#173

In this vlog, my narrowboat repairs continue and I am invited via Zoom, to attend a meeting at Westminster about HVO fuel. What is discussed during this debate, makes me really concerned about using diesel in my tank. Has FAME diesel wrecked my engine?!? I also find out exactly why it is that I haven't been able to buy HVO anymore. Sit back, relax and enjoy. Take care🦋🌻
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It's always lovely to hear from you and I will get back to you

[@markd3250]

Your channel isn't really just a narrowboat channel. It's a combination narrowboat life, nature chronicle, wildlife documentary, poetry reading, sketch artist... and all done with a kind, polite narration along with a bit of adventure. And now we can add eco warrior! Well done Vanessa, well done.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such a kind comment, Mark and I really appreciate it- thank you so much. I am so pleased that you enjoy the content. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@ladyconstanceOBE]

I recently lost my wife also called Vanessa. I think your videos are wonderful and help to ease my sadness.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so sad to hear about the loss of your wife, that is so heartbreaking; my thoughts are with you x Thank you so much for still finding the time to make such a lovely comment. Take care🦋🌻🕊️

[@mastercraft5798]

So sorry for your loss. Trust in the fact that time will ease the pain and help heal the wound. You're in the right place for solace... I found it here.

[@ladyconstanceOBE]

​ Thank you so much. ❤

[@bunkosquad2000]

Vanessa and Zephyr are calming Spirits. Her channel puts me in a good mood. My condolences. Losing someone so close has to be something that grabs your soul and shakes it to the core. Live as your Vanessa would want you to live.

[@ladyconstanceOBE]

Thank you for all your kind thoughts. ❤

[@justacoustic1]

You summed it up perfectly with '' Let's us not fade from life's fight'' Perhaps we all need to appreciate what we risk losing ? Loved the video.......thanks

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoyed the vlog- thank you so much for your lovely comment too. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@andrewdolinskiatcarpathian]

Well done Phil on repairing the “messed up” engine .👏👏 Also good luck Vanessa with your quest to get HVO readily available AND at a sensible price on the UK waterways.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you for watching the engine story unravel itself. Phil was the hero of the day wasn't he? Take care🌻🦋

[@sianwarwick633]

Excellent présentation of your question, and the issues of making the HVO second-generation oil accessible and affordable to boaters and others.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

He did an amazing job and it sounds so much better now. Thank you so much, Sian- you sound like you really know your stuff. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@sianwarwick633]

I really know nothing. ❤. And it's all too easy to throw out advice when I'm only looking at it.... Take care of yourself

[@Jason-cj3ih]

You couldn't have broke down and ended up with a more capable guy to fix your engine ! I stopped there once for supplies and I've recommended them ever since for everything just because I had such a good laugh with his humour ... great character .. U too 😇 Iv e put two electric outboards propelling my 53ft narrowboat, though only one is required in use at a time ... I can cruise 1.7mph all day just off solar on a sunny day ..( fast enough for me ) The whole set up cost me just under 1200 pound . The only drawback is that I can no longer say to tow path walkers ' can't hear you for the engine ' lol .. Love that part of the network ! Nice vlog Safe journey 😏

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Jason, you are so right about, Phil! I love the fact that you have created an electrical system like that for your 53ft narrowboat. Do you go on the rivers with it too? Thank you so much for your great comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@Jason-cj3ih]

@@themindfulnarrowboat no rivers with this system, I'd have to change it to a hybrid which id rather not do . Iv e travelled enough rivers in my time ! Now positioned myself permanently on the west side of the network where there's less rivers still have hundreds of beautiful miles to explore 💛

[@gerardosullivan1642]

Record the sound of the engine once a week. So you will have a base sound to work from and spot any changes in sound of the engine as time goes on.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What a clever idea, I have never thought of doing that, but I will from now on. Thank you so much for your comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@TraceUK]

That’s genius….

[@user-zy8uy7ht5w]

So glad to see you fighting for the canals. You might want to look at Houston TX and their use of the city's restuarant oil collection service that is used to power the city buses. They have been using it for many years. Just a thought. Love your channel So calming, funny, and human.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment and super tip about checking out Houston TX's use of veg oil. I'll read about that.👍 Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@johngibson3837]

Can buy bio veg oil in uk

[@tonycarter3756]

Good of you to use your rights as a British subject to pursue the question of fuel -intelligence over adversity 👍Engine sounds a lot better.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Tony, thank you so much for your comment. The engine definitely sounds much, much better which is such a relief. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@mattgoodchild8215]

