#181

[@eltrym]

Oh Vanessa, that was such a lovely touch to serve yourself Custard Creams in memory of your nan. I so love your vlogs, they are the highlight of my week! Looking at your bee mug, here is a little bee tale for you.. The other evening I found about 10 drowned bees in a birdbath in my garden. I was devastated. I emptied the water in anger and placed all the dead bees on a large stone. During the night I happened to be researching how to make a bee bath when I came across an article that explained that bees can be brought back to life after drowning by drying out the excess water and putting them in sunlight to warm up. So next morning I took each one carefully in the palm of my hand and sat in the sunshine with them until they dried off and warmed up enough to fly away! Whilst they were drying and warming I had the honour of watching them wash themselves. I was able to study them up close, something that, hopefully, I'll never have the chance to do so again. It was truly a wonderful experience. I managed to save all but two bees! X

[@rozannaherring1578]

What a wonderful story.

[@soobee6060]

I have also rescued bees from birdbaths. The sun will dry them out and also give them a little honey off a toothpick and that can perk them up. Sue from NZ

[@Daytona2]

😮 I've never heard of bee revival before, how wonderful!

[@spacespace764]

🙏💜💜💜💜🙌🙌🙌

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Oh my goodness!!!! What an incredible story of love for our tiny creatures and nature. You are just wonderful for the care you took to first try and find a bee bath suitable for the bees and then to discover this miracle of bringing them back to life! Honestly, this moved me so much. This is what the real world is about- people like you, but we never hear about them as the media want to portray doom and gloom all of the time. Thank you so much for highlighting how beautiful human beings are! Have a super weekend, take care🐝🐝🐝🌻🦋💚

[@markrant1460]

Dear Vanessa, Every time I watch your videos my heart sings out. You are always so positive and manage to capture that in your videos. Keep doing what you are doing. If I may offer a suggestion, when you need to pull Alice Grey into the shore with a line, bring the line across the back of your hips and then lean into the line. Doing this will help prevent any possibility of injury to your shoulders. Hope you stay on the canals until you grow as old as your nan lol. Mark Alberta, Canada

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such good advice- I will do that with my ropes from now on. Thank you so much!Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@johnmccann1960]

Hello Vanessa, I grew up in the Armley area of Leeds in the early 60's to late 70's, around St Barts church, It was known as a slum area, bit rough but if you lived round the area it was great, 95% of my family lived around us (and there was a lot of relatives) so they made sure I wasn't getting in to too much trouble lol. The area had a great sense of community, which I think is lacking these days. My Grandad (on my Mother's side of the family) was a Bevin boy during the war, down the pits around the Castleford area. he was involved in a few tunnel collapses and ended up with an adults fist sized 'dip' in his back due to the collapses. He ended up being on the surface looking after the pit ponies and then working as a bus mechanic until he retired. He was my hero growing up and I still think of him often. Another awesome vlog Vanessa and thank you for triggering some memories of my Grandad for me. take care and stay warm, till next week x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Your comment made me cry, John! No wonder your Grandad was your hero growing up. I read that many boys who were the age to go to war prayed that they wouldn't be chosen to go down the mines! Sometimes, I think we should all look back on those who lived before us and be grateful that things are not that tough anymore. Thank you for your beautiful comment. I am so pleased that the vlog brought back these memories for you. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@pamelawatson2366]

I worked on Church Street during the 80's and loved it. Alan Bennett grew up in the Edinburgh's, off Town Street.

[@glennclarke9787]

Hi Vanessa. Good to see you again, a smashing vlog, thank you so much. You mentioned your elderly gran, who lived in London. You don't sound 'cockney' at all. We follow several other narrowboaters, they tend to get anxious when they have to raise a bridge and stop the traffic 😢On one occasion Kevin Shelley (well known narrowboater "CountryHouseGent) he suffered verbal abuse by stopping the cars 🚗. That effected him for a long afterwards. You really got a bargain with that replacement chimney 😅. We look forward to see you soon ❤take care Nessa xxx

[@michaelpilling9659]

You brought back some superb memories for me. I worked for the Prudential in the mid 1970s in Leeds. My patch was Armley Morley Dewsbury and Brighouse. The Withers stands out for me. But most of all were the wonderful people.

