#184

[@mychalloving6821]

I am an 81 year gentleman who lives in Washington state in the US. I was watching a lot of you tubes about people living in vans and traveling the states. Then the algorithm monkeys decided I 25:02 would enjoy narrow boat vlogs. Of all the dozens of narrow boat KZbinrs your’s rises to the top. I resonate with your channel in several ways. I meditate(mindfulness). I journal and keep a sketchbook. I live on 5 wooded acres surrounded by nature. I’ve now gone back to the beginning of your series and watch an episode as part of my evening wind down time. A big heartfelt thanks for all you do. We need more like you in these troubled times. Blessings, Mychal

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Mychal, that is such a kind message. I am grateful for the algorithm too! How wonderful that you keep a journal; it is such a rewarding thing to do isn’t it? Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@vanessascola4708]

What a lucky thing.

[@irenedavo3768]

Fantastic

[@JazzFunkNobby1964]

Nice comment Sir. I bet you have a few tales to tell.

[@31Alden]

Lovely, Mychal.

[@nathanmiller5209]

I am a 60 year old man.for various reasons im feeling extremely low at the moment and questioning my place in this world, i have a loving family and and loyal partner but i am restless with the state of the world, your vlogs make me calmer and stettled a little thank you

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Nathan, my advice to you, having been of a similar mindset several years ago, is to try and not overthink things. That is so hard, I know, but accept that you feel like this at the moment, recognise how you feel, and float through for a while by noticing beautiful things on a walk or a drive because time will pass and you will feel better, I promise you. I’m sending you a cloud to float on for a while☁️ take care 🦋🌻

[@nathanmiller5209]

I know time is the key, life is precious, Thank You Vanessa for your kind words of comfort🥰 @dfulnarrowboat

[@deirdrecurran1780]

Your videos are wonderful, thank you.😊. Your poetry is magnificent, you are extremely talented.

[@dismaldog]

Me same age and same feeling mate.Just feeling very uncertain in these days and unsure about future as I just keep thinking back to past with love of it.

[@AJ-hi9fd]

I’m 61, the last 4 years has opened my eyes, and now they are open I can’t close them again. I question absolutely everything It’s made me dissatisfied and cynical, so I can empathise. I love the tiny house videos 🥰 people’s creativity gives me joy, thankfully.

[@sallylunamoth5542]

Nobody Does it Better than you Vanessa, Your wonderful Filming & Narrative can even make a grey rainy day Appealing. Loved the Pottery Shop... Thank You 🌻🐕🌻

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such a kind thing to say-thank you so much, Sally for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@irenedavo3768]

Beautiful video

[@louisewhite9152]

@@themindfulnarrowboatHi Vanessa ~ it’s only me - my notification bell hasn’t flashed up in about a week. I hope you’re okay and keeping well - sending loads of love and loads of hugs ~ Xxx Xxx

[@michaelhiggins7365]

I so love Vanessa how England makes a concerted effort to preserve its' heritage. Seeing that steam locomotive resurrected after serving so few years, is a testament to a few men who had the foresight to see its' value. Imagine the countless smiles this locomotive will paint upon so many young faces who ride her. I loved that you included a piglet in this weeks sketch along with the Leafy Brain Fungus. May God bless you and Mr. M in your continued canal travels, we all eagerly await what your future holds.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Michael, you are so right about the importance of preserving heritage and the wonderful job the syndicate did with that steam engine; everyone was smiling that day on the train and then when we passed the boat that was temporarily flooded and the crew were waving from the windows, it confirmed how special that project had been.Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@irenedavo3768]

Lovely videos!

[@eps0m1066]

As a Brit p living in the UK, I would say the commitment to preserving our heritage is now under serious threat. Why? Because its now being seen as negative by the woke mindset that everyone has to follow now. In the media, and in the schools and esp our Universities, whenever British history is discussed it almost immediately has to be followed by an apology. Its racist, its this, its that. Pretty much all negative. So don't be surprised to hear of historical places no longer being protected in Britain. As its now all about fitting in with the current narrative.

