Impossible! They Say That You Can't Do This Canal on a 60Ft Boat

[@samjones6347]

You work so hard, and yet you are always teaching us land lovers so much..we truly enjoy you and pup

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is a pleasure!Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🌻🦋

[@jayoneill1533]

It’s good of you to give Alice Grace all the credit for getting through the short locks but Vanessa, it was your expert boat handling that saved the day. ❤! Happy New Year !❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you. Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Jay. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@carole3734]

I was just going to say the same! I love how much Alice Grace means to you Vanessa....you have a really great partnership!😊

[@viewfrommylensjane]

and her husbands help!

[@siriusowl]

I think all your comments about Alice Grace could also really apply to you too! So much wonder in this video...awe at your steady determination, courage and perseverance getting through those locks and handling the flooding. And then all the beauty of finding a pink campion flowering at this time of year and seeing all the robins, bullfinches and tree creepers. And finally back to the steady peace and rhythm of your ritual cup of tea, jam tart and your journalling and wonderful poetry. I look forward to both the peace and excitement of your videos so much. They transmit such a beautiful energy of mindful presence and aliveness. Thank you. 💚

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such a kind comment. Thank you so much 😊 I really appreciate it. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@robinhall3347]

@@themindfulnarrowboat Vanessa, wrap yourself in the praise, we all feel this for you and your calm assurance handling adversity!

[@siriusowl]

And to you too... Sending all best wishes to you and Zephyr for this vibrant new year. 💚 ​@@themindfulnarrowboat

[@rtk3543]

Couldn't have put it better myself.

[@julieemery8963]

Absolutely❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@jillosler9353]

Oh Vanessa. I was away with family over Christmas/New Year and have only just caught up with your adventures - and my heart has been in my mouth from the beginning to almost the end of this vlog! I am so glad that you all survived the locks and the very scary flooding 🙏💕🐾. What a weird and frightening start to 2025 the 'narrowboat community' are having 😢. It must sometimes feel like you are living on the border between two different worlds; the beauty and wonder of the living nature - the birds, the trees and ferns, the almost hidden flora and fauna just waiting quietly to be found - and the angry power and brute force of the elements that takes no prisoners. Please take extra care of yourselves until this too has passed and you are back to the peace and serenity you thrive on ❤. Jill xxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such a kind comment, Jill. Thank you so much. I hope you had a good Christmas and new year with your family? Take care 🦋🌻

[@JulianMountMusic]

Awesome, you are! The prop shaft has come loose...you tighten it up. Alice Grace won't fit in the locks...you MAKE her fit. The canal is flooding...you fend off your boat with a big stick. And well done Zephyr for getting that ball out the water too! Amazing!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you, Julian. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@lrdisco2005]

Stop gushing, it's embarrassing.

[@JulianMountMusic]

@@lrdisco2005 What a funny comment. You're the best! 😆

[@tammy48]

You are Alice Grace ! A warrior with a warm and gentle spirit that no matter what “steers” the boat through any lock that is a challenge . I salute you Captain

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you. Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@johnparkin5312]

Behind every great boat, is a great woman. Much love and gratitude.

[@butchieblock9118]

ABSOLUTELY, she's there SOMEWHERE!!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you, John. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@viewfrommylensjane]

and her husband. I feel its sad he is not acknowledge as Vanessa has said he is assisting. I feel very sorry for him that he is not acknowledge in any way.

[@butchieblock9118]

@@viewfrommylensjane yes, I hear you, but that has been his choice. His skills and influences are reflected in how much Ms. Vanessa has grown and learned regarding "tempering" Alice Grace!

[@viewfrommylensjane]

@@butchieblock9118 he is still half of the journey so its not a solo journey which is what the impression people may get. I enjoy the videos but prefer an honest representation as it give other women she is doing it alone.

[@littlesammyf7380]

My husband, the dog and I all watch your videos together and we are in admiration of your bravery and determination. Happy new year to you and lovely Zephyr

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so lovely to know! Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@brussel4242]

Love your videos. Take me into a nicer world. Wish I was as brave as you to do that.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoy the videos. They are a pleasure to make.Thank you so much for your kind comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@julieemery8963]

The same applies here brussel❤️❤️ im so jealous

[@butchieblock9118]

What a DAUNTING endeavor---YOU (and your home and livelihood) vs all that water!! I'd have been scared to death! You rule, LOVELY LADY!!!!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It was really frightening but as soon as I saw the river subside, it felt more of a controllable situation. Thank you so much for watching. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@046Bluehill]

What an accomplishment!! I was on the edge of my seat--had to remind myself that everything was going to be ok. Love that little bird--looks like a bird that would be in a storybook. Thank you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I’m so relieved that it worked out in the end! 😅 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@lrdisco2005]

Try to focus on reality, it will help you deal with life better.

