#169 Our NARROWBOAT Engine Goes Up in Smoke! Is This The End of Narrowboat Alice Grace?

In this vlog, we try to get to Wolverhampton, but our engine cuts out and smoke starts billowing out of the engine bay! The damage to the engine looks very worrying. Sit back, relax and enjoy some real narrowboat life- take care🦋🌻
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It's always lovely to hear from you and I will get back to you

[@rikkiharcourt3868]

What a stunning robin. He had plenty to say about your predicament. I do hope you get sorted without too much trouble and expense. I tip my hat to you, still making a vlog with such difficulties. A true professional.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

The robin was such a beautiful super star and it really lifted my spirits but unfortunately it doesn't know anything about narrowboat engines!😂 Thank you for your kind and lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@blackbob3358]

It could have been "a bird", mr H. Both sexes sing. The bods DO argue about " the size" of the red bit though, saying the chap has "a bigger one". I've no idea. What i do know is they'll kill each other to defend their territory.

[@rob3942]

Landscape, flora, fauna, poetry, art, history, videography all splendid. Engine not so much, but i1m glad it got fixed (I saw the fixing vid before i found this one) Top shelf all round Vanessa. Thank you Go well ok

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

The engine is much better now but has a bit of diesel bug that we are treating. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a fab Friday! Take care 🦋🌻

[@babs675]

As an expat, you give me my British countryside fix, that I really miss, here, in Alberta. Thank you❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoy the countryside views in the vlogs. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care🌻🦋

[@bassgirl4962]

Praise God for creating such beautiful birds!! Who ever serviced your engine didn’t check everything . So sorry for your troubles.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Absolutely!🕊️🦅🦆🦜🦢🐧🦤🐦🦩🦉🦃🪿🐦‍⬛🐤🥰 Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@yvonnekneeshaw2784]

Agree ❤

[@robertsanders3213]

​@Franky997 totally agree whilst servicing the engine helps prevent wear and engine damage unless the fault is there at time of service won't be detected any engine component can give up at any point probably just coincidence that it failed not long after service.

[@jackyteague6509]

Thank you Vanessa for still taking the time to record a beautiful vlog. Hope the engine can be fixed soon.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much, Jacky for your kindness- you are very welcome. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@francanorberti3359]

I love the way you are so observant and take the time to explain things to people with no experience of water canals.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you!. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@rogerturley]

Sorry about your engine troubles. I will say that this could be one of your very best poems. Thanks for sharing it with us. If you ever publish your notebook, we'll be some of the first in line to buy it. You're a very talented artist. Cheers from Liverpool.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Roger, thank you so much for your lovely comment, I hope we can get it all fixed too. I have my 2022 journal for sale in my Etsy shop normally, but I sold out last week so I am waiting for more to be printed- hopefully in the next couple of weeks, they will be back in stock. When I have finished this year's journal, I will print that too. I don't publish though as it is so expensive. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@obiblooze5902]

Lovely that you still captured the wildlife even with all the engine troubles. Hope you get it sorted x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment; I think concentrating on wildlife spotting helped me to stop worrying about the engine. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@AT-rs1oy]

Just found you for the first time. Needed something quiet and peaceful and your video was just the ticket very relaxing for the viewer despite your engine problems. Here’s hoping it’s an easy fix. Loved your poem.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Welcome to the channel and thank you so much for leaving such a lovely comment too. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@fionasaunders7646]

Delightful ! Hope your engine troubles are not serious.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Fiona! I hope the engine problems aren't too serious too🤞 Have a super Sunday and week ahead, take care🦋🌻

[@sandylerski9352]

Hi Vanessa your Scottish friend here. Just watched 169. Must have been a worry for you with your engine misbehaving. 😢

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Sandy, it is lovely to hear from you. It was a worry at the time, but it is all sorted now and working well. Thank you for your comment. Wrap up warm and stay safe in that Arctic blast. Take care🦋🌻

[@christinewalker5874]

Hi Vanessa gosh that was a worrying scenario to have to deal with, but with trusty Zephyr and yourselves I am sure it all came good in the end. Keep safe and warm xx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Chrisine, thank you so much for your lovely comment. We are still waiting for the repairs and we are hoping that the whole engine won't need replacing- 🤞🤞 Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@colwichjunction3366]

