Away day 1.

We loaded the car up and set off to the Midlands via an appointment for our daughter at the Dentists at 1200. Once on our way it was an easy couple of hours to the marina near Lichfield. The car was full up with stuff, but fortunately we will be leaving most of it as we only now have a couple of weeks or so until we are off for our six or seven month cruise. As No.1 daughter Amy was home we had decided to take the boat out for a run and a check over.

After several trips backwards and forwards to the boat, and Macy cat getting settled in, I filled up with water and we were soon off and clear of the marina. The weather was cool but sunny and still

Once clear of Streethay Wharf Amy was soon on the tiller with Helen giving expert tuition as we headed to Fradley.

The afternoon clouded over and it became  cooler but as the wind held off it was still okay. The girls retreated inside to get warm though so I was left to contemplate nature on my own as we cruised along.

When we were moored up still on the Coventry, before the water points and the little swing bridge (that still hasn't got a lock fitted). I soon had the stove going and the girls assumed their normal positions.

We had our tea and listened to the latest carrying on's with Rob Tichner in 'The Archers'. (Oh I hope that he get's his comeuppance good and proper, and soon). We then decided to wander over to the pub at the Junction. It is amazing what the hour on the clock does for getting out and about. The stove was filled so that it would be nice and cosy when we got back.

It was very still as we came to the Trent and Mersey and so got a double image of the Swan. It looks deserted but had a fair gathering, most of them eating it seemed. The portions seemed large.