[@carljeffrey82]

I noticed 4 biscuits instead of three. good work,

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

When it rains, the biscuit count goes up, Carl! 🤭🌻🦋

[@stevewrissy9748]

I think “Vanessa” deserves four biscuits this week after all that hard work (even with extra chocolate spread)

[@carljeffrey82]

she is a dynamo

[@katienorthenmore1892]

@@stevewrissy9748 I just noticed the pottery cup & plate. Its beautiful 😍

[@1Waarheid]

Unfortunately carbs and all sugars are addictive, cause bloodsugar spikes, inflammation etc. Ppl. are a business model.

[@eltrym]

You mentioned one of the positives of narrowboating. On that subject I ordered myself a 5 year diary, with the intention of using it as a gratitude journal. I wasn't sure exactly what I was going to write in it, nor was I sure if I'd be able to find 5 things a day to be grateful for. But I came up with a plan to use my senses to help me. I would write down one thing I could see, hear, touch, taste and smell. Well that was it, I was off! By the time the diary arrived I'd written down so many things that I was able to back date it right up to January 1st! 😂 I write in it every day and I am currently a day ahead of myself because I feel like my world is so full of abundance that I regularly run out of space on the page I'm on. And guess who's name went in there a few days ago... Yours Vanessa! ❤

[@obiblooze5902]

That's a fantastic idea!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Oh my goodness! 💚 A Gratitude Journal is such a wonderful idea; we should all have one and what a clever plan to use your senses in which to gather your thoughts. You brought tears to my eyes when you said that I am in it; I feel truly honoured- thank you so much for such a beautiful comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@soobee6060]

Please let us know the name of the 5 year diary and where to buy it. We used to buy the Collins one but it has been discontinued 😢 here in NZ.

[@eltrym]

@@soobee6060 Hi Soobee, I think there are many on sale to choose from. I bought mine from an online stationers here in Spain. The make is Midori (Japanese) and it's undated. Each page is devided into five sections and each section contains five lines. Each year you visit the same page but write on the section below your last entry. I like the craftsmanship of the book but I was quite surprised at how small it is (I didn't check the size beforehand). I use a Copic 0.1 multiliner sp to write in it, as the writing needs to be small, because space is limited. I was quite lucky to find a limited edition 10th Anniversary one, the last in stock, at the same price as the other cloth versions but they also do a really pretty embroidered version, although that is more expensive. Hope this helps. X

[@andersvikingsvensson8762]

❤The highlight of this week is following your adventures on the waterways ! Lovely and wonderful narrator as always!❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@petermcfarlane2294]

I really enjoyed your comments, on old railway, and your artwork and illustrations are fabulous love the old teapot proper made tea! Wish I had your pen man ship , and drawing skills , not sure of you age ! But bet you were a fantastic teacher. I am very good at fixing things, boats, car, trucks,motorhomes, motorcycle, love the old ways! Cant not help feeling , we have lost so much of our history! The fred dibbners of our country. Miss my father every day, he show me so much ! Your journey is an inspiration two or so

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you for such a heartfelt comment. Your father sounds like he was an amazing man. Thank you for watching. Take care 🌻🦋

[@mattgoodchild8215]

Fantastic video Vanessa The best boater channel on you Tube consistently brilliant videos and a true ambassador to our open waterways Thumbs up 👍🏼

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such a kind comment, Matt; I really appreciate your support- thank you so much! ☺️ Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@OldWomanfromtheMountains]

Hello from in the middle of nowhere in Texas !! I just love your channel ! The English countryside is so beautiful, like nothing one sees here in Texas. I so enjoy your artwork in your journals. The Pom Pom on your knit cap is the same color as your hair and it makes it look like you have a tuft of hair sticking up…it’s rather adorable 😊 I admire your drive to live your dream on a canal narrow boat. I really enjoy all the people you meet and sharing your knowledge of the flora and fauna of your country.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoy the vlogs and people that I meet along the way. I noticed that about my pom pom the other day too! 😂Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@markrant1460]

