It’s been looking a lot like Christmas this week. The on/off flood situation continues and water remains an issue both around and in the boat. And Christmas is edging nearer.
Last weekend saw our annual four generational family meal, which the boating community made easier. The river was rising as Boatdog (in a coat to reduce clinging mud) and I (in wellies) plodded through the mud and fields above the lock, her food and bowls in my backpack and my weekend bag containing a skirt (not worn one of the one for a while in the wet and mud). By the time we got to the road and the immaculate car of my lovely brother-in-law we were ready to shed muddy coats and boots into the bags I’d brought for them so we weren’t totally obnoxious passengers! Flood water was just beginning to cover the road as we drove away.
One of the major advantages of this floating life can be the community around. Moored near us is another boater who has been having engine issues. He assured me he would keep an eye on the boat, loosening ropes as necessary, and so did two of the permanent moorers nearby, one of whom has my number, and a man from the nearby boatyard. So nb Preaux was facing rising waters but with more attention than she would have had with just me on board (the Skipper headed north before me to stay with his mum).
Leaving the boat alone on a river at this time of the year is always a worry, even though we’ve done it so many times that I should be used to it by now. Equally I know from experience that other boaters are generous with their support.
After the family weekend Boatdog and I squelched our way back to the boat after a lift from our youngest daughter back from the north in foul driving conditions (glad it was her behind the wheel with her youthful reaction speeds rather than me). The wind was howling and rain still falling as we slithered back across soaked ground to the boat to find her exactly as we had left her. Within 5 minutes the dog bowls were filled and back in their place and the stove was lit. That for me instantly makes a cold boat feel like home.
No sooner was I back onboard than I was repacking bags and heading off to housesit in Derbyshire, swapping places with the Skipper so he has the boat to himself for a change. I love the regular times when I have the boat to myself, but am also aware that the Skipper rarely gets that treat. I have no idea what he wil choose to do buy for me solo time allows me an opportunity to potte, craft, write and ignore the frustrating interruptions of refular mealtimes. When I do eat it is nearly always fish on these indulgent weekends because the Skipper is allergic to fish.
So he’s been on the boat for part of this week by himself, and I have been rattling round a stone farmhouse. It seems vast, and just getting from bed to the kitchen takes a trek rather than 20 steps!
Boatdog is tentatively exploring her new environment with growing confidence although she and the resident cats have a bit of a stand off – demanding some new feeding arrangements. She adores the fields that run down from the farmhouse to a stream at the bottom which is flowing fast after this week’s rain.
I have enjoyed a farmhouse kitchen with a table I can indulgently spread out looms and weaving, crafting and painting ready for my final craft market back in Leicestershire on 20th. I’m also preparing to take advantage of the Aga to cook Christmas fruit cakes (a little later than stir-up Sunday but better late than never).
Parcels ready for festive stocking are being delivered to our elder daughter’s address and by the time I get back I will be armed with wrapping paper as well as cakes!
Back on the boat the flood waters are subsiding and the Skipper is anxious about the water tank is getting very low so he really wants to move the boat this weekend with support from the sons-in-law and of course if there is no return of the river to flood. Will he make it? Where will our floating home be by the time I get back? Will I even find it? Watch this space to find out or if you find yourself near Mountsorrel on 20th – come and join the fun (and find out in person!). Be great to see you.
Pickingupducks 