#163

#canal #narrowboatlife #offgrid
We are making our way to Stratford-Upon-Avon and my daughter India is staying with us. We also meet some new family members along the way. Then, suddenly the summer is over and everyone is gone and I'm alone on the boat with just Zephyr my Labrador. It all feels so empty and strange. There's lots of lovely scenes along the river in this one. Sit back, relax and enjoy! Take care🦋🌻
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[@johnstuart3024]

The end of Summer is always a difficult thing. For me, it marks the changing of life. It great to have the new family members. I didn't realize the great draft horses were endangered. Magnificent animals. And never forget, "Shake fast. Pour slow." Sage advice. 😁

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi John, thank you so much for your lovely comment. I didn't realise that about the horses either- I hope they protect the breed. Great advice by the way. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@Lindakimberley-brooks]

Love "Bonio and Juliepet" :-) That gave me a good giggle Vanessa! You looked so happy having your India with you this week, and it's nice seeing more of her sharing the screen with you too. Bless Zeph, she was properly telling you to get moving while you were at your drawing there :-) Enjoy the start of your Autumn Vanessa, I can't wait to see where you go next. x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Linda, I am so glad that you appreciated my joke! India is such wonderful company and she really makes me laugh. Zeph was having a moan at me wasn't she- poor thing- I must be a nightmare to walk with! Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@fchichois2250]

Best narrowboat channel ever ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much!🤗 Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@chrishobbs58]

Hi again! Great episode this was! I enjoyed everything, from seeing you interact with your daughter...you seem to have a lovely relationship. And Zephyr was at her best in this. Plus lovely scenery and wildlife. Loved seeing the Carriage diner, and thoroughly enjoyed the horses. This really had a bit of everything! Hope your isolation is short-lived, but I'm sure your wonderful dog will provide excellent companionship. Best wishes, as always!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Chris, thank you for your lovely comment. India is such good company and I have always seen her as more of a best friend than a daughter. I am so pleased that you enjoyed this vlog. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@InfiniteSoul91]

I LOVE Your vlogs, they're so full of joy! My last trip to the UK was March 2012 and I'd dearly love to return but in the duration until that happens I'll be glued to yours and Zephyr's adventures. Appreciation from New Zealand 💚🌏💚🌟

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment. I hope that you get to visit the UK soon. I am so pleased that you are enjoying the vlogs. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@ben8mag]

Thanks for sharing England’s countryside and all them old towns with us. I can’t get enough of them. ❤️ I hope you enjoyed your summer. Cheers!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is my pleasure to share the places that I visit with you all. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@honeydiamond5572]

Hi from Canada, Vanessa. We are on the east coast of Canada waiting to see what Hurricane Lee will bring us tonight. Always enjoy your volgs and especially your journal entry and art at the end. Thank you:)

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope hurricane Lee doesn't cause trouble for you. It must be so scary to live with the threat of hurricanes. Look after yourself x Take care🦋🌻

[@annjarvis9300]

How joyful you were sharing time with India and the horses were superb lovely scenery to yes end of summer tc now the oldies 🤗👍🤗👍🌺🌹🌷

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope you are feeling well? Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@gerryholland7274]

So glad you enjoyed the Avon. Some gorgeous sights and Zephyr added a Steam Train sounds when panting as you drew the Teasles! Lots of Teasels in Somerset, a legacy from Wool processing! The Shire reminded of my life on the Farm. He was called Captain and pulled an old Beet Cart. Best Wishes to you all! NB Happy Days.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Gerry, it's so lovely to hear from you. How wonderful to have had a Captain- what a beautiful image of him pulling the old beet cart too. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@lizzieclayandfamily]

Aw, so happy you had some lovely times with India, she looks so happy - what a lovely way to end the summer. Loved your series on the Avon and as always you've found the most interesting and unusual to show us - thank you! Bring on the autumn and the old routine! xxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much, Lizzie for your lovely comment. I love the autumn- time to look out for mushrooms and slime moulds! Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@dingnextstop]

