Backcabin part3

I am not sure what to make of this, but after making the post part 2 the company who quoted me phoned me up. It seems things are open to be discussion. I will call them and see what we can sort out. Will keep you posted

Back Cabin part2

It seems in this current climate of credit crunch that some companies would be dying to take my money off me. However after the quote for the boatmans cabin and other works, it would seem not. I got a quote for the back cabin, I then had to pick myself of the floor. It was was twice what I expected. It would seem that they really didn't want the work, if they go over the top with the quote.
I am now scratching my head, I am not if this is the going rate or not as I don't want to get several companies in if they end up quoting me the same sort of price. I have a friend looking at another alternative.
Fingers crossed

Spring

It is funny what people see the start as Spring as. Most see it with daffodils coming out, the start of various wildlife mating off to produce the next clutch of young. In the boating world it is quite different.
Its when the covers start coming off boats after the winter. The cleaning material come out and pre season clean and polish start. Folks welcome you by saying merry christmas and happy new year as the last time you saw them was last October. The first tales of the planned cruises are starting, I love the start of Spring.

Virus part 2

I managed to give myself a virus. The warning is when you get a message about you getting Trojan's,worms and various other virus's DON'T download anything. My computer said it was an anti-virus 360 a anti virus programme. In fact the anti virus programme was the virus. It screws up everything. I tried to download Spy bot and other anti virus, but wouldn't allow me. You can't upload anything via CD or DVD I did manage something by an external dongle, but by then my system was to badly affected.
I managed to find a local computer whizz at Itsgonefunny.com. Helen who runs the company is based in Reading. She sorted out all my bugs and viruses and it didn't cost the earth. In fact when I got the bill I had to double check to make sure she had charged me enough. If you have any problems with your computer ( I rarely recommend anyone however...) she was great and suggest anyone go and see her.

Virus

I am sorry I have been off line for so long, but my laptop got a computer virus. I will post something about it shortly. So others don't get affected by it.

Sofa part2

For Bones as requested

Valonia has added to the draws on my sofa which Whyte Swallow had made for me

Back Cabin

At last I have decided to do something with the back cabin. I would like a traditional one with a bed o'le and table cupboard. I got someone in to give you me a quote and as he was leaving there was another bloke on the marina, who I had not met before who was a carpenter who had a look as well. We shall see who wins the race to get my money, as soon as I get the boat through the BSS I should be back on an even keel.

Old Friends

Old friends are great, good friends are even bette. They can phone you out of the blue and you just pick up where you left off. A friend from Uni who I had seen not for over a year or so, was working out of the Oxford office. She phoned and we arranged to go out for dinner. We had a lovely evening catching up on each others news and generally a real good chin wag. She has not changed a bit and is really enjoying life.
It was great to see her, I just hope it is not over again before I see her

BSS

I still spent some of the weekend, trying to catch with sleep. However after spending Saturday relaxing I sprang into action entertaining. A friend came over for dinner so I ended up cooking for the both of us. She brought her own food so I had to multitask not easy for a man to do. We spent the evening putting the world to rights over a few glasses of wine.
Sunday was spent with my head down my gas locker, this was after I couldn't find my pot of hammerite and has to go to the local DIY store. I even treated myself to a new watch whilst I was out. I spent ages cleaning out the locker of all the rust and all the general muck.I spent some time streching and holding the end of a paint brush on my finger tips. I never realised how big my locker was. It took a while to dry, so I couldn't have a cuppa for a while.
The rest of the evening has been spent relaxing and catching up with friends over facebook. One lives in Germany and old friend from school.Facebook does have it benefits.

Sleep and Alcohol

I am sorry i have been away for a few days. I have had trouble sleeping and so have spent the last few days trying to catch up. I have even tried glasses of wine to help me sleep, that sort of worked. I am hoping to be back on form next week

First Aid

I had to renew my First Aid at work certificate the last few days. I asked Bones could I stay at her place for a few days just to make the travelling easier. The weather was pretty awful so I was glad I was able to walk to the course. I even stayed for the pub quiz at the Boat in Thrupp, we came second, so not to bad.

A spanking

They say a good spanking should be done privacey of your own home. I had the ignominy of having mine done in public, surround by loads of people.Whyte Swallow beat me 2-0 at pool. She is a hustler, so watch out anyone who plays with her.

Snow, snow and more Snow

I woke up to a sprinkling of snow

A tree in the park




I like the simple design



Some of us take it more seriously than others


Way to seriously

I had Valonia over for dinner tonight, I managed to rustle up some stew and dumplings for her. She must have like it as she cleared her plate. She is great company and she comes up with great pearls of wit. As she is a women she can text, watch tv and stroke her pussy all at the same time. I had no answer to that.

Violation

Tuesday

A BSS check is one of the most inimate think you can go through. The boat safety scheme checks makes sure that you boat is safe, to be on and use. It is a great scheme and cuts down on the chances of an accident occuring. However it means someone goes through you boat looking in all the knooks and crannies of your boat. I have few outstanding things to deal with most are quite simple so shouldn't be a major problem.

Monday
We had a snow day today. Which meant we got sent home early, which was great. I managed to move out my bed and swap my sofa over as well. It means Whyte Swallow can build the new sofa at the weekend.
To top it all off, we went sledging at Whittenham Clumps, it was dark and it had iced up, we had great fun going down the slopes. I am glad it was dark and it would have been even more scary if we could see where we were going.
WS then cooked dinner, a great day!!!!

Thoughts

I know blogs are used to give a chance for people to give out where and what you are doing. I have something on my mind, but i am not sure if this is the place to air those thoughts. I shall decide later and watch this space

Bits and Pieces

Sunday saw us welcome in the Chinese there was 5 of with a load of chinese food, we didn't manage to finish it all, even Whyte Swallow had to stop( that was a first for me).

The last few days I have been worrying about my pre BSS inspection. I had some little jobs to do which over the last few days,which I managed to do. Come Tuesday I will know if it has been worth it. fingers crossed!!!!

Dinner

I do cook and it is something I enjoy doing, It is even better when you are cooking for someone else. Whyte Swallow came over for dinner and I did stew. It easy to do, the great thing is that it can sit on top of the fire and you can eat it when ever you are ready. WS seem to like it as her plate was wiped clean. I like a satisfied customer.