Bloomin ek Vanessa what a vlog Firstly you are so polite and nice especially to those fishermen I’m an avid fisherman too And even with all your engine problems you still managed a laugh Also thank you for getting involved with the political side of boating Our future is all a bit cloudy and very worrying tbh at least you’ve put my mind at rest with the fuel for my thirty odd year old boat at least for now thank you for that xxx Ps haven’t seen a tree creeper for 20 years thank you so much Here’s to all things boaty 🍺🍺

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such a kind and lovely comment- thank you so much, Matt☺️ Your thirty year old boat is going to be just fine- don't worry. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@fosterkennel649]

So happy that you've got a beautiful engine working again.. Diesel engines were invented in Germany originally to run on vegetable oil.. blessings

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so interesting, I didn't know that. It makes it so much sense though. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@robinhall3347]

Gosh I thought that was common knowledge - yes, it was to use up old cooking oil I think@@themindfulnarrowboat

[@snowflakemelter1172]

​@@robinhall3347it wasn't anything to do with cooking oil.

[@wiliammound7942]

Herr Diesel intended his engine to run on coal dust.

[@InArcadiaSum]

One original design for a compression ignition engine had pulverised coal injection.

[@alibenkahn5092]

It took me a little bit of time to realise that what you in England call engineers we in Australia call mechanics. An engineer here is something different i.e. they're the ones who design bridges, buildings etc (along with architects ) to ensure all the loads etc are appropriate. They are related fields of course, but mechanics are the people who fix your vehicles, boats and so on.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It's the same here too, but as Phil was a master with the engine, I called him an engineer, but many would also call him a mechanic. Thank you for watching and commenting. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@johngibson3837]

Hey up ozi mate and aye I end up living in uk now and so struggle with that wot you said, over hear a mechanic is a motor technician Which now means a parts changer, in the last 30 years over this way it seems a

[@johngibson3837]

Iit seems a mechanic is called a grease monkey and if some idiot that know shit thinks something ov ya you are then an engineer, very strange but you are supposed to remember the Pomy stiff upper lip, nice call thanks mate

[@alibenkahn5092]

They are never called grease monkeys in Australia or I've never heard them called that. I think it's an American term.

[@lorrainerichardson3280]

"Red tape" is the stickiest non bending/ stretching tape around. Watch the old TV programme "Yes minister" it shows perfectly how legalities work I'm afraid. Glad you are chugging along again, take care =-).

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Oh you are so right about that "Red Tape!" Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Lorraine. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@helenedansereau9255]

So many beautiful birds... and what a gorgeous drawing of the pheasant! The fall colours seem to go on forever this year, bringing such beautiful light on the waterways. Thank you for my weekly fix.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your kind and lovely comment. I really appreciate it. The colours are beautiful in the low light this time of year; it really warms the soul. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@SilverBirch007]

@@themindfulnarrowboat Pheasants live on average 1-3 years,due to hunting etc...There is one in captivity that is 18 years old

[@obiblooze5902]

Your wildlife photography is beautiful, pheasants are so pretty. So sad that they live for less than a year. Thanks you for another lovely vlog x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@rob3942]

As usual the landscape, flora, fauna, poetry, art, history, videography are all excellent. Very glad the engine got fixed and most interesting about the fuels, and your involvement in advocating for solutions and progress on the matter. Gonya. Top job all round Vanessa. Thank you Go well ok

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It would be great if I could buy HVO as it is such a good fuel. Thank you for watching and commenting, Rob. Take care 🌻🦋

[@petersauer94]

From Melbourne Australia,Love your KZbin channel, have just gotten into it in the last month and now catching up on the previous episodes, looking forward to further videos 😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope you're having a good summer out there? Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the week, take care🌻🦋

[@richardterry9788]

Very watchable vlog again. You never fail to touch my interest in all you do xx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so lovely to know. Thank you so much, Richard. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@Pmarzee]

Ps great drawing of a Pheasant, there are now many KZbin canal boaters but you do have a way of making everything interesting and not just about boating again your knowledge on wildlife is inspiring ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you- thank you so much, I really appreciate it. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@shamanicwillow]

I love your Journal...how beautiful, it captures your journey 🌳🌿

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@paulmaryon9088]

What a lovely , interesting and informative video, as always thank you, hope all your engine troubles are now sorted. Stay safe and warm, and have a great weekend

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoyed it. Stay safe and warm too. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@jacquelineryde7339]