[@andreawells-china3282]

On the edge of my seat ….again! Alice Grace wouldn’t be the same without a great oars woman, you! Truly an inspiration to us all 😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you, Andrew. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@wilburytwist6683]

Wow! Another incredible scary adventure. I'm starting to realise why many vloggers head to the Llangollen to over winter. 😆 It really brings home the risks of narrowboating. I'm sure you'll share a thought for all those stranded on the Bridgewater. Its not just a breach, its an absolute dustruction of the channel and embankment. It will take years to plan and rebuild that, and has devastated the surrounding wildlife, also the peace and tranquility of that area. 😢

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is so frightening for all involved in the Bridgewater collapse and you are right about the loss of wildlife too. It really makes you realise how we are at the mercy of the weather. Thank you so much for watching . Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@julieemery8963]

Yes that was awful for them, means they are stuck there for some time, are they able to go to saftey elsewhere on the canal

[@julieemery8963]

@@themindfulnarrowboathow did that actually happen in bridgewater, was it continuous raining that brought on the collapse, sorry for this question,

[@wilburytwist6683]

​@@julieemery8963 It's has been planked off, but it will need to be sealed. Water levels will need to rise first. The northern part will be fed from Worsley. The Lymm direction feed will be from the Trent and Mersey at Preston Brook I think. Boats will have to be craned out of the empty section

[@lexheath8276]

Life isn't linear, often it's shaped like a pretzel. Best wishes to all impacted by this event.

[@MoanAlot-n4r]

We’ve done the whole system on a 60ft. Tightest lock was heading to Ripon. We laugh when people say we bought a 57ft we can go anywhere… so can we, we have😂. Love your videos and your art.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such a relief to know! 😅 We're heading to Ripon so we'll watch out for that lock.Thank you so much for your kind comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@MoanAlot-n4r]

@@themindfulnarrowboatwe bumped into a single hand lady on a 60ft Widebeam!! ….. I know!!! 😂 in ripon too. Said it’s a squeeze but got there? I even paced her boat and it was 60ft. 😂. Take care.

[@Iamathelstan]

Your be laughing at me then....I've done all sorts of things/travelling but the locks scare me ..

[@MoanAlot-n4r]

@@Iamathelstan to be fair the lock at Linton looks like it’s an old abandoned museum site. We looked at It and both said this is the wrong way it’s falling apart covered in moss etc. with that a boat turns up and goes up 😳. It’s obviously safe but very I’m not sure look about it😂

[@irenedavo3768]

Have you seen collapse Bridgewater Canal?

[@s.k.1091]

Oh I loved this so much!!!! Hello from San Francisco ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hello!👋 🌻🦋

[@benmassey531]

When you tighten the shaft bolts again, take the extension out, just have the socket and the ratchet, it’ll be easier to get a lot of torque through the bolt. Another great video! Give Zephyr an ear rub! Stay safe

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Brilliant, tip! Thank you so much 😊 Take care 🦋🌻

[@juliemunro3572]

What a relief to see you all safe at the end xx Beautiful bullfinch and robins xx The travels of the intrepid Alice Grace and her equally intrepid crew are such a bright light each week xx Thank you so much! Safe travels again this week, keep warm and cosy! 🧤🧣🐦‍⬛xxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your kind comment, Julie. I really appreciate it. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@michaelketley1252]

I never dreamt than life on a barge could be so adventurous. You handle problems so well!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I didn’t think it would be like this either! 🫣 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@s.k.1091]

Having just found your channel and watched several videos in a row …. As a single female traveler I send a thank you from San Francisco! Just ordered your journal on Etsy :-)

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you 🤗🌻🦋

[@idapiano]

Never a dull moment 😊, Every day exercise 💪, Diagonal adventures.. that has to be very mindful ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

'Diagonal adventures' 😂-brilliant! I am going to work out how to make it more mindful than it is at the moment. 😂Thank you so much for your kind comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@kayhenry6293]

You did some fancy maneuvers to get through the short locks! Impressive. I hope you, Zephyr, and Alice Grace have a wonderful new year.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

The barge pole is a must in those locks.Thank you so much for your kind comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@stevea9604]

Zephyr finds the best treasures for her mom 👍🏻🤣🤩🐕🐶

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

She really does! 🐾🐾🤩 Thank you for watching. Take care 🌻🦋

[@pdcooper2343]

Our journey through the locks never in doubt,with our wonderful,lovely,resolute captain. From all.of your Essex followers, good on yer girl

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hello to my fellow Essex viewers! I bet it's tropical weather conditions down there at the moment? 🤩Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@scarlettifluff]

I think I came to say what many others have already said, Alice is who she is because of the way you thoughtfully handle the situations with such strength and care. Happy New Year! You had me on the edge of my seat going through those locks, that was very brave! I loved the robin, Zeph is such a funny little monkey!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

The information on the Pennine waterway website was so helpful. Thank you so much for watching. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@marcicaporizzo]