Dear Vanessa, Many blessings to Alice Gray for looking after you once again. It was so good to see that you made it through a difficult scenario. You have such an adventurous life and one full of stories that you will be able to share with your daughter, some day, when you are sitting in a cottage, by the fire, rocking in your rocking chair. Mark Alberta, Canada

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Mark, there does seem to be a lot of adventures at the moment; I think that is winter for you!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@sarkybugger5009]

Another beautifully filmed episode, and DIY chocolate Hob-Nobs too. Lovely.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you; I really recommend DIY chocolate Hob-Nobs!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@rikkiharcourt3868]

You really are an admirable goer Vanessa. You pack more into a day than I could have managed and still have time for your journal. Respect!!!!!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@chrishope9896]

Wow! Nostalgia overload. I loved every minute of this vlog. I’m an ex-Pom living in Aus and I miss the UK so much. Your love of the countryside and your knowledge of nature is such a pleasure to watch. I’m transported away from the daily drudge to a more natural relaxing world. Thank you.😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I’m so pleased you enjoyed the vlog. Don’t forget how it rains all the time here though!😂 Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋

[@johnsutherland6322]

Great to see your videos again Rebecca not long till birds are breeding and spring time take care of yourself thanks ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Spring is almost here and I can just about hear her soft and sunny footsteps!Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@chrishobbs58]

Hello again! Once more I completely enjoyed another glimpse into the beauty of your country, it's history, and the people who live there. I will never get enough of steam trains! Nature can be both wonderful and capricious, can't it? Yet there you are, just soldiering on through it. What a trooper! I've started to look up the flora and fauna you mention in your vlogs, did you know Lungwort provides early nectar for bees? I certainly didn't. It was nice of you to help out your fellow boaters, and it was good to see that you yourself got the help you needed. What a wonderful community of people boaters are. Thanks again, and best wishes, as always!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Chris, that is such a kind comment. I think it's wonderful that you are looking up the flora and fauna too! It is fascinating, isn't it? Lungwort gets its name as it was used to help with breathing difficulties; I only found that out this week too. It is so pretty.Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@Daytona2]

Just love your knowledge of nature, Vanessa - I've learned so much 🙏 I love the history and atmosphere of steam engines, also rural industry.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoy the vlogs. I find it so exciting learning about the nature outside my window and the history of where I am moored.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@hectordelvalle4428]

It is such a relief to see a traveler as yourself using the retrofit of a steam locomotive. We here in the USA, especially in New York City. Have to be aware of our surroundings, as we travel on the MTA trains. If it is all possible, could you show us here the interior of these trains. I'm just curious about them, and thank you for walking about. You have a keen perspective of seeing things that most are not aware of or take granted. Be safe and enjoy your life.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Hector, I should have filmed more of the inside of the train shouldn't I? Next time, on a steam train, I will. I am. bound to have another steam train trip somewhere as I love them so much!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@cindymanning3097]

Oh what a lovely treat to watch your beautiful and interesting videos from the rainy west coast of Oregon, USA. I dream of visiting England to see the birds and walk in the homeland of my ancestors. Thank you for your brilliant work. i hope your wonderful journeys continue to nurture you. You bring peace to this world!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What a kind comment, Cindy! I hope your weather improves too. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@williamSmith-fv5hi]

You did it again Vanessa with the daily dose of positivity, poetry, verbiage, scenery. It is a pleasant experience to experience your channel. Today is Tuesday 21 January 2025 and the temperature dropped to 13 degrees F. and now is 23 degrees at 2:30 PM in Virginia. I am blessed with a warm home. Your East Coast USA Friend.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Stay warm! That’s very cold 🥶 Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@joanneowen4540]

What a harrowing adventure..you have tremendous skill and calm to handle the hurdles and worries that come your way.I love how you see and show us the beauty of nature and people even in dark times.The pottery was lovely,and wow!! A tri on the Hogwarts Express lol.Delightful! So glad you are ok.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@angelarochester116]

