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In 1977 we hired our first narrowboat from Anglo Welsh at Market Harborough.From that moment our destiny was set. In 2006 we finally purchased our own brand new 57' narrowboat which we named 'Free Spirit'. Our aim is to travel the length and breadth of all the navigable rivers and canals of the UK. This will be our story as it unfolds.

Sunday 6 November 2011

Playing chicken with the sailing boats

Last night was horrendous. Not for us but for Jade. The fireworks started at 6 pm and continued almost continually until 11 pm. Jade was beside herself and we tried everything to calm her down. I even resorted to bribery with offering chewys that are normally forbidden at night. "Oh yes thanks mum, I'll have all of that but I'll eat them while still shaking and panicking over those nasty bangs"!!! Nothing puts her off her food. It was only when the bangs finally stopped that we let her out for the final 'tiddles' of the night.

Today the family turned up. Colin, Iwona, Oscar and baby Oliver arrived earlier then expected and because the day was really calm and sunny, we decided to take them down the Trent to Redhill Lock on the River Soar. Now I don't know how many of you boaters reading this have ever been on the Trent at a weekend. Leaving Sawley lock is fine but then suddenly as you round the corner there in front of you tacking from side to side are loads of sailing boats So now, lets remember what the rule of the water is. Power give's way to sail. That's fine until you are confronted with loads of boats careering toward you. Also, We are steel! They are fibreglass! We cant stop or even turn suddenly. They can. So who made up that stupid rule anyway!!!!!! See Navigational Rules



 
Eeeek!!!!


Heading straight for us.
 I should say that these pictures were taken on the way back to Sawley. As I was cuddling my grandson Oliver on the way to Redhill when the majority of boats were out, I unfortunately didn't have my camera at hand to capture it all.
I think he misjudged the tack!
 After breathing a sigh of relieve as we passed the final dinghy, what should come charging down river toward us.....

Two idiots racing each other.
It was quite an interesting day, all in all. The family really enjoyed the trip, especially young Oscar as you can see in these pictures.


Oscar and Colin


 Oscar with Grandad Ian pushing the button to open the gates at Sawley lock

Oliver

Iwona and Oscar
 And finally. We all went of to the Plank and Leggett for Sunday lunch. At two meals for £10 I felt the food was excellent value for the money.

Colin and Oliver


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