Canal Capers

The previous two weeks we have been on our canal boat along the Grand Union Canal. We had cold weather, even snow but we were able to warm up once we were inside.

We woke up to snow. We were lucky to be able to get water as many of the water supply taps were frozen

As you travel there are a variety of craft different shapes and sizes and conditions.

This boat is very jolly

A shed style boat

Traditional boats

A trip too far

 We did 100 miles and 66 locks. Some of the lock gates are very hard to move.

Some gates have double paddles

 We went over a aqueduct. There was a big drop on one side with no barrier.

   It is a strange feeling

There are a variety of tunnels.

The entrance to Branston tunnel.

This tunnel was designed for horses

We explored the local villages.

Quaint houses

Lovely ironstone building

A willow man

Oh deer

We saw several metal sculptures on our travels.

A horse of course

On a roof

So much movement

A very strange man on the canal bank.

I love this graffiti.

Sun and Snow

I forgot to post last week's blog 'Serious Snow' so there are two posts this week.

It took quite a while for the snow to melt and it still remains on the hills.

Looking towards the Pennines

By Tuesday there was still patches of snow that had not melted.

Snow on the river bank

The snow still remained in the Artful Garden and makes it look very festive.

A late Christmas feel about the garden

The snowman was in his element.

A very jolly snowman

Bank erosion has caused the tree roots to be exposed.

Hopefully the trees should hang beyond the next floods

The daffodils are starting to grow and will soon be in flower.

A buzzing bee

The hellebore looks pretty in the back border.

Some lovey colour

The first dragonfly has appeared in the Artful Garden.

High flyer

Serious Snow

What a contrast in the weather. Last Sunday was spent in the Artful Garden renewing the rabbit fence where they had burrowed into the garden. I also cleared the back border cutting back the hedge which included blackthorn with its deadly thorns.

We had a nice walk up Carrock Fell. The ground was frozen and towards the summit there was ice and snow.

Slightly hazy at the top

Deep snow in the gullies

Ice makes lovely patterns.

Like ferns and flowers

The view from the top of Carrock Fell.

A stunning view

In the afternoon we walk the dog along the river Eden.

Jill enjoys the snow

Lovely reflection of trees in the river.

A mirror image

Since Tuesday night we have had a serious amount of snow. We now have about 20 cm and currently the Helm is blowing.

Snow on the roof of my greenhouse.

Snow on snow

Sheep in the snow.

Not a blade of grass to be seen

Sometime art mimics nature. My paper mache bird has gone in search of new plumage.

I made the nest from the pruned vine. It was then it was adopted by a real bird.