I have just just about recovered from the flu. I have been talking to Whyte Swallow about redoing part of the boat. She has bought some of the wood to construct a new sofa for me.
Also last night a couple of quick phone calls I was off the pub to meet Bones. I also meet so new friends as well.Hadar. I had a lovely evening and I managed to get some floor space on Ocelot, thanks PJ. Friends are great as I just fancied a change of scene and I had not seen the gang since before Christmas. Thank you all and it was great meet Jo and Keith

Boo hoo

Whitewater is dying as he has man flu

Dorchester

I had a stroll around Dorchester and took some pictures

Good Deed

I did my good deed for the day, helping a young lady who had broken down outside the garage push her car into the forecourt. I am also hoping to launch the tender tommorrow as long it is not to wet.

Try this

http://www.mcgov.co.uk/zahada.html

Water Again

It has to be noted that I now have water again. My friend Neal came over and fixed my water heater. I have now a full tank of water and the washing machine is back on. I am so pleased, I am suprised how such a simple thing can put such a smile on my face.

Abingdon Circular Walk

Abingdon Marina has become very popular as winter mooring
Abingdon Marina Park (off-route) One of Abingdon's secret hideaways, a lovely place for a picnic
Abingdon Marina Park (off-route) View across the river to Culham Toll House and old bridge You will be crossing that wooden bridge on your return trip.
A Big Stink! If you smell a bad smell you are on route, as you walk by Abingdon Sewerage Works, once located far out of town





Peep-O-Day Lane now national Cycle Track 5 This was once the main route from Sutton Courtenay to Abingdon 3 Concrete Blocks (please do not take these home) If you see these you are still on the correct route O-Day comes from Oday Common and Oday Hill
Picturesque Stream Bridge
Drayton to Abingdon Rd your "southern most point" Plenty of Maps and Signs to get your bearings






Hamster House (long wooden fence) Dozens of Hamsters are sometimes to be seen in the garden In this image you just see one!
Entrance to Sutton Courtenay Warning a 100 or so metre section without footpath
GingeBrook or Ginge River all the way from East Ginge Sutton Courtenay is criss-crossed with footpaths and waterways At the rear of Sutton Courtenay (off-route) there is small nature park
At this junction you bear left and head north back to Abingdon Admire the sundial of Cross Trees House
Peak over the wall of Sutton Courtenay Abbey, now a New Era Centre with meditation courses. The oldest section of the Abbey was built in the 13th century by the great Benedictine Abbey of Abingdon. In 1284 the Abbey was handed over to the Courtenay family, Lords of the Manor of Sutton, in a dubious court trial. Thomas Courtenay the then owner who was involved in the War of the Roses, was beheaded and his lands confiscated. In 1485 Henry VII gave the house and its income to the Dean and Chapter of St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle.
Manor House, birthplace of Matilda of Matilda versus Stephen fame in 1102. The Manor was granted to Reginald de Courtenay in 1177 by Henry II, son of Empress Matilda. In the early 1900s Captain Lindsay rented the house from Lady Wantage, and hosted many weekend parties for the Prince of Wales set.
Norman Hall built in 1192 by Robert, son of Reginald, de Courtenay Sutton Courtenay has been settled by man for at least 6000 years. The region is very fossiliferous with marine and land-animal fossils It's always worth examining any exposed gravel for Belemnites and Ammonites
All Saint's Church it's graveyard contains the tombs of Eric Blair (George Orwell) and David Astor (former owner of the Observer, and the Manor House, and son of Nancy Astor) who organised his burial here (George Orwell had otherwise no particular connection to the region) A rather sad Tomb With his books "Animal Farm" and 1984 Orwell warned of the dangers of totalitarianism. Much grander is the Tomb of Asquith, Prime Minister of England. The only excuse I can think of was that England took less space than Great Britain! Asquith was Prime Minister until 1916 when the death of his son in WW1 caused him to lose his political desire. If the church is open read the booklet on Miss Shrapnell daughter of the British Officer who invented that terrible weapon. She had fallen on hardtimes and was reduced to buying meat in Oxford pushing it in a pram and then reselling it locally





George and Dragon It's curious how often there is a pub next to a church
Alms Houses Not everyone in Sutton Courtenay was noble, and these Almhouses are proof
West Row A very nice row of houses
Wharf House Situated at the unusual sharp corner of the village, Wharf House does not appear particularly imposing. Wait until you can see it and its lovely gardens and boat house from the rear to form an impression. This was the home of Prime Minister Asquith and it was here that Britain reputedly formally declared it's entry into WW1.
Mill House On the other angle of the sharp corner this house has a magnificient garden and bordered by a section of the Mill Stream This was formerly the home of Violet Bonham Carter. It was previously a white paper mill with a contract to print banknotes for the Bank of England
Mill Stream Cut Bridge There is now water on every side, a very dangerous place for small children
Rear view of Wharf House A glorious garden, cottage and boathouse
Open Water looking upstream towards Abingdon This is the Thames again but you will see few boats because there is a lock cut Now cross the field passing by the blockhouse and help to the steep bridge over the lock cut
If the weather has been bad, things could get muddy from now on, this is all floodplane Cut across the field follow the track you should see the footbridge over the lock cut
WWII Blockhouse part of this defensive line that was supposed to stop Rommel Were they ever actually manned?
From the top of the bridge you see Culham with a last chance to visit a pub. On the other side of the bridge turn sharp left and follow the cut upstream
A long bend and a large agricultural field
Culham Toll House situated at the end of the old bridge, provides one of Abingdon's classic postcard views A civil war skirmish was fought on the "Old" Culham Bridge (intact). When the Royalists unsuccessfully tried to attack the Roundheads in Abingdon. "January 11 1645 - Colonel Sir Henry Gage was mortally wounded attempting to destroy Culham Bridge and establish a fort against Abingdon; he is replaced as Governor of Oxford by William Legge". The bridge spans Swift Ditch formerly used to bypass Abingdon Swift Ditch makes the cut off piece of land an Island called Andersey Island Follow the bank until you reach Abingdon using the Spire of St Helens as your guide Get your camera ready for more classic across the water views of the Old Anchor pub and St Helens Wharf.