I assume India is your daughter…?… you’re making great memories together, something to look back on in years to come, nice to see the Clydesdale horses and of course “Zeph”… thanks for sharing…😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

India is my daughter and she comes and stays whenever she can. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@marymcgrath2016]

Your drawings are amazing....so talented!!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you- thank you so much!Have a super rest of the week, take care🦋🌻

[@AndrewBroadbent-dr8wb]

Great vlog as usual. Loved the horses, so gentle despite their size. Thank you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

They are so gentle aren't they? Absolutely beautiful horses. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@Daytona2]

😮 the sawing Sawfly - love your knowledge of the natural world, Vanessa, thank you for opening my eyes. ♥ Zephyr politely requesting playtime

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I love the cleverness of the female sawfly, cutting into the stems and shoots with her tail and laying her eggs. I was also stunned by its bright yellow abdomen which she kept hidden beneath her black wings. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@michaelpilling531]

Hello Vanessa - greetings from Nowe Slupno in Poland. Our summer hee is far from over. Daytime temperatures in the late 20s, dropping to high teens at night. What a lovely cruise to Stratford with India and Zephyr. Sorry Michael is away working. I hope you'll be OK by yourself. Gorgeous draft horses. Marvellous animals. Huge but gentle and graceful. Lovely camera work this week. Superb insects, plants and nature. Stay safe please

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Michael, we seem to be having a late summer too now which is lovely. I hope you are making the most of the weather. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@johnmackenzie7487]

Great as ever thanks, and India's Tee gets full approval from this Scot.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much, John! India worked for the Scottish Wildlife Trust on their Osprey Project and she loved every minute of it. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@neilmurfet3392]

The end of summer brings the stunning colours of autumn followed by the white silence and white crispness of winter before the cycle begins again.....x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It does doesn't it? I love the seasonal changes from the water. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@NarrowboatWill]

Hello mindful family. India back onboard. Great having family together. Lovely part of the world you're cruising in. The Thames at the moment is stunning. Have a great weekend.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Will, it's lovely to hear that you are enjoying the Thames. We loved the vlog of when you son from Germany came to stay. It's great when family come and visit isn't it? Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@tessapetters3936]

Wow, Love the Clyde and Shire. I had a shire filly when i was in my 20's( long time ago now). She grew far too tall for me, but the lady i sold her to rode her daily. They make wonderful riding horses too. They can do dressage and jump, believe it or not, so very versatile. Good luck with them both. x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What a lovely memory of your shire filly, Tessa and how wonderful to have horses in your life as you grew up! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@buffplums]

I could absolutely cry … I find you work so moving your beautiful poetry and drawings, your writing too is so beautiful x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you- thank you so much😊 Take care🌻🦋

[@lionelmarytravels6003]

Thanks Vanessa. Mary knew most of the places you showed us. Delightful journey, with equally delightful daughter for company. We received your journal today. That will give us a lot of pleasure xx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I'm so pleased that Mary knew the places that we visited in this vlog and I'm also so happy to know that your book has arrived too. Thank you so much! 🤗 Have a super week. Take care 🦋🌻

[@paulmclaine6413]

Never knew there was such a insect named a Teasle and I never knew Vanessa liked such a large cup of tea to drink whilst drawing Teasles. I've seen Soup Cups but never a tea cup that large. Lass like a nice Cuppa. Your not alone Vanessa , you have all your subscribers that Love you. And Zephyr.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment. I'd drink my tea in a bucket if I could!😂 Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@brewster3987]

Here I was, getting all prepared to type something lofty and philosophical about the beauty of nature and the passing of seasons... but "Boneo and Juliepet" purged all that from my mind in one fell swoop. Oh well.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Oh I am so sorry about that, Brewster!😂 It's funny but when I listened to the clip back, someone was laughing in the background- surely it couldn't have been my joke- could it? Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@jackmullett9198]