[@johnmccann1960]

@@pamelawatson2366 A school friend, Dave Burrows, used to live in the Edinburgh's in the mid 70's. Edinburgh Terrace I think, and another mate, Alan Naylor, used to live on Town Street across from the Edinburgh's. we used to roam that area, playing kick can and hop-it or football (though the residents didn't like it)

[@jeancarpentier5920]

So much better then watching tv..... Unwinding....

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@sianwarwick633]

I agree. Haven't watched tv in decades

[@kaycee625]

Agreed. This is waaayyyyy better than anything on the telly. It’s authentic and gentle and totally uncontrived. I adore it.

[@Nickynow747]

I agree.

[@julieemery8963]

Ohh absolutely…. Not that I watch much tv😊😊

[@lyndaturner6686]

What I find so amazing is how you get through all those locks on your own, driving in opening ,closing , I would find that quite scary. I love the peace and tranquility your videos give me . And Zephyr is such a clever dog and the perfect companion.❤️

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you are enjoying the videos. I travel with my husband so he helps with the locks, but you won't see him on the camera as he isn't allowed to be on social media due to his work's strict code of conduct. Thank you so much for watching. Have a super rest of the week. Take care🌻🦋

[@butchieblock9118]

​​​@@themindfulnarrowboatthanks for sharing that info!! Do you ever find it frustrating that on camera he cannot share in a lot of the experiences, although I hope he actually does share in the experiences. It's just that we don't see it. I was wondering about managing to do all of THAT lock work alone!! PS I just ordered one of your books, can't wait!! You're such a talented artist and I share your love of wildlife!! However I can barely draw a stick figure!!!

[@rnupnorthbrrrsm6123]

You always handle adversity with such Grace !! I’m happy the canal is open and you made it through the storms !!! Blessings

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you! I'm glad the canal has opened up again too.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@stephenpwilson1930]

Hi Vanessa, I love the way you giggle at adversity 😊. If you carry a magnet on a rope, you can fish out those precious thing you keep loosing. Much love and friendship to you all. 😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Stephen, we are going to magnet fish there on the way back, so hopefully, we'll find it.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@rnupnorthbrrrsm6123]

Oh funny you say that, I was just thinking the same. I love watching those magnet fishing channels !

[@rozannaherring1578]

It's always good to have official confirmation that biscuits are good for your health. I see your grandmother has passed her love of custard creams onto you too! Thanks for another gorgeous vlog. I have just managed to snap up a copy of your 2023 journal. Yay! xxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Custard creams, 4 grapes a day and jellied eels were my Nan's regular foods in her 90s! Thank you so much for buying my book and for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@CEng-ge6sw]

A big `Thumbs Up' to the man in the water.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Totally!👍 Thank you for watching, take care🦋🌻

[@rew3103]

My weekly check on serenity and sanity. Many thanks love.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you- thank you so much for taking your weekly check with my vlogs!Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@shirleygreaves9650]

What a fantastic story about your grandmother who was saved by custard creams! You made me want some, I must buy some tomorrow when I go shopping. You had some adventures during this cruise, road bridges that wouldn’t open, debris in the canal with a man in the water amazing to think some people spend their days in the water like that! I love how your vlog always includes some historic information and how you always turn the negative into positive. Don’t ever change Vanessa, you’re so entertaining and talented too, the way you manage to always make up a poem to go with your artwork, it can’t be an easy thing to do every week. Take care all of you. xxxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Shirley, what kind words- thank you so much. I really appreciate it. I think I need to get a sponsorship deal with custard creams now as you're not the only one who has said that they are going to buy some this weekend!😂 They do dunk lovely in tea though so I can see why my Nan enjoyed them so much, but she also ate jellied eels nearly every day and they don't go so well with tea! 🤭 Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@JaneHinchliffe]

The story of your granny really touched me, Vanessa. I could hear the love you had for her in your voice. I was the same with my Granny and adored staying with her. Quite the adventure this week, and beautifully shared with us, as always. Have a wonderful week. x PS. What a bargain for your chimney, well done for snapping that up.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Jane, I feel blessed that I had such wonderful grandparents growing up and it always amazed me that they lived through two wars and dealt with some terrible hardships, but always had a smile on their faces. My Nanny was so gentle and kind. The chimney was such a bargain wasn't it!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@louisewhite9152]