Wow you amazing lady that was fantastic well done and super helpful. I am thrilled you time and hard work got recognised and questions were raised. A huge thank you ❤❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such a kind comment, Jacqueline- thank you so much. The Inland Waterways are working really hard trying to get the legislation changed and I will keep pushing for as long as it takes to support them with that too. Why a fuel that is better for the engine and the environment as well as our own health is not available and affordable is crazy. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@neilpaulin8624]

Good to see , you are back out on your travels . Hopefully happy days ahead.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Oh it is so lovely to be back travelling! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@bobnmarewilcox4855]

So well done again. Thank you for thoughts on alternative fules.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for watching and for your lovely comment too. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@andreaamer1183]

Well spoken and excellent questions asked...keep asking Vanessa xx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much. It makes so much sense to me to make good of a canal problem(canal weed) to solve a fuel problem but changing legislation is only going to happen if those in power see the benefits in it. Have a super Sunday and week ahead, take care🦋🌻

[@orchidhouse297]

So relieved about the engine. I wonder how many got it right about the problem(s). All the government can see are problems. I'm sure there are possibilities if someone smart enough is given the task to figure out better legislation. Maybe you could talk to the labour party ready for when they take over. Some great nature video again.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

You are very right, there are always possibilities- we have amazing human minds and technology now that can solve problems, so let's hope something can be done to solve this one.🤞 Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@johnd7904]

Wow Vann! That was an event filled episode. Good show! Of course, in my house the very favorite part was the one minute bulldog frenzy. We replayed that segment several times and my dog just loved it. Good luck with your engine.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Oh wasn't that dog a little character! Zephyr was not impressed with his enthusiasm, but the way he sniffed the air was hilarious and then when he jumped along all the moored boats- well I was in hysterics! 😂🐾🐾Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@paulfuller147]

A extremely interesting and charming channel,really enjoying the wild life . Thanks Vanessa

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What s kind comment- thank you so much! Have a super rest of the week, take care🌻🦋

[@vanessascola4708]

The stuff you know is amazing. Must feel good to have finally got on your way.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Vanessa, thank you so much for your kind and lovely comment. I don't think I have got what I would like to see which is the option to buy afforadable and sustainable HVO, but I won't give up hoping. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@edgarperez9372]

I truly enjoy you're videos.i hope you're Boat gets better and I wish you the best 😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you are enjoying the videos. Thank you so much for your kind comment.Take care🦋🌻

[@chrishobbs58]

Hello again! Good golly, poor Alice Grace can't catch a break. First one thing , then another. Hope you put all your troubles behind you soon. And how exciting to have your name mentioned in a Parlimentary commitee! At this rate you'll people asking for your autograph! And was that your Mysterious Mr. M in the photo above your head? Enjoyed this very much, as always. Till next time, best wishes! As always.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It does seem to be one engine problem after the other doesn't it? Thank you so much for your lovely comment and well spotted by the way!👏👍 Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@malcolmfunkymalcolm2369]

I’ve just discovered your videos Vanessa, and I cannot stop watching them. You are an inspiration for living and enjoying life to the full. Wishing you Good Luck for your future adventures x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What a kind and lovely comment, Malcolm- thank you so much! I am so pleased that you are enjoying the vlogs. Have a super rest of the week, take care🌻🦋

[@LornaT460]

I’m so proud of you. “Bloom where you are planted”.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I love that quote- thank you so much! Have a super weekend, take care💚🦋🌻

[@A14b19]

Your channel is so relaxing and makes me think of my old mate captain Steven Higgs who used to repair narrow boat engines and boats in Hackney and who tought me how to drive a boat and all those little trick on the canal . Thanks for the memories 😊🎉

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Captain Steven Higgs sounds like an incredible mate to have. How wonderful that he passed on the tricks and skills of narrowboating to you. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super week ahead, take care🌻🦋

[@vanessascola4708]

Sorry for you, Vanessa, what a nightmare for you. What a lot of trouble you have had over the last few weeks. A total sense of relief for you. Crazy.

[@vanessascola4708]

I love the shadows of the water and how many birds you saw this week. I totally see why you love this lifestyle so close to nature. Your knowledge of everything that surrounds you is amazing. Stay well and hope you have no more issues like this again. Stay warm, take good care.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much, Vanessa! Take care🦋🌻

[@denishillman5942]

Beautiful art work. Love you Vanessa xoxo

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@jennyfulcher8035]

Beautiful Kestrel and Pheasant! 🦅I've illustrated them before plus I think I've saw one around Seattle years ago? Loved the wooden 🐊 perched along the canal, the bulldog (?) trying to leap aboard Alice Grace, and the Wibbly Wobbly Floaty Thing! Glad you got your engine fixed and were able to attend the Zoom meeting, which addressed your diesel fuel questions. Loved your illustration of the Rooster Pheasant too. Have a great weekend, Vanessa! Jenny 🐦