What more can I say, another lovely video. You have a real feeling for nature. 😎

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much, Jack- that is so kind of you! Enjoy the rest of your week, take care🌻🦋

[@butchieblock9118]

I love seeing you incorporate your daughter on your travels!! Such knowledge is a gift!! When my dad was stationed in England, we would visit Stratford numerous times!! Not to mention the places we saw when we were relocated to the north. I so miss THAT!! When I came back to the USA, people could NOT comprehend what I had been exposed to. Sadly, a vast number of Americans have not been too far beyond their doorstep.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Stratford is a fabulous place to visit. I'm so glad that you enjoyed your time in England. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the week. Take care 🌻🦋

[@buffplums]

Good day Vanessa it’s lovely how you are enjoying our precious culture and in turn, keeping our heritage and traditions alive. I feel really good after watching your video and it’s lovely being able to compliment you on your lovely work. Have a fabulous week and look forward to the joys of what Autumn might bring. Take care and lots of love to you and Mr M x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment. I am so pleased to hear that the videos make you feel good. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@Red-ns9ny]

You never fail to make your videos amazing and beautiful. ❤😊 thank you xx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind 🤗 Thank you so much. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@Red-ns9ny]

@@themindfulnarrowboat take care and continue the beauty of life and laughter 😊🥰🍸

[@susanmarcoux7005]

1 or 2 vlogs ago (not in any order) you were making tea with rose petals. May I suggest trying hibiscus flowers? It's quite lovely and a beautiful color as well ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I will have to try that. It sounds delicious. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend. Take care🦋🌻

[@StevesRepairs]

Thanks Vanessa for taking us along on this beautiful adventure, I don't think that Zephyr wanted to kiss the big dogs, what beautiful horses they are. It is funny how Zephyr talks to you telling you to get a move on as she needs a drink, lovely. It was marvellous to see India with you and Zephyr again and she's a proper skilful boater. As always I love to watch you updating your beautiful journal. Have a lovely weekend. Take care and all the best. Stevie

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

You are totally right about Zephyr not wanting to kiss the ‘big horses’! 😂 Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@brianclarke7169]

Such a pleasant watch. Compliments to a very talented lady

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you- thank you so much! 🦋🌻

[@birteeliasen6423]

Looking foreward to join your cruise tonight and thanks fro all the other parts you have sent we love it ...have a nice week hugs to Zephyr we love him too you know..

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope you enjoy the vlog! Have a lovely evening-take care🌻🦋

[@user-wl6jy4et8l]

You get to see wonderful things all those beautiful tunnels and bridges and all those old towns wow😅

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

They are wonderful to see and I really appreciate being able to cruise on the water here. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Take care🌻🦋

[@shirleygreaves9650]

It was lovely to see India again, her plum and blackberry tart looked delicious. What a shame that shire horses are so rare now they aren’t used for pulling dreys and canal boats. Lovely to see the shire horses that your sister in law looks after. I’ve not been to Stratford for years, it was lovely to visit it again with you. I love the way Zephyr listens to your every word, she must be welcome company for you especially when you are alone on the boat like you were at the end of the video. I agree the end of summer is sad, I don’t mind autumn but I really don’t like the cold, short and very grey days we have so many of in winter in the U.K. Take care you 3. xxxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Shirley, India's tart was delicious and all from foraged fruit too which makes it taste extra special I think. Zephyr is great company when I'm on my own on the boat and she makes me feel very safe too. I agree with you about the cold, grey days.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@otter736]

Thanks for a Great Summer….looking forward to the Fall !!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am looking forward to the Fall too! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@trevorsurplice9630]

How do you manage to spot so much wild life ? so small, We have bird feeders just out side so we often watch them feeding and drinking from the comfort of our arm chairs but seeing 5 at at time having a bath makes us smile. The River Avon is a restful river love it Pershore, Evesham are Sunday trips for us sitting by river with a M,D. watching the boats go by