Thank you… I received my copy of your 2023 journey journal….what a treasure!!! I’m going through it slowly devouring every single detail of your life with Zephyr. With a cuppa in hand and three pups sleeping about on my couch in my sunlit room all cozy and peaceful I feel the immense joy and love you have translated onto paper….you have such a gift… I definitely want to get your 2024 journal as soon as it can be ordered. I hope you were not near the Bridgewater canal during the recent breach. Such a tragedy but thankful no one lost their lives. We here in the USA have had our share of disasters with hurricanes and now the immense fires of CA. Not sure what is happening in the world/universe by something is trying to get our attention from places on high. We could all take some very healthy and purposeful lessons from your journey such as being kind, taking life slowly, accepting a less driven need to consume or acquire and to just see the beauty and peace that exists in a drop of rain, a gentle breeze, a sunrise/sunset or a falling leaf which is why your channel and journals are such a great treasure…. Bless this day for it will never cross our paths again 🙏🏻

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What a beautiful comment; thank you so much! I am so pleased that you like your journal and the picture that you painted reading it with your pups warmed my heart. I hope that you are not near the wildfires where you are? It is so alarming to have these weather conditions to deal with now and we need to all adapt quickly don't we?Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@marcicaporizzo]

@@themindfulnarrowboat I’m in a sea coast town on Long Island sound called Westport CT. Opposite end of United States…however we have experienced effects of fires from Canada etc. possible we will have some due to CA fires. I never had any poetic ability that I knew of but I had a Yorkie who was an old soul. We had someone’s corgi dog bolt on New Year’s Eve 10 years ago and I got really involved tracking him over hill’n’dale…even staying out in woods where he had been seen…unfortunately after 2+ years we had a big snow storm and he must have succumbed to the deep snow navigation problem. But after that I lost my Koji and since that time he has been channeling prose for pets/people who have crossed over…it blows my mind because these downloads just come rapidly and if you don’t stop with what I am doing it’s gone! I just keep writing til it stops then I am amazed by what is written. I also had a mother who was an artist and I inherited that as well so I relate to what it is to be gifted those talents as I can see them in your life…when we are given these gifts it is our responsibility to utilize them for the betterment of all…. Hello it’s me….RUSS It’s there in the darkness and in the light Where the full moon shown brightly throughout the night… I rose to greet those who had gone on before T’is where I’ll be living forever more…. There is no pain or worries nor strife A new beginning for me to a very old life… There’s a newness of body, spirit and soul It appears that no one here becomes old… I know that you miss me and struggle with pain But know in your heart that we’ll meet again… For all of the journeys I took in my life It’s glorious to be back in the arms of my wife… So out of the darkness and into the light All of my worries have now been made right… My days here in Heaven are not numbered you see We have no restrictions…we’re just totally free… With time my dear children, and for all of my friends Life as we know it someday will just end…. So live your life ‘FROSTY’ and know beyond reason In of all of Gods plans… there’s a time and a season… When you’re sad and you’re grieving And your heart’s full of pain… My tears for your heartache will fall just like rain… For I live now on earth in the woods and the trees You’ll hear me a whisper thru the gentlest of breeze You’ll know that I’m here by the moon and the sun… Eternity for me….well it’s just begun… I love all of you and was sorry to leave Please love one another and try not to grieve… My heart now rejoices from places above Knowing you all have one another in love… You all come back now…..and ’STAY FROSTY’ Channelled by Koji 2-27-24 Transcribed by a loving daughter… file:///var/mobile/Library/SMS/Attachments/c8/08/D9A6649F-D2D0-414E-8BAB-261A6EA8C8AD/A75E4BE1-DA74-4E61-8C70-55E41F38D955.JPG

[@chrisbalazs5685]

Oh my. Such trails and tribulations to start the year... Handled skillfully... Smooth sailing moving forward in 2025... all the best... ckb

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Let's hope it gets a bit calmer!Thank you so much for your kind comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@lrdisco2005]

Oh no...over use...of unnecessary...again!!

[@paxwallace8324]

I must admit I just can't get enough of You ,Zypher, and Alice Grace. ❤☯️ And Ol blighty

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you. Thank you so much for watching. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@catmando4448]

By the time you made it through all three locks you were like, “I got this!”, lol! Then some down time to enjoy the reserve, whammo, you get hit with flooding rain, which you handled nicely I must say! Alice Grace sure is giving you ample opportunity to grow, apropos of the Red Campion! Quite a bit of harrowing adventure to start off the new year, Vanessa! Good luck with your channel and with Alice Grace and Zyphr this year! Thanks for sharing your adventures with us! Glad things turned out okay!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@lrdisco2005]

Living vicariously through others is the emptiness that cannot be filled.