Glad you made it through Wolvo in one piece 🟠⚫️ Another lovely episode although fraught with mechanical problems…. Even in the centre of somewhere like Wolverhampton nature isn’t far away. Safe travels John b

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I thought Wolverhampton was such a great stop. Thank you so much for watching. Take care🌻🦋

[@paulmclaine6413]

People always tell me when things go wrong that everything will be alright. Giving the engineer a cuppa Tea might help him concentrate. Regardless of your problems you still gave us a great video Vanessa. I admire your spirit and know when trouble crops up you will still have a lovely smile for everyone who Loves you. Apparently , everything will be alright. :)

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your kind wishes- that is so kind of you. Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@johnallen148]

Hi Vanessa,sorry to say the engineer told you wrong you should not have run it until it was cold the more you run it the more damage you will have done it’s possible you could have cracked the block not just a head casket but the head will need planing,some beautiful birds and wild life ,hope all goes well 🫢🫣🤭🌹🧑‍🦽

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi John, thank you so much for your advice; we'll have to see how it all pans out- hopefully, we can get it fully fixed. 🤞 Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@piratescoron]

Even if the block and head is not damaged the oil will be burnt and to keep running an over heating engine will have possible put massive amounts of wear on all the bearings and shorterned the life of the engine

[@MrDeksey71]

I do hope you're engine is OK. Add just love watching hi do like Nature

[@FlyFree2023]

Yet again a beautiful reminder of what we all should enjoy in a world sadly in turmoil. Excellent editing and of course your poetry and diary art is unsurpassed in my view.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you- thank you so much! I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the vlog. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@FlyFree2023]

@@themindfulnarrowboat Have I missed any Christmas merchandise? My friends would so much enjoy your artistic content in a card or such?

[@hamshackleton]

I hope your engine repairs don't hurt your bank balance too much! Mechanics are never cheap! (and the cheap ones aren't mechanics!)

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Brilliant advice!😂👍 I hope it doesn't break the bank balance too but now I hope that it isn't too cheap either! Thank you so much for watching and commenting. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@bobnmarewilcox4855]

Sorry to see your difficulty but happy to watch your positive response. This event will be in your wake,soon we hope, as you continue moving forward. Thanks again and best regards.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Bob, I hope you're right and we can get to the bottom of this engine issue. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@pancrazioaquilina7029]

I am so saddened by what happened ' life is more worth than the problems we face, so enjoy life to the full other problems will take care for themselfves . Thank you for still manage to make the video

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What great advice and so true too! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@michaelpilling9659]

Hello Vanessa - greetings from Poland. I'm so sorry for you with the engine breakdown. I trust it's fixed by now and everything is back to normal. A beautiful cruise through an autmnal scene. The squirrel, robin heron and jumping fish stand out. The memories your journal brings back are suoerb. All the places we've been and all the different things we've seen. A gorgeous video this week. Beautifully photographed with a wonderful commentary to go with it.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Michael, I hope that you are well? We are still waiting for the spare parts to arrive, but we don't really know why it happened which is still a bit of a worry; however we can use the boat which is the main thing. Thank you so much for such kind and lovely words too. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@sheilajoseph9953]

What a concern, smoking engine, i do hope you resolve the problem without too much expence. You managed to plough through at snails pace, taking in the beauty along the way and delivering the joy. That's why i love your channel. 💚

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Sheila, I really appreciate your kind and thoughtful words- thank you so much. I hope we can get Alice Grace up and running as normal again too. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@jimm7165]

I cant wait to see the next few engine videos. I'm guessing the head is coming off and at least a new bolt and head gasket. Hopefully they'll check for flatness before reassembly.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Ah, you sound like you know your engines well? I wish I did! Thank you for watching and commenting. Take care🦋🌻

[@chrishobbs58]

Hello again! While I enjoyed the scenery and commentary as usual, I can't help being concerned about Alice Grace. That engine trouble had to take away some of your enjoyment of what otherwise would be a beautiful and mindful cruise. Sounds like you could use a coffee, so enjoy one on me! Best wishes, as always. And finger crossed for Alice Grace as well!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Chris, it's just one of those things we boats and our Alice isn't young anymore. Please don't be concerned as I'm sure it will all work out in the end. Thank you so much for buying me a coffee- that is so kind of you. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@julianchambers8372]

