, dogs had a whale of a time think Paul enjoyed it too. Must say all of us were cream crackered when we got back. Believe or not we were actually on our way this morning by 9.30 did the final 6 locks on the Trent and Mersey then it was negotiate the junction onto the Macclesfield then back over the Trent and Mersey seemed strange to be going over a canal you had just travelled along.

I think this sign underestimates it somewhat, you cant see the sign in the other direction as it is covered in undergrowth so you get a nasty shock if someone is coming round the bend.

Rather fancy living in this cottage right by Hall Green lock, while in this stop lock Paul had his suspicions that something was round the prop had a look in the weed hatch and this it what he found. We certainly had more steerage after disposing of that lot.

We had only gone a couple of miles along this canal when we came across this nice little mooring 48hr with rings just after we moored up another boat came in front of us, as luck would have it there is a pub 5 minutes walk away called The Rising Sun so guess where we are eating tonight.

Fishing rod was the first thing to be sorted after the TV ariel and just as a boat was passing Paul reeled in this little beauty. One happy bunny springs to mind and he is still there 3hours later and no he hasn't caught another thing.

There is a storm rumbling round us and you can bet your bottom dollar that just as we set off for the pub the heavens will open.

Lazy days

Yesterday went by in a blurr especially for Paul who whacked his head while sorting out the hatch doors, so the painting was not a success in fact its a wonder the doors didn't land up in the drink. Wasn't the doors fault just Paul doing everything at 90miles an hour one day he will learn to take things slowly. I kept a very low profile its better that way. Good job he was able to chill out and watch MOTOGP qualifying. Friday evening he had some good fish so last night he had another go and only managed to catch one. I took the dogs for a nice walk through some woods near by they had a good time.

This morning I rose first yet again mind you it was 9 o'clock, we have done nothing today, Paul has watched the motorcycling and very exciting it was too. Friends of ours from Spain had sent a text asking if we would be anywhere near Manchester around the 18th so a text was sent back asking whereabouts in Manchester, reply was Macclesfield from 18th for a few days so it looks as if we are going to be able to catch up with them. Will be nice to see them again.

It has been unusually quiet but perhaps that's the norm for this stretch of canal, not too many hire boats passing. Tow path is busy though lots of cyclists and walkers. Will make a move tomorrow up to the junction and onto the Macclesfield then a slow journey to Macclesfield for the big re-union.

I think Pauls "lost it"

Another lovely day, dawned bright and sunny, in fact when I looked at my watch this morning I thought it was 8.30 so got out of bed only to find it was 7.30 as the kettle was already on couldn't go back to bed for 5 more mins. Paul was still snoring so he missed this phenomenon of me rising before him and getting the tea made.

We decided as it was nice to go a few more miles this ended up to be only a couple, we did 8 locks though. It was nice to see little clusters of old cottages next to the locks along side more modern houses. What really amazed us was the fact that in the front gardens of the modern houses which were overlooking the canal they all had their tables chairs and BBQ's you could imagine them all on a summers evening having community BBQ's something that you assume is no longer happening.

We were lucky at some of the locks with people coming down so all in all an easier day than yesterday. We came out of lock 47 and came across a nice stretch with rings so that is where we are now, nice tow path and it looks as if there is a nice walk through the fields for me to take the dogs.

After lunch Paul suggested a nice glass of wine so I told him there was a bottle in the fridge, "did you open it?" he says, what is he talking about I thought to myself "well the seal has been broken is it okay?" when I got up to see what he was talking about the silly so and so had taken out a bottle of water that I had put in the fridge to chill. Okay so I had decanted the water into a wine bottle but surely water doesn't look anything like white wine. I am beginning to get a bit worried about him I think he is loosing it big time.

Think we will stay here for the weekend, there is a boat a little way in front of us but not sure if it gets busy here or not. Paul is dangling his rod and every time he casts out a boat comes along so I will give him about half an hour before he gives up.

I am going to have a nice easy weekend, have some letters to write to our friends in Spain then I will do nothing but chill out and read my book, BLISS.

We are on Heartbreak Hill.