[@catmando4448]

@@themindfulnarrowboat Hi Vanessa. Sorry to bother you. I just wanted to let you know that this lrdisco person, whose comment is below, has been trolling the comments section of this video. You might want to block them.

[@EdRobertson-d2n]

Happy New Year Vanessa and Zephyr, Wow that was an Amazing journey through those locks, a tight squeeze for sure, but You did it, Well Done, There's been so much rain lately and the Bridgewater Canal is in a right mess, going to need a lot of reconstruction work, to say the least, I hope your next trip, isn't so challenging for both of you, Looking forward to tagging along again, Thank You so much for taking us with You both.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It's terrible what has happened to the Bridgewater isn't it? At least nobody was injured and there weren't any boats moored on the sections that collapsed. Thank you so much for your kind comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@malcolmcharlton6954]

Hi Vanessa give yourself a blue peter badge for getting through that you're a superstar. Looking forward to the journeys of 2025. Our black Labrador used to run riot like zephyr and find the biggest bits of trees branches he could carry. Malcolm and Sheila from Workington.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I always wanted a Blue Peter badge! 🤩 Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@lrdisco2005]

You get the prize for todays most benal comment.

[@31Alden]

Brava Alice Grace! You overcame the challenge in fine form! Another exciting adventure. Love Zephyr to bits! ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@31Alden]

@ 🦋🌻

[@tracyirwin8681]

What an adventure! Well done on navigating Alice Grace through those tight locks it looked very tricky and challenging! Then to have the worry of the flood water too! The beautiful birds were a real treat, and nice to see the hardy campion. A true emblem of your perseverance! Thanks very much and happy New year!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much, Tracy! Take care 🤗🦋🌻

[@Jana-wz7dr]

As I have never even been on a narrowboat, I can only imagine what it’s like but it seems to me that you are an expert boat handler. Driver? Captain? 😆 Zeph and her giant stick she was so proud of, pretty darn adorable. Looking forward to your 2025 adventures.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am still learning but much better than I was 6 years ago.🤭 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@tinaskipton1317]

Oh I do love Zeph ❤❤ so beautiful xx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

🐾🐾🤗 Thank you so much for watching. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@StacyBernard-xd4uv]

Wow! You and Alice Grace do make a great team, along with Zeph! Those locks!!! That flood!!! You must have nerves of steel! I'd have been quaking in my boots and wee-ing my pants! Those birds are just gorgeous! Thank you for sharing adventures!!!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

The flood did really shake me up and it’s made me much more cautious. Thank you for watching. Have a super week. Take care 🌻🦋

[@bluesheepyarn]

Wow, that was scary! Well done Alice Grace for keeping you safe. Having had the experience of a flood at Birstall last year on the Leicester Arm (the River Soar feeds in) my biggest, scariest thought was ending up on the tow path when the flood subsided. The Macclesfield looks beautiful. We've penned the trip in when the weather improves. Take care xxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is so scary isn’t it when the towpath disappears! I hope your boat was okay when you were in Birstall? Thank you for watching. Have a super week. Take care 🌻🦋

[@syregn]

Happy New Year and...Gosh, what a start to 2025! You and Alice Grace are amazing. Forget about all those blockbuster edge-of-your-seat movies, this is the real thing!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Happy New Year to you too! I was hoping that it would be calmer now but the weather isn’t pretty here at the moment and the river is rising again. 🫣 I hope you are all safe and dry? Thank you for watching. Have a super week. Take care 🌻🦋

[@syregn]

@@themindfulnarrowboat Oh wow, I hope the river doesn't come up too much. Stay safe. I live in a town that has a river that regularly floods, and it's hard to comprehend there can be so much water. Fortunately we live up on the hill so we are never at risk. Occasionally, we'll get cut off from town - usually only for a day. Please give Zephyr a hug from me x

[@lorrainerichardson3280]

What a way to start the year. I hope the rest of the trip is more calm for you. May 2025 be kind. Take care as always =-)

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@terrencehorton433]

Hope you had a lovely Christmas and to wish you all the best for new year of2025 and nother lovely vlog 👍

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I did! I hope you did too? Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@tessapetters3936]

Wow, well done to Alice grace and you for navigating such a difficult canal. I think your very brave in deed.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you, Tessa. Thank you for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@annjarvis9300]

Vanessa you are amazing well done blessings to you Zeph and your family from us oldies 🤗🤗👍🌟🌟🌟

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you, Ann. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@ChrisJohnson-qm2qu]

That was nerve wracking! I held my breath the whole time that first lock was emptying 😱😂 I’m glad Zephyr was keeping a close eye on you in there. That was so skilful. Then to have to cope with the flood. I’m glad you’re safe. You’re the skipper of Alice Grace Venessa, you can take the credit! Happy New Year! 🎉

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It was such a relief to know that we could get through the lock! Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Chris. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@reatreatseclusion9891]

Zepher, made me laugh with her excitement at the nature reserve and with her stick. Such a beautiful companion . Love seeing the bullfinches.😀

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

She is funny isn’t she? 🐾🐾😂 Thank you for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@TrishBailey-m1d]

Wow you ve had me sitting on the edge of my chair...what an amazing team you all make... thank you so much for yet another wonderful blog...where there's a will there's a way...go team T.lots of love and a very happy new year to you all.from Walter and me xx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That's so kind of you, Trish.Thank you so much for your kind comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@lrdisco2005]

Wow...I mean...just wow...

