Let's go fly a kite

Rats, rats and even more rats! (the expletive not the rodent) The forecast was for rain & thunder & lightning and the treat of lunch in the pub, one of the best on the Oxford canal. But, upon waking, what rain? What thunder? What lightning?

Oh well, off we set with a promise to try and stop here on the way back.

So, what's the weather like? Can you see the clue in the picture above? Well, it's obvious, the captain's steering so it must be good weather!

Mind you, the real reason is that we are in Somerton Deep Lock and the paddles are rather stiff. At one point I had both feet off the ground trying to get it to move. Score? Laurie 1 - Lock 0. Result!

It's a long way down, hence the name Deep Lock!

Looking back it doesn't look too frightening.

Saw loads of hunting birds today. There were two pair of Red Kite and I managed to snap the one above. We also saw some Buzzard. Another glimpse was caught of a kingfisher. You can't really say that you see them since they're gone before you've focused on them.

I've just opened a swing bridge (electric) for the captain to come through. In the good old days, Brigid would hang on a chain to lift the bridge but then couldn't keep it open. Much easier now that you can use a key and push buttons.

Afternoon treat for me, I'm now on the boat and Brigid's working the lock.

Moored up just below Pigeon Lock. Having repaired the genny, I decided to change the oil as well. Fortunately I have a suction pump thingy that sucks out all the old oil which makes life easier. Bailed out the bilge water and rounded off the evening with pork chops for supper.