Hi Vanessa ~ I’m new to your channel - I came across one of your vlogs last week, and was Very pleased I did - you really did go through troubled times in the storms - I haven’t even began to watch this vlog yet but felt I had to comment - I live in a rehabilitation centre as I suffer with multiple sclerosis and lupus - so it’s lovely to find a travel vlog that’s inspiring- your drawings are absolutely beautiful - sending love and hugs ~ Xxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Louise, my heart goes out to you- what a brave and wonderful person you must be, to be in so much pain and still find time to make such a kind and caring comment to me. Thank you so, so much! I wish you all the best in health, happiness and miracles! Take care🦋🌻💚

[@annwagner5779]

What a comfort to see your beautiful video, getting you successfully past all the challenges. Arriving at beauty, birds, poetry, and drawing. I love that you use the same brand of journaling book that I do! I've been recovering from illness and feeling very anxious about missing work. Watching your video really helped me to feel better. Thank you!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Dingbats are wonderful little journals aren't they, Ann? I am sorry to hear that you've been ill, but I hope you're mending well. I know it's easier said than done, but try and forget work completely for a while as being anxious about it will not help you in anyway and time will pass, you'll be back at work and on top of it all again, for now, just rest. Take care🌻🦋

[@bex82uk]

7:40 how he looks back at you is so sweet somehow🥰 he probably wasn’t expecting any kind comments if it was a normal day for him! Call me old fashioned but looks like that one makes me wonder what are they thinking about! 🤭I thought your comments about Hanley Park were lovely, good to root for the underdog👍🏻 have a lovely weekend on the canal❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Fancy having a normal day like that everyday! It's incredible isn't it?Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@oldmanhuppiedos]

Hi Vanessa, You fight your way through the elements. It's nice that the canal is maintained so well. Very special the boys in the mines. A sad accident for sure. Indeed a fantastic story about your grandmother.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoyed the vlog.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@suedale1865]

The Kestrel brooding presence on the wire is captured perfectly in your drawings What a busy eventful journey & to end it all a fire opal sunset PERFECTION 💕🫂

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Sue, that kestrel was the tamest kestrel that I have ever seen. It let me stand there underneath it and film it! I love those birds!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@hectordelvalle4428]

Your outgoing excursions is such a delight. Love how you photograph the landscapes. The comradary of the townsfolk, especially those who maintain the canals. Also, the historical explanation of buildings and property is very well needed. Thank you, and enjoy your life.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Hector, the care of the canals by the people that work and volunteer along them blows me away every time!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@Myhippiehomesteaduk]

Working my way through your lovely Vlogs, so many inquisitive questions regarding narrowboat living ❤ in May have to visit the Norfolk Broads to take a look for myself at these beautiful boats ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Have a wonderful time on the Norfolk Broads. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@StevesRepairs]

Thanks Vanessa, this was a lovely cruise and nice tale of how your Nan liked a custard cream which eventually saved her from a cricket ball. Thanks for sharing all the beautiful views of the birds, the best is always the last though and as always your journal is magical. Take care and all the best. Stevie

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Stevie, I am so pleased that you enjoyed the vlog. I will always be grateful for Custard Creams! Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@johnd7904]

You've come a long way Vanessa! I'm proud of you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is so spooky that you have commented this evening as I was just saying to Mr M a couple of hours ago; 'I haven't heard from John for ages- I hope he is okay?' And here you are! I hope you are well? Thank you so much for your kind comment. I am delighted and rather surprised by how well the channel is doing! Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@johnd7904]

@@themindfulnarrowboat Well Vanessa, Just how many times can I tell you just how wonderful you are? If I commented more, people may accuse me of stalking 😜. Really, you have given me enough of your time in the past and now that you have those zillions of subscribers, you likely spend an inordinate amount of time satisfying and keeping your friends fulfilled. So I did you a favor by not commenting. Life is short, go give that lucky Mr. M a hug and a kiss.😉😉.....😏

[@terrencehorton433]

Hi Vanessa I do enjoy your vlogs with all the wild life and your lovely journey wish you all the best and cep your vlogs coming 👍

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoy the vlogs, Terrence!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@davidkannas8932]

Brilliant narrating travels aboard your narrow boat, drawing, poetry. Thank you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@MarkN67]

I’m a new subscriber because your production is amazing. What I really like is the fact that you look up and see things that so many people miss. This is such a great film, well done👍 Now it’s time to watch your back catalogue.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for subscribing! I am so pleased that you like the vlogs too. Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@lizannz4711]

😊Vanessa I'm so happy that I discovered your channel just now! Beautiful Vlog!! Thank you, from the Detroit area🇺🇲🕊🇬🇧

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@andrewdolinskiatcarpathian]