[@stephenhayes6133]

Great to see you back, for 2025 the adventure continue. It must be a worry for you and other boater when you have a flood, glad to see you're OK.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

The flood and possibility of the River Calder bursting its banks was very frightening but we were luckier than those on the Bridgewater Canal. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@davidtomlinson8142]

Another wonderful mixture of beauty, determination and bravery. You are an exceptional person and I wish you and Zephyr a Happy New Year and a long and fulfilled life.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Happy New Year to you too!Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@butchbinion1560]

Thanks, you’re quite the navigator good job. Amazing. ✌🏻👊🏼

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@lrdisco2005]

Navigation in a canal is hardly rocket science

[@peterbalshaw399]

Alice, I was on the edge of my seat for your thriller of an episode. This as being one of the most thrilling episodes I've watched. So jealous. We have always wanted to get onto the canal but are just so frightened tearing ourselves away from tera firma. Sad to say but the second bull finch is suffering with the dreaded bumble foot disease which makes the toes look like they have grey socks on. This is a bit of an unknown area and some think that it can disappearing naturally, but others think it might lead to worsening of the bird's ability to perch and thus feed. The disease can be passed on orally through feed or it can be passed on through perching on infected feeders which are not washed regularly. Don't wish to bring down the subject. You are having a lovely time and you have been very lucky. We wish you well. We'll speak soon. Take care and onwards on your journey. Love from Peter and Gaynor Wigan.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Peter and Gaynor, that’s so sad about the bullfinch. I know that there is a disease, spread by bird feeders which has impacted on the chaffinches where they look bloated- is it the same thing? Perhaps I should report it to the nature reserve as they have a feeding station. Thank you so much for watching. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@michaelgillen411]

Good work there, Vanessa! Yes, it’s Alice Grace that deserves your compliments, but it’s the team that gets it done-you and her! Love those Robins, which have a different look than ours do in Pennsylvania. We have them around much of the time.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so true, Michael. Team work is essential. Thank you so much for watching. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@maireadmaguire7509]

Holy Moly Vanessa, it’s all white knuckle these days with ye! Brave and well done 👏🏻 Btw the cream lamp beside the vase would look great painted up as one of your fungi friends!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I thought about painting the lamps into mushrooms too! 🤩 👍 Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@lizboyles-k2g]

Wow what an episode thank you and take care. I love all the comments you’ve got lovely followers, loved Zephyr getting her ball out of the water smart cookie. Did you need more than biscuit and tea! Stay warm and safe xxx🙋‍♀️❤️☕️🍩

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

The comments are so kind and I feel blessed to have such wonderful followers, yourself included. Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@lizboyles-k2g]

You deserve them all special lady!

[@lrdisco2005]

Another spoonful of honey for the mind.

[@hairblimp]

I know I've seen everything when I see a seat of the pants narrowboat journey. Some of that Viking blood rubbed off on you, in a very timely manner. Your videos are always a warming experience. Thank you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@hairblimp]

@@themindfulnarrowboat Thank you, I will, I hope the weather over this coming week is kind to you, & your adorable companion .

[@lrdisco2005]

If this is you seeing everything, I dread to think how dull your life is.

[@michaelhiggins7365]

So glad you and Alice Grace were able to squeeze through those short locks Vanessa. You also braved the storm, but I did hear of a bridge failure on one of the canals, I'm sure it will be an expensive fix. I am looking forward to see what wonderful sketches and prose will fill your 2025 journal, thanks so much for again, sharing your amazing talents and content with us all this week. God bless you Vanessa !

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Michael, I hope you are all well?Thank you so much for your kind comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@followtheboat]

Thanks for the campion metaphor, so interesting I looked it up and found this lore from the Woodland Trust, "red campion flowers guard bees' honey stores, as well as protecting fairies from being discovered." Those bullfinches were spectacular. HNY to you and Mr M, V. Liz 🙏

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What amazing flowers they are! 🤩Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@lrdisco2005]

You do realise fairies are not real, I hope.

[@JamieFurlong]

​@@lrdisco2005of course they are. You just haven't discovered them because the campion flower is doing its job.

[@lrdisco2005]

@@JamieFurlong Have you taken something you shouldn't have?

[@JamieFurlong]

@@lrdisco2005 No, just my usual mushroom tea and herbal cigarette.