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Jenny, thank you so much for your lovely comment. The rooster pheasant is such a striking bird to look at, especially when the sun hits its feathers- I'd love to see your illustration. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@sheilajoseph9953]

Totally agree with Marks comment. I've learnt so much from you Vanessa. Love your channel brings so much Joy. 💚

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@jamesfoley6555]

Well done you for using your right, most of us just talk about, many thanks for your vlog we always enjoy your content so interesting 🙏✝️🙏🇨🇦

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much, James. The Inland Waterways seem to be really working hard to try to get the government to engage. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@sprokthered]

Well done regarding HVO. We LOVE your channel thank you

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much 😊 I’m so pleased that you enjoy the channel. That’s so kind of you! Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@Red-ns9ny]

Thank you Vanessa that was very welcome whilst I’m on the train to my next client for care ❤😊 I lost one of my best friends yesterday so your lovely vlog helped so much . Uk must look into producing the fuel here and not to rely on import ! Well done you for making these points. Thanks as always for your excellent filming and good luck with the engine ❤😊xx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so, so sorry to hear that you lost one of your best friends yesterday and I hope you are ok? My thoughts are with you. Thank you so much for still taking the time to make such a lovely comment too. Take care🌻🦋

[@pacificbob24]

Vanessa, you are a very polite and lovely person. I find your channel informative and somehow soothing and peaceful. Thank you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that the videos bring you peace and are soothing. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@andrewjoseph149]

Hello sweet. Glad your engine is mended. The spanner mechanic like Phil (who is really Mr M.) is one of a disappearing breed. Oh and by the way the rather strange Michael Fabric Head uses vegetable oil to groom his wig 🦔 Have fun in the house of commons I admire your exuberance. Happy floating ! xx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I feel very bad for finding your comment very entertaining🤭 Thank you for your kindness. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@buffplums]

Why are you so offensive, what is the matter chap? Would you like me, a fellow scouser to pop around there and sit you down for a chat? 😂🥴

[@mikeboone4425]

Were with you now for the long haul. you most definitely have skills. Happy canaling.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you...let's hope we can keep cruising and not get frozen in! 😉Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@shirleygreaves9650]

Absolutely lovely vlog, I’ve had a terrible week and your video made me relax. I hope the fuel hasn’t caused the problem, I guess you will never know, but parts of engines wear out with use whatever you do. Good for taking your question to Parliament. Your engine does sound louder than before, I hope it’s soon completely sorted and is reliable again. We have a pheasant visitor in our garden, he’s been coming several years, I can tell it’s the same one by its markings. Lovely nature and journaling as always. Stay safe and warm, lots of love. xxxxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Oh Shirley, I am so worried about you- what has happened this week? You can always email me; [e-mail] if you want to. I hope next week is much better for you. Thank you so much for your kindness. Take care🦋🌻

[@michaelpilling9659]

Hello Vanessa - greetings from a very cold and snowy Poland. What a fantastic video. I really hope your voice has been heard about HVO. Many thanks to Phil for all his hard work in fixing and rebuilding your engine. I hope you now can run your boat safely. You still found a smile and laugh despite all the adversities. A lovely cruise, great test drive (super polite to those fishermen). It just proves that if you are nice to people they are usually nice to you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Michael, we have snow and ice too now, but we are staying warm; I hope you are staying warm too? Thank you so much for your lovely comment. It is a relief to have a working boat again- three cheers for Phil! Have a super weekend, wrap up and take care🦋🌻

[@andreasnoraas1429]

You’re very talented lady. I’m enjoying your videos. Thank you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@emeraldphoenix9229]

Hi sunshine! Im so glad Alice Grace is all fixed running smoothly & you are mobile again. You are lucky to find Phil. Just in time for the freezing weather, though you are obviously snug as a bug in a rug & cozy in there with that lovely woodstove. Gorgeous footage of the Kestrel, Pheasant , Moon, Jupiter & countryside & lovely drawing of Pheasant. I want some of those biscuits & a pot of tea now. Must be so nice to be moving again , one can see the relief in your demeanor. Zeph was so funny with her unimpressed look in reaction to the over -eager dog. Happy travels.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is such a relief to have the boat moving again! Thank you so much for such a lovely comment. Have a super Sunday and rest of the week ahead, take care🦋🌻

[@tomdurkin7321]

Again nicely done, the music was great your drawing of the pheasant was beautiful

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much, Tom! It was such a treat to be able to draw the pheasant as it has such beautiful colours. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@blankakorvo]