It’s wonderful listening to you tell us little snippets of information about plants, insects and nature xx 💚

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@sianiswack633]

Astonishing. Even the iron ore factory looks like it might not have been such a terrible place, except for the cherry eye. Thanks for taking the time to show us the very nice pottery. Won't forget it.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

The buildings were amazing weren’t they? Thank you for your lovely comment, Sian. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care 🦋🌻

[@garymcguire8529]

Living in a tiny home, such an odd way to look at it, but your garden is enormous! You so much nature to journal every day!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so true! Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🌻🦋

[@kevinbery9345]

It's my first visit to you and your adventures, and I can honestly say I'm completely submerged in your short videos,how loverly a person you are,and your compation for nature,you and your trusty companion warm my hart,thank you and I wish you a long and peaceful journey.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What a kind comment. Thank you so much, Kevin. Have a super rest of the week. Take care 🌻🦋

[@martiniv8924]

After all the years in the Middle East , I thought some good old English winters would be great, i am sick of the rain now 🤦🏻‍♂️😂 peaceful cruising 🙏🏻

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

😂 It has been a particularly wet and grey winter after a wet and grey summer, but when the sun comes out, doesn't it feel that extra bit special!Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@georgehorning7027]

My compliments to you. I never expected to find a narrowboater who is also an artist, a naturalist, a poet, and a historian in my periodic searches on the internet. Thanks so much for your beautiful vlog. It's truly a gift.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you, George! Thank you so much. Take care🦋🌻

[@31Alden]

It is indeed, George. My brother recommend Vanessa’s Vlog and I am so happy he did. Thoroughly refreshing and delightful. My great escape from our world.

[@vanessascola4708]

You were hungry this week. All that energy you have used. Nature really is amazing.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am very greedy when it comes to biscuits and chocolate spread!😂🦋🌻

[@StevesRepairs]

Thanks Vanessa for taking us along on this adventure through all the difficulties of narrowboating through all the heavy rain and the problems that it causes. Even during such bad winter weather the wildlife and nature shines through and as always you capture it beautifully in your journal. Take care and all the best. Stevie

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Stevie, the wildlife is amazingly resilient isn't it? Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@simon-nb-Betsyray]

Another excellent vlog Vanessa its nice to see the modern and past photographs , there's so much history that passes close by the canals. Spring is starting to make a appearance with the buds and wildlife but so much rain💦 wet coats and muddy paths , soon it will behind us and glorious weather will be here. Thanks again and hope u have a great weekend 😊🐕🐖🐷

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Simon, when the sun shines, even if it is for a few seconds the whole boat lights up and reminds me that soon, we will have the wonderful feeling of surviving another winter on the canal and watching the spring unfold before our eyes. I hope you are feeling better now xThank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@michaelpriest4549]

My Grandad drove a steam engine, let me on the footplate when I was a kid.....H&S now! When his workplace changed engines to diesel in the 50's the rail union negotiated to install Baby Belling cookers in each cab since the crew couldn't heat their "snap" on the coal shovel any more

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What an amazing memory! That really tickled me. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care 🦋🌻

[@Amidekor]

Podziwiam Twoją wiedzę o przyrodzie. Dziękuję.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Miło jest wiedzieć, że lubisz przyrodę na vlogach. Miłego weekendu, trzymajcie się 🌻🦋

[@jackmullett9198]

I can’t remember such a wet February. The footpath looked very muddy, glad you were wearing appropriate footwear. I must say, I get a great education about the fauna and flora, you are a mine of knowledge. 😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It really has rained hasn't it?Thank you for your lovely comment, Jack. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@lucindawilson5510]

At a loss for words younglady.So very brave..thanks again for sharing .

