# 179 Narrowboat Stuck in An Arctic Blast!

[@carljeffrey82]

you are the queen of the canals, with that smile and eyes of wisdom as nothing gets past you. I appreciate the camera work

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What a sweet and kind comment- thank you so much, Carl! Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@johnburgess5534]

During 15 years of constantly cruising, winter and summer, I was totally self sufficient with logs, kindling and flotsam to burn in my squirrel stove.. I invested in a bow saw and spare blade early on, along with a hand axe.Fallen trees, coppiced willows, etc kept the stove going 24/7. A fire brick each side inside made a great shelf for baked potatoes!!!! Three lots of warmth. One…the collection of wood. Two….the cutting up into logs. Three..burning it. A wonderful life, sadly all behind me now. Love the memories you bring back. Thank you and Mr.M.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

You were very well organised; it sounds John! It takes a lot of time and energy to be self sufficient like that- hats off to you! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@MrOVERANOUT]

A season of the year which provides so many opportunities to see wildlife, yet many people fail to notice. It's always a pleasure to see nature through your lense. Thank you and stay warm. ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is always a pleasure for me to show you the nature that I can find- I am so pleased that you enjoy watching. Thank you so much! Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@kaycee625]

Your videos never fail to stir the senses, such beautiful scenery and wildlife. Glad you’ve got the firewood stocked up!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@MultiBbuck]

I watch and enjoy your videos / travels. I also enjoy your art & poems as well !! Give Zephyr a tummy rub from me ... Ron in the USA.

[@TheDaf95xf]

Good afternoon Vanessa & Zephyr 😊 I don’t have many words to say lovely this video is only beautiful 😍 xx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoyed it; what a kind comment- thank you so much! Take care🌻🦋

[@robineasby5328]

Love the wildlife and fauna coverage you do. Your cheerful enthusiasm is wonderful. Thank you !

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@kennethpole2439]

As an expat in British Columbia who has visited the U.K. many times since, I truly appreciate the wealth of documentary detail.

[@АлександрНедовенчанный-ц1б]

The swans are very touching. Thank you. And an assistant to carry firewood, you simply need it.😊❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you for watching and for your lovely comment too. Take care 🦋🌻

[@АлександрНедовенчанный-ц1б]

@themindfulnarrowboat Hello Vanessa. I have a question. --- Is it possible to make a trip for 5 or 7 days on your boat. To see everything through your eyes. Naturally there will be a contribution for the refrigerator and my stay. I am in Ireland now, I am from Ukraine.

[@StevesRepairs]

Thanks Vanessa for taking us along to see all the beauty of an English winter to see nature at it's best but coldest, your Journal as always is a beauty itself. I hope that You, Mr M and Zephyr are safe and well during this current storm Isha. Have a lovely week. Take care and all the best. Stevie

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Storm Isha has been so noisy but at least we're safe. I hope you are too? Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@lizziemonk]

Heavenly Vanessa as always, caught up on a double bill as I missed last week - a pure pleasure. Thank you and stay warm (and today the storm is coming so stay tethered!!). Big love xxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

You are such a sweetie, Lizzie- thank you so much! The wind here is already blowing the boat about and that's before this storm.😱Stay safe and dry where you are. Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@ThePattiw]

Another gorgeous video ! I love that you do your nature journal so faithfully. The owl sounds right at the end 💕

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

The sound of a tawny owl fills my heart with utter joy- I love it!Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@pilpelet100]

A beautiful vlog of winter on the canal. I felt rather sorry for the swans. They looked totally confused by the ice. Thanks for posting. Happy to see you have plenty of fuel to stay warm.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

The swans are fine now, Ruth as its pretty much defrosting in big patches for them. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@anniemac3075]

The sight & sound of geese flying in a dark sky is utterly magical isn't it. Love those fairies, talking of magic. A cold but very nice wintry video, thank you Vanessa, keep yourselves warm. 🔥

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Annie, I love the sound of the geese and the drama of their flight at sunrise and sunset. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@suedale1865]

How wonderfully atmospheric with the scenery icy blast music & wild life the winter sun catching amazing colours Thank you Vanessa another stunning vlog Keep warm & safe 🫂

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Sue, that is so kind of you- thank you so much! The weather is very varied at the moment isn't it? I hope you have been okay in the storm? Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@Lisa_B.-1989]

Mrs Mindful, words can’t express how much we enjoy your videos. You have a talent for choosing the right music, but this one is outstanding!! Thank you for taking the time to give us pure joy.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you are enjoying the videos that means such a lot to me to hear that- thank you so much. Take care🦋🌻