[@StuartEvans-q3p]

I can finally comment. Great posts, my wife loves Zephyr. Happy New Year to all..!!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your kind comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@SueC-oj6zv]

Aww another beautiful & informative vlog Vanessa, thank you 🙏. I’ve got to admire Zephyr’s ball retrieving skills, bless her, you can tell she’s had plenty of practice 😁and her excitement to play is adorable 😍. Well done too on your fantastic lock manouvering and flood skills, even through all that you captured amazing wildlife. I hope you found a safe secure mooring through this freezing weather, take care ❤🪻🌼

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Zephyr has a nose for a ball!Thank you so much for watching, Sue. Take care 🦋🌻

[@markbeard518]

You have bigger balls than Me taking that lot on! fair play

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

🤭Thank you so much for your kind comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@waynedoeblin6801]

Hello,lots of excitement and adventure this time,so glad you got through it all safely,and with more experience now too. I ran out of biscuits this morning,had to settle for a banana while watching 🤣 Best wishes 🙂

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Well at least a banana is a healthy option, I suppose. 🤩🤭 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@philnasmith9755]

Well, that was a dramatic start to 2025. Beautiful nature shots - thanks for sharing.🌸🌸🌸

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It was a bit wasn’t it? Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@BarbaraAlldred-hc6et]

Well done, so calm, practical and the research impecable. Love Zephyr so clever how she retreaved the ball and happy carrying her stick. Love the poetry and art work. All blessings for 2025.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@sianwarwick633]

You are having just the most incredible adventures here ✨️. I think I will say by hook or by crook you are making your way through these canals and locks, in the beautiful sunshine and daringly through the flood and rain. And lively Zephyr wants to play too. We're following you all the way. Forge on, Narrowboat Alice Grace and all who sail in her.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is a bit of an adventure isn’t it? 🫣 Thank you for your lovely comment, Sian. Take care 🦋🌻

[@PeteGlyde]

Hello Mindful Narrowboater: That was amazing; you are not the mindful narrowboater you were a year ago; I think some of your recent challenges would have 'phased you' then, but not anymore. You've got guts. Beautiful pictures of the bullfinches. Excellent production and editing. All the best for 2025. Keep them coming. Pete Glyde

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you, Pete! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@BIGGIEsmalls13]

YAY, Alice Grace for PM. Move over, Kier, ya wimp! Well done and happy new year, you two beautiful sparkly creatures. Edward & Daisy.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for watching, Edward and Daisy! Take care 🦋🌻

[@susannahwhitaker994]

Your filming is so good that every time you do a lock ,I feel as nervous as you do lol. Clever people 🤗

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much 😊 I’m so pleased that you feel like you’re there too. Take care 🦋🌻

[@Wookie120]

Thank you for taking me on yet another adventure, the sunsets were so lovely! I have said it before and will say it again, your videos remind me of the beauty of God's creation. Sailon great lady and may you have fair seas, and following winds.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What a kind comment. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@lrdisco2005]

It's a narrow boat, not a sailing ship.

[@AndrewBroadbent-dr8wb]

That was certainly a bit of an adventure. Great vlog again. Thank you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you for your lovely comment, Anthony. Take care 🦋🌻

[@user-dixk2rx5gz8f]

What a challenge you and Alice handled with Grace! Seems like your fur baby helped, too! You are bold and strong! Blessings! 😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@АлександрНедовенчанный-ц1б]

Vanessa, you are like a super Boeing pilot, handling such complex maneuvers in the airlock. I watch your videos and always want to physically help. You are smart and beautiful, just like Zefa.❤😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@lucindawilson5510]

congradulations ..well done brave lady..thankful all is well WHEW,

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you for your lovely comment, Lucinda. Take care 🦋🌻

[@chrisbuster6947]

Lovely just lovely, and happy new year, amazing work, thank you so relaxing. Apart from the flooding.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your kind comment, Chris. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@iancrane1188]

Thank you for raising consciousness about the sill when going downhill! I look forward to joining your travels in 2025!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for watching, Ian. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@stevea9604]

You give us a million pounds of entertainment with each session you show us 👍🏻🤩👌🏻

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

🤗😂 Thank you so much 😊 What a kind comment, Steve. Take care 🌻🦋

[@WayneSchowalter]

How scary watching that river rise. That, along with the nerve wracking short locks, made for another adventure filled with high drama. I salute your courage, and, as always, the beautiful drawings and poem at the end. Thanks!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Wayne. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@suzannemarshall7458]

that was a bit nerve wracking. Your skills got you through small locks and floods! Zeph always having fun thank you!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Suzanne . Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@williamSmith-fv5hi]

I have never listened to poetry in my 80 years!😒Now with you, Vanessa, I find I am looking forward to your poetry book..🙂You are amazing. Thanks, Your East Coast USA Friend

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What a wonderful comment! I am so pleased that you are enjoying the poetry.Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@slartybartfast6868]

