Shall we, shan’t we? Lets go for it.

Sunday saw a lot of boats come down as it was a nice day. I suppose it was inevitable really. Any way 2/3rds of those that came through seemed to end up in the same pound as us going into Granthams bridge for work to be done. So we decided that it was time to move and of course this morning we had a coating of ice back on the canal. It meant either going today or tomorrow as Wednesday looks as if it is going to be wet so we said sod it we are going and go we did. Luckily as we headed for the middle lock a boat came out leaving the gates open for us. I am so unfit after nearly 5 months of doing nothing more strenuous than walk the dogs, I was huffing and puffing as I opened the gates good job there was only two locks to do at least I have eased myself back into the swing of things gently.

There was more than a thin covering of ice as we passed Blue Haven even though the boat had come down. The wind was bitter and quite strong so Paul had to get used to the extra length (yes those extra inches DID make a difference!!!) a boat winded at Blue Haven so he was stuck behind us all the way to Braunston. He must have wondered what we were up to as at some point we seemed to be all over the canal, must have been when Paul was trying to light his pipe by sticking his head into the engine room as the wind kept blowing out his lighter. It is strange to have the engine noise so close (hatch and doors were closed  some of the way) and at first we had exhaust fumes in our faces as well, quick rev up sorted that problem. I am daring Paul to complain about all this he has wanted an engine room for so long guess it just takes a bit of getting used to. Must say though my washing dried a treat on the journey dangling over the engine in fact what with the engine heat, the DX coil in the bedroom and the radiator in the bathroom all working really well it was a tad warm on board.

So here we are now at Braunston opposite the church, with Oakfield by Midland Chandlers and Tranquility by the pub the Three Musketeers reunited albeit not all together in one spot, sure there will be a few get togethers on the cards.

Paul has a few phone calls to make for some advice while we are here. Cratch board with  the diamonds on didn't materialise although we were told it was ready think Paul is going to tackle this job he’s fed up with waiting.