Hi. Looks like your head gasket has blown. Just a tip, if you release or leave off your coolant cap and let the air out while running it may help while in this condition. However be sure to keep checking the level and top up as required. Head gasket is not too bigger job if all else is ok. The engine was probably over worked with the prop being fowled. Hope it gets sorted and not too expensive. I

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much of this advice- that's a really useful tip. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@Pamelasue414]

Beautiful diary you have created. You are so talented !!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such a kind comment- thank you so much. It is my special time of the week, each week, when I sit down and fill in my diary. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@anthonypope8429]

There is some very nice birds going down the canal I am a big bird fan I use to breed birds and show them hope you got Alice grey back to full health

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

The bird life along the canals and rivers is so varied. Thank you so much for watching. Take care🦋🌻

[@vanessascola4708]

Why are people so careless with all the trash in the water that caused issues for your engine. Always a treat.

[@garyclifton2180]

Still catching up amazing sounds beautiful bird life it's sad life is so fast we really don't no what's in our own garden so thank you for showing us what is around us x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Life does move quickly doesn't it? That's why, I like to go looking for wildlife because for that short amount of time, everything seems to slow down a bit.Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the week, take care🌻🦋

[@garyclifton2180]

@@themindfulnarrowboat it's a pleasure I used to do lots of walk taking pictures till 20 19 when I found out I had cancer I'm now cancer free but it leaves me with other problems sadly x

[@MarcelEling]

Thnx for sharing again and I hope it can be easily repaired. It is not stuck, thats okay😅

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your kind thoughts, hopefully it's a simple problem🤞 Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@richardterry9788]

Enjoyed again Vanessa. Glad you had the murmuration. Also hope you get engine fixed xx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope we can get our engine fixed too, Richard. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@aliasdeputydog]

@The Mindful Narrowboat. Very interesting journey along the old Curley Wurley canal as it was known to the Boatmen and locals, I was one of them 70 yrs ago (Wyrley is pronounced Wurley). I lived a stones-throw away from the canal and as kids we used to swim and fish in it. Watching your trip I can`t believe how different it looks now, what was once whole areas of crop growing fields now Industrialized and housing. I see the `cut` is pretty shallow, it was never more than 5ft deep even when the laden coal-boats used it in the 50`s and they used to ground out occasionally, I was pretty tall as a kid and I could wade across the cut from one side to the other with the water just about touching my chin. Thank you for that blast from the past and I hope you get your boat fixed soon.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Oh what beautiful memories you shared- thank you so much! It made me smile to think of the freedom of it all, wading across the canal like that. Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@annjarvis9300]

Luved the robin so sorry for your troubles do hope it gets fixed very soon thinking of you theoldies 🤗🤗

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

The robin was so tame and delightful and really lifted my spirits, Ann- they are such amazing birds. Thank you so much for your kind wishes, let's hope we get it all fixed🤞 Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@chrisabbott7458]

That shot of the squirrel eating what looked very much like a crab apple was superb.Hope you get the engine fixed and please let us know the cause of the problem especially as I have the same engine as you but an earlier version.A word of advice, I'm not lecturing,put your RCR payment on to a direct debit, it's definitely worth it.Hope your week goes well.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Chris, thank you so much for your lovely comment and you are not lecturing at all, just offering some very sensible advice- thank you. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@NarrowboatWill]

i'm heading up your way so i might bump into you. Sounds like your engine will need a strip down and new head gasket and a head skim with the head being rebulit etc. lot of work i'm afraid. You do get some lovely shots Mrs mindful.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It'll be great to see you again, Will! The engine work that you are describing sounds terrifying- oh my poor Alice Grace!😳😱 I hope she is firing on all cylinders again soon. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Safe cruising- take care🦋🌻

[@Happy7102]

hope your engine can be fixed will miss tour great artwork

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Our engine fix is taking longer than we expected. Have a super rest of the week, take care🌻🦋

[@damianbutterworth2434]

Leave the coolant cap off to stop pressure blowing water into the cylinders. It helps sometimes to get you home. It might just need the head skimming. Quite cheap if you take the head off yourself.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Damian, thank you so much for this advice- that is so kind of you! Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@jamescunningham1973]

Youre a brilliant artist,good luck with the engine

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such a kind comment. I have worked really hard to improve my drawing- if you look back on the old drawings, hopefully you'll see some improvement, but there is still a long way to go. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@jamescunningham1973]

@@themindfulnarrowboat Have a great weekend also,keep smiling

[@brain8484]

The ending of the video was superb , the poem discribing the days events and how you blended the engine in with nature around you . First class top of the class gold star .