When you reach Burford Bridge, observe the few houses on the East bank of the Thames they are built to survive floods.
Cross the bridge, in summer the Nags Head beer garden is very popular.


Text from Abingdon Walks

Black Swans

They use to be a rare sight, but they are becoming more common

Water

You never how much you rely on something until it is gone. The lack of water has not caused to many problems. I can fill the kettle from the sink in the toilets as they are not frozen. However things like brushing my teeth has gone to the old fashion way of putting some water in a glass, I have to do this before I boil the kettle. I borrowed Valonia's washing machine. I went to the local swimming pool to have a shower. Its all very back to basic stuff. I can't till I get a water supply again. However all the water points are frozen so I need a thaw as well.

Ice and Water

I should listen to my own advice and drained my water heater. As when I returned and the water had all melted in the pipes after I had lit the fire. I discovered that the water heater heat exchanger had burst. It leaked water all over the place all over the bed and in the bilges. It turns out the cost of a new heat exchanger is all the same price as a new one. So I am going to have to buy a new one and butcher it to repair the other. It has caused nothing but trouble today trying to sort it out. I also don't have any water as I can't use the water pump. I won't be able to sort till Sunday and I will have to go swimming just to have a shower.
So next time you stupid boy drain your water heater.

The Waterman

We enjoyed going to the Waterman at Hatton so much, we returned for Sunday Lunch. It was really nice I had lovely roast pork. Helen even joined us for a drink on her way home back from up North. I am hoping if she is reading this she won't fall asleep, she knows what I mean

Hatton Flight Walk

We decided to go for a walk we found a circular walk, which involved the Hatton flight of locks. I have included the directions if anybody would like to try it.

Hatton Flight looking up

Starting from the Main Car Park at Hatton Locks, cross the bridge over the canal, go straight ahead towards the yellow waymarker on the fence and pass through the hedge to the gate. Go through the gate and bear slightly left across the field following the yellow way markers, cross the railway line using the footbridge. Go through the wooden gate into a field, keeping to the way marked footpath.
Cross this field and pass through gap in hedge. Proceed in the direction of the farm on the ridge taking you across the field and over a footbridge and through a gate. (Keep an eye out for Buzzards!) Go up the hill towards the farm and pass through the gate. Continue through this field to a gate into a small strip of land adjoining the farmyard. There are now two walks of differing lengths.
If you would like to take the shorter route, go through the first gate, turn left and head back towards the canal going across a field to a metal gate and under the railway back to the lock flight. Cross the bridge, turn left to walk up the Grand Union Canal and back to Hatton Locks car park.
If not, go through the second gate on your right, turn left and with the farm buildings on your right, follow this track until you reach a tarmac road. (Wonderful view of St Mary’s Church, Warwick and St Michael’s Church, Budbrooke as you walk along this track) Turn left. At the T junction turn right into Church Lane and continue along this road until you reach the double gated entrance to St Michael’s Church, Budbrooke.









Enter the churchyard and follow the path to the left, then take the gravel path around the side of the church (keeping church to your right) and exit through a wooden gate to rear of churchyard. Bear right across a field to a kissing gate. Enter the field and head to the right towards the gate before the railway and church spire/tower in the distance. Go through the gate and tunnel, turn right and follow the edge of the field keeping the railway to your right until you come to a wooden fence. Walk with the wooden fence on your right and go through the metal gate into Warwick Parkway Station car park. Cross the car park of Warwick Parkway Station to the traffic lights.
Cross over at the traffic lights, walk left, and then turn right down the access road to the picnic area which is on your left next to the bottom of Hatton 21 (locks).

The Canal was frozen in places

Cross over the canal using the lock gates (take care when crossing the lock gates) onto the towpath. Turn left and walk back up the Grand Union Canal to Hatton Locks car park.

We decided we needed some refreshment before we headed home, the beer was quite good there was even some nice art work on some of the seats

Camera

I came all over funny and bought myself a camera. I think it is the first one I have owned in years.I am not a fan of my photo being taken so I tend not to inflict in on any one else. However like Bones I have been thinking about buying one for ages. I walked into the photo shop with the idea about buying a certain camera for a certain price. As usual I got carried away and bought another camera with the extras for a lot more than I had intended, oh well.
I have tried to up load some photo's but it does seem to be working. I bought it as part of the great trip in the summer. I am off for 1o weeks and am off up the system and go and look at some of those canals that I have been missing all this time.

Another Year

Well another year has passed, we saw the new year out in style drinking Champagne and watching other peoples fireworks, they where quite spectacular. We shall see what this year brings, Happy New Year everyone

Another one

I have managed to catch up with an old friend via friends reunited. This time it is with someone I knew from Uni. We where friends, when we where in halls in the first year. We have been sending each other emails catching up on over 10 years of news.

Beware

Its rant time.
I thought I would go in to Oxford to do some shopping. I never even got there the traffic was awful. So I thought I would try cowley road retail park, even there the traffic was stacked up. I was beginning to get a little annoyed, so I thought I would cut my loses and go back to Abingdon. Even around fairacres it was busy I couldn't find what I was looking for. So ok, off to Tesco's as i was running out of food. There was to many people, even the little old ladies where getting in my way.
I hate shopping at the best of times, but around the Christmas period it just seems to get worse. I now have got to the point I loath shopping and the other people who seem to get in my way. If I could get things delivered to the marina I would never had to shop again. Or the alt is pay someone to shop for me, any takers
rant over the end

Facebook

I know i have said that face book has become obsessive, however it has had so some good. I have managed to catch with some old faces from school. It may have been nearly 20 years but most have not changed a bit. I think the next step might be a reunion a drink or two would be nice.

Christmas is over

Well Christmas is over and I have eaten to much. I had a great time with the family and friends. I also enjoyed the boxing day walk, a typical Dad walk across ploughed fields and flooded meadows. I had to some great presents to so thank you everyone.
To top it off I saw a friend in town, I have not seen her in 6 years at least. She has not changed a bit even though she has 4 kids.