[@rikkiharcourt3868]

Do you ever say to yourself “0h no, not another bloody lock”! I think I would. They must really interrupt your flow. My central heating had to be updated this week and I am just thawing out. 5 days of penetrating cold has wiped me out and it takes three weeks for my 17” thick solid walls to recover. I don’t envy you if you become surrounded by ice. You are very brave, I envy your fortitude too!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Oh no- what a time to have no heating! That is so scary. I hope you are warm now? I do say that about the locks by the way!😂 Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend and stay toasty and dry.🦋🌻

[@bishopkinlyside8477]

I had a friend that went to England on a tour and he said in the end he got sick of the ABCs another bloody church LOL or another bloody castle ha ha ha ha

[@rikkiharcourt3868]

I was thinking that you would make a stupendous addition to Winterwatch on the BBC. You are so professional…….i hope they make you an offer, Soring, Summer and Autumn too.

[@katienorthenmore1892]

thank you so much as always, helping me stop and reflect and breath, just to stop rushing, for it has been difficult at present. i am in a place now, where i hear the geese and take my binoculars to go and watch them, yes so important to be out side this time of year and to notice all of the little things, thank you for helping us to look and stop and appreciate. x .

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

To know that you can hear the geese and take notice of the little things around you is so good, Katie. There is so much calm happiness to be found in doing things like that.💚 Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@CindyWalker-f2q]

I especially love your enthusiasm for nature and your ongoing optimism. As always, your artwork is impeccable. I love it❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you. I am so pleased that you enjoy the vlogs.Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Take care🦋🌻

[@SiverBirch1234]

My two favorite Narrowboat Vloggers are yourself and Dave with Inspired by Nature,you both make nature so Wonderful,Thank you

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you- Dave is a super photographer isn't he? Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a great weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@delukxy]

@@themindfulnarrowboat You're kindred souls. Once you've seen nature in 4k it's difficult to go back. Would you consider upgrading? A camera with a longer optical zoom would help a lot with your long distance birds. Digital is rather lacking. I'm also a Lumix fan having an LX3, LX7 and FZ38. Not quite an FZ2000/1000 which I think you use. That does do 4K though even if the optical zoom only goes to 400mm. I think you often use the extra digital zoom which for want of a better word is "poor"! An FZ82 would get you out to 1200mm optically for your long bird shots and is also 4k even if it is not quite as highly spec'd as your 1000/2000.I hope you get lucky with the Waxwings.

[@irenebrown8363]

Lovely watching all the swans breaking through the ice you film so sensitively of All and is such a joy to see in a warm may now thank you

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Watching the swans as they work through the ice is quite incredible, the other ducks and geese just don't have the strength that they have to do that. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@vanessascola4708]

Stay well and keep warm. Not easy all this hard work going to get all your supplies. What you have to do. I do admire you. Take good care. x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

You are so kind- thank you so much!☺️🦋🌻

[@andrewdolinskiatcarpathian]

Hello Vanessa. Thank you for such a lovely video. It sure brought home how cold it was 🥶 Those tow paths looked extra nice. If only they were like that on all the network. They vary so much, with some being almost impassible in wet weather. Stay warm. 👍😀

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Andrew, it is such a treat to have a towpath that can be used like that and it is very popular with walkers, runners and cyclists too. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@4sstg]

Love the wild ones you show us, and draw so beautifully. ….and the lovely music you choose for your videos,,,so welcome.✨ poor swans and duckies, wish I could help them…

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@NarrowboatWill]

I've been frozen in, and the water point was frozen. My pumpout tank is full. I'm praying for the big melt, Mrs mindful. Have a wonderful weekend.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I'm praying for you too now- a full loo, iced up taps and a frozen boat is not fun! But at least life isn't boring Will! Next challenge- Storm Isha- tighten your ropes!!! Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a thawing weekend- take care🦋🌻

[@Kev_the-Brinklow-Kayaker]

Lovely spot to Moor at only 2 weeks to go and you'll soon be off on your way. The buzzard sat watching over the its territory, see many of them around Brinklow with the red kites too. Good that you have your fabulous trolley. 👌 water runs will be twice as productive with two water rollers.. Have fun but most of all enjoy live life to the full. Kev

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Kev, thank you so much for your lovely comment and wise words! Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@annjarvis9300]