Hi nice channel, the subject of HVO is something... Our people from the garage indicate that HVO actually results in cleaner injectors. At least with our trucks. There were even more positive consequences, but I missed them. Good luck finding good clean fuel.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so interesting to know. I hope I can find someone who sells it soon. Thank you for watching and commenting. Take care 🦋🌻

[@christineprice5463]

I am so glad you found someone to work on your engine. Maintenance is never-ending and expensive. Your dog is so polite. Lovely video. Thanks Vanessa.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased too, it was a stroke of luck breaking down near Oxley Marine! Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@christineprice5463]

​@themindfulnarrowboat Have a great weekend too!😊

[@robinhall3347]

Good vlog today, Zephyr was so well behaved with the barking dog. The look on her face was priceless! You did a great job for the environment with probing about alternative clean fuel. Bravo! I admire your vlogs. And I hope your engine will finally behave!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Zephyr was not impressed by that dog’s enthusiasm was she?😂🐾🐾 Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@MelG-ut3hs]

Absolutely beautiful vlog stunning photography.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@BobAndersson]

Great to see you cruising again. As for the HVO thing, if the government was concerned about tax revenue in tidal waters you'd think that stating a maximum draft to qualify for a subsidised price might work. Of course there's still the thorny question of enforcement but isn't there aleady a trust thing going on with diesel for propulsion vs heating? Above my pay grade unfortunately but I get the feeling that some in government and/or the civil service find it easier to do nothing rather than be creative. 🙄

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Bob, very sensible point there- thank you so much! You are right that there is a current split for diesel 60:40 which was agreed even though it's impossible to measure, so why not allow the same for HVO? With a little bit of forward thinking, we could have some amazing systems going on the waterways which would make for a cleaner and healthier environment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@ronwhitehouse23]

Another fabulous and informative video. Vanessa. I just wish I had an ounce of your patience, I love writing my own poetry, when I can pull myself out of lethargic states I find myself in.. It just is such a laborious "chore" for me to do anything sometimes. Although I do love my dancing, and can find plenty of energy for that. Thanks for posting your videos of your idyllic lifestyle in which we can share your lovely times and experiences. Thank you once again Vanessa. If you are ever near the Gas Street Basin in Brum, I would love to invite you out for a cup of tea.😃😃

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Ron, make as much time as you can for your dancing is my advice as it seems to bring you a great deal of happiness. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the week. Take care🌻🦋

[@4sstg]

Your channel, newly found by me , is a comfort. News of the world so sad. Your floating home is a treasure, and all the surroundings .

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@garyp8471]

👋👋👋👋👋👋 Great vlog, love your picture of the vicar well that's what we've always called the male pheasant with the white collar, pleased to see your engine up and running Hat's off to Phil good job done, hopefully throttle cable isn't too much of a problem. good luck with your fuel enquires, look forward to updates. Lovely trip through all the wonderful coloured tree's and bushes and it was great to see you talk to the understanding fisher persons. All the very best Gary n Irene

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

They do really resemble vicars don't they? Phil did a grand job of repairing our Alice! Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Gary and Irene. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@simon-nb-Betsyray]

Good evening Vanessa so glad ur poor engine is up and running and ur travels can begin again 🎉🎉, it seemed longer than 3 weeks but sure it felt longer for u and Mr M😂. I had forgotten u were using a different fuel source like u were trying the new Blacking for the boat, let's hope a cheaper or on par fuel can be found with the rising costs of narrowboating. Great vlog as usual with beautiful shots of the wild life and a great drawing of the pheasant. Hope u have a nice warm weekend with the cold nights forecasted 🐕🐿🍁🍂😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Simon, I hope you are well and keeping warm? Fuel is such an interesting subject which I never thought I’d ever say, but it fascinates me!😂 Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care 🦋🌻

[@CMACJAZZ]

Well done so pleased the major engine issue is fixed, well done Phil the engineer, Hope throttle cable is repairable, wishing you good luck, lovely presentation as usual gorgeous country side, soon be Christmas merry Christmas t o you all. Kind regards Charlie

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Merry Christmas to you too, Charlie! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@annjarvis9300]

Good you tried to do something on the fuel glad Phil fix the engine hope this problem no to bad always something tc now the oldies 🤗🤗👍

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Phil did a great job didn't he? Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@paulplant6486]

Glad the engine is fixed again. I absolutely agree on your points about fuel. You should have the right to use whichever you want. Hope you're keeping well in this cold snap. Blessings to you and all your family

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your support, Paul; the cold snap is definitely upon us at the moment! Stay warm too. Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@paulturner7837]