By heck love

Things are getting worse I have just sat down and watched "Love Actually". It got me thinking about the whole news report on how Rom com are not real life things don't actually happen like they do in the film.
Of course they don't it's like the whole think with love songs , it's all a fantasy world. Then I took it a stage further, what happens if it starred Yorkshire actresses, oh god that would be a double whammy, a love story with eh by gum, what ever next.
More worrying is this blog is beginning to let strangers into my rather odd world of my head, its bad enough friends read it occasionally, I dread to think what strangers think!!!

At the end of the day though, I am a romantic, so let me go and shed a tear as the film ends

Moments of Clarity

I always thought moments of clarity were meant to be nice and bring things into perspective. I had one this afternoon and it is causing a little discomfort. It was about Yorkshire, more precise women from Yorkshire, why do i find them so attractive. I know one or two and yes they are attractive. What is it about them, is it the way they talk, is it there attitude and the way they look at life, I am not sure.
Most have a type, blond, redhead, long legs etc so what is it about me and northerners. Is this a disturbing turn of events or what. I wouldn't mind but I only have to been to Yorkshire once as a kid and it was awful, so I have no great affinity to the place.
I think I am going to lie down in a dark room and see if I recover.

Facebook

I have signed up to Facebook, it seems to be taking over everything as esp as I get alerts if I get and update or message, so I am forever checking. I am hoping it is only because it is winter and its dark, cold and wet outside. If this continues if might become obsessive.

A Shining Knight

I did my good deed for the day. I had a desperate phone call from Valonia, she had an another dizzy spell. She was meant to be out to dinner with Hubby with the Morris Men Xmas dinner. I went and picked her up and took her shopping so she could have some dinner, which she was missing out on. She was fed and watered( or Teaed in this case) and settled down to watch Wallander. Whyte Swallow turned up later for tea and we had a pleasant end to the evening.

On a side issue the park is now flooded as the waters rise. The Ock has been thundering into the river at the wharf. The Thames is racing through Abingdon, welcome to the Thames in winter.

Xmas Do

We had our Marina xmas do, well it was more of a gathering and do, it was just a drink. We being Whyte Swallow, Valonia and her hubby, Mike and Mags also came along. We had a social evening the beer flowed and the conversation flowed well up to and beyond till last orders.
To top it off even Vanessa turned up late and offered to take us home. She has a convertible so we managed to persuade her to take her top off, even though it was cold, we flew home ( I can't even mention how fast Vanessa drives as the police might be reading).
It was a lovely evening it was the last chance that we had to be all together until we went our separate ways for Christmas, lets hope even one has a lovely Christmas and if they have been good children, Santa will leave them a present or two. :-)

A broad face and a sweet smile

The broad face was where we had dinner and the smile was because it was such a lovely evening. We had planned to go to the local Chinese, but it has been closed for refurbishment for last few months, I am sure it is going to look good when it is finished.
I had a lovely meal with Mike, Mags, Mark and Vanessa. We had a pre drink in the Anchor, and wondered around the corner to the Chinese.
The broad face is a great alternative, I have been there many times. The food was great and the drink was flowing. Everyone was good form and we had a pleasant evening, we even found a nice taxi driver to take us home. We dropped off Vanessa had to go back to sort out her puppies!!!
We gatecrashed Valonia for a coffee before we headed back.

An ill one

I am in the process of feeding up the sexy sounding Jazz singer. No it is not a great well known Diva, it is just Valonia full of a cold. She has popped over for a bowl of soup, drink tea, and just try and feel a little better. I know you are meant to sympathise with the sick, but she made me watch reality TV, I am counteracting this by watching the Money Programme. I am sure we are both suffering in some way.
Lets hope Valonia gets better, but then again she could make a fortune with that sexy voice>

A Delivery

The coal has arrived.

Early Morning Frost

Good News before Xmas.

I had some great news last night. One of my best friends phoned. She has been suffering for the last past two years in and out of consultant rooms trying to find out what has kept her in constant pain. She got a second opinion on Monday, the upshot was it was a good job she went to see him. He said that they could solve this easily if it what he suspects. She could be pain free by the summer.
I whooped with delight at this news, it is the first positive news we have had in a long time. I just hope he makes good on his promises. Otherwise he is going to be in a whole load of trouble, if he comes through I might marry him.

Cold

Its a little cold tonight, the fire doesn't seem to want to draw tonight either. I am still sitting in my fleece trying to warm up and my toes are still cold. I am glad I don't have a temperature gauge inside as the temp reading will probably make me cry icicles

Crib and Coffee

I am not sure what has made me be higher, all the coffee I have drunk, or playing crib. I was asked to stand in at the semi local, to play in there crib team as they where a bit short. I have not played in 10 years. I went to the Internet to check that nothing had changed and the form I knew to play was the one still used. I was a little nervous so go the captain to run through a couple of hands to settle me in.
We played best out of 5. It was nip and tuck all the way. Each team only winning by a few points here and there. Playing in a league rather than your front room, makes it take on a whole new meaning.
I was a bit dazed in the first two games, but after a fag and a cup of coffee, I was ready. We scrapped our wins and even at the end we only won by one. In fact we should have not won at all, it was just the way the cards fell. Like most things in life, in depends on the hand your dealt
.

Rails and Curtains

I had the old folks over. Mum brought with her all the curtains she has made over the last few weeks. They look great, I just need some rings to hang them with. Dad was great as he helped hang all the rails, top and bottom. I have six portholes so we where kept busy. They do look after me.

I had one of the most enjoyable evenings I have had in a long time. I went to the Commotio Advent Concert what a brilliant evening, you ever have the chance go. I am was not sure what I was expecting, buy my god was it good. It is chamber or choral I am not sure which. The various parts, four, eight etc it was just amazing. I can;t wait to the next one.

Love Songs and Relationship

I have just listen to the Script do a song about trying to get a girl back. I was thinking on the way home I could have a real rant about the whole getting the girl back thing. Then on hindsight I don't think it is a good idea

The ScriptThe Man Who Can't Be Moved lyrics


Going back to the corner where I first saw you,
Gonna camp in my sleeping bag I'm not gonna move,
Got some words on cardboard got your picture in my hand,
Saying if you see this girl can you tell her where I am,
Some try to hand me money they don't understand
I'm not...broke I'm just a broken hearted man,
I know it makes no sense, but what else can I do,
How can I move on when I'm still in love with you...
Cos if one day you wake up and find that you're missing me
And your heart starts to wonder where on this earth I can be,
Thinking maybe you'll come back here to the place that we'd meet,
And you'd see me waiting for you on the corner of the street.