Hats off to the chap in the cold water. What a hero. 👏👏 What’s up with you and chimneys 🥴🫣😂 Thank you as always for yet another lovely video. Safe journeys. 👍😀

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Totally hats off to the chap in water but not chimney hats please! 🤭 Thank you so much for your lovely comment.Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@northeden8661]

Jeeze you have the best most relaxing videos on youtube. Thank you so much for this. Also, my friend likes them now too. She's hooked.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you find the vlogs relaxing and that you shared them with your friend too- say 'hi' from me. Thank you so much! Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@paulmclaine6413]

Another pretty as a picture vlog Vanessa. I knew you'd work out that bridge that didn't raise at the initial try. More information and instructions would help the unwary. I believe you see more variety of Birds in one afternoon than I used to see in my long walks through the countryside as a younger Man in England , Mansfield ,Teversal , Pleasley on the walkways were the old Rails had been removed. I cycled mainly. They do not sell Custard Creams, Hob Nobs, Digestive, Jaffa Cakes etc in America so I really miss England more after this episode. I see weekly you have a passion for Wildlife and Biscuits. That's Cookies for the American Viewers. See you next week Vanessa :)

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Paul, I hope you are able to find cookies that taste as good as custard creams where you are? It is an essential part of life's enjoyment! Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@JulieGraham-u7b]

My ex husband worked in the mines in the Ayrshire area of Scotland. He was at school till he was 15 on a Friday and the following Monday was underground. Thank goodness those days are over.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Oh my goodness! Can you imagine sending a 15 year old down the mines today? It doesn’t bear thinking about does it? Thank you for watching. Take care 🌻🦋

[@rufuselliot3725]

lovely drawing. As a once teacher, your journals are just what I would have loved from the Topic books. tc

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I think all school children should have a nature journal don't you? It is a wonderful form of relaxation and learning at the same time.Thank you so much for your lovely comment, take care🦋🌻

[@peterhenry7531]

I’m a complete novice when it comes to yourself Vanessa and your dog … Pepper … learning quickly now as I’m watching more and more of your videos … is it just the two of you on your boat … ?? … good luck … be watching another video soon … or try and get up to date with your next one … safe journey … 🔆🔆🔆

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment. I live on my own for part of the week as my husband works away and he can’t be on the vlogs due to the sensitive nature of his job. Take care 🌻🦋

[@otter736]

Another great video for my Friday evening viewing….Thanks much !!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoyed it!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@helenedansereau9255]

I love the longevity by custard creams theory. I think I’ll give that a try :-)

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Even if it doesn't work, it will be very enjoyable to try it! 😂Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@Love_rainy_days]

Vanessa, Thank you for the nice video of life on a narrowboat. I think in the USA we have narrowboats on the Erie Canal in up state New York. But not like in the UK. Hope your bad weather is behind you now. Love the birds 🦢🦢🦆🦆🦔🦔and wild animals along the canals. I watched on KZbin and anyone can rent a narrowboat in the UK even an American. I have watch several renting narrowboats.🚢 They all have to do the crossing of the highest aqueduct in the UK. They are very brave. I would love to rent a narrowboat for a week or two. Maybe I would hire you as my captain. Don't worry it will not happen but it is a nice dream. 🤠Cheers 🥯🥯🍵🍵

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope the bad weather is behind us too, but looking at the forecast for this week, I'm not so sure that it is. I hope the weather is good where you are? Are you sure you want me as your captain, did you see what I did to the chimney!😂🙈Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@KaquolMeliReno]

You are a wonderful artist! I love seeing your drawings.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@WanabeHippie]

Thank you for a trip down memory lane. We did the Caldon a few years ago and I nearly lost my head at the bridge where you lost your chimney. I ducked just in time "Ouch". Great vlog.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Oh my goodness- your poor head!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@julieemery8963]

Another amazing vlog Vanessa, your selling me this lifestyle & im jealous I’m not already living it😩 I shall keep watching yr blogs from now on Do take care❤️❤️

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope you find the lifestyle that you are looking for? Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super week. Take care 🦋🌻

[@normanhowe-gl2tq]

Never a dull moment on the canals---so much history---so much wild life---so much excitement and so much adventure----sure does keep you busy and challenged !!! I'm really interested in the old buildings and locks---working in construction for 50yrs, they peak my interest----Keep on boating and enjoying all the sights that nature can bring---your videos are #1----Take care!!!!!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Never a dull moment indeed!Thank you so much for watching and for your kind comments too. Take care 🦋🌻