Another grand vlog so much nature even in winter all our love the oldies tc keep warm and well🤗🤗👍👍

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you both enjoyed it, Ann! Thank you so much- take care🌻🦋

[@stevemendenhall6284]

Thank you for another great adventure aboard the Alice Grace. If the rest of your videos are as good as your first two 2024 is going to be a good year. Liked your little story about the elephant ears and especially the one about the Swan ice breakers in the end. Hope you have a great rest of the week see you next Friday Steve

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Steve, that is such a kind comment- thank you so much! 2024 has started off with some wild weather and so hopefully that will settle soon🤞 Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@Lillymae-gq4oe]

River boat living must be so fascinating and beautiful. I’ll swop you the icy cold snow with some heated days I’m having here in Australia. Our temperatures have been reaching 42deg cel some days. Seeing your art and poem journal reminds me of our winter days when we’re stuck inside due to the cold, I’d spend time journaling and writing music for guitar or piano. Take care and blessings to you…

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope your temperatures cool down a bit for you; it is much harder to cope with extreme heat than the cold, I think. 🌬️Sending you a cool breeze! Take care🌻🦋

[@anitaokearney1970]

I admire your bravery but I'm loving your drawings and poetry def turn these into books for publishing, just beautiful and I love your loyal companion your lovely dog 🐶

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you, Anita- thank you so much! I sell copies of my 2022 and 2023 journal in my Etsy shop themindfulnarrowboat.etsy.com I just don't promote it much on my channel. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@patriciadavison1486]

I love watching your videos but have to say, the narrow boat life would not be for me. You see some beautiful sights and hear wonderful sounds, meet lovely people and have lots of fascinating things for your gorgeous Nature Journal…..but -all those lock gates would drive me insane. I once booked a two week holiday on a narrow boat and lasted one hour (!!!) before I had to leave (with a panic attack) get a partial refund on the holiday and vow “never again”. I have never got back to my car so quickly in my life! I hated the experience of even standing on the boat and would NOT have stood the hard work of all the lock gates nor the freezing cold! It doesn’t stop me enjoying your experience though - so Thank You for another great video. XXXX😂 PS :Doesn’t the smell of the engine and incessant noise make you feel stressed? and just for good measure I get seasick just sitting in a row boat on an estuary! 😂

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Oh, Patricia, it sounds like your narrowboat holiday was a nightmare! It is such a brave thing to hire a boat if you haven't been on one before, so I commend you for that. I am so pleased that you still enjoy my vlogs though. The sound and smell of the engine isn't too bad on my boat so it doesn't bother me, but I was very scared when I first started driving the boat and I had a bad holiday experience too. I love it now though.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@hectordelvalle4428]

I really enjoy your view on things that matters. Especially when you do interact with the common folk, nature, and historical facts. You have a keen eye for details, which many can not achieve. Very appealing.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoy the vlogs- your comment is so kind- thank you so much. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@JimmyCook-yl6qc]

Fantastic your poems and drawings mind blowing absolutely brilliant ❤🌻🦋

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you, Jimmy! Thank you so much; I really appreciate your lovely comment. Have a super week. Take care 🌻🦋

[@davegreg]

Hi Vanessa......just an observation after watching a few dozen of your videos, that i've never seen / heard Zephyr bark, i'm sure she must though! Really enjoying your channel, you're a pleasure to watch.🙂👍

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Dave, Zephyr hardly ever barks; but if someone is outside near the boat at night, she barks and if anyone knocks on the boat she barks. She has a really deep, scary bark too, but you'll rarely hear it. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Take care🐾🐾🌻🦋

[@brewster3987]

Wow, lots of scenic winter views, really stunning camera angles, your own private flock of gongooselers, and (gasp - could it be?) a rogue sighting of Mr. M? I won't give the time stamp away... P.S. I meant to say also, your joie de vivre is contagious.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Brewster, I hope you are well and keeping warm? I can't for the life of me find the rogue sighting-I'll have to go back and watch again!🤭 Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@PhilipSimpson-jt7pf]

Thank you, Vanessa, for sharing this vlog. This is a stretch of canal that I know so well. Your video and the beautiful background music moved me beyond words. Through your vlog, I can be a boater again. Thank you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such a lovely comment, Philip and I am so pleased that the vlogs are bringing you back to boating. Thank you so much. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@garyp8471]

Brrrrrrrrrrrrr warmer double figure days coming. Wrap up and enjoy the views Gary n Irene