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoyed the poem as even though the experience wasn't pleasant, somehow writing it as a poem made the whole thing seem less awful! Thank you so much for your kindness. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@lydialen6881]

Lovely vlog as usual Vanessa Things are definitely winding down now. I hope storm Ciarán didn't give you too many problems. Have a good week ahead. Xx❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Lydia, we escaped the worst of the storm here, but I hope you were ok where you were? Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@jhbuller]

Vanessa, your vLog narratives, your cinematography, your prose, your poetry, your sketches ..... are all a reflection of your beauty! THANK YOU for sharing your many gifts with us! ~~~~~~ Joe B - Walnut Creek, California

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@clarem2772]

I love the drawing of the Robin, think it's the best ever.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much! I loved drawing it. Have a super week, take care 🌻🦋

[@cgwaltersmusic]

Thank you for this video and the visits through my home town The Potteries , thank you love your videos and you artwork is exceptional

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you. I am so pleased that you are enjoying the videos.Thank you for your lovely comment- have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@TrevsTravelsByNarrowboat]

I hope you are all fixed now. I might have missed a few seconds, as I had my kettle on whilst watching and the whistle on your kettle went off and I got up to go to my kettle to find it was not yet boiling.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Trev, we are still waiting to have it fixed but we can run the engine and move slowly which is such a relief! How funny that you thought my kettle was yours🤣 Thank you so watching and commenting. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@jacquelineryde7339]

Wow beautiful canal but I do hope the engine gets sorted, a scary moment. Thank you so much for the stunning journal. I feel privileged to have it ❤❤❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Jacqueline, thank you so much for your kind comment. I am so pleased that you like the journal too. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@theneen3110]

Amazing shot of that stunning Kingfisher x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much! It was very kind of the kingfisher to wait for me to film it wasn't it? 😄Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@paulmaryon9088]

Lovely poem, sorry for all your troubles there, hope you're all sorted now, take care and be lucky, thanks for another wonderful video

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoyed the poem, Paul- thank you so much for your kind comment. Fingers crossed, we will have Alice Grace up and running like she was before!🤞 Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@1888starz]

Although I love all the birds the robins and swans have always had a special place in my heart. You're such a good sport when it comes to challenges, with your ever present positive attitude. Just knowing there's a robin in this journal makes me smile from cheek to check, can't wait till I have this in my home (and in a treasured spot).

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I know what you mean about robins and swans. The female swan gets me every time the way she sits on her nest, slowly wasting away and hardly ever leaving until her eggs are hatched; what a dedicated bird she is! Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care🦋🌻

[@suedale1865]

Oh how frustrating not to have renewed the canal rescue “Murphy’s Law “ Hopefully you will get sorted soon 👍 I’ve had a week when a new hand held Gtech wouldn’t charge battery😤 my hairdryer button wouldn’t switch off 😤& to top it off I have developed a stinking head cold last 2 days been horrid ( I suffer Bronchiectasis ( bronchial cough ) & can’t remember suffering a cold virus first day was storm Ciaran tucked up warm & dry was not a issue 🤣😂 today glorious autumn & not well enough to venture out 🤞 hope the 3 day to get 3 day you have 3 day to recover is true👍

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Oh Sue, that is a terrible week- I hope you mend quickly so you can venture outside again with your doggies. Let's hope for a better week next week🤞 Get well soon, take care🌻🦋

[@vanessascola4708]

So stressful that must have been for you. How unlucky when your engine was serviced recently. What a nightmare. And all that premium you had to pay. Crazy time. Your wood burner looks very cosy. Stay warm and no more issues for you I trust. Take care

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

🤞 I hope you are right and there are no more issues. Thank you for your kindness- take care🌻🦋

[@petermiller7028]

I agree with those who suggest your engine problem is a warped head and blown head gasket...these things happen....the palm tree at the start of the vlog is a New Zealand native cabbage tree, a member of the Lilly family...