Alice Grace is a Legend. A boat made in Haeven, sailing through the canals with you and Zeph as her pals.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so lovely ☺️ Thank you so much for watching. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@dennisthickett4941]

Oh my....well done for getting through those tight locks, I'm not a narrowboater so I'm so awe inspired the way that you did overcome the task involved, then to add to that, the flooding incident , I would have been terrified myself, it was all worth it to get to the lovely nature reserve though. As a dog owner It was great to see Zeph enjoying herself and doing " zoomies " (17.13 ) and enjoying herself. all the best for 2025.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It was such a lovely spot to be moored despite the scary river. Dog zoomies are brilliant aren’t they? 🤩 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@lrdisco2005]

Instead of imagining yourself as part of the adventure why not deal with the reality of your own life. Much more healthy.

[@robineasby5328]

What a great video to start the year. Drama and tension coupled with relaxing canal views and the wonders of nature.Then a lovely poem and drawing at the end. Sadly I do not have £1miillion , Vanessa. But you would be worth every penny ! Thanks for posting.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoyed it, Robin. Thank you so much for your kind comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@Terryb31]

I'm so glad to see that you are all safe Vanessa. Just a little reminder to some viewers, that boat life can be quite dangerous. I will miss the life, but since this last couple of weeks have proved to me, living on land has much to offer at my age. Of course, I will enjoy watching your vlog every week, but I don't think I will miss the ever present dangers of Narrowboat life. Take care Vanessa and Zephyr. ( and Mr M )

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It has become more precarious it seems and we are having to adapt and change the way we did things every year. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@GordonBlythe]

You're a lock expert. And a very brave lady. Love your videos. If I win the lottery, I will see you alright. 🤗🤗🤗🤗

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you, Gordon. Thank you so much 😊 Take care 🦋🌻

[@maries3000]

Well done! You must have been fending off Alice Grace from that towpath for hours.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It took five hours until the water went down enough for Zephyr to get off. It was such a relief to see the towpath again.Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🌻🦋

[@SantieAmery]

I am watching this from South Africa...we do not have narrowboats and huge river and canals here. So I think you are VERY brave doing this! Thank you for your beautiful and interesting video's. I am an artist too, so I enjoy your art and free spirit so much! Blessings!❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you. Thank you for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@cshell780]

I think I held my breath through this entire episode ! I also think that Alice Grace ,as grand as she is , is only a shadow of her master. Tears came to my eyes when the river was rising because my area ( East Tn and West NC, USA) was devestated by rivers rising 25 feet and pulling mountains down by landslides , destroying 2 interstates , many many roads and worst of all -neighbors & their homes and farms and entire towns, as well as animals and their habitats were destroyed. This happened so recently, we are still accessing, digging out and rebuilding. When I saw the river threatening you , Zepfer and Alice Grace I was moved greatly in heart. I knew of course , since this episode was edited and streamed, you made it through the flood. Yet , I held my breath in silent prayer for you and all those on the canal to be ok. I know how fast flood waters run. I’ve got my breath back and am just so glad and thankful you are safe and sound!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I’m so sorry to hear about your devastating flood. It sounds terrifying and so sad. I hope that new flood barriers are in place now. Thank you for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@cshell780]

@ hi i hope you got the message that YOU the master of Alice Grace were/are magnificent and inspiring throughout challenging circumstances! About “barriers” in our mountains: this was a1000 year event and there is no way to stop high country mountains from heavy rainfall causing streams to turn into a biblical level disaster with powerful massive landslides which literally washed mountain tops down into already 25 foot high rivers. There is no precedence for this kind of destruction. It actually was a huge hurricane that started outside Florida and took a swath out of southern states all the way into the high country mountains which never ever has suffered such hurricanes dropping unheard of amounts of water onto our mountains.

[@CMACJAZZ]

Another “heart stopper” well done Alice Grace and crew, stunning scenery and bird life Happy New Year to you all including dear Zephyr kind regards Charlie

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you for your lovely comment, Charlie. Take care 🦋🌻

[@jockmctavish8984]

Happy New Year 🎉 Another lovely vlog 😊 I've struggled many times at the Salterhebble Locks with a 56 footer so well done with Alice Grace. The guillotine lock is renowned for being dodgy. That rain was a bit scary..... xx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Jock, that guillotine lock was so tricky and it was lucky that a CRT worker arrived at that moment; I'd probably still be there otherwise! 🤭Thank you so much for your kind comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@lisacanterbury7189]

Good to see you, I follow several narrowboat channels and can't remember where they all are. The breach has stranded several, for a long time. I know Olive is included 😢. Stay safe, sending love and light and positive vibes from Northern Arizona 😘

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is so sad to see the damage isn’t it? Thank you so much for watching. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@goodbarbenie5477]

Everytime I see U Luv. I wish I could just give U a Huge hug. U are so U..😅. The most practical down and to earth human being that I know...As don't seem to stress a thing, nerves of steel 😊😅😂...