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Gary and Irene; it would be nice to have some warmer weather! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@G0RXA]

Well done again, cracking video. It would seem Zephyr accepted her coat! Hope the winds haven’t caused any issues. Have a good week, take care.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Nigel, I am so pleased that you enjoyed the vlog. Zephyr did seem to accept her coat didn't she? Although she was happy when I took it off again!😂🐾🐾 Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@paulwhitehouse3690]

Wonderful asides from the Narrow-boat travel, you know the birds, as a fellow birder I greatly appreciate your sharing, hadn't thought the (Steppe?) Buzzard would be around, they should be with their pals down here in the southern hemisphere?🤨 Your sketches are exquisite, I love them all, such a skill. Thank you, warm regards, Paul, Johannesburg

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I have just looked the Steppe buzzard up and it looks just like the our buzzard but it is a different bird and would be, like you said, found in the southern hemisphere this time of year. Thank you so much for introducing me to this new bird! Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@bradmoyer9737]

Perusing your videos over the course of a year, offers one an insightful perspective into the seasonal and migratory transformations that the flora and fauna go through, while creating the different tapestries that comprise canal life. It is easy to look at a winter scape and think there isn’t much active life in it, and then your photography brings it to the fore. Viewing is a great alternative to going out into our own “Arctic Blast” in the upper midwest of the United States. Thank you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Your Arctic Blast is much more severe than ours here, so I hope you are all okay? I am so pleased that you enjoy the seasonal changes in the vlogs; it is one of the things that I love about narrowboating as it really connects you to the outside all the time. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care🌻🦋

[@sianwarwick633]

Yes indeed, Vanessa, there are lots of jelly ears around. I don't know what aqua rolls are ! I used to look for birds and more sun around Feb 15. Sometimes hard to spot if it's stormy

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Sian- an aqua roll is a cylinder tank on wheels that you can fill up at a tap and carry as extra water. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@beverleybutler7685]

Thank you for immersing us in the beauty of nature at her coldest and your enthusiasm on the canals of England. 🤗❤️

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you, Beverley- thank you so much. Take care🌻🦋

[@JoanFreeman-c2u]

your photography is absolutely fantastic and your knowledge of wild life wonderful. I have learnt a lot about insects etc that i never knew existed. Love all your videos so keep them coming. I love Zephyr she is so good i wish our dog was half as good as her.x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such a kind comment- thank you so much! Your dog sounds like a wonderful character 🐾🐾💚 Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@darylenyland3702]

It was A Picture watching the Swans breaking Ice!😁🐶

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

They are such incredible birds aren't they?Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@elizabethmcpherson-lt9vh]

Ive just found this site and this is the second video watched. Nature's beauty can be found in all seasons. The drawings and poems are wonderful. You should publish your journals. Ive looked up the fairy sculptures and theyre magical.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Elizabeth, thank you so much for finding my channel. The fairy sculptures really wowed me. I have made copies of my journal which I sell in my Etsy shop: themindfulnarrowboat.etsy.com as other viewers asked if they could buy a copy.Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care🌻🦋

[@vanessascola4708]

You must be quite a long way north with this cold weather. It is never ending. Long for spring.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Up North and travelling further up too! It is definitely much colder but it is so beautiful too. Thank you for your comment- take care🦋🌻

[@plainandsimple2576]

It is so good the Shops carry bags of wood for you! What a chorus the geese made! Stay warm! We are 17 degrees Fahrenheit here in Missouri. We were in the negatives a few days ago. Thank you so much for taking us along!😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Stay warm and dry! Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@simon-nb-Betsyray]

Good evening Vanessa another excellent vlog it makes u want to rush and keep warm by the fire when seeing u in the frosty canal, yet again u have shown another problem of boating when u are cut off from amenities and u have to stock pile supplies of water. Its amazing how the wildlife adapt to the cold like the ice breaking swan slowly but surely making its way through the ice. I hope u have a warm and pleasant weekend 👍🐕🦢🕸

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Simon, I hope you are keeping warm too. At least there isn't much mud when it's all frozen! The wildlife amazes me too as they just seem to have an ability to deal with the sudden temperature drop. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@peterbrown1208]

I follow 5 or 6 narrowboat KZbinrs and yours are becoming my favorites. You explain where you are in such vivid terms that i feel as if I am there. A gentle and caring viewpoint is such a respite from the hustle and bustle of the world. Be safe and do lots more.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such a kind comment, Peter- thank you so much; I really appreciate it. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@shirleygreaves9650]