[@JoanFreeman-c2u]

hi Vanessa. What a journey you have had, first the problem with the poor man in the water clearing the debris then the problem with the bridge not lifting. Still you found a lovely mooring. Loved your video keep them coming.x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

The mooring was perfect!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@TheDaf95xf]

Good morning Vanessa & Zeph 😊 What a lovely eventful journey with the man in the water clearing the way for you while Zeph didn’t have a care in the world 😀 Again you’re both so lovely and your videos are so calming take care Stevie xxxxxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Stevie, it was an eventful journey that day.Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care🦋🌻

[@deviantikon]

Love your work! Your videos are so soothing, as is the sound of your voice. They make me wistful and even sometimes a bit sad, knowing I'm likely never to experience a lifestyle such as yours. Nevertheless, I always look forward to the next. Thank you. Jim from Oregon.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoy the vlogs, but I don't want to make you feel sad.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@annjarvis9300]

Awww wonderful vlog nature and memories just grand tc now he oldies 🤗🤗🌟

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is always nice to remember the good times isn't it?Thank you for your lovely comment, Ann! Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@johnsutherland6322]

Hello Vanessa good afternoon love your blogs always good and eventful and inspiring x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you are enjoying the vlogs- thank you so much!Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@johnmact5548]

What a wonderful team of workers and I am glad no one was hurt. I trained as a falconer in Wales and Kestrels are one of my favorites, small, and sit so beautifully in the air. Your attachment to nature is heartwarming. Thank you

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi John, they were a wonderful team of workers weren't they? They made sure the boats could pass as soon as it was safe. How interesting to have trained as a falconer. It must have been incredible to get up close to the kestrels.Thank you for your lovely comment- have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@melissalambert7615]

Good day birding. I has some similar but different birds in my backyard. Bushtits, pine siskins, and once in a while a varied thrush in the summer. Lots of little juncos year round. Hello from cloudy Oregon, USA.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Your birds sound amazing!🤩 Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Take care🦋🌻

[@ben31tube]

Canal and River Trust do a great job of trying to make things work for everyone!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I agree! Take care 🦋🌻

[@martiniv8924]

Looking last night for an update video, blessed tonight 👌🏻😎

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I'm glad you found it!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@pilpelet100]

Thanks, as always, Vanessa for a lovely and varied video. Beautiful scenery and wildlife. What a miracle it was that your Nana got up for her custard cream biscuit just before the cricket ball came through the window. Happy to see that you were able to replace your chimney (including a hat) so quickly and at a good price.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It was such a miracle that she got up when she did all done in a split second! Thank you for your lovely comment- have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@orchidhouse297]

What a lovely description of a canal. I think it is the most evocative I've ever heard. Shame about the chimney. Considering how you have a thing (maybe) about toppling chimneys, have you ever thought to tie it to the boat with some rope or chain?

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

We have decided that every journey now, the chimney is coming off and being tied to one of the roof boxes and shut away!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@rikkiharcourt3868]

That was lovely all through. When I saw the man in the water so matter of fact and calmly doing a nasty job I couldn’t help thinking how our view of men has changed. We couldn’t do without them. There are machines to do stuff but they don’t cheer us up as much as a big grin from a man who knows his worth and who knows that nobody does it better. That scenario really cheered me up.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

He was incredible the way that he was wading around in the freezing water and hoisting bridge parapets up out of the water like that!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@Artinthecorridor]

We was on the river Ouse for 4 years before moving our narrowboat onto the canal….we were constantly dodging wild swimmers 😄

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That sounds like nail biting narrowboating to me as it's impossible to see what is in front of your boat when steering isn't it?Thank you so much for watching. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@samjones6347]

I like your art work and poetry

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thanks you so much! Take care 🌻🦋

[@CliffordWynne]

Hi Vanessa, if you're going through Endon water station you'll know that's where we used to play as kids, fishing even jumping in the lock there

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

How wonderful to have experienced that freedom as a child.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@Kev_the-Brinklow-Kayaker]

O dear... you needed a new chimney anyway so not the end of the world saved sweeping it lol. Loved the bird spotting. Great video and z man in the water done a fab job. 👌 canal not too deep there so guess is reason why they had to remove the section knocked off the bridge. All the best Kev the Brinklow kayaker

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Kev, he did do a fab job didn't he! Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@HerfingPug]

