Two bloggers in one day.

We treated ourselves to a fried breakfast this morning, makes a nice change from the usual toast and marmalade. Consequently we didn't set off until well after 9am and there we were, dressed to the nines in winter gear 'cause it 'wasn't 'alf cold'! First lock of the day was Stenson Lock, not one of my favourites because some of you may remember us getting wedged back in 2013. This lock is deep and defies all the laws of paddle etiquette but luckily for us (a) a boat had just left so we could sail straight in and (b) a volunteer lockie was on who knew what she was doing. So my ascent was very slow and completely controllable, not often I can say that!!!

Next stop was Willington and a quick detour into Mercia Marina.  We needed the Chandlers for a cassette slide, spare seals, (just in case) and more coal.Got the slide and the seals but no coal. They had run out. Only brought with us 3 bags as we live in hope that the warmer weather would arrive sooner rather then later.... now we will have to look elsewhere. Not long after pulling onto the Midland Chandlers mooring, who should walk up to us but Bruce and Sheila Nb Sanity Again. Haven't seen them in ages and they told us they unfortunately were stuck at Mercia for the foreseeable future due to the NHS grabbing them and not letting go. We did have a long chat and a catchup and hopefully see them on the cut later this year after their release.

Our destination was Shobnall fields and.... didn't we arrive at the right time when all the daffodils are out.

First though we had Dallow lock to do and back to the single locks. So much nicer then those wide locks up the first part of the T&M. Again we were lucky as a boater was on his way out so I could sail straight in. Wouldn't this be nice if we had this all the way to Tipton. 

This swan joined us on it's way to the top. Took one look at us, turned and walked off in a huff.

I was just about to put a few more photos of our journey on the end when a hail had me running to the well deck. Going past was Pip and Mick on Nb Lillyanne. I do so love meeting other bloggers even if only briefly. Good to say hello to you both.

And so to the photos,

Isn't this great? Seen on the approach to Mercia Marina

First lambs seen by us this year

Plenty of Swans nesting now

Oyster Catchers at Mercia Marina