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Peter, thank you so much for your advice! Someone else commented about the cabbage tree which is amazing- I hadn't heard of this tree before and now I am excited to read up on it.🤩 Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@anfieldroadlayoutintheloft5204]

good vid on cut hope fix the boat thanks lee

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Lee, thank you so much for your kind comment. I hope we can get it all fixed too. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@joscelyneorr5659]

Hello Vanessa This is first time I have viewed your vlog! So impressed with your photography, poem's and art diary. I have just bought a 20' sea otter and had battery issue's, ironically after replacing the old ones. Luckily didn’t explode and cause a fire. All is singing and working well now. Hope to meet you on the canal one day. Currently moored at Braunston Marina - looking forward to next Spring to head to Worcester. Robin's are heaven sent so all will be well God bless!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Welcome to the channel, Joscelyn, thank you so much for your lovely comment too! I am glad to hear that your sea otter is working well now and I will look out for you on the cut. Have a super Sunday and week ahead, take care🌻🦋

[@lucyelton7139]

Thank you for taking time out to do your vlog after the awful engine cut out. Keep safe. xxx P.S Amazing photography and poems. xxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Lucy- that is such a kind and thoughtful comment- thank you so much and you are very welcome too. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@nigelgregory7308]

Hi Vanessa sorry to hear of your troubles, my name is Nige, I've been a motor engineer for over forty years, your problem, I'm thinking head gasket, is not uncommon and there is nothing you or anyone could have done to stop it, I've been following a few boaters recently, I know I'm weird 🤣🤣, honestly I'm thinking of getting a boat in a few years so trying to get an insight on canal life, looking forward to seeing more of your travels 👍👍

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Nige, I think the fact that you are an engineer will come in very, very handy when you get a boat! I will do an engine update in Friday's vlog- thank you so much for your expert advice too. Have a super rest of the week, take care🌻🦋

[@nigelgregory7308]

@@themindfulnarrowboat ,HI Vanessa I know I can't do anything for you at the moment, but ask you now, and I've asked some other boaters, would you be interested in a mobile boat service, I've over forty years In motor vehicle, truck and plant just need to get myself up to speed with marine, I would be on the canals permanently, just wondering if this service would interest you, ps ,not looking to be rich, just pay the bills, I have no dependants so would really like to keep in contact, hope you get the boat sorted, the report would be interesting, and looking forward to seeing more of your travels 👍👍❤️

[@nigelgregory7308]

If you are struggling, talk to me, just to you know how feel about your way of life, I hate neighbours, I don't know you, but I'd your sort your engine tomorrow, because I now know that the canal people would look after each other ❤️❤️❤️

[@davidsalter9592]

Nice, really nice. Thanks.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much, David- that is so kind of you. Have a super Sunday and week ahead, take care 🌻🦋

[@shirleygreaves9650]

I hope your engine troubles are well and truly over now. I also hope that storm Caron didn’t cause you any trouble! We’ve had a lot of rain and floods where we live and where we moor our boat! It seems like it’s going to be a very wet winter. You managed to find nature and beauty even in the urban areas that you cruised through. I’m in awe of your kingfisher shots, I only ever seen to get a flash of blue, I’ve never managed to film or photograph one. That Robin was very chatty, I loved your drawing of him. Take care you three, and fingers crossed that your engine troubles are now over! Lots of love. xxxxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Shirley, I really hope your boat is ok and the area is able to cope with the heavy rain that we have got this weekend. Stay safe and dry x Thank you so much for your lovely comment. We are still awaiting repair on Alice, but we can move her slowly and cautiously. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@michaelhiggins7365]

