A dash by one boater to beat the stoppage.

So, before the games night started yesterday, a fish and chip supper was dished up in the cottage for those that had decided against cooking. Carole and Margaret high tailed it up to the chip shop and returned with 11 potions of fish and chips. I declined because of my diet although Ian made the most of the offer as living on rabbit food as he calls it doesn't help his cravings for 'proper food.' Then with more of the boaters arriving we departed upstairs to set up the games.  Mexican Train, Dominoes and Rummikub were by far the favourites and loads of hilarity and cries of cheating resounded round the room. Before we knew it the midnight hour was nearly upon us so with some reluctance we all made off to our respective boats for some shut eye.

This morning another session of cottage cleaning took place as well as setting out the chairs in the upper room in readiness for tonight. Another boater made it to join our merry band, a total of 12 now but that's it. One boat left to try and make it through to Shardlow before the stoppage but was told by Jo and Andrew,  still on the C&RT recruitment drive, (see an earlier post) that yesterday the Trent was high enough for the steps at the bottom of Trent Lock to be completely submerged and some of the fields looked more like lakes. Slim chances then for Paul and Vivee to get out but, who knows, in 24 hours the river conditions could be completely different. Both are coming to the Pie and Pea by taxi tonight so we will find out if they made it then.

Jo and Andrew

Making a break for the Trent

Hope they make it.

While Ian was ensconced in his chair watching the Rugby, I took myself off to Long Eaton. A good mile walk but the exercise will do me good and help in my quest to lose the weight. Now that my Bursitis has improved, walking is so much easier and a joy to be able to stride out. On route a tree full of shoes caught my eye. Many years ago (2012 to be precise) I put a photo of this tree on the blog and was amazed that no one had even attempted to get them down. No doubt they will still be there in another 4 years!

Also on the walk an unexpected sighting of these ducks. Not often we get a tufted duck on the canal.

And the time of year when the ducks are being pursued by the Drakes. Always feel sorry for females although this one only had two Drakes following. Earlier I saw one female with seven Drakes all trying to get her to descend. Nature I know but not one at it's best.

Returned to find the Rugby still on, Wales V England. So far England is winning but Wales is catching up so not a done deal by any means. Looking forward to tonight and I'm going to say blow the diet and indulge in a lovely chicken and mushroom pie with loads of mushy peas....yummie.