We left last nights mooring around 10 and had a very pleasant journey through some nice country side. First stop was the sanitary station at Wheelock, I had noticed in my Pearsons that it said there was a large pet superstore there. Lo and behold it was right on the canal so I trotted over there to see if they had a muzzle. Well I couldnt beleive the size of the place it was huge and at last, they had the muzzle that we wanted but of course I couldnt remember the size I needed so back to the boat told Paul and he took Crystal to the shop to make sure she had the correct size, it is now hanging in the cupboard so it doesnt go over the side again. Once we left Wheelock it was into the first of the locks that make up Heartbreak Hill, as you can see they are deep and we had been warned that the water entered the locks quite fast so I got into the routine of just opening one paddle till the lock was half full then I opened the other, this worked well and Paul didnt get bashed about too much. According to the book these locks are in pairs but the first few we came across only one lock was operational then we came across this lock so it would appear that BW are replacing gates and generally sorting things out

I believe that the 26 locks that make up Heartbreak hill rise or fall 250ft depending which way you are going.

There's Paul in the distance waiting for me to open the lock gates.

At least it was fine today no rain but the higher up the locks we went the more windy it became so after completing 12 of the 26 locks we decided to call it a day and after coming out of lock number 55 we found this nice spot, there are a couple of boats here and a coal boat round the corner. Who knows we may even stay here until Monday. I must say I feel shattered, I have done a lot of walking today.

Wet through yet again!

This morning it was into the village yet again, to pick up Paul's prescription, the post with my prescription and into the pet shop to see if they had a muzzle to fit Crystal. We managed to achieve the first two, the muzzle is turning out to be a problem but never mind I'm sure we will come across a Pet City somewhere may even have to wait until we get back to Rugby. Paul topped up his tobacco supply and had the cheek to spend 14 quid on a packet of Invincible cigars bit more than he paid for them in Spain but the first cigars he has bought for two years. He will have to smoke them in the cratch don't want the boat smelling of cigars its bad enough with damp dog.
So it was early lunch wait for the shower to pass then on our way.
Had to stop to get a bottle of gas at Kings Lock chandlery Paul did this while I was setting the lock, boy these are real deep but at least they fill and empty fast. Through the lock and we were on the Trent and Mersey new canal for us . The road runs along side the canal for quite a way, we went through Rumps Lock and then Booth Lane flight once through these two which were walkable the heavens opened and we got wet. As we went into Crows Nest lock (what a lovely name) a boat pulled up waiting to go down so it was nice to have a chat while filling the lock for us.
By this time to say we were soaked to the skin would be an understatement so we decided to look for somewhere to moor it seems that along this canal there isn't armco, well we haven't come across any yet but we found a nice straight bit of concrete between bridges 160 and 159 no road near by but the railway is somewhere behind the trees. I grabbed the centre rope leapt off the boat and fell flat on my face why? well I tripped over the fender rope, silly me, that's not what Paul said he was very concerned that I may have broken something, well two nails went but that's all. I have plenty of padding to break my fall. As we put the canopy up the rain came down even harder so the dogs had to cross their legs for a bit longer. Once we were sorted it was time for a nice hot shower and now dinner is in the oven and we are partaking of a rum and coke. Tomorrow we hope to find a nice spot for the weekend who knows we may stay in Wheelock but you know what we are like make plans and don't stick to them. Watch this space.

Better day today.

This morning we walked the towpath to find Kings Lock chandlery, only 5 mins away which was lucky. Paul managed to get his piece of metal to use as a large washer on the rudder stock Steve in the chandlery didn't charge so £4 went into the RNLI box. On towards the town and we came across a little DIY shop in pops himself to see if they had the clear plastic tubing he wanted "try the hire shop behind" says the guy. "They wont have it" was the retort, but we went up there all the same 5 mins later and out he comes clutching 3 mtrs of clear plastic pipe, "oh ye of so little faith" was my comment. On a bit further and what did we find, a large fishing tackle shop, in he goes for a look!!!!! and comes out with floats and hooks. So all in all a successful mornings shopping for Paul he got everything he wanted, oh no that's a lie STILL NO SLIPPERS. We did forget to call in the pet shop to see if they have a muzzle to fit Crystal as hers went over the side a while back as we were mooring up. Still we have to pick up the prescription tomorrow so we can do it then. Walked the scenic route back to the boat (took a wrong turning) but it was a pleasant walk all the same. Back on the boat piece of metal was drilled and installed so no danger of loosing the steerage again, air horns were re-sited using the clear plastic pipe they are now by the headlight not in the cratch and Paul is fishing off the back of the boat and has just caught a small roach so today has turned out a lot better for him than yesterday. And me, what have I done well the usual things ironing, hoovering, cleaned the brass steps and am now going to do the windows while its nice, as they say "a woman's work is never done" well today I can agree with that wholeheartedly.