I'm so sorry Vanessa to hear of your engine trouble. I do hope you can get a qualified Engineer to repair it for you at hopefully, not too great an expense. Of course one benefit of these curve balls life throws at us from time to time, is it truly nudges us to have a greater appreciation and thankfulness for all those things which are going right in out lives. I have to say, the Kingfisher's bright colors were in full bloom, what showy birds they are. The Robin was stunning as well and made such a wonderful subject in this weeks sketch. May God bless you in all your endeavors Vanessa, and may your boat be a home overflowing with health, happiness and joy.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Michael, that is so true about appreciating the things around you when something goes wrong. I hope that we can fix Alice back to new again, but it could have been a lot worse. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@petermastenbroek7719]

With a bit of luck your engine problems belong to the past by now, it was obviously a blown cylinderhead gasket, which isn't a massive job if the head was still flat and didn't need machining, as long as all of the cylinderhead bolts were changed, it's not very likely that this problem will come back soon. One very important thing to regulary verify is the cooling water inlet, as with all the muck in the canals it will easily get blocked, and causes the engine to overheat again. Your drawings are absolutely gorgeous, and your handwriting is very nice too. Good luck and happy cruising.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your kind words and your advice. We are still waiting for the repairs but we can move the boat and charge up the engine which is such a relief! Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@guygfm4243]

Thank you just lovely

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

You are very welcome! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@sandyprosser805]

Oh Vanessa what a dilemma I hope it’s not the end of Alice grace I would be heartbroken your videos keep me sane, I look forward to them ever week, just love everything about what you do. Hope you have managed to repair her, have a better week 😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Sandy, thank you so much for your lovely comment. Please don’t worry as I’m sure we’ll get Alice Grace back to her normal self again. Have a super week, take care 🌻🦋

[@Red-ns9ny]

Just exquisite ❤😊 thank you have a lovely wknd ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for such a kind comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@sheilawright4185]

The headline had me worried, hope you get her fixed. Worried from Spain. Xxx😢

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Sheila, please don't worry, I'm sure that it will all work out in the end. Have a super time in Spain- take care🌻🦋

[@andywilliams3312]

Good luck with the fix 👍

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@markd3250]

Glad you weren't stranded. At the end of the video, as you turned the pages of your journal, it was fun to see each page and remember the episode it represented. I like the format of your videos. It's like watching a living diary, a kind of day-in-the-life experience, yet they all seam together as one continuous tapestry. The music for this episode was exceptional as well. Thank you for making these and sharing them with us!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoy the format of the video, Mark and that you like to see the journal unfolding. It is so special for me to know that it is being well received. Thank you so much for your kindness. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@NUTTER8291]

What a beautiful book of drawings and poetry

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much- that is so kind of you! Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@petemoring67]

Rotten Luck with Alice Grace 😞 ... But some Exceptional Video/camera work going on from start to finish .. That Robin Singing and the CLARITY of the Kingfisher?? .... Brilliant!! ..... Hope you got the 'Steamy-System' sorted ... It takes an awful LOT to finish off those trusty diesel engines 🤠

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Pete, what a kind and lovely comment- thank you so much! I hope you're right about the trusty diesel engines!🤞 Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@jamescook8897]

Hope everything is OK with Alice Grace soon im finally all upto date 169 vlogs in just over a week big love jimmy

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

🏆 That is an incredible achievement! You must be sick of me🤣 Thank you so much for watching all of the vlogs. Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@oldmanhuppiedos]

Hi Vanessa, You are counted as you pass by. It is understandable that you do not feel safe if the engine starts to smoke. It is very nice that it has been resolved properly. And there is always a robin to cheer you up.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Yes, it seems that we are being counted as we pass by- it's all very high tech now on the canal system! 😄 Thank you so much for your kind words and let's hope that we can get our engine up and running as normal again🤞 Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@thehealthjunkie8996]

wow beautiful footage Vanessa. Well done on making it to Wolverhampton. I do hope the engine has been sorted. Certainly agree with the other viewer a true professional on video whilst having issues xx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your kindness; we are still waiting for the parts to arrive to have it fixed but if we go slowly and cautiously, we can still move the boat which is such a relief. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@martinhowe1422]

Good luck all of you. I look forward to positive news next Friday XXX

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your kind words, Martin! Let's hope we get it all fixed soon. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@helenedansereau9255]

So sorry about your troubles. You even had to have your tea without the usual treat. No time to bake, for sure. I always look forward to what you’ll pair with your cup of tea for inspiration. Hopefully next week...