Great vlog Vanessa. Thanks for getting involved with the environmental issues, I hope you get somewhere with it. It will all depend on affordability in the end though sadly. It would be great to make our own and get rid of that dreaded Pennywort 😂. Have a great week

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I would love to be able to make my own from the canal weed. How amazing would that be!🤩 Not very mindful of the law though is it and being mindful is something that I try to be after all. 😂 Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the week. Take care🦋🌻

[@user-wu6uf8wd6x]

I love your vlogs. It's lovely to see your Zephyr. We have just, over thecweekebd, lost our beautiful Bella. She was a lab and was 14 years old and such a beautiful and faithful girl. We are heartbroken 💔 😢 xxxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so, so sorry to hear about your Labrador, Bella; my heart aches for you it really does. Our dogs are so special to us and they complete our families. I'm sure you have 14 years of wonderful memories to cherish. Please take care.🦋🌻 Rest in Peace, beautiful Bella🐾💚🐾

[@flopsymopsy7088]

When I saw that bulldog barking as you passed, it occurred to me that in all your videos I don’t recall ever hearing Zephyr bark. I love his calm and obedient nature. It seems he also practices mindfulness!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you for your lovely comment. Zephyr barks when someone walks past the boat in the late evening, or at statues of animals if they look realistic; she doesn't like that they don't have a scent. Other than that, she rarely ever barks. Have a super week take care🦋🌻

[@grahamlamb4019]

What a lovely & informative vlog.thank .

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@matthiasrosseels]

You're videos are so relaxing :-)

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment. I am so pleased that you find the videos relaxing. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@amos686]

Nice vlog, Vanessa. I mentioned you when I was in the Oxley Marine bar a few nights ago. Jan said she thinks your dog's lovely, and I concur 🙂

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind. I don’t think that I met Jan, but that’s typical Zephyr as she will introduce herself to everyone and seems to know many more people than I do!😂🐾🐾 Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care 🦋🌻

[@otter736]

Less than 1 yr life span for the pheasant is amazingly….Thanks again for the terrific video !!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is so sad isn't it? Predators, cold winters and poor habitat all contribute to their short life, yet they strut along enjoying every minute of the time that they have. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@dnewnova]

so glad AG is up and running again the pheasent is glorious glad the fishers were kind to you

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is great to have a boat that moves again! Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@nicothechihuahua3167]

Absolutely fascinating Vanessa really enjoyed that. I think we as a country are not very innovative, we just tend to stick to what we have always done instead of challenging the norm. I have a GRP Cabin cruiser with a petrol outboard. My long-term aim would be an electic boat. Always enjoy watching your vlogs.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

My long term aim would be to have an electric boat too, but it is so expensive at the moment. Once upon a time, we used to be so innovative didn't we- what happened? Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@simonmason8507]

A delightful channel to stumble upon.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I'm so pleased that you stumbled on my channel too! Thank you so much for your lovely comment- take care🌻🦋

[@TrevsTravelsByNarrowboat]

Glad to see you are up and running again.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much, Trev. I hope you're staying nice and warm. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@TrevsTravelsByNarrowboat]

Thanks, you too@@themindfulnarrowboat

[@user-wu6uf8wd6x]

Thank you ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

You are so welcome. Take care🦋🌻

[@vickyf164]

Hey Vanessa 👋 Just came across your channel and now subscribed ❤ Really enjoyed the vlog and your beautiful sketch and poem at the end were perfect. Have a blessed week 🙏

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for subscribing and for your lovely comment too. Welcome aboard, Vicky! Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@Mark-ct5dh]

I was so glad that your boat was repaired. I thought this Vlog was interesting because you shared a lot of information. I do believe that diesel electric or all electric may be the wave of the future. It’s good that boaters won’t be forced either way. Mark in Colorado.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Mark, thank you so much for your lovely comment. Electric is definitely the way of the future, but it needs to be more affordable as it is so expensive at the moment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@Carlos-im3hn]

so nice, and such good news. carry on.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@user-cg2wy8gr4i]

You have a wonderful knack of capturing nature in all its aspects in your video's and drawings, I especially like the kestrel shot in this video! Have a word with one of the fuel boats, they may be able to source alternatives to diesel, although that is the best fuel for your engine from a wear and tear point of view..