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@shirleygreaves9650]

I love your positivity Vanessa, you were walking with no raincoat, it started to rain but you looked for a rainbow, such a fantastic way of looking at life and problems. I’m sorry you couldn’t get to end of the Cauldon Canal in Alice Grace, but the walk was beautiful and the tea room must have been very welcome to escape the damp weather for a while. I don’t think I’ve ever known such a long wet spell of weather, you stay positive but it must be making life on the canals hard this winter. I loved the train ride, so fabulous that volunteers work so hard to keep our heritage alive. Fabulous nature and journaling as always, such cute little piggies that you saw and I love that you included them in the journaling. Made me want to do a painting of one too! I’ve never tried Nutella on biscuits, they looked yummy and fully deserved after your adventures. Stay safe Vanessa, better weather will soon be here. xxx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Shirley, your comment really made me smile; I really appreciate your kind words. I think you should do a painting of a pig as they are adorable subjects to draw. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@tiggersawyer]

I love that no matter how bad things might get you can always pick out the positives from them 🫶🏼

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@annjarvis9300]

Awww Vanessa what a great vlog has always and how kind of you to give help to the other boater and great how the others helped you tc nowthe oldis🤗🌷🌹🌺

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Ann, it is always a great feeling to help someone and it was so kind of the other boaters to help us too. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@plushypuppy2024]

oh What beautiful waterways, flooding can be scary though and I DO hope the bridge wasn't vandalised and the bricks fell by themselves. I LOVE a steam train!, if I'm in Dorset seeing friends I adore the one from Norton to Swanage...it's just the nicest thing to see kiddies with buckets and spades travelling to the seaside in such a way, what a memory for them!. I will probably binge watch whatever I've missed so far, it's making me feel so cosy 🙂, have a lovely end of week!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I agree with you about the magic of steam trains. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻

[@timtaylor1365]

What a wonderful way to live. You have discovered contentment and fulfilment. Congratulations!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I feel very lucky. Thank you so much. Take care 🌻🦋

[@pandoralechat780]

I love steam trains! A wonderful adventure along this waterway!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

They are wonderful aren't they?Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@vanessascola4708]

What a crazy thing, and all the problems with getting through the sandbanks. Hope you are rested and safe now.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Rested and safe, happily! Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care 🦋🌻

[@jeffbrown2401]

You are a fantastic person your vlogs and Diary at the end are so inspirational, you are simply the best.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such a kind comment, Jeff! 🤗 Thank you so much. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@DesOwen]

Delightful

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@jetblack6953]

Vanessa I have just found your channel today March 27th. It really is pure escapism for me so beautifully filmed and edited and a lifetime away from this crazy ,selfish and greedy world we live in right now. I will be watching all your other videos and will look forward to your latest, thank you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much for finding me today and making such a lovely comment too. Welcome aboard! Have a super rest of the week. Take care 🦋🌻

[@jeremyrobinson-u9u]

So look forward to each week and a new adventure, love the history your art and poetry.❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@markd3250]

Though I've been following your channel for a little while now, as I watched it today I felt a swelling of emotion at the simple beauty, kindness, and graciousness you display in all of your videos. In a world that seems to be steadily going mad as a hatter, it's wonderful to see the anchor people, the foundation people who anchor our society and stabilize it are still out and about. People like you. People like the potter, like the ones who rescued and restored the steam engine. I've said thank you in my comments to you before, but I need to say it again. I hope you don't get tired of it. I wish I could think of something to say more descriptive, but thank you Vanessa. Just simply thank you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Mark, this was so descriptive and heartfelt and I am so grateful for such a kind comment. I am quite overwhelmed by your words, thank you so, so much. Take care🌻🦋

[@stevecam724]

Record temperatures as our summer heat waves continue. 3mm of rain in about 8 weeks (it misted twice). Love the channel and I'm glad you've survived the high drama of boat life, have a great weekend.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I bet you are all doing rain dances out there aren't you? I hope you have some cooler temperatures soon.Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@rnupnorthbrrrsm6123]