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Trevor, it sounds wonderful to be able to sit and watch the birds on the feeder from the comfort of your home. When I moor somewhere, I check for the signs of wildlife like the tracks, holes in the grasses where a small mammal may have passed through, droppings and I also spot what plants are growing so I know what sort of insects to spot on them; then I am just patient and wait to see what appears from these spots. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@Kev_the-Brinklow-Kayaker]

Hi not commented for a while. Love walking the stratford river and canal so much to see nature and busy town life right on the water. Need to get my kayak up there to the carpark at the Lode on Bank of the river. Or canal. Just gotta plan as car and kayak trailer have to park so as no parking issues. You coming through Brinklow my home village. Look out for me I'm kev the Brinklow kayaker.. All the best Kev😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Kev, thank you for commenting- it's great to hear from you again. I bet you have been busy on the water this summer? If we come back to Brinklow, we'll keep our eyes peeled for you. Have a super rest of the week, take care🦋🌻

[@vanessascola4708]

It is very difficult when summer comes to an end for sure. I need sunshine and hopefully we get lots more. Such a lot of stuff you did this summer. Lovely you saw India this week. Yummy looking tart. Lovely teasel. Take care x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Vanessa, it's lovely when the sun shines isn't it? Thank you so much for watching and commenting. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@G0RXA]

Brilliant video Vanessa. Have enjoyed following your river journey and hope the return to the canals isn’t too much of a shock. Looking forward to the next chapter in your adventure 👍

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much, Nigel. I am glad that you enjoyed the Avon Vlogs. Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@sianwarwick633]

Beautiful video of the town and country, on the boat and eith family... ❤I really only started looking at these gentle-paced reflective, and meditative journeys you are taking, and taking us along with you. Thanks

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you are finding the vlogs relaxing, Sian. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@simon-nb-Betsyray]

What a lovely vlog with India and Zephyr and of course ur self, l noticed India wasn't camera shy as much and was in her element being filmed playing with Zephyr. What a nice young lady and daughter a spitting image of u. Again a interesting and eventful vlog with great shots of the Avon and Stratford and brilliant camera work. Have a enjoyable weekend 🐕🐜🐜☕️🛶

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Simon, India has got much more used to me filming all of the journeys now and she is happier to be filmed which is so lovely. I am so pleased that you enjoyed the vlog. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@garyp8471]

Without fail another great vid, loved seeing the Clyde's and Shires looked beauty's, Irene was saying when you was drawing the teasel Zephyr was saying ready now Mum. Thank you for another grand tour, P S was that tart good has it looked. All the best Gary n Irene

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Gary and Irene, Zephyr was definitely telling me to "get a move on" wasn't she!😂 The tart was delicious and I ate so much of it! Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@sandyprosser805]

Hi Vanessa another beautiful vlog the scenery is beautiful too, it’s weird seeing all this from another angle of our lovely county’s , have a great week 😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Sandy, I’m so pleased you are enjoying the water perspective of an area that you know so well. Thank you so much for your lovely comment, take care 🦋🌻

[@jennyfulcher8035]

That's great that you and your lovely daughter India got to meet your newest family members, Bobby and Ben, though sad that there aren't as many draft horses in the UK. I also enjoyed seeing more of your daughter and your close relationship. After enjoying family and friends all summer, Alice Grace must have seemed a bit too quiet and lonely, but your pal Zephyr was there to provide you with her faithful companionship as you both explored Shakespeare's birthplace and the old houses of Stratford. I loved your 2-minute sketch of the Teasel. India's foraged blackberry and plum tart to accompany your tea while sketching looked scrumptious. Cheerio until next time. 🥀🐝🐦 Jenny

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Jenny, thank you for your lovely comment. India's tart was delicious and I polished it off in no time! Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@jennyfulcher8035]

@@themindfulnarrowboat You too Vanessa.