So I'm not moving...
I'm not moving.

Policeman says son you can't stay here,
I said there's someone
I'm waiting for if it's a day, a month, a year,
Gotta stand my ground even if it rains or snows,
If she changes her mind this is the first place she will go.
Cos if one day you wake up and find that you're missing me,
And your heart starts to wonder where on this earth I can be,
Thinking maybe you'll come back here to the place that we'd meet, And you'd see me waiting for you on the corner of the street.

So I'm not moving...
I'm not moving.I'm not moving...
I'm not moving.

Going back to the corner where I first saw you,
Gonna camp in my sleeping bag not I'm not gonna move.talk about the guy
Who's waiting on a girl...
are no holes in his shoes
But a big hole in his world...
Hmmmmand maybe I'll get famous as man who can't be moved,
And maybe you won't mean to but you'll see me on the news,
And you'll come running to the corner...
Cos you'll know it's just for youI'm the man who can't be moved
I'm the man who can't be moved...
Cos if one day you wake up and find that you're missing me,
And your heart starts to wonder where on this earth I can be,
Thinking maybe you'll come back here to the place that we'd meet,
And you'd see me waiting for you on the corner of the street.[Repeat in background]

So I'm not moving...
I'm not moving.
I'm not moving...
I'm not moving.

Going back to the corner where I first saw you, Gonna camp in my sleeping bag not I'm not gonna move

Mayby I will try it one day and see if it works

Old job/new job

For the first time in a while I went back to my old job as lock keeper. It was odd to be working outside again. I managed to pick a fork and dig over an old flower bed, I went back a few years went I use to this every day. No one looking over your shoulder, just me, the ground and the fork. Saying that the garden was full of:blue tits, great tits, coal tits, robins and parakeets, so I had a full chorus of birds, it was very therapeutic.

Boaters Banter and Morts Birthday

Mort organised a boaters banter for the end of the year. The fact it was the day after her birthday and she got lots of presents and attention was just coincidence. All the people who turned up filled the boat inn at Thrupp. Ryan and Verity made everyone feel welcome. The beer flowed along with the conversation. It was a lovey evening and everyone had a great night. It always nice to catch up with fellow narrow boaters and swap stories. I staggered out with a pleasant feeling. I have to thank Maggie for driving, making possible for Mike and Vanessa to come as well.

Gig

I went to see John Otway and the big band at the Jericho Tavern. I have seen them many times and they where as good as ever, with John throwing himself around with the same vigour as ever. What really let them down was the venue, The Tavern is an awful place the layout a small stage area and a crap bar. Just to compound it, most of Jericho is resisents only parking. I really struggled to find any where to leave the car.
I would not discourage anyone form going to see John, there are still a few dates left on the tour, he is like marmite, you will either love him or hate, so go and see.
ps am looking forward to the banter

Evening with Mort

I had a great evening with Mort. I should have not stayed on after she left the pub, as I still suffering, I should know better.

Single

I am a member of the canal world forum I found a link via the virtual pub. It was about single boaters who might want crew or companions.

www.singlecanalboaters.ning.com

Being a single a boaters I will try anything once if your interested please sign up.

recycling

I had a late night visit from the recycle checker just making sure my rubbish bag that I had left on the front deck didn't have anything that she wanted. Lolly did find a few chicken bones that she wanted, she didn't open the bag very well, she tried to spread the rest of the rubbish all over the front deck.

Dinner and an ear

I had a friend over for dinner last night. She has had tough time of it recently as her and her husband are on a break at the moment. I thought a bit of good food, wine and a chance to let of some steam would be good for her. I think I am good listener and have been through some tough times as well so i hope I was able to help. I could not offer any great advice, but i don't think she was looking for that. She was glad to get out and have a change of scene. She is a fellow boater so it was a case of sticking together and working through this difficult time.
Lets hope this all works out for the both of them, we can only hope and give it time.

Pub Quiz part 2

We where poor. On a side note Whyte Swallow has a job interview tomorrow, good luck.

Pub Quiz

It is pub quiz, it has been a while since I have been so I am hoping that I can engage my brain. I have also been invited to Valonia's for dinner, which is great. I have been at work all day, so it is nice to come home without having to think what to cook. I am not sure what is on the menu, however alongs as Valonia is not cooking I should be safe, cooking is not one of her talents.

Morts Bed

I would never normally talk about someone elses bed, especially Morts. I had the pleasure of sleeping in it recently, I hasen to add I was alone(alas), before you get carried away. I had gone up for a social evening and ended staying.I do love the beer cloth throw that is on it along with the other three layers, it keeps you toasty warm. I had to return to work in the morning so alarms( I did at least two to wake me up) where set earlier than normal. When I sleep in a strange(ers) bed I am always worried I won't wake up so I tend to wake before the alarm goes off, don't ask me why. Anyway I woke before the alarm in a rather strange daze, listening to the local wildlife. However the local sounds gave me strange palpitations, I was having flash backs to the Godfather as i could hear a horse noises. I even had to check the bed then the boat as it was so loud. After I had woken up and had a cup of coffee, my head was begining to clear. When I finally left to go to work I realised the source of the noise. I saw a rather large horse in the field opposite the canal right outside the bedroom window. To say I felt a little foolish was an understatement.
As a side issue, my hostess does provide biscuits for breakfast so things are not all bad. So thank you Mort for being such a good host.

On Line

I am not sure if this is good news for or not, but I am now connected to the internet. I bought a 3 dongle and now pay monthly. It was a good deal for £10 a month. I did have to buy the dongle and also put a deposit down, but as many boaters know, there are not many ways to be on line afloat.
The chances are you will get more musings than normal. I am sure some of the will be stupid as it might be done when I get back from the pub.

Dads 65th

One of the many pictures I took when we went away as a family to celebrate Dad's 65th birthday weekend. It was a lovely old school house sent on the edge of Exmoor. We had a great time for the first few days but then I caught a bug which kept me in bed the rest of the weekend. This was not ideal and missed out on several good walks it was a weekend to remember, not always in a good way.