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Helen, thank you so much for your kind wishes. I was disappointed to not have a sweet treat with my tea too! I'll make sure that I don't do that again!😂 Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@kaycee625]

That was a stressful time for you. Hope all is fixed and you can carry on with your journey.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Karen, it was stressful but at least we knew that we could run the engine to charge up the batteries which is so important for us. Hopefully, we'll get Alice Grace back to her normal self again soon. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super Sunday and week ahead, take care🦋🌻

[@mikerichardson9825]

You need better engine alarms look into a set of ‘MURPHY’ gauges oil pres water temp they never fail you I have used them over fifty years love your show

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is a super tip, Mike- I will look into them as I have never heard of them before. Thank you so much. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@pilpelet100]

You're amazing! You must be so worried about the engine, yet you still take the trouble to show us the beautiful wildlife and write in your journal (that robin is wonderful!). Thanks so much. I hope that your engine gets repaired quickly and with too much monetary outlay!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I think filming it all, helped me to stop worrying about it, Ruth. Thank you so much for your kind comment.Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@christineprice5463]

Beautiful video and beautiful poem! I love it. Have a wonderful weekend, Vanessa!!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Christine, that is so kind of you- thank you so much. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@grol094]

I love your photography and art and story journal and nature focus. So lovely

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so, so much- that is such a kind and lovely comment.☺️ Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@josephpotterf9459]

Thanks sweet girl another well made vlog

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your kindness. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@debh4190]

Another heron of your very own! Hope the engine gets fixed swiftly and without too much hassle.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

We seem to be very lucky with the herons here at the moment. Thank you so much for your kind wishes. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@otter736]

Magnificent video ….again !!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@emeraldphoenix9229]

Beautiful Robin drawing & him/herself too & such sweet notes. Wonderful poem & filming as always. Lovely graceful uplifting views , words & content. Such a stressful time for you, I hope the engine is ok & will be fine with a bit of love & attention.. Im sure it will be ; those diesels are tough & built to stand a lot of work & hard going. Blessings of peace & happyness plus Alice Grace running smoothly again & all the help you require for this to be

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Blessings and peace to you too! Thank you so much for your kind wishes. Hopefully, we can get Alice Grace back to her normal self again🤞 Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@emeraldphoenix9229]

You too & thankyou,, & you will of course get her back in tip top running condition, dont worry ( easier said than done I know!)@@themindfulnarrowboat

[@TheJessierb]

Good on your for keeping up the videoing even in the midst of engine alarm. Loved the cheerful robin song. Hope the repairs go well and you can keep on chugging! xxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

When I'm filming it sort of takes my mind away from the worry of the actual situation as I am remembering to capture as much as I can- I suppose that's the beauty of vlogging! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@dremein]

I hope all turns out ok with your engine and the expense to get it right isn't too bad. I always look forward to your vlogs, they're so beautiful and uplifting.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you find the vlogs beautiful and uplifting that is such a wonderful compliment and it makes me feel so happy to know that. Hopefully, we'll get Alice Grace back to her normal self again.🤞 Thank you for your kindness. Have a super Sunday and rest of the week, ahead- take care🌻🦋

[@deborah85728]

They say trials are sent to make us strong but they sure can get us down as well 🥹 Holding both thumbs for a good outcome and at least your surroundings are beautiful while you wait 🫶🙏🇿🇦

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Deborah, we are still waiting for the parts and an engineer to come, but we have been able to run the engine and move, slowly which is such a relief so we are counting our blessings. Thank you so much for your kindness too. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@MarionThompson-u9u]

I’m watching backward in time, catching up. I love your conversations with Zephyr and her expressions.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Zephyr has a whole catalog of expressions which really make me chuckle! Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care🦋🌻

[@amos686]

Lovely to meet you and your dog a little earlier. Looking forward to catching up on your vlogs! Andy.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Andy, it was great to meet you and Charlie too. I hope you get your dream of living on a narrowboat one day. Thank you so much for subscribing to the channel! Take care🦋🌻

[@robinwatts7079]