Dear Vanessa, Zephyr and Mr Mindful. I hope you survived the icy weather, I found it a refreshing change after the constant rain that we’ve had for much of the winter. Another storm is forecast for this weekend so you’ll need to batten down the hatches again! How amazing it was to find evidence of the beavers at the beautiful Trentham Gardens. We managed to spot some waxwings at Hassop Junction near Buxton, there’s been around 350 near the car park of a bookshop and they weren’t a bit frightened by all the people taking pictures of them. I hope you managed to see some. Lovely journaling as usual. Take care and stay safe and warm. xxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Shirley, we are all surviving here but still frozen in. I agree with you that it is so much nicer than the grey drizzle weather that we have had. I can't believe we have another named storm on the way- it's definitely not boring is it? I hope you stay safe, warm and dry. Seeing that many waxwings is absolutely mind-blowing! There must be a lot of berries by that car park- well not now though!😂 I would just love to see them-I think I would cry with joy if I did! Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@vanessascola4708]

Good you are here again. Sorry for your problems with locks and delays. Who needs winter. Love the crazy fungi. You are up close to nature again.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is fine, Vanessa and it could be a lot lot worse. Thank you so much for your lovely comment- take care🦋🌻

[@carljeffrey82]

I am doing a historical study of the fairies, the dwarves, and duende. the garden sprites and others are something I love to see their history and the REALITY, lol. Thanks I have spent the last twenty five years working in UK, Ireland, and the islands of the Isle. This is such fun to imagine. Even here in the deep south. The duende of the world. Your art captures my interpretation of the cosmos.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That sounds so fascinating! I bet you are finding out some incredible things. Thank you so much for your comment. Take care🌻🦋

[@barbarawrigley4242]

Wow, the canal freezes over so quick. Amazing how the swans break the ice with their chest. Loved all the geese, funny little things. Their feet must be freezing in such cold water. Love all the little historical storys you tell. Such history along the waterways. My grandson has been living in London for over a year now, hope to get over there this year,and I will certainly be having a look and walk along these beautiful canals 😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment. I hope your grandson is enjoying life in London. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@angelaaz6282]

Good job that you were able to stock up with lots of wood 😊😊 and hope it lasts for more than one night!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It did last for more than one night and it was truly beautiful.Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care🌻🦋

[@jamescunningham1973]

Beavers are the most amazing animals,its incredible theyre now thriving again

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is incredible to see the reintroduction programs happening isn't it? Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@markrant1460]

Hi "V", It's really good to see that you now have, what appears to be, some warm waterproof gloves. The introduction of beavers, so close to the canal, may have been a mistake. Having lived in proximity to them I am always amazed at the distance they will travel in order that an area does not become over populated. Usually the two year olds will leave home in search for their own territory and moving water is an attraction. Let us hope that human intervention has not created an issue even though it was done with good intentions. Thank you again for you brilliant video work. Mark Alberta, Canada

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Mark, you raise a very important point about the beavers as I hadn't thought about the fact that the young will want to have a territory of their own when older. What I do know is Trentham have put fencing up all around the sight and that when they open the bridge for evening concerts, they have people on beaver guard to make sure none leave for the river Trent which runs close by and indeed the canal. Humans hunted beavers to extinction in the UK and then realised how important they were for flood management and biodiversity, but like you, I hope they do the reintroductions properly. Thank you for your great comment. Take care🦋🌻

[@markrant1460]

You are welcome and may those beavers have long and happy lives@@themindfulnarrowboat

[@stevieboyoboy]

Always look forward to your KZbin posts.....always interesting and love the drawing and poem at the end. You always refer to we.........I only ever see you and your pet dog ..........or is that we? Can't wait for next post.....Thankyou

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I travel with my husband, but his work has a strict code of conduct which means that he can't be on social media. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@JimmyCook-yl6qc]

Arrr bless your so adorable and talented not just a pretty are you ❤🦋🌻

[@FlyFree2023]

Another beautiful episode highlighting the season and both its majesty and its hardship!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@robertbrierley7083]

Nice wintery vlog nice to see Trentham Gardens went close to them last Wednesday haven't been there since my early teens, Funny seeing the Swans ice breaking i suppose it's just not thick enough for them to walk on, 5 biscuits i had no chance!, stay safe and warm.😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Trentham Gardens is such a great place to visit! I didn't see the swans walking on the ice this time so it could well be it was too thin. I was over the top with the biscuits this week wasn't I?🙈 Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@hooligan_56labelle22]