3 Network

I am trying Whyte Swallows 3 connection system so far it is working well. It seems quite good so I might try the pay as you go system

Perfection

Women talking is a dangerous thing, its even worse when a man is listening. The worst topic to be listening to is relationships. They (being women) have such a different why at looking at what they are after.
This whole thing complicated thing by women who still summed up by Je ne sais quoi. No matter how good,kind,honest etc a man can be. You can have the same tastes, similar interests, love the same tv,radio,films laugh at the same silly jokes.Enjoy each others company and thats with out saying finding them extremely attractive. If he does not the X factor( I hate that program) he has no chance.
I love relationships, as from each you can learn something about yourself. It also means you can learn what you want out of a relationship, you think you know all the answer,but only experience can teach you. I never realised how important timing had to be. Not matter how right you think things are and how comfortable you are with someone. If they are not in the same place with you, it won't work. The question is will you ever meet at the right time and place again?
It all ways reminds me of the saying "if you love them. let them go, if they love you, then they will return" or something like that. I can tell you that is easier said then done. I have done it, she never returned as my love, but we have been friends ever since and I can say I still love her to bits. However it will be only the love between best friends and not lovers.

Misha

It was as sad day yesterday. Misha the terrorist of White Swallow has been given a new target. He went to Valonia parents as he was causing to much trouble at the marina. He is on a long holiday, learning how to behave until he returns. It will be odd not having him around, as he often would say hi as I came home, if White Swallow was out, he often curl up on the sofa. There where not many dry eyes in the house by the time we left. The comfort is he will return :-)

Job?

Am half thinking of having a career switch

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It was a harsh day in Yorkshire and a man went to visit the grave of his late wife. He looked upon the epitaph and it read" She is thin". The man went to the stonemason and said you have missed of the "e". A few days later the stonemason phoned to say he had finished, so the man returned.
As he looked upon the head stone it read "E she is thin"

Bicycles

Over the last few weeks I have been travelling to work , the world of cyclist on the road seems to have tripled. Was it a cold wet summer, did they have nothing better to do, than procreate. They also seem to avoid the cycle network system and stick to little back roads, perhaps this is part of natural selection.

ps I am back for now..

Casino Royal

I had dinner with White Swallow last night. There is nothing like good food and wonderful company to make what had been a boring day into a lovely end for all. We even managed to watch a DVD, she is a bond fan as well so we both enjoyed Casino Royal, and the surprising thing was that we both drooled over the Aston Martin more than anything else.
She is great company and I am really enjoying us hanging out together. She is away for the weekend which will be the first time for a while that we have been apart. It will be strange not having her around, at least I can be of use, cat sitting.

Dorchester

I tried to get a small gathering of boats to have a short trip down to Dorchester over the weekend. What started off as 4 boats turned out to be one after each one dropped out. I went down with White Swallow on her boat. The weather was not the best, but we didn't get any of the rain as promised. We tied up just above Days Lock and settled in to an evening of backgammon and Scrabble( we do lead exciting lives), I lost,badly. Never try scrabble with someone who has a doctorate, you only put yourself to shame.
After a lazy morning of me reading and White swallow chuckling to herself over the Narrowdog to Carcassone. We decided to walk into Dorchester and have a look at the Abbey. What a vast building for such a small village, it dominates the village and all roads seem to return to it. In between a quick refreshment break we went for a walk and found the old mill.
We had to return to the Fleur De Ley (pub) for more suitable liquid recover, we spent a wonderful afternoon putting the world to rights and admiring the wildlife, as a hedgehog had wandered into the pub garden.
We left late afternoon and made our way back. We took out time to the point we hit Culham after hours and had to work ourselves through. We finally made it back for a late dinner, which topped off a great weekend
(sorry can't seem to able to put my photo's on)

Scary

I found myself dropping off to sleep yesterday afternoon, not normally a problem, but I was driving at the time. I had to wind the windows down to try and get some fresh air into the car. The worst thing was I really struggling to keep my eyes open. I was so close to stopping on the way home. In the end I managed to stave it off and I went swimming to help me perk up.
Later on I went to a friends for dinner. We have been swapping who's turn it was over the last few days. Her spag bol was great, I did feel guilty as I could not manage it all. Here is to the next meal.

Cats

I admit I prefer dogs to cats, however kittens are very cute and very hard to resist. Saying that they have tried there luck over the last few days. I have discovered a "nice" present on the front deck, so the boat got a quick clean. The following day I had friends over and one of the kittens came to visit. I had not noticed if they had left or not, at 5am whilst licking my toes, I found out that one had been left behind and now wanted to go home. There have been no major disasters yet, but I was not able to find out where Lewsey had hidden till 5am

What are you doing

I watched with great amusement Valonia and her neighbour Helen trying to adjust the blinds that Valonia had brought. They where slightly to big so it was decided they needed trimming. They did this by laying them on the pontoon and then using a straight edge cutting them to size. It did not go quite to plan I was to busy chuckling to myself to offer any help. Helen, even with her practical skills struggled, but she did manage to sort Valonia's slightly wonky edges. I contributed by making the tea and not laughing to hard, both I did with great aplomb. Two blinds and nearly two hours later, just three more to go.

Another post

I have managed to survive another weekend. This included working and also catching up with bones at the boaters banter in Oxford, well I was driving. To make it worse I had a couple of days off after the weekend and all it did was spit with rain. I was meant to change the bilge pump as well, my spirit waned and so I cheered myself up with DVD's whilst doing the domestics. I am hoping to see Bones again soon, even more worrying though is Valonia might be at a loose end, which means either lots of tea drinking ( good) or Vodka(bad). I have to resist the temptation my poor liver could not cope.
On a lighter note I am trying to get hold of a friend and invite myself down to her new seaside flat for a few days to relax.

Anothe Post at last

It's been a while since I posted anything for a while. I am also concerned if I did it would involve alcohol, again advice to all shipping was not heeded as a bottle of wine and 3/4 of a bottle of vodka consumed later, the world had been out to rights.
I managed to survive Henley Royal Regatta for another year, no floods this time. I also went to the Cambridge Rock Festival for a few days to just blow off a bit of steam.