Sorry to see you having problems. That broken head bolt is unusual, but will be the cause of the head gasket failing and overheating. The temperature gauge quite often will stop working when you’ve lost the coolant as this is what it reads. Hopefully you’ll be soon back on the cut. really enjoy your Vlogs and your country knowledge.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Robin, thank you so much for this advice-👍 I hope it gets sorted soon too🤞 Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@jamescook8897]

No not sick of you at all i think your amazing and very beautiful in a dress your drawings woah and your poems absolutely fantastic dont give up even when you cant do it anymore sure all you have to do is ask if you need help and somebody will on the canals big love and you make the sunshine come out ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is very kind of you, thank you. I am so pleased that you are enjoying the vlogs. Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@anniemac3075]

Lovely footage as always, hope the engine is fixable cheaply.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope so too, Annie, but even though it was a stressful situation, the deodorant held up well!😄 Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@anniemac3075]

@@themindfulnarrowboat Haha, that's one good thing anyway!! Have a good weekend. X

[@JRattheranch]

Beautiful wildlife photography! Very impressed with so many beautiful camera shots! ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@AndrewBroadbent-dr8wb]

Loved the colours and the birdlife. Sorry about your engine, hope it doesn't take long to sort out. Thank you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much, Andrew. I hope it gets fixed soon too. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@KG-ui7ji]

I was so glad you drew the robin, my favourite, just stunning. I am bing watching your vlogs from NZ. Christmas 2023. Too hot to do anything else during the day. 😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope you had a good Christmas and you managed to stay cool. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. I love robins too as they always manage to make me smile. Happy New Year! 🥳🌻🦋

[@mikehurley5052]

Always downsides to life, deal with it and move on, have a great weekend.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Great advice, thank you so much, Mike. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@PickingPaul1]

What a lovely robin you drew Vanessa, beautiful bird. Hope you don’t get anymore engine trouble, but at least you use it and see the network, things like this are bound to happen , shame you didn’t get round to renting your rescue, I bet you do it on the first day next year

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

We will definitely renew our RCR licence right away next time! Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Paul. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@garyp8471]

Hopefully your engine is fixed once again, nothing too drastic and costly we hope, amazing colours on the banks, love this time of year when the trees turn, anyway fingers crossed all's good for you both once again. All the best Gary n Irene

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hello Gary and Irene, we are still waiting for parts to arrive, but hopefully it will all be up and running again soon🤞🤞🤞🤞 Thank you for your concern. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@paulplant6486]

Poor old Alice gray hope you get her fixed

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope we can get her fixed and back to normal too.🤞 Thank you so much for your kind comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@philnasmith9755]

Beautiful photo shots throughout 🏞️

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much, Phil that is so kind of you. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@Terryb31]

Good luck with your engine Vanessa, It looks very much like my engine, a Mitsubishi S4L2 model, I believe Vetus use them. If it may be of any consolation, mine has overheated 3 times in 8 years, but after having the head ground flat again, it has proved to be very reliable again. Sadly, it did cost me 3 weeks and a few hundred quid, even then I did most of the work myself. I hope it all works out OK for you. If it's any help at all, at he bottom the 21 locks about a mile up the Stafford and Worcester is a nice repair shop Oxley Marine services, they will do a good job for you. All the best. X

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Terry, yes our engine is a Vetus engine. It seems from what you are saying that overheating might be a weakness there, that we'll have to keep an eye on but you have given me encouragement in knowing that you've got your fixed. Thank you so much for your lovely comment and advice too. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@trevorsurplice9630]

I would take my hat off to you for a vlog lick this while a stress full time.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you but I think putting it together took my mind off the issue. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@tessapetters3936]

Poor Alice Grace, i hope you get her fixed soon. Loved the Autumn coloured trees too, so beautiful.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope so too, Tessa 🤞 Thank you so much for your kind comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@StevesRepairs]

Thanks Vanessa for taking us along on this lovely autumnal cruise with brilliant views of all the birds and wildlife. It's a shame about the engine overheating but I hope that you have had it repaired and going smoothly again. As always your journal was beautiful, I hope that you three are doing well after these trying times. Have a lovely weekend. Take care and all the best. Stevie

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Stevie, thank you so much for your kind words. We are still waiting to have it fixed but we can move the boat which is a relief. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