I live in the warmer part of Canada. Cornwall Ontario. Minus 20 Celsius tonight. Minus 65 Celsius in the north west. Brrrrr. Everything is white except the cedars and pines. No mud. Trees are full of snow. Pretty when the sun is shining. I thought this weather report would warm you up a bit. Till next time keep warm.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I bet it looks like a winter wonderland where you are! I hope are managing to stay nice and warm. Thank you for your lovely comment- take care🦋🌻

[@grahamstubbs4962]

Waxwings are beautiful also Bramblings. I always keep an eye out for those. Just once, and much later in the year, I've seen a pair of Hoopoes in the garden. They are spectacular.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hoopoes!!!! Where in the world are you? I saw them when I lived in Lanzarote and they took my breath away! Such stunning birds! Thank you for watching. Take care 🌻🦋

[@grahamstubbs4962]

@@themindfulnarrowboat When I was visiting relatives in West London. It must have been just the right weather/insect conditions for them. You don't see that often 🙂

[@carljeffrey82]

you should draw some of the fairies. your pencil style will flow with the fluidity of the motion of fairies

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I'd love to practise drawing the fairies! I put one in my journal as a quick scribble and found it a real challenge. Take care🧚‍♀️🦋🌻

[@paulmclaine6413]

Is your Narrow Boat warm enough if you keep the stove going. I recall working outside as a teenager in freezing snow in a place the name of which I can't remember in England. Those freezing days seemed common when I was young but less so as I got older. Zephyr is like most Dogs , they do not like coats. She soon forgot she had it on it seemed. Loved the Fairy's and the weeds in wire ,don't remember what they were called, we used to blow the stems off as kids. My Dad use to tell me every stem was a Fairy. See the memory's you are waking in me Vanessa. Thank you for smiling through everything that life throws at you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Paul, I am so pleased that you enjoyed the vlog and fairy art, the plant for wishes is a dandelion and I used to do the same as a child. How wonderful to think that every stem is a fairy! Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@GaryCSchade]

Good Morning....as miserable as you probably feel, to me your Temps are something to look forward to, currently here at my home in Alaska it's around -20°/-28°F with the wind chill...LOL Hahaha Hahaha Hahaha yeah & we have received a all time winter record snow fall, and there's a few months of winter yet to come with the typical high snowfall months yet to arrive. Have fun and Love everything that is precious to you. My beloved wife and I really appreciate your sharing your travels and talents. TTFN.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Gary, I think the frozen days with the piercing blue skies are magical, but I would be scared to have to manage the temperatures that you are dealing with in Alaska. Stay warm and safe. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@orchidhouse297]

I like making people and animals using the wire and champagne ( usually fizz) corks. I had run out of ideas -so - I am thinking you have given me an idea. How does fairies balancing on fizz corks sound? A new hobby for my 80th birthday!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Well what a wonderful idea and a great excuse for drinking lots of champagne too!🍾🍾🍾🍾 Please send me some pics on my email. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@TheJessierb]

Vanessa- Winter's Masterpiece is a terrific poem - evocative and engaging. I so enjoyed the way you gave Winter a persona. I've seen real icebreakers on the St Laurence River here in Canada and the swans are no less impressive! The Fairy Art is magnificent. I love that he caught a glimpse of a fairy on his camera. Thanks as always for bringing us so much interest, enjoyment and beauty every week. Keep safe in the week ahead in the Arctic freeze...W xxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Wendy, I am so pleased that you enjoyed the poem; I loved writing that one as I was inspired by Robin's fairies and the idea of Winter sitting at the top of a tree like that. I bet the real ice breakers are impressive the watch! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@joanneowen4540]

That was a beautiful,but no doubt nerve wracking,cold adventure.I had a good chuckle..everyone is either bothered or amused by our Canadian Geese..they indeed were quiet entertaining.We Canadians tend to be a bit loud at times haha.The habitat for the beavers warms my heart..our other Canadian mascot.Nice to see their worth.Stay warm and good luck this winter.Thank you for the lovely poetry always!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

The Canadian geese, are such characters and much milder in temperament with each other than the Greylag geese. In fact often you will find one Greylag with a family of Canadian Geese, but you don't see that the other way around- just like in this video. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@louisecreed5460]

I love the fairy art,but never knew about the fairy in the photo..😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Isn't it an exciting story and doesn't it look just like a fairy sitting there!🤩 Thank you for watching and commenting. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@gl2856]