[@christineprice5463]

Wow! That boat was so big that passed you. Great video, thanks

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It was enormous wasn't it! Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care🌻🦋

[@christineprice5463]

@@themindfulnarrowboat yes it was. Have a wonderful weekend.

[@jeffbrown2401]

You are so lovely keep up the great work respect.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such a kind comment- thank you so much! Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@PickingPaul1]

I love autumn too and winter. Must be nice having family visit and able to take them on such great day trips, and stopping at Stratford, what great places you can call home. My house has recently sold and I’m going to buy a narrowboat in a few months so it will likely be in the dead of winter.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Congratulations on the sale of your house and your future floating life!🎉🍾 Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@francesdavey1337]

Beautiful vlog Vanessa thank you xx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

🤗 Thank you so much, Frances! Have a super rest of the week, take care🌻🦋

[@davidbamford4721]

We have a good supply of Clydesdales in Australia.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so good to hear! Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@bobnmarewilcox4855]

Very nice. Excellent comment on the ants. We could all learn about teamwork from them. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Best regards from Marrowstone Island Washington.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I totally agree with you about learning from the ants! Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@mikehurley5052]

Nice one.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you, Mike! Take care🌻🦋

[@pancrazioaquilina7029]

Great relaxing friday eavning when you consider it was 35 celsius and blazing sun to day in malta. There's noting like the english weather. May you have a nice autumn and winter thanks for your information on strafford and as usual zephr allways steal the show take care

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope it cools down for you very soon. Zephyr is a little star isn't she? Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super and cool weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@MrOVERANOUT]

Your view of Evesham Bell Tower reminded me of when I was attending the Fire Service College at Morton in Marsh. One weekend, my mate and I were sightseeing in Evesham and came across a queue of people standing outside a closed door at the base of the tower. Thinking this was a queue of tourists waiting to get into a museum, so we joined the queue. We got some strange looks from those in front of us. Eventually, the door opened, and we all filed inside and climbed the stone staircase within. Not a word was spoken until we emerged into a room with lots of ropes hanging from above. Now everything became clear. They were campanologists intent on a bell ringing practice session. We all had a good laugh about it, and they let us have a go at ringing the changes. Thanks for the lovely vlog and for bringing back happy memories.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

🤭 Oh that is so funny! We heard them bell ringing whilst we were there- it sounded amazing. Thank you for your lovely story. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@user-ku1cm8nb1z]

Lovely vlog as usual, hope to be on the Avon second half of October so thanks for the preview x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope you have a lovely time on the Avon; I'm sure that it will be beautiful in the autumn! Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@user-gy6cl8xj4x]

I am seeing a women, who father was station in England. she spent five years there, and loved it. So, for her this is like going home.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that she is reminiscing about those good times. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@nancinowlen3043]

Thank you Vanessa

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

You are very welcome. Take care🌻🦋

[@TheJessierb]

hi Vanessa...really enjoyed this vlog and seeing you with India. You do a great service to the insect world by bringing them to your screen and appreciating them, not to mention your wonderful drawings! I am reading the The Social Lives of Animals: How Co-operation Conquered the Natural World by Ashley Ward an animal behaviorist...much of the first part looks at Ants, Termites, Bees, Cockroaches etc so I learned so much from it and gained a lot of respect for them too.When I read the Vlog title I immediately thought something had happened to Zephyr so I was relieved to see her lovely face. Wishing you a good transition to the colors and scents of autumn :) take good care W

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Wendy, your book sounds right up my street; I'll have to get one myself. In the depths of winter, when most insect life is tucked deep into the soil, fast asleep- I miss them. That is why, my vlogs are very much insect-centred at the moment; I'm making the most of spotting them before they disappear. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@nancinowlen3043]

Amazing

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Nanci! Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@shirleyneufeld351]

When I was in England, I had the opportunity to go on a canal boat but my daughters really didn’t want to. They were young teenager’s and wanted a Mac Donald’s …good grief! At this point of their live, they would have loved to go🥺😣🇨🇦