Advice to all Shipping(part 2)

I should read my own advice about Valonia, too much beer and vodka and my head hurts this morning

Advice to all Shipping

A simple word of advice don't let Valonia any where near your Vodka unless you are prepared for the consequences. A quarter of a bottle later, I have lost all my money at Poker( beginners luck), had an impromptu sing along to the levellers and then the drama of how badly she is going to stagger whilst trying to get back home. This was all in the wee small hours and she had only come over for was a cup of tea.

Canal Boat Forum

I have discovered the world of canal forums. I even added a post. Its amazing how they take a life of their own. It was a good reminder about why I have a boat and what other people have been up to. I might not get out as much as I like, but at least others are getting out there on my behalf.

Rebel Rebel

I was listening to Rebel Rebel by David Bowie on the radio this morning and thinking how grateful I live in the Uk to allow such things to take place. This was on the back of the news of Prince Harry and Chemical Ali coming in from the middle east.

How to make Charcoal.

Go on a course with the BTCV and you can make charcoal, great fun

8 hrs later you get Charcoal.

Chinese New Year

Friday
I had been invited up to a friends for Chinese New Year in Manchester. I had booked the Friday off as A/L anyway so took advnatage of a lazy day and picked a friend up from work@4. What should have been a relative easy journey, turned into a two hour marathon just to get around Oxford. We should have been there by 7 at the latest we crawled in at 9. We still managed to get to Sam's chop house www.samschophouse.co.uk is a great place to eat and we had a really nice meal even though I was really tired from the travelling. Even the waitress staff(Dina) was really good and we ended chatting to her for a while until her boss told her off for nattering and not serving.

Saturday
After being generally lazy and catcing the rugby in the pub. We spent the afternoon preparing the meal, in fact I stayed out of the way as my contribution and acted as dogsbody. The food was divine 8 various dishes including lamb, beef , chciken, fish etc It was a great evening with freinds of freinds I had heard about and never met and 0thers was a bit if a catch up. I am a light weight so I slunk off to bed just after midnight, it seems the witching hour is my down fall.

Sunday
Two blog entries in two days, it does make a difference having a computer handy. Anyway prob going off to the Chinese Quarter to watch the parade TTFN

Saying Goodbye

Some say it's a new chapter as friends split up and move their seperate ways. I stood on the quay side in Portsmouth and said goodbye for the last time. My friends who have been together for 13 years have gone their own ways, she has gone to live in London and he is returning to Ireland in the next few weeks. I am still not sure how I feel about it, except confused. We and they have been through so much it just makes me sad that they had to call it a day, esp as I have the feeling one or the other I will loose touch with. Boo hoo..... esp Karin I don't think she will ever know, unless she reads this. This is all to much I am off

I still

I might be off line as such, but I still try and comment and read other blogs.

Been Away

As you can see I have been away for a while. Two reasons, one my ability to piggy back onto someone else's Wifi signal( I know that's a little naughty)this time of year is a little difficult. As I have to sit on the end of the pontoon in the Marina and hope the wind is blowing in the right direction. The other reason is i lost the ability to think of anything to write. However Bones as ever has proved even chocolate can be an interesting topic, that is more due to whit rather than anything else. I am still trying to work out the best way to access the internet at home, or perhaps I could do a little extra time at work and use it there, we shall see.

Thinking Juice

I went to the pub quiz down the local last night,I went with Valonia and her hubby. It was a good evening, we never take it that seriously but we can get competitive once in a while. We only came 7th, so not a good result as winning has happened occasionally. I also find that i have to much thinking juice by the end of the evening. I was quite befuddled by the end of it all. I am not sure what Valonia thought of a slightly tipsy bloke making an arse of himself, probably a bit disappointed I should think. Oh well it might be a while before I get asked again. Saying that the last time they won I was not there so perhaps I am a bad influence in more ways than one.

back in the land of the living

Stand by is over and I am back in the land of the living again. Monday ended with me bringing a bottle of wine home, before I even got back to the boat(I was in the marina) it was opened and I sat with a friend I had not seen for ages catching up eith old news. I then had a drink with Valonia as well and finished the evening off with several large Vodka's and Tonic's a good way to start a few days off.
Tuesday lunch I got a call form my sister to say they where on there way down to see me on there boat.
They tied up by the bridge and we went to the Broadface for dinner.



Picture taken from the bridge.


The food in there is excellent and the wine selection is pretty good. I would recommend it to anyone. We wondered back to the boat to let the dog out and continue with the wine drinking. I had to get a cab home as the walk would have been twice as long as usual hic!

After a rather lazy morning I caught up with Valonia after going for lunch, we thought we might do some foraging for sloes however it still a bit early in the season yet, I might have to drink gin just with tonic for now. Note to self must buy gin and tonic as have neither. Oh well will sticjk to the wine I suppose, its a hard life

not a lot

I am on stand by this week, so nothing happens as I don't go out or do anything. Except that I did quite a visit from the old folks last night. They come for a cup of tea and a chat and then went home.

A great day out.

I had a most unsual day in saturday. I got the chance to go the home of english rugby, Twickenham. I went to a friend of a friends birthday trip. It was great, the stadium is awesome, the atmosphere was excellant, the game however was terrible. It was a real shame for my first ever game there.

The day started with a quick drink, you can't start the day on a dry stomach and a clear head, so a quick G&T to help the day off( there is a drinking theme through the dsay so take it as read that more alcohol was consumed)




The first one of the day


We got a minibus into Twickenham and hit the pub, it was a great ice breaker as I was with some people I had not met before. It was a small world as two came from my part of the world. Jo one of the girls even try to matchmake me with one of her friends.
When we got the stadium it was just such a sight,all the people, the food and beer stands. The game was poor but the whole experience was great.










Even in the bar afterwards, French and english where chatting away and the music playing was helped by several hundred people singing along,awesome.
A quick return to the pub for a refreshment and where the minibus was picking us up from.
We finished the day off with a curry. All in all apart from the actual result in the rugby, it was a brillant day.

Who knows.

I am on that friends reunited site. I tried a couple of old friends who where prompt in there reply. One of them I had caught up with last year, we had met for the first time in nearly 18 years. I have to say I didn't recognise her at all. We went for a drink in Henley and chewed over nearly 20 years of news. It was strange after all that time. I have also found out that an old girl friend from primary school has got married, the event itself no suprise, however she lives in Germany now. It is strange how things turn out. I thought she would never leave Witney. I must admit I have tried others but with no reply. If nothing else it is interesting to see where people are and what they are up to.

