Cruising 2011

Had a great winter in Ellesmere Arm, near to my old home village of Tetchill, and I was able to meet up with many of my lovely ex neighbours/villagers and also boating friends. It was great to be back and, despite the very cold weather, had a lovely winter. Of course I took quite a few trips away to visit family and friends.

Eventually left Ellesmere after attending 3 birthday parties (Charlie and Louise were both 2 and Mary's special birthday) on 3 consecutive weekends in Kent, Suffolk and Lancashire during March/April. Then had 10 days on the Montgomery where I re-met Graham and Kath on Stougham Hall. We had a great few days at Maesbury wining, dining and exploring lots of the unrestored Monty by car and foot. Can't wait to see Crickheath in water - it will be lovely. Thank you, G & K for the help up the locks!

Left the boat at Tetchill, where it was looked after by Trevor at Canal Cottage and many dog walking friends - thank you all. I then had 12 days away in Kent to celebrate Easter and attend a Royal Wedding community party in a field - it was a great time.

Now to start the cruise proper! Have now moved on to near Llangollen where I will soon be joined by Chris and Mary for a few days. Just had a morning of rain - I know we need it but as I had walked into town I got rather wet there and on the return journey - it wasn't supposed to rain till the afternoon so didn't stay as long as planned - can't escape into a cafe when you have a dog with you!