Bunnies and geese for company. Perfect.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Perfect, indeed!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@user-woolfallD]

Very excited 😊 good to see u again have fun on the water 💧 in boat 🚢 nice see the out doors 🚪 😀

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you for watching. Take care 🌻🦋

[@jamescunningham1973]

That diver is one strong lad

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Wasn't he? I couldn't believe it when I saw him lifting that huge stone boulder out of the water like that.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@petemoring67]

It was lucky Your Little Old Nan's 'Guardian Angel'😇 was alert EH? - It's quite amazing how often inexplicable things happen in a split second to save us from SURE fatal disasters as we travel through life - Guiding spirits - definitely REAL 🤠 .... Though you need to tell yours OFF! for allowing your chimney to fall in the canal 😂😂

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Pete, she really did have her guardian angel with her that day and many times throughout her life. I have had a chat with mine re: the chimney disaster so hopefully this one will not come a cropper.Thank you for your lovely comment- have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@NarrowboatLifeUnlocked]

Hi Vanessa really enjoyed watching your art and seeing the journal come together. ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Paul and Anthony, it's lovely to hear from you. Thank you so much for such a kind comment; it means a lot coming from an artist like you. Safe cruising guys- take care🦋🌻

[@G0RXA]

Well, I hope the winds calm down for you!! Look after your chimney!!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

So do I... they haven't yet though!😄🌻🦋

[@G0RXA]

Well, that was an adventure what with soggy gloves, airborne chimney, mischievous road bridges not to mention men in the canal!! Nevertheless, all sounded fun. Have a great, but quieter week ahead.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It was a real adventure, Nigel but I am ready for some calmer cruising for a while now! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@jackmullett9198]

Pity about your chimney, at least you’ve got one with a hat now. We could all be closer to nature and it’s wonders. Well done for spotting those birds. 😎

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Jack, I couldn't believe our luck when such a local seller had a chimney like that!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@alibenkahn5092]

As a birdwatcher myself here in South Australia I especially like it when you show us the birds you see 🤗

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I bet you see some amazing birds in south Australia!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@paulwhitehouse3690]

What a wonderful skill you have, I am an RSPB member and a very keen birder, but never done a bird count day. I think it is always in November? And I confess not inclined to visit the UK during the winter (too cold & wet). So I find your vlogs especially rewarding, your outlook on life really is mindful. The Mindful Narrowboat(er) indeed. Paul, Johannesburg

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Paul, I am so pleased that you find the vlogs enjoyable. Well done for being a member of the RSPB too!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@sheilawright4185]

My Dad worked at Hem Heath pit for 20 yrs. and I got my water wings on the Caldon Canal. I spent my weekends in Hanley skating and swimming. We had a brilliant time Vanessa. Really enjoyed the vlog today. 😊❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Wow, your Dad was in the pit for 20 years! It is an incredibly brave thing to do, to go down in the mines like that everyday. Hanley Park looked so pretty and I would like to stay there on the way back, but the warnings not to, have really worried me?Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@jeffslater4581]

Absolutely sublime video. All worries and anxieties have melted away in less than half an hour. Thank you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@anthonybelcher7261]

Hi.I was completely immersed in watching your fantastic vlog. It was so captivatingly informative in its entirety.I see zephyr looks in high spirits.l love the winter scene on the canal.it’s so extraordinary beautiful.with different coloured leaves and the sunlight filtering through the branches of the trees .just amazing

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is great to know how much you enjoyed the vlog, Anthony!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@simon-nb-Betsyray]

Good evening Vanessa what a eventful week u have had😊. Another excellent portrayal of life on the canal with lovely water side views, and of course ur filming of the wild birds u amaze me on ur weekly content of excellence. Wishing u all a pleasant weekend take care. 🐕👍🪨⚾️📸🥉

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Simon, the canal is full of adventures isn't it? We seem to have had quite a winter of challenges but they're all good ones in the end.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@vickyf164]

Hello Vanessa, who would have though a custard cream would save your life, at least there is an extra excuse to have one now 😊 I just brought your 2023 Journal today and can’t wait for it to arrive ❤ Take care and have a blessed week 🙏

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Vicky, never underestimate the power of a custard cream, I say! 😂Thank you so much for buying my book too. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@leogreen6116]