What an awful day!!!!!

As we were getting ready to leave the mooring a boat came into view so we waited for them to pass then got behind them at the lock moorings. As luck would have it we didn't have too long to wait as there were a couple of boats coming up so it worked out well. We then pulled up at the marina for diesel and gas, NO GAS, the delivery was due this morning, got the diesel 63p declared 40/60 also bought a new chimney as ours is held together by tar. On we went into quite nice scenery although it was a bit breezy. Again when we got to Minshull Lock there was a queue, guy off the boat in front of us had gone to open the gates for the boat coming in, 10 minutes later they finally got into the lock as you have probably guessed it was a hireboat, sounded like a tank but was definitely a hireboat. Chap and I did the paddles and opened the gates to let them out, they did condescend to have a 5 minute chat and we deduced they were Dutch, off they went waving goodbye thanking us for helping them. Un be known to me as I was busy, this hire boat went past us and the 3 others waiting so fast that Paul thought ours was going to tip up, according to him he has never seen a boat lean over so far toward the towpath. Our boat was tied to a bollard by the centre rope and every drawer in the bedroom flew open. Paul wouldn't venture any further than the bedroom as he thought all the china would be smashed as luck would have it the only damage sustained was to the new paint and we now have a nice big gouge just below the gunnel. I hope the Dutch peoples grasp of English doesn't include the vast amount of swear words that came forth from Paul's mouth. (only have his word for all this as I never saw a thing).
It was getting a bit warmer by now I'm glad to say, we passed quite a few 48hr moorings along this stretch with rings but there is plenty of armco as well. As we went under bridge 24 we could see a line of moored boats so speed was reduced like the good boaters we are. We could see the ropes on the first boat in the line appeared to be a bit on the slack side Paul was convinced it was loose, and sure enough as we got level with the darn thing its stern started to swing out quick blast on the horn which was a waste of time and the bloody thing hit the side of the boat we couldn't move any further away from it so we now have even more scratches along the side of the boat to join the one we got earlier. On looking back we could see the centre pin had come out and the boat was now right across the canal blocking any traffic passing. No one was on board and yes it was a HIREBOAT. The rest of the journey into Middlewich was uneventful I'm pleased to say and we are now moored between bridges 28 and 29 with a few others.
Now you know what they say about things coming in threes wellllll, off we trotted to the doctors to get Paul some more pills. Up until now he has never had a problem just registered as a temporary patient seen a doctor and come out of the surgery clutching prescription in hand. Not this time oh no, the registration bit was okay Paul explained that he was stopping a couple of days and what he wanted then Mrs Hitler on the desk said "well we can only give you 3 tablets if you are staying three days" Just forget it says Paul and walks out. I did manage to get him to go back in and explain that he normally sees a doctor so he tries to make an appointment with a doctor "is it an emergency?" "no I want a repeat prescription" "I have nothing for today, but I have spoken with my colleague and we can make an exception and give you a months supply of tablets" I'll take them, then when will the prescription be ready " WEDNESDAY" AGHHHHHHH.
Once back on the boat Paul did no more than ring his own doctor explain the problem and got them to send a prescription to Jess's so hopefully now we won't have another day like today, hate to think what my blood pressure went up to. At least the sun is shining for now.