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is a good point about having a word with the fuel boats; the legislation will have to change for them to be able to sell it at a rate where the boater can afford it and they can still make money from it too. Thank you for your great comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@stevecam724]

Glade your voice was heard by those in control ☺👍 We, downunder, hear the UK is expecting a cold snap this weekend, time to pull out your fluffy warm knickers 😂😂 26C in Roleystone WA for the next few days 😙

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It must be lovely to have warmth at the moment? The cold snap is upon us and it is freezing- but so beautiful too. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@PlanetEarth3141]

From this desert born west Texan living in Illinois, I have no previous knowledge of this kind of lifestyle. I do love nature, hiking, camping. Most of my subscriptions are technology channels or adventure lifestyles. None have poetry but a few have photography. I suspect I'll become addicted to your style, accent, relaxation and discoveries. 😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope you become addicted to the channel too!🤩👍 Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the week, take care🌻🦋

[@PlanetEarth3141]

@@themindfulnarrowboat I forgot to ask if you have intentions to publish your journals. I hope so. They are rich in many ways and there is not nearly as much education with poetry, art and life as this world needs.

[@lyndaturner6686]

Loved the video , it seems typical of the UK to be behind in producing our own HVO , they talk about achieving net zero but seem reluctant to develop alternatives to fossil fuels. I hope your campaign gets noted and somebody in the government takes notice. Meanwhile I love the relaxing journeys you share on your boat with your beautiful dog . The wildlife you encounter on the way is amazing to see. So thank you for sharing .

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment which makes so much sense to me. There is definitely enough vegetable waste from industry in the UK and weed on the waterways to keep the boats on the system in HVO; let's hope it happens until the day that electric boats become more affordable! Have a super Sunday and week ahead, take care🌻🦋

[@janereynolds7555]

Just found you! Wow, what a channel. You are so talented. And admire you and your lifestyle. Bravo, love from the Loire Valley France!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

You are so kind! Thank you so much for such a lovely comment. Have a super rest of the week. take care🦋🌻

[@seayak]

Replacing those studs, surfacing the head and head gasket, and replacing the injectors was more than a repair. That was a needed overhaul that amounts to an upgrade in the performance and longevity of your engine. So you will be able continue the wonderful content that you provide.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so reassuring to know- thank you so much! Have a super Sunday and great week ahead. Take care🦋🌻

[@holdthelight11]

What a beautiful drawing at the end!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@TheVicar]

If you want some canal weed to make HVO then the stretch of canal in between Wigan and Chorley is so green it looks like a never ending lawn Love your channel by the way 👍

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I'm on my way there then! 👍😂 Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@stevemendenhall6284]

It’s so good to see Alice up and running and to watch that bull dog following Zeph from boat to boat. I finally saw the movie you recommended Fried Green tomatoes and realized I had not seen it before so thanks for the recommendation. It was interesting to see you in action at political meeting advocating for climate change you did a good job there and your poem and drawing of the Pheasant were beautiful. Thanks again for showing squirrels at the end of your video mine in my back yard have become good friends they are so fun to watch. Steve

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It’s a great film that also turns you off BBQs isn’t it?😂 The bull dog was such a character and had me in stitches! Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super Sunday and week ahead, take care🌻🦋

[@chrismccartney8668]

Great Video well filmed enjoyable and informative. I'm not a Narrow Boater, I'm salt water sailer used to creeks and mudflats and shallows. But this seemed idyllic.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I bet you see some amazing wildlife on your sea adventures!Thank you so much for your comment! Have a super rest of the week. take care🦋🌻

[@markwilliamson9140]

Glad you got your engine repaired Vanessa. Bet that was a weight off of your mind. 😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is a huge weight of my mind; a poorly engine is a real worry. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@markwilliamson9140]

@@themindfulnarrowboat 😁👍

[@suedale1865]

Firstly wow that pheasant you captured the colours perfectly had Zephyr liked the bull dog would you have drawn him 😳😂🤣 Glad you are on the move hopefully will little hiccups & no big problems Congratulations keeping Westminster on their toes 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much, Sue! I hope you are all better and fighting fit again? That bulldog was adorable wasn't it? I'd have loved to have a go at drawing it, but I don't think Zephyr would forgive me if I did.😂 Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@user-woolfallD]

Like video 📹 💓 u doing good with the Boat sounds clean 👌 ✨️

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you- take care 🦋🌻

[@LeonTrotsky6782]

Absolutely beautiful woman❤️ Kind, caring, empathetic & totally awesome in every way❤️👌

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your kindness, Mick! You are so thoughtful. Take care🦋🌻

[@MarcelEling]

Glad that the problem has been solved.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

So am I! Thank you so much for your kindness. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@butchbinion1560]

Thanks. ✌🏻👊🏼

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

👍🌻🦋

[@kitwest61]

Thanks Vanessa. Great vlog. As a NB'er, having readily available and affordable eco fuel would be the better option. Its crazy that we can't get it for the reasons sited.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is crazy isn't it? And also, I had no idea that the diesel we are being sold is so full of horrible additives that it damages our engines. I'm not sure that's what happened to my engine, but when they mentioned it blocks the injectors and that is the very same problem that I had, it really made me wonder. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Stay warm and have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@snowflakemelter1172]

How do you think veg oil will magically become a cheaper fuel when there is no possible way enough could be grown and harvested to meet demand or destroy the environment ?