Love your art and the poems are amazing , Graham L welcome to stoke on Trent 🎉

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@AndrewBroadbent-dr8wb]

Great to hear of the beaver reintroduction. Keep warm and dry. Thank you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is such a great reintroduction program isn't it? Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@shawneeb3771]

What an interesting life you have. With the beautiful views and the wildlife all around you. Thank you for sharing it all.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you. It is never boring living on a boat that's for sure!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the week, take care🌻🦋

[@lorrainerichardson3280]

When I smell Wintersweet I immediately go back to childhood and a great aunty's home. Thanks for the cruise, so peaceful, I just love the fairy wood =-). I didn't know beavers were a native species in England. Take care and wrap up warm =-)

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Lorraine, oh the smell of Wintersweet is heavenly isn't it! I just had to stand there for a while and sniff. Beavers were hunted to extinction here sadly, but they are being reintroduced again which is amazing to see. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@kieronmoore3390]

Stay Warm

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much- take care🌻🦋

[@04Ruskin]

We have a winter honeysuckle shrub in our allotment which flowers for several weeks, so any early bees if there is a warm day in late winter take full advantage of the flowers.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so lovely to know that the early bees have a great source of nectar and pollen when they arrive at your allotment.Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@lynmoore8355]

omg how lovely your Vvloga are and the drawlings are wonderful.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@drifter1949]

Love your videos so much especially the wildlife, the scenery and your drawings. Makes me feel relaxed and at peace. Thank you

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that the videos make you feel relaxed and at peace- that is so lovely to know- thank you!☺️ Take care🦋🌻

[@paultaylor9652]

The winter countryside, as I've not seen it or appreciated it before, till I watched your new video, keep them coming.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

The winter countryside is magical on the piercing blue sky days isn't it? Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@dremein]

Yes Winter is here. We're expected to get down to 17 (F, or -8.3 C) Sunday AM. Unusual for North Carolina in the US. But then it supposed to warm up t0 mid 60's (18+ C) next week. Go figure. Keep warm. Hope you see that waxwing.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope it warms up for you soon. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@jorgeblanco2275]

Dear lady, I send you a greeting from Argentina. I follow all your videos.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your greeting from Argentina! I am so pleased that you are following the videos. Take care🦋🌻

[@jeancarpentier5920]

You are alive and you know it... i am jealous........

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Many years ago, Jean, I felt so detached from the world in which I lived and I spent too much time thinking inward, so I taught myself, very slowly at first, to spend time noticing the simple and beautiful things in the world. It took me a while to break the cycle that I was in, but now I can't stop discovering the amazing world of nature around me and I love sharing it too. Thank you so much for watching and commenting. I wish you a week of beautiful discoveries- take care🦋🌻

[@jamesfoley6555]

A lovely vlog, thank you🙏✝️🙏🇨🇦

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much, James- take care🦋🌻

[@gracens5548]

I am under the weather, and your video helped me feel calm and rest tonight. You have such wonderful gifts! Ps. My dog always gives me a bit of a look when I bring out the coat, but once we are outside, I am hoping he forgives me ❤ 🐕 All the best from Virginia!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I hope you are feeling better today? I'm glad my dog isn't the only one that gives that look when the coat comes out! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@mickhardstaff6605]

What a beautiful life it must be , you are very lucky .

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is a great life and I never take it for granted.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care🌻🦋

[@user-woolfallD]

I like the ears 👂 on wood 🪵 I never see that before good ears of Elephant

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

They are just like ears when you look closely at them. Thank you for watching. Take care 🌻🦋

[@jennyfulcher8035]

A few years ago I saw both Cedar and Bohemian Waxwings, which was a real treat. They're one of my favorites. I loved the gorgeous wired fairy sculptures. 🧚🧚‍♂🧚‍♀We just had our arctic blast but now it's warming up (35 to 45 degree F). I'm glad you were able to stock up on firewood and other necessities to keep you warm during your Arctic blast. I was hoping you'd illustrate that swan 🦢❄swimming through the icy canal. Beautifully composed illustrations of Honeysuckle, Fairies, and mold slime upon the beaver chewed sapling. Jenny

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Jenny, it's good to know that you are coming out of your Arctic Blast and that it is going to warm up. How amazing that you have seen Cedar and Bohemian waxwing; such incredibly beautiful birds! Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@jennyfulcher8035]

@@themindfulnarrowboat You too Vanessa...I hope you find those Waxwings!