Cholmondeston lock

Yesterday morning it was another quick trip to Nantwich, did the bank and spent ages trying to find Paul a pair of sandals all to no avail, every pair that he saw were either too expensive (40 quid) or they didn't have his size so a disappointed chappy still has no slippers or sandals (serves him right eh). Left the mooring about midday, had to encounter a boat that was across the canal, guy had gone to the pub the night before and only tied up the front of the boat so it was causing a bit of chaos don't know where the guy was but he wasn't on board when we went past. Stopped at Barbridge junction for water then it was onto the Middlewich branch we needed diesel so decided to stop at Venetian marina but when we got to Cholmondeston lock there was a bit of a queue so we had to reverse into a space while I went on a reccy. 4 boats were waiting so we decided to moor up and stay put.
Had a wander to the marina as Paul needs a large washer for the rudder stock but no joy, we were told there is a boat builders further up that will probably be able to help us. Stopped at the cafe for a coffee and cake watching the boats come through the lock and very busy it was too. Internet reception here is okay if I sit in the cratch same with the phone, TV is great which is just as well as it is GP this weekend.
Today is wet, for once the weather man has got it right, looks like the same for tomorrow. So the jobs that get put off managed to be done, Paul has tidied the back cupboard as everything seems to get put in there, he also sorted out his tools under the bed so we can put the spare cassette back where it belongs. It is too easy to leave it on the back of the boat along with windlasses and pins so for now everything is in its correct place wont last though. Is still busy with boats coming through, we will stay till Monday then go through the lock get our diesel and gas then head off. Will probably have to stop at Middlewich as Paul needs to get more pills from a docs and Jess has to send my prescription up so I need a pharmacy to get my tablets don't want to run out of them.

Hi Sue

Just posted my blog when there was a tap on the window and it was Sue from No Problem walking her dogs at least I got to have a chat with her. Paul wasn't too happy as her dogs ate his fishing bait and got tangled up in his line at least he called smile about it.
So nice to be able to faces to blogs.

Nantwich.

Just as we were thinking about setting off this morning a hire boat ran aground opposite us, they had pulled over to let a boat that was towing another pass. Paul got onto the gunnel as the boat being towed was getting very close to us and he was going to help by pushing them off, but no he slipped (no slippers they are in the canal) and has taken all the skin off his shin, did they bother to ask if he was okay, did they hell, the people on the hire boat did though. It took them a couple of shoves with the pole and they were on their way, just as another boat came by heading in the same direction as us. I wandered to the lock, by now there was a bit of a back log as the broken down boat (electrics blown up) had to be hand boarded through the lock and the woman on the tiller was worried she may scratch the paintwork. I kid you not. We eventually got through both Hack green locks and the morning turned very warm. Journey wasn't the fastest as we were now behind the two boats tied together. When we got to Nantwich I was getting a bit panicky as it appeared there wasn't any moorings and I needed food. We had to tie up opposite the sanitary station and walk over the bridge with the rubbish and the cassette because two boats were already tied up there. Back on the boat under bridge 92 past Nantwich canal centre and we spied some space just past the 48hr moorings opposite the moored boats, its a bit of a jump to get on the back of the boat but the front is about 6 inches closer so the dogs are okay.
First job, out with the trolley, rucksack and bags and off we go to Morrison's. Yes Paul did come with me as I had a BIG list. Nantwich went by in a blur as we rushed to the supermarket. First thing to be bought was Paul's tobacco sad or what, then trolley slowly got filled with all the necessary things, even got a sack of dog food. We decided that we would maybe stay until tomorrow lunch time so called a halt with the shopping saying we would get the remainder in the morning after we had been to the bank and found a shoe shop to replace the slippers that got hurled into the canal. I have also to get a card for number one son who is 40 in a couple of weeks. (I was a child bride!!!!!) Paul had control of the trolley with sack of dog food on top of bag and I had a rucksack and two bags with all the light stuff. At this point you are probably saying just what else does this woman need to buy, well I forgot sugar, eggs , bacon and ham, I know I had a list but Paul kept disappearing down different aisles to me checking on the refrigerated cases to see if they were being maintained properly, he does this in every large supermarket we go in and it is always the same comment "I wouldn't allow my cases to be in this state" We did buy a bottle of Morgans spiced rum, thanks Pete and Carol for getting us into this lovely drink, it is very similar to a liqueur we used to drink in Spain called 43. Trundled back to the boat saw nb No Problem getting water said a quick hello as they have already past us,transpires they have posted a picture of our boat resplendent with washing on their blog.Paul reckons it was a good job my pants werent on the line because the boat would look like a square rigger, cheeky sod. Chairs out onto the tow path Paul then had 3 cans of Ruddles so it looks like I will need to put them on the list again for tomorrow ( better take the trolley me thinks) then he fell asleep after his tea wonder why. Lots of boats passing by what I want to know is how come they all seem to be on the move at 6pm.
Need to get diesel tomorrow and then find a nice spot for the weekend so the painting can be finished.