[@caz-nbgalatea1528]

Awww you’re such a lovely lady! Who else would apologise as much as you did for disturbing the fishermen!! Hope Alice Grace is fully recovered now. It so frustrating when you want to ‘do your bit’ for the environment and doesn’t matter which way you turn you hit a brick wall! They keep banging on about climate change etc but you can’t buy the fuel You want to use!!!! Because of supply issue and the extortionate price!! This country ‘dabbles’ in things. Instead of concentrating on one issue and sorting to 100% they don’t. Everything end up in a mess!!! And we’re all being made to feel guilty and having to pick up the pieces!!! Stay warm and safe. Xx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Such wise and true words, Caz! Thank you so much for your support. Let’s hope we can see more affordable options on the waterways. 🤞Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@kiwicrest3743]

Beautiful, absolutely Beautiful

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you- thank you so much ☺️ Happy New Year to you! 🥳🌻🦋

[@jackmullett9198]

I’m glad your engine is working and I hope it remains that way. Once again lovely nature shots. Well done for speaking out about boaters’ rights and making sustainable fuel with canal weed, after all there is a lot of it. Just to diverge, I always wondered about Michael Fabricant, the Boris Johnson lookalike, is his blond hair a wig? 😎

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Jack, thank you so much for your lovely comment; I really appreciate it. I can't answer the question about Michael Fabricant as it wasn't something that I asked him. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@RobinMuirhead]

Kudos to you acting on your principles!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much- that is such a supportive comment and I really appreciate it. Have a super rest of the week, take care🦋🌻

[@michaelhiggins7365]

Vanessa, I'm so glad that you were finally able to get Alice Grace's engine up and running. Kudo's going out to your Engineer (Just a Mechanic here in the States ;) for his tireless work and years of experience in getting the Vetus back together. I'm curious about a few things 1. How many hours were on your engine? 2. Did he give you a reason as to why a few of the heads studs were broken? 3. A reason as to why the injectors were clogged? I'm all for you using the alternative bio fuel but . . . my greatest concern would be to first ensure it is fully compatible for use in your diesel engine. I would hate to think this may have actually caused some issues. Do you know if Vetus has approved using this type of fuel in your engine ? Finally, your drawing of the Rooster Pheasant was absolutely stunning, the colors were oh . . . so showy ! I wish you luck getting the throttle cable sorted out, hopefully it is only a minor issue or adjustment. Sending you all my very best from Arizona, praying God's many blessings upon you and yours.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Michael, the engine hours on our boat was 2850, but I'm not sure if that is good or bad? I haven't had a reason to why the head studs were broken and Phil had never seen so many like that broken in that way before either. The HVO fuel that I used a year ago, was so good in the engine and is made entirely out of recycled waste from industry using vegetables, but because I couldn't afford it and then they stopped selling it to boaters, I have gone back to normal diesel. Then in that meeting, they said that normal diesel sold to boaters has many additives and 7% biodiesel (not HVO) but first generation biodiesel which causes injectors and filters to block and all kinds of problems. I have used it for about 9 months now and that's what made me think it could have caused my injectors to block? Thank you so much for your questions and your concern; I really appreciate it. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@ferney2936]

.....just a mechanic here in the UK too. I can think of only 3 possible reasons for those broken head studs: seriously overtorqued; low tensile studs accidentally fitted; serious prior overheating incident warping cylinder head & overstressing studs which then failed.

[@michaelhiggins7365]

I so appreciate your detailed response Vanessa. Yes, I'd really like to get to the bottom as to why so many head studs sheared. @@themindfulnarrowboat

[@G0RXA]

Lovely video again Vanessa and well done getting a question and a mention in Parliament. How’s your engine? Hope you haven’t got more problems with it!! Take care, have a good week. Stay warm.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Nigel, the engine is much, much better- thank you. I'm not holding my breath on expecting that HVO is going to be made available and affordable anytime soon, but I'll keep trying until it does. Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@G0RXA]

@@themindfulnarrowboat Well done Vanessa. I’m sure you’ll succeed.