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope you get an opportunity to have a canal boat holiday one day, Shirley. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@JohnSpurrell]

It's a life that is strange to me in everyday, but I am so very grateful that you and your friends would share it with me. I am one of those mountain people who are very close to nature, so we have a very strong understanding, but don't you miss the bears and other wild animals chasing after you at night ? 😂

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Living in the mountains with the bears sounds incredible! Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@stephenrowell9373]

Really enjoy watching your vlogs Vanessa , you show such beautiful scenery , it is such a different way of life to mine . I live in the south west corner of Devon so we do not really have any canals nearby so it is great to travel with you .Thank you for sharing your journeys with us .

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

You are from a beautiful part of the world, Stephen! I am so pleased that you are enjoying the canal scenery in the vlogs. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the week, take care🦋🌻

[@MarcelEling]

Thnx❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

🦋🌻 Have a super week!

[@dnewnova]

change of seasons is always a time for reflection, more wonderful country side views the desert here has a beauty all its own come winter and some interesting temperature changes down to minus 10 f but my wood stove and home made paper logs help stay warm

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you for your lovely comment. How long do your homemade paper logs burn for? I used to make paper logs and recycle tea bags in them as well, but I found they didn't burn for long, but if you have found a good way of making them last- I'd love to know! Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@dnewnova]

i usually put small twigs and bits of bark in the pulp mix which helps a lot the secret i think is making your finished bricks as dry as possible before burning @@themindfulnarrowboat

[@suedale1865]

End of summer routine & back to term time though summer heatwave is still lurking been glorious 24deg today in Norfolk a little breeze perfect dog walking some wooded paths some open ground & some foraged blackberries to nibble on my walk I picked two Chinese takeaway containers last week lush juicy & frozen them & have to say India’s tart looked delicious So lovely to see India on board you are so alike ❤❤ Awe the teasel art work 💕 See you next time

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Sue, thank you so much for your lovely comment. The breeze makes all the difference on the hot days doesn't it? Freezing the berries is such a good idea as you can keep using them throughout the berryless days too. Have a super weekend walking your lovely dogs. Take care🌻🦋

[@TheDaf95xf]

Good morning Vanessa 😊 from a very wet Huddersfield 😢 What a lovely video and I think it’s my favourite so far but I do love all of what I’ve watched so far 🤩 Indi was a great help and lovely seeing you both smiling together 🥰 Zeph made me laugh when she was watching indi in the lock 🤣 Again you got trains in and the Countess of Evesham restaurant boat looked like a Pullman railway carriage 👍🏻 That tart looked scrumptious 😋 take care love Stevie xx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Stevie, I hope the weather has dried up for you? I am so pleased that you enjoyed the vlog. It's always so special when Indi comes to stay. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care🦋🌻

[@nancinowlen3043]

I join you in wondering where I will end up! Care facility has told us to look for another place to live. I hate losing friends I have made. Hoping there will be new ones in the next place!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Oh no, Nanci! I am sorry to hear that. I really hope you find somewhere soon that has everything you would wish for to live happily. 🤞💚 Take care🌻🦋

[@jlouutube65]

Oh yes...the Midlands again...my birthplace! My Auntie camps at Evesham.😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What a great spot to camp in! Thank you for lovely comment. Take care🌻🦋

[@petemoring67]

Always look forward to your video's - They're like a free 'Mindfulness Course' - I'm sure you made those Ants day you know - They like a bit of hard graft - And now you've given them some 😂

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

🐜🐜🐜 That is a good way of looking at it! I don't feel as bad now😅 🐜🐜🐜 Thank you for your lovely comment, Pete. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@normanhowe-gl2tq]

Your videos are very memorable----I look forward to seeing where you are going next---FYI--India could be your twin---you have so many places to explore and so little time---wishing you safe travels !!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your kind comment, Norman! I am excited about the coming year's travels too. Happy New Year!🥳🌻🦋

[@stephenworthington8508]