Cooler today.

Hopefully this will be the last day here as we have no bread and yesterday I put the milk in the t cups and it came out of the container in a lump thank goodness for UHT is all I can say. We were so busy yesterday that I didn't get time to write my blog, so that proves we were BUSY.


Paul carried on with the painting and as you can see by the photos everything now looks so much better.

While the hatch was sitting in the sun with the paint hardening off I was expecting there to be a lull on the work front but no, one of the side hatch doors was removed. These doors had scumble on them and where they don't fit too well at the bottom, water had started to lift the varnish and they needed sorting out, well they are well and truly sorted now. The scumble has been sanded off and the doors re done with a very nice shade of sage green emulsion called camouflage the two panels are going to be done in cream and I think they will look very nice when they are finished.

We got a call yesterday afternoon from our friends Carol and Pete who left us at Brewood 13 days ago. We have managed to do 31 miles and they have done all of The Llangollen and are now on their way back, just proves we travel at a snails pace. Was nice to spend the evening on the tow path having a few drinks with our friends and their son. Poor old Carol has back problems so she has enjoyed having Ryan with them to do the locks for her. They left us this morning, and are on their way to Birmingham now.

Today is better for painting as it is considerably cooler the second hatch door has its first coat of emulsion and who knows the first one may even get its panels painted cream.

Here is the workman taking a well earned rest after a very busy day yesterday. Ahhhhhhh bless!

Yesterday was NOT a good day.

Yesterday was another scorcher, just right for getting the painting done and the side of the boat polished. So we we started early while the sun wasn't on the tow path. I started by washing the boat down and Paul was busy getting the foredeck ready for the top coat of red paint. By this time I was leathering down the boat and Paul was backwards and forwards so I wasn't paying much attention when all of a sudden I heard " Oh NO" and a big string of expletives too strong to even repeat. There had also been a bit of a crash so I had visions of a tin of paint all over the cratch floor, but no what had happened was this: on stepping onto the boat (after painting the foredeck red) Paul in his slippers slipped on the locker seat and spilt white spirit all over the newly painted foredeck along with his clothes and he even ingested some. He then proceeded to throw his slippers in the canal, spitting dummy out springs to mind. The paint was ruined as you can imagine and to say he was thoroughly pee'd off is an understatement. He was able to clean up the red paint and luckily it wasn't all bad but according to Paul that was it for the day (it wasn't even 10am ) I was still polishing thought it best to keep a low profile. He had a big lump on his leg and a cut elbow so not a good start to the day.
I got some fluids down him to neutralise the white spirit (probably only a couple of drops) and he spent the next few hours watching motorcycling and moping. I was still polishing in the sun as by now the sun had come up over the trees. I also got to clean the windows so everything is crystal clear now. As the day went on the paint dried out sufficiently for Paul to rub it all down again. At around 8pm he finally put his coat of red paint on again. I had spent the rest of the day on the tow path in my shorts reading. I was very good put on sun screen and wore a hat also kept up my fluid intake!!!!!!
Today the painting is going great guns we are staying here until it is finished. Lets hope the food doesn't run out. The rest of the brass cleats and steps are now shiny. The previous owners put that coating on all the brass work and it had taken me an age to get it off and restore it all to its former glory. Will I regret this move, probably, but I still have a bottle of the coating in the cupboard so I can always re-apply it. Have kept out of the sun so far today may venture onto the tow path later.
We have been having a few problems with the water pump "hunting" so in between the painting jobs we had the mattress off of Paul's bed to check the calorifier for leaks, we had already looked at all the other fittings on taps and washing machine with no joy so calorifier was the next logical step and still no luck so we are at a loss to know why we have this problem. Any ideas?