[@cababness]

Always lovely vlogs from you! Beautiful poem, and your drawings are wonderful works of art! Your restful voice reading your poems are a wonderful to hear before going to bed!😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What a kind and lovely comment- thank you so much ☺️ Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@MsVanorak]

thanks. i've got a winter honeysuckle flowering and a scorpion vetch flowering next to it which has a lemony scent. it's good for the soul to have something in the depth of winter, plus if we have an early spring there is something for the bumble bees to visit. I don't know how far behind real time you are uploading but it gets worse. -13C tonight.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Your garden must smell delicious! It did get really cold but now it's all about Storm Isha. Stay safe and warm. Thank you so much for your lovely comment-take care🦋🌻

[@jackmullett9198]

It maybe cold for you, but it’s always peaceful watching these. I don’t suppose the beavers were near the canal!! 😎

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Jack, the beavers have a strict zone which Trentham Gardens have to make sure they don't cross. They have put high fences up stopping the beavers from getting to the River Trent and when they open up their bridge to let people in for evening concerts someone has to guard the exit to make sure none escape! I bet they'd love to get their teeth into the lock gates and start rerouting the canals! Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻🦫

[@robinhall3347]

@@themindfulnarrowboat I love beavers, we have them here in British Columbia, Canada. Sadly there are some people who kill them because they can't abide beavers. Wonderful that Britain is reintroducing these gentle animals and using them to prevent flooding.

[@anthonybelcher7261]

Hi this weeks video was absolutely amazing throughout .I thoroughly enjoyed watching your lovely cruising along the watery canal in all it’s beauty .just awesome 👍⭐️

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoyed the vlog, Anthony! Thank you so much for such a lovely comment. Take care🌻🦋

[@paulburgess324]

Good job V&Z , good luck for the next ortnightxpaul

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@gailmowat3149]

Tried to order your book but all sold out, hopefully you will do a reprint. Your buzzard is Canada's Red Tail hawk they have adapted well to urban living like the rest of us. Must admit though I love the gentle countryside you show from your narrowboat. Did you find the cedar waxwings, they are a favorite of mine too.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for your interest in my book. It’s in stock again today. Sadly, I missed the waxwings this year, but hopefully I see them next year. Take care🌻🦋

[@randoneur]

I love that mooring spot. Stayed there earlier in the summer when it was over 30º! I would have returned this winter, but got myself stuck with stoppages south of Birmingham. I'm on the S Stratford, and lovely as it is, the towpath is a quagmire, if that. It's literally knee deep mud in places. I've enjoyed this week, because for the first time in months, it's temporarily changed to concrete. That all changes tomorrow when the thaw sets in, and we're back to mud again. It's impossible with the dog to keep clean! I'd be happy with a few more weeks of this arctic weather 😀

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Having a frozen towpath sounds like a huge relief if you've been trying to wade through mud like that. This mooring spot is amazing isn't it! I think it's up there with one of my all time favourites now. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@Sassy-ly1cg]

"So beautiful only poets may describe her"

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care🌻🦋

[@chrishobbs58]

Hello again! I'm only getting to watch this a day late. It's cold outside here, too. So I've set myself to doing projects, and I've been a busy beaver. Enjoyed seeing you in your winter wonderland. I hope Zephyr got used to her coat, it loooked like she needed it. Hope you all stayed warm! Best wishes, as always!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Chris, a busy beaver- you've not been chewing the trees in your neighbourhood have you?😂🦫 I hope you are managing to stay warm. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care🌻🦋

[@beckymatthewson6044]

Hope you are managing well - we are fairly local (Cannock) if you need anything - shopping, wood etc. Enjoy the weekend 😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@ks4io]

how awesome is the way you end each video. love them all.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoy the end of each vlog- thank you for watching until the end too. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@michaeljohnlawrence4262]

Yet another great video ,what can I say but lovely ❤.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is a very kind thing to say- thank you so much. Take care🦋🌻

[@johnmayo27]

I like your video's ,I thank you for taking time and sharing your life with us. John E. May-0 USA 🇺🇸 ❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉💙💙💙💙💫💫💫💫💫💫💫

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

You are so welcome! Thank you so much for taking the time to watch and comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@CMACJAZZ]

Enchanting, Hope you soon access so that you can continue your travels,what were dates of the film extracts.keep warm and thank you for another delightful presentation.😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoyed the vlog. The next challenge is storm Isha! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@carltonv1]

love your videos and poetry, you beautiful lady !

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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