Love your life, sorry just found it All the Best for 2024. Stephen, Settle north yorkshire. ALL My best 👌 take care. And thank you for video. 3.5.2024.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for finding my channel. Take care 🦋🌻

[@kieronmoore3390]

Seems like a great way to live

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It really is. Thank you so much for watching. Take care🌻🦋

[@Debba521]

Lovely, seeing bits of famous Stratford. Enjoyed seeing you and your daughter expertly handling the boat through the lock. Had to laugh at Zephyr chiding you while you sketched the teasel. Good luck getting back into fall jobs and such. I think I have seen most if not all of your videos, but not a sight of Mr. Mindful. I respect people's privacy, but it's one of those enduring mindful mysteries...what does Mr. M look like...? 😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Debba, thank you so much for your lovely comment. Mr Mindful will one day appear, I hope! Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@carljeffrey82]

good times, I thought it was your sister with you, you look like a teen ager. good for you .

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Well you have just made my day- there must have been some good lighting when I filmed that one! 😂Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the week, take care🌻🦋

[@PeterBishop-zy9xd]

I well remember mooring at Stratford. The entrance to the lock is through a hole in a brick embankment, and there I found both sides of the lock was Packed with half the population of Japan or China. Now imagine the effort I had in trying to marchall some of these enthusiastically helpful tourists to leave their advantage point on one side of the long balance beams so that I could open the bottom lock gates and allow my wife to bring in our 70 ft narrow boat. The Oriental audience eagerly awaited the entrance of our boat, then marvelled at the length of it, but were more surprised that it was handled by a woman! Now I had to marshal my helpers to close the gates, the gates have never closed so rapidly. We duly exited the lock and I gave a bow to all of my audience , and I wondered if their recordings were were enjoyed when they returned home, I wish that we had a copy.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such a brilliant story! I always like to get gongoozlers involved with helping with the gates just like you did; it really eases the pressure of being observed so closely doesn't it? I loved the little bow that you did at the end too! Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@mattgordon9179]

Good luck with your Autumn prep before old jack frost comes to the party🙏

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Good advice! Thank you so much for watching, take care🦋🌻

[@hamshackleton]

What do you think of the horses, Zeph? Zeph looks at the fish!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

🤭 I know- she is a bit scared of horses! Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@stevemendenhall6284]

Vanessa this was a special voyage to me in many ways you visited a place where I was some 25 years ago during my one and only trip to your country Stafford upon Avon. Guess it is a must see place for tourist to visit. I have always been an Anglophile when I took my trip of a lifetime I was very close to the country my people came from namely Switzerland. But I wanted to spend the whole six weeks in your country. It was good to see all the interaction between you and India your really have a nice family. Now if you don’t mind me rambling on I want to ask a silly question I was a big fan of the Out-lander series both the books and TV shows there was a bit where Clair and her husband moved to Boston USA and Frank complained when she served tea in a tea bag and he did not like it. He Called them paper diapers my whole life I have never seen tea made any other way so do they still make tea from a can that way in England? Or is it mostly from a tea bag the way you do it. Have a great week see you next Friday Steve

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment. I am so pleased that this vlog brought back special memories for you. I prefer tea leaves and a teapot too, so really I should buy myself teapot but it is more common for teabags these days. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@Margaret_J]

Hold the summer in your heart Vanessa it will take us through the winter drifting ♥️ Those Shire & Clydesdale horses are fabulous aren't they? - and Stratford is just beautiful I have many happy memories from time there having lived in north Oxfordshire for 30 years This has been my sunny Friday afternoon joy Thank you 🌼🦋 Take care 🙏

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Margaret, I shall hold the summer in my heart- that is very good advice. The horses are so beautiful and gentle and it is great to know that they are so loved by everyone that meets them. I am so pleased that you could watch and remember you time in Stratford. Have a super weekend, thank you for your lovely comment. Take care🌻🦋

[@lorrainerichardson3280]

You are so right, family (furbabies included) is everything whether near or far away. =-)I love those horses, they are truly magnificent. Your season is drawing in towards Autumn and Winter whereas ours is opening with Spring and Summer around the corner which will be so appreciated after a tough Winter. Take care as always. =-)

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope you have a lovely spring and summer. The horses are magnificent aren't they? It was great meeting them. Thank you for your kind comment, Lorraine. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@darlene9154]

So pretty. Do you live on the boat full time?

