Radio silence

That's what it feels like, two days without a good Internet service. OK for emailing and getting the weather but, otherwise, all very slow. Uploading and downloading just don't want to work.

So, what has been happening?

Well, we set off from Pigeon lock after having helped another boat through beforehand. The water level was a bit lower than usual and the other boat just couldn't get into the lock - not enough water. So we let some water down and hauled the boat in using the ropes. After that all went well.

A seagull led us into the lock but soon scuttled round to the back of the boat while the lock filled.

We then motored on to a mooring near Somerton and managed afternoon tea in the sun.

A welcome visitor, not in our bird book, a Muscovy duck. Rather splendid colouring.

We are now in the Internet free zone. However, luckily, I can get a TV signal so Wimbledon is good.

Took advantage of the good weather to varnish the cratch frames. They take a lot of battering what with rain and water spray from the locks.

Just masking some of the paintwork so that I don't need to be too careful what I paint.

Some of the neighbours - mixed herd of cows, calves and bulls - all very docile.

And, last thing at night, moon in the trees reflected in the canal.

It's been quite relaxing spending a day in just one place. Not only did we do some varnishing but we also had a walk around the village. Lovely weather and time to wind down even further, if that's possible.