Another wonderful adventure of yours I totally escaped for half an hour into. One of my favourite bits was when the diver was clearing the debris and said it's a normal day for him. You then looked down at zephyr laying on your foot plate watching the world go by, and I couldn't help but chuckle thinking it's just another day for zephyr also 😂. I normally comment and say something that should be immortalised in your journal. Often animals or birds i think you may have missed out. I obviously knew kestrel was up for the leading man role. He really knew how to hold the screen. But with the theme of the place that wasn't desirable to moor in. I too have lived in such places that are full of amazing people on the whole. So with that theme in mind. What I think should be in the journal in a supporting role. Especially as I got a real wind in the willows vibe when we seen him. Was ratty. I think he deserves a mention and a portrait showing our love. The other illustration I think would be great. Is the biscuit that in the days we had biscuit tins and all our biscuits would just be thrown into. Then we'd have to finish them before our parents would refresh them. And they all ended up soft and stale, plus whatever biscuits were in there got overpowered by the humble custard cream and tasted of it. There was something just not right biting into a rich tea and it tasting of custard creams. In my head you drawing a custard cream would be a work of art. So I think that would make a great journal illustration. Andy Warhol pop art esq 😂. It's been an amazing January.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I really welcome you ideas for journal additions and it is funny as I wanted to draw ratty, but I draw based on my own photographs, using them to look at the details, but I couldn't take a still frame from the footage that gave me a clear enough image of our brown rat and I didn't want to draw any old rat. You are right, it did deserve a mention. As for the biscuit- now I didn't think of that; I really ought to draw one somewhere in my book! Thank you so much for your great comment. Have a super rest of the week, take care🌻🦋

[@debh4190]

"Wind frolickers?" Perfect!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Isn't it the perfect name!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@franktuckwell196]

Glad you got past that obstruction o.k. but you are right, that diver is an unsung hero, bet that water wasn't warm either (dry suit or not).

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

He was so brave in that freezing water with loose debris overhead.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@mike-reck]

Hi Vanessa! Re the Bevan Boys, the lottery was if your call-up number ended in a 9 you were to be a Bevan boy and sent down the mines. There is a book by Tom Hickman, Called Up Sent Down (The Bevan Boys War) a very good read Regards Mike

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so interesting; I'll have to try and get a copy of that book!Thank you for your lovely comment- have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@barbarawrigley4242]

Custard Creams (for Grannie) and tea with real leaves, perfect 😊😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It was a special tea and biscuits for me that one!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@dnewnova]

fter being tempted by the custard creams my favourite also the buzzards and Kestrals re magnificent thank you

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you it was a vlog full of your favourite things!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@peckforton7394]

Hi Vannesa, bit late to this party, and working through your vlogs, really enjoying them very insightful and educational, re securing the chimmney hat, have you thought about drlling 2/3 holes in the legs of the hat and the tube and align said holes and secure with cable ties. Paul

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Welcome to the channel, Paul! Thank you so much for your great tip about the chimney. I’m just taking it off every cruise day now. Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@LaFarmhouse]

love the views❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@Gr300w]

Love your presentation and content. Watching from South Africa. Thank you for doing these amazing videos! Am a recent convert!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you! Thank you so much 😊 Take care 🌻🦋

[@Drforbin941]

Really beautiful! Thank you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

You are so welcome!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the week. Take care🌻🦋

[@michaelpilling9659]

Hello Vanessa - greetings on Friday evening from Poland Oh dear! - what a traumatic journey. Still, everything ended well with a lovely bird count and a quiet and peaceful mooring. A nice touch having custard creams with your tea. I bet your Nanna was watching over you. Beautifully photographed with an excellent commentary from you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Michael, I will always associate custard creams with my Nanna now. Thank you so much for your kind comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@stevecam724]

High Drama on the water this week 👍😆 Thanks as always Vanessa 😊😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Definitely high drama- all calm now though! 😅Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@TrogART]

Re your chimney hat I did leave a message on your last post but it vanished in that the stainless steel ones last longer but I always drill holes in the three struts and into the chimney and bolt the hat on, no longer will you loose them, lost count of how many I lost overboard in high winds over the years, I don't now! PS stainless steel nuts and bolts as well.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Great tip- thank you so much!Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@kaycee625]

I can see where you got your lovely of biscuits from!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That's right, Karen!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@ssadams]

i really enjoy your channel! great tours of the countryside, nature and cool art work.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you are enjoying the channel.Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the week. Take care 🦋🌻

[@garyp8471]