Beer but no Bacon Butties

I helped nbthegreenman on Sunday to move there boat. It was an interesting trip with all that stream running. It was esp tricky around Abingdon bridge and lock. After a few hairy moments we made it up through and onto the long haul up to Sandford. I have admit i was disappointed by the lack of catering services, there was no sign of a bacon butty, however the supply of beer did continue. I thought the saving grace would have been the Kings Arms at the lock , but alas no. There cellar had been flooded out so there was no beer, no food and in fact no pub open. Thank goodness for relations, Valonia's parents live near by and so where to help out via the local Chinese and transportation to a toilet(as there's was full and the pub shut).
As a side piece to the pain of lack of food and no pub.
My fellow companions had brought these small walky talkies. Bloody hell they are annoying, they have this whining call button to attract your attention and to make it worse all they did was chatter. Except that did not talk clearly so all they said "Eh what was that, say it again". I was not sure who or what i was going to throw in the river first.
We had to work the lock ourselves at Sandford as the lock keeper had knocked off duty(it was well past 7pm). However he did come out and say where we could tie up safely for the night and we had a chin wag about the conditions in Oxford and about the boat that sank by Folly bridge.
It has been a while since I have boated for pleasure( and at work for that matter), but it was nice to see Old Father Thames again, but also appreciate how tricky he can make things if he wants to

Help part 2

Word of warning several pints of the black stuff for purely medicinal purposes, is not always the right time to post a blog. It tends to focus and exaggerate certain things and get persons so mentioned upset, so apologies to both. I was originally going to do this on the comments, but felt a public apology was better. There is no part 1 of help as I will now withdraw it for several reasons which are now obvious.

Driving and Thinking

As the title suggests I was thinking as I was coming home tonight. As I was hoping to give the green man a hand with their boat, are there other people who might need a hand. If they do how do you go about finding out. On top of that is there a bloke here who is single and is looking for women who is into boats (that is a rare breed as well) is it possible to combine the two.
We (me and the bloke) where looking at setting up a web site to fulfil both needs. A notice board where people can put request for crew or where other can offer their services, in my case keep me in beer and bacon sarnies and I am quite happy. It would also be nice to have crew, as the Thames on your own can be quite tricky (but not impossible). It would be nice to meet a nice lady whether plutonic or otherwise to crew with and also to help out my mate to find a lady who does not find the whole concept of a narrow boat as a long shoe store rather as a great way of life.
Question are these sort of sites already up and running, if not, how do you go about setting up one. Don’t you need something called a domain; I must admit I don't have much of a clue. Can anyone help?

Time to fly

How to be affected by television it was Pimm's O'clock yesterday at about 6.30pm. I must admit Pimms and lemonade is lovely and refreshing. So after several of those and a couple of beers it was time for bed o'clock.
To top things of the weather is improving and I have a long weekend off, I have chance to crew for nb The Greenman and the river is still flowing much to fast. Lots of knashing of teeth this end, once on the canals all will be well. knash knash.

Talk Time

Why is so difficult to have a conversation with a women with out getting raised eyebrows. I was chatting to the new receptionist at work (and yes I am single) and all I got where people having a extra long look when they want passed and giving the proverbial wink. I grant you she was attractive, however it was the last thing on my mind( I become a monk at work, otherwise all to complicated)I had said hello for the last few days as I had walked in and had not caught her name.In my ignorance I not sure if I can remember now( I am terrible with names) It seems chatting to her was some sort of crime if not criminal. It makes me out of principal keep chatting to her just to see if the gossip machine swings into action. Does this happened to anyone else I ask, any clues???.

The Great Escape

The water have been falling over the last few days and I managed to escape this weekend. I went with friends to the Brookalnds museum in Surrey. There is a large collection of old car there that where used in the hay day of the Brooklands track It was the first purpose built race track, it was built at the turn of the century with a large collection of cars which set world records and raced in the early grand prix days. It also houses one of the original Concord's and a Wellington bomber which they found at Loch Ness(perhaps this was Nessie after all

In contrast next door was the modern, Mercedes-benz world.It holds a vast collection of the new cars as well as vast collection of old photographs from the 1910's when racing was at it height. It also had some classic cars there as well

A Gullwing

To make the day complete we found a cracking pub in Benson, called the Three Horseshoe's the beer was fab the food was great and it was a lovely atomsphere in there. 4 stars, never could be 5 now unless they have an alt smoking area which is friendly and inviting. Back to Europe for that as they ignore everything.

TTFN

Rising waters

How this for a week. I watched the Thames rise over 6 feet till it was lapping around my ankles then my knees now its up to my thighs. A great investment was a pair of waders, I have had to use them since Sunday to get and from my boat. It's such a bizarre site seeing the marina rise and rise and the waters just coming in and surrounding in great pools of water. The car park had nearly 3 ft of water. the fields around are just vast lakes. I went to Culham on Tues and the water there is coming over the bullnose like a fancy water feature, you have to see it to believe it.

Culham Lock's water feature

Another sight to be hold was all the fire crews and ambulances helping people off their boats that where stranded. To top it off their was about three TV crews filming there. I managed to watch three different news programmes all being filmed on Abingdon bridge.

I had to do a loo run. I got three loos in the back of the car. This had to be moved by row boat across the car park. Then i drove to Goring lock and emptied there. I carried them back across by using a rope andattaching them together and letting them float across behind.

Oddities

I heard the strangest of things "I dread going to bed and I hate getting up". to me that seems really strange. I love my bed, I miss when i am not there, sometimes rather than stay the night and drink, I will drive home to it.

I am also worried I am working this weekend and it going to rain and rain and rain. 4 inches in 36 hours oh my, i could be busy this weekend, as i am on duty just to top it off, joy. It is also the Thames Traditional boat rally@ Henley

Where is the summer

The sun has come out along with it all the problems of summer. I have been involved in a swan rescue of over 50 birds. This caught the eye of the local press so they have been busy interviewing( not me I hasten to add). Someone trying to clip his nails with a hedgecutter, a gas leak and I am stuck inside and the sun is out. Boo hoo.