WIND!

Wind generator on an adjacent boat earning its keep

We are staying put at our rural mooring outside Handsacre while the weather system that is bringing such high winds passes through.  Surprisingly, there are a few boats on the move and we've seen several pass today without slowing.  It`s a problem for us if they don`t slow down, as their wash bounces us off the bank, and one for them if they do because the wind makes it harder to maintain a course - and they bounce off us.  Thankfully, all in all, we've been incident free so far.

Simon directing operations - ensuring they pass M safely!

We had a caller yesterday evening (Sun) - a young chap came knocking on the side of the boat while we were preparing tea - and we ended up assisting a young couple in a  bit of distress.  Having just bought their 67ft narrow boat from a yard at Fradley, they were having difficulty and had ended up on the mud about 50m behind of us. We gave directions from the bank - remembering all the advice we had once been given - and they were soon free. Sensibly, they moored and are still alongside today, waiting for the wind to subside.






Sunday was an eventful day for Sue, not only was she involved in rescuing new boaters but she was also attacked by ducks.  We've got a little gang that like to hang around the hatch, waiting for someone to mug. Sue was trying to take a photograph of them when the first scream was heard. Apparently, one jumped up and bit her - it actually drew blood, but was rewarded with some bread.



Hooded Mallards engage in Flash-Feeding



Blurred at the moment of attack!!

V's new step covering & non-slip mat

We are settling down to a routine now, as we always find we do after a week on the boat. V is as well, we are pleased to say, and she seems to have got used to her temporary home.  She is even happy with the rear steps from the galley to the cruiser stern now that Sue has covered them in non-slip matting - it gives her more confidence if nothing else.  V`s coming on 15 and her age is starting to show.













M is safely moored, double pinned bow and stern and happy in the wind



The days seem full of books and boats, bugs and birds, walks with V and new people and places round every corner.