Finally we’re making progress on our journey to wherever we’re going to be when we head to NZ. It’s so much easier without worrying about car. Not so easy to see Lisa and the boys though. It’s a delicate balance of priorities.

On Monday we moved from (?) to Penkridge. I did a few locks in between calls, while Barry ably single handed a couple.

I was sad to see the Gailey Roundhouse closed. But not surprised. It’s a small space so sparse change of physical distancing inside. I hope it re-opens at some point. Such a quaint and unique building.

It was quite busy in the Staffs and Worcs Canal, a mix of live Aboard’s and hire boats. It is rather comforting to have company on the canals again. It’s easy to forget there’s been a COVID challenge at all! But I’m trying not to allow complacency to set in.

Family And Friends

Yesterday Lisa drove from Malpas with the boys for the afternoon. I’d discovered a nearby park that we could walk to, followed by a pint of soda and lime in The Boat. We were all together here last August when Kim was on board for a week.

Today we continued to a Great Haywood, and unexpectedly met a few more people we know (or who know us!), along the way.

We’d popped into Midlands Chandlers to check out gas cookers, as we’re considering swapping our electric one over. Sadly they’re no longer open and not going to re-open. But the lovely lady let us in to browse. We missed the lock having delayed, so I was helping a boat down then one up. The smiling chap entered the lock, looked up, and said “You’re Sandra” (in that southern Sarn-dra accent). I said I am! And who are you? Andy he said. I read your blog. We had a lovely chat.

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I’d messaged a dear friend yesterday, who lived on a boat for around seven years. Pip and Sean returned to land living two years ago, for various reasons, and we’ve not seen them since. The last time we did see them, was in Penkridge.

After exchanging a few updates I realised we’d be passing their house this afternoon. They were about to head out to work, but thankfully she chose to walk down to see us. How wonderful. I wanted to give her a huge hug, but love her to bits and no way would I put her at risk.

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Fish n Chips Again!

This evening we’re catching up with more dear friends. We’d previously arranged to spend a few days cruising the River Weaver with Andy and Helen from Wild Side Preserves, but obviously Covid-19 put paid to that. Last time we saw them was in January.

Their usual six months cruising and trading was put on hold, but finally they’re out on Wandr’ing Bark for a few weeks. They have their car so they’re driving to us. How wonderful.

Pictures to follow at the weekend …