Just reminded me of Trigs broom on only fools n horses he sed look after your broom, now im saying Look after your chimney, my favourite football team at school Stoke City also like your Nan my favourite biscuit custard creams. Grand video again we love to see the birds and mature. Don't forget look after your chimney. Gary n Irene.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I'll look after my broom and my chimney, I think!😂Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@rachelibbertson9930]

Beautiful skies at the end ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is always a big treat to get a beautiful sunset sky. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the week, take care🌻🦋

[@sianwarwick633]

Thanks Vanessa for being honest about what's happening where you are. I have seen similar groups of people working in and around the freezing water. Thanks for information about the colliery and the Bevin boys. That is a very hard choice to make. I too have lived in a neighbourhoods that are considered unsafe or unsecure. We did what we could.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Sian, I am so pleased that you enjoyed the vlog. It is great to hear that the community where you lived try to do what they could to make things better.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@hooligan_56labelle22]

Howdy from Canada. Nice video. Don't forget to remove your chimney when traveling or maybe a wire on it to prevent it from falling all the way down into the water. Lol. Be careful. Till next time bye for now.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I will definitely be moving the chimney before each trip now- great advice!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@robertwhite361]

Hello Vanessa, I am excited to say i have managed to buy a copy of your 2023 Journal. I have tried several times but it has been out of stock. It arrived promptly yesterday so i am looking forward to enjoying it. I think you said you are heading up to the Macclesfield canal and the Peak Forest Canal. I live quite nearby and would love to say hello ..... and maybe get my journal signed? Maybe i will see you on your travels 😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you have got your journal! That is brilliant news. And yes, I'm heading your way, if I can get on the Mac as there is a lot of work going on there. Make sure you come and say hi when I get there though. Thank you for your lovely comment.Take care🦋🌻

[@yvonnebailey9973]

Great video. Thanks for sharing.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoyed it. Thank you so much.Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@seahorse369]

your videos are beautiful, thank you. The custard creams brought a tear to my eye 🥰

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@debraheaney6604]

I got your lovely bookend I am reading one page a days that it will last. 181 was Wonderfull program and brought back memories of the birds I used to see, Keep up the lovely programs Love Mike.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that your book arrived. How lovely that you are reading a page a day.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@kenndo9906]

Vanessa, I could listen to you all day. Thank you for another lovely video.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@chrishobbs58]

Hello again! Thanks for this wonderful vlog, seems you had some adventure. Although I preferred the look of the old chimney, as a retiree I appreciate the value of a good deal as much as anyone, Especially enjoyed the night camera footage of wildlife. What a wonderful life you live. Best wishes, as always!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Chris, the old chimney will be missed, but I rather like the new one's personality too!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@mickhardstaff6605]

Looks like it's a different adventure every day, loved it and the commentry was superb. You are a very knowledgeable lady .

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Every day is an adventure- you're right! 🤩Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@chegeny]

Lovely illustration and evocative poem of the kestrel. When I was young, I read The Peregrine by J.A. Baker, a book about a pair of peregrines in the Fens. It's an extraordinary book that changed how I perceived the mysterious lives of birds and the natural world... You have an excellent channel. Thanks for making these videos.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I will have to read that book. It sounds wonderful. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@sianwarwick633]

Good note Vanessa about the HGV. Sounds like It went right off the beaten path. Custard creams are the best. If i can't find them locally, i'll make 'em. Good job with the chimney too.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Making your own custard creams sounds fun! Thank you for your lovely comment- have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@paultaylor9652]

Beautiful part of the country when you get outside the urban sprawl of the Potteries, another great and interesting video. Thanks for sharing your journey.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I love it here; it has so much to offer as you cruise along the canal.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@barraib]

Hello Vanessa A very interesting video as always. Interestingly I was born and lived in Mile End in the 1960s. Yes it was officially a slum area but it was a great place for a child. We had the regents canal and Tower Hamlets cemetery both havens for wild life. Have you been on the Regents Canal? As an inner city child we also had a beach on the Thames near to play near Limehouse. No access these days. Near by in Bow we also had another haven which was the Bow Back Rivers. Or Bow creek as we knew it. As a child from the slums we certainly very lucky to have so many wild life areas nearby. No one really appreciated them until the area was developed for the Olympics. Now everyone can enjoy these places of tranquility.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I'll have to ask my parents about Bow Back Rivers as they were both brought up there as children too. Thank you for your great comment. Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@Roamingthecotswolds]

another very enjoyable video. Love it!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoyed it- thank you so much!Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