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@Tom_1956]

You are a courageous trio to take on those locks on your own. Thinking of those affected by the canal breach. Happy New Year and stay safe. 👍☘

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

The canal breach is terrible isn’t it? Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@Tom_1956]

@@themindfulnarrowboat 🙏☘

[@carinaandries8671]

Wow, that was an exciting start of the year. I love your channel.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Let’s hope it gets calmer! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@scottbrookfield6813]

Hi Vanessa. Good heavens above, this vlog has it all. The amount of effort and research you do behind the scenes to achieve this exquisite quality for our viewing every episode is worthy of prime time TV viewing. Thank-you. x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is a pleasure to make these videos and record the journey to one day look back on. It’s also so rewarding to share comments with viewers too. Thank you for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@pandoralechat780]

Very clever piloting skills Vanessa! You have such lovely bird species to enjoy and draw! 😊Happy New Year! ✨✨

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you. Thank you for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@StuartsShed]

Say you can, say can't - either way you'll be right - and there you are storming it - through some care and attention. Nice work. Fabulous winter light! I remember that about winter walks in Essex. I have to say - you have some stones (pardon the expression) dealing with that flooding. That was some scary fast water. Cheers and best wishes for 2025.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you for your lovely comment. It really was scary watching that river. Take care 🦋🌻

[@chrishobbs58]

Hello again! What a great start to the new year! That was some exacting maneuvering required to move on, wasn't it? Dramatic weather footage, to say the least. Zephyr looked like she was having a good time in this vlog. Such a good dog. Looking forward to seeing the rest of the canal, since you must have deemed it worth all the extra effort. Thanks again, and best wishes! As always!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Chris, the winter is throwing lots of challenges our way. Thank you so much for watching. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@GRANDMA-AFLOAT]

love that you are one determined lady and nothing puts you off, your artwork and poetry is amazing. looking forward to 2025's adventures

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you.Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@elmonte5lim]

Some vlogs are more 'exciting' than others. I always enjoy 'accompanying' you on your excursions. Happy trails!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@lrdisco2005]

You don't accompany anyone, it's someone posting content to earn a living you are watching.

[@suedale1865]

I was in Lancashire ( Trough of Bowland ) 30th Dec 2024 & know exactly the power of the wind & rain on that Monday while giving my little JR terrier a brief walk getting blown about I thought of you & hoped you were safe & to an extent dry 💧💦💨 not knowing you were fitting into short spaces Vanessa your boat management skills are superb I love that you take it in your stride calmly & still manage to give us beautiful birds to see & draw That campion flower such a treat to start your journal for 2025 stunning artwork 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 Thank you ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It was such angry weather wasn’t it? And now, I am once again sat in the boat river watching as it pours with rain and all the snow is melting!🫣 I hope you are safe and dry where you are? Thank you for your lovely comment, Sue. Have a super week. Take care 🌻🦋

[@oldmanhuppiedos]

Happy New Year Vanessa and Zephyr, the start of a new diary. Zephyr skillfully fishes the ball out of the water, she is a happy dog. You have taken the lock with your steering skills and thinking ability. You have filmed beautiful birds. Due to the high water, canal quays have also collapsed.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you! Thank you so much 😊. Have a super week. Take care 🌻🦋

[@vanthituyetdo4757]

Happy new year Vanessa and Zeph'❤ ! May this year brings you health, happiness, and good sailing with Alice Grace and Zeph'. Hats off to you for getting through the short locks and the flood; What a way to start a new year.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Happy New Year to you too! Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🌻🦋🥳

[@ellenuhlrich2240]

Good job!!! Your my favorite channel !!! Love to see when next episode comes I enjoy watching them !!!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s so kind of you, Ellen. Thank you so much for watching. Have a super weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@shirleygreaves9650]

You did it, well done Vanessa and Alice Grace. The sunset shot was beautiful and the nature reserve looks a fabulous place to visit. I have quite a lot of ferns in my garden, Zephyr thoroughly enjoyed herself, wow that was a monster of a stick that she found! The flooding happened very quickly, I was on the edge of my seat hoping for a good ending! beautiful bullfinches and that friendly Robin, they were so colourful. Thanks for taking us along on your journey. Take care. xxxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

The flood was so scary, Shirley and I was so relieved when I saw it subsiding. It has really made me think about the weather more now. Thank you for watching and for your lovely comment too. Take care 🦋🌻

[@lrdisco2005]

You should write for a living.

[@shirleygreaves9650]

@ do you mean me or Vanessa?

[@lrdisco2005]

@@shirleygreaves9650 Obviously you. Your description is so vivid I was able to picture myself in the situation.

[@shirleygreaves9650]

@@lrdisco2005 thank you, very nice if you to say so.