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I do live on the boat full time. Thank you for your comment. Take care🌻🦋

[@helenedansereau9255]

I disagree with your assessment of the two-minute teasel. It"s beautiful. Sometimes, quick sketches can convey more than detailed drawings. I love hearing the kettle sing at this point on the vuideo and seeing what this week's sweet treat is. This gorgeous pie is mouth-watering. I always want to stop the image and make myself a cuppa before watching the rest. What a pleasant custom to have established in your series.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment. I think pausing the video and having a tea with me would be a lovely idea! Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@oldmanhuppiedos]

What a nice vlog, together with assume. How nice to take your daughter and enjoy the channels together. She is a beautiful woman who is also very social. I love horses, they are so social, just like a dog. Another loving vlog Vanessa, that makes me happy again.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Horses are very special creatures aren't they? Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@harris4018]

autumn does not start till the 21st of sep. don't wish your life away there is never enough of it

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Very true and very wise! Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@edwardhoughton2565]

Xx

[@peterjackson6547]

I have to ask......how did you acquire your encyclopedic knowledge of the flora and fauna?

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you for your lovely comment, Peter. As for my knowledge, I am learning as I go and I have many books and ID cards on the boat, plus I am always reading about flora and fauna. I am slightly obsessed with learning as much as I can. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@garyc1221]

Interested to know if you are staying on board for the winter.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Gary, yes we keep cruising and living on our boat in the winter and all year round. It becomes more challenging but it is very beautiful too. Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@garyc1221]

@@themindfulnarrowboat What would you say is the best way to stay warm? (This could be an episode).

[@laytonwhip]

I'm really curious! There are times when your narrowboat is pulling into a locke but you are up front. Who is driving in these shots? (Not just this video)

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I travel with my husband but he works in education and they have a strict code of conduct about social media so he can’t really be on the vlogs. Thank you for watching, take care🦋🌻

[@laytonwhip]

@@themindfulnarrowboat That's a very wise code!!

[@kimpunter5299]

How many of you are there on the boat. You refer to we. Is that you and Zephyr.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

There are 3 of us. My husband can't appear on the vlogs due to his work's code of conduct so that is why you don't see him. Thank you so much for watching and commenting, Kim. Take care🦋🌻

[@kimpunter5299]

@@themindfulnarrowboat oh, I see. Thanks. I really enjoy your channel, especially the ones around penkridge and gailey, very close to where I live.

[@TrogART]

Your tart looked great, not the best time to get the munches at a little after 11pm watching your vid, it's all your fault!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Oh no! I'm sorry about that, but I think a cup of tea always looks lonely without a cake companion! Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@johnmccann1960]

Morning Vanessa & India, another heart warming video from the lady with the voice as smooth and relaxing as Galaxy Chocolate. Lovely to see India again, you guys seem to have a close, lovely relationship. The Shire and Clydesdale Horses were magnificent, The Shire took me back to seeing the old Dray horses pulling the Dray full of beer barrels through the streets of Leeds when I was a lot younger than I am now lol. . . 7:39 - 7:42 Just made me laugh (thank you both) I love watching your vlogs Vanessa, They are fun, relaxed, informative and full of love for what you do. Keep doing what you're doing please. Have an awesome weekend Guys and stay safe.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What a wonderful memory of the Dray horses! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. I am lucky to have a daughter that I can also call my best friend. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@kdzmcwilliams]

What Zephier is thinking. 🤔 I sure do have a "vocal" human! 🦮

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I think you're right there! Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the week, take care🌻🦋