Oh I’m so glad you all were safe and it worked out, you have such a positive attitude!!! I love the pottery you chose ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you! I am over the moon with my pottery too! Nick is a great potter. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@christineprice5463]

Your new pottery is beautiful! Enjoyed the trip today. Sometimes it was stressful but you took it in stride. Vanessa, you never disappoint, with your channel or your knowledge. Thanks😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Christine, Nick’s pottery is so beautifully made and I’m chuffed with my tea set. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@christineprice5463]

​@@themindfulnarrowboat😊

[@annbeirne9583]

This was so beautiful to watch despite the problems, you are a fantastic problem solver. It was lovely to see a Chaffinch haven't seen one for years. Greenfinches, Bullfinches so many missing now. Loved the tiny little slug, I know people probably won't like me saying that all nature thrills me, even rats, water rats, foxes, wood pigeons and so much wildlife around me living in Newcastle under Lyme in Staffordshire. So far! So much habitat being stolen from the wonderful creatures that have as much right to be there as us. We as a family have only walked the canal, not been on it so far. Never seen so much water for a long while. I adore your journal of what you have seen during your travels, not an artistic bone in my body unfortunately Your knowledge of nature is also amazing. Thanks so much for sharing💖🐍🦆🦢🌲🌳🌺

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I agree with you, Ann- all wildlife is wonderful and plays an important part in the life cycle.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@matthewjshow6563]

The railway segment was awesome!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It was such an adrenaline rush running over the crossing! 😱 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🌻🦋

[@suedale1865]

My word Vanessa what a wet watery vlog this week hope you are coping ok ? Shows the wonderful camaraderie with boating folk & you are so right when even with such weather it is stunningly beautiful to see what a magical island we live on Keep safe 🫂💕

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Sue, it has definitely rained a bit lately hasn't it? It is a magical island, I totally agree with you.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@LindaHurley-p4g]

Hello wondering how to order one or more of your books , realised they don't have them on sale in shops and can not order . Am Linda in Oxford and don't do on line help 😊

[@Jana-wz7dr]

Sand…sandwich, yes Zeph, I am sure mom said sandwich! Rain or shine, your slow adventures are such a pleasure to partake in, love that you show us fungi and birds and plants. These red cup fungi, nothing like that here, I guess that is why we have no forest elves and faeries. 😆😆😆

[@sianiswack633]

But, we have ravens you can talk to - if you can make a noise Iike a cat purring, the ravens know this noise, and will stick around to chat a minutes with you.

[@Jana-wz7dr]

@@sianiswack633will have to try that with our ravens.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

How wonderful!💚🦋🌻

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

You really must. It sound’s magical.💚🌻🦋

[@kermitthefrog6363]

Watching for the narrow boat cruising but staying for the feathers and fauna !!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That’s lovely to know. Thank you for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@robinnicholson4009]

That you found Nick is wonderful. My favourite waterway

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It’s great isn’t it? Thank you for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@T.T.T.H]

❣💟 Love your poetry. Wishing you safe travels with your lovely Lab. Excellent videos with the nature touch, most excellent 👌🐈🌹🌻🌺🌼

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much 😊 Take care 🌻🦋

[@kennethgibbons366]

Sometimes its just great to dip into your episodes... well done

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I’m so pleased 😌 Thank you for watching. Take care 🌻🦋

[@Bicyclehub]

What a lot of excitement this week! I enjoyed the train journey and the poem is excellent. You read so well too!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@TheCommonGardenTater1]

So..... Your video's bring so much joy to so many. Your passion, understanding, affinity, compassion and genuine appreciation of your world radiates. I miss the UK so much, and it's quirks that make it so unique. Truly, you are appreciated for taking me to where I would love to be. Be Blessed ALL Here.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you feel like you are here with is when you watch.Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@TheCommonGardenTater1]

No, THANK YOU Madame.... Your Gracefulness. @@themindfulnarrowboat

[@garymcguire8529]

You are passing over some of natures fineness creatures fish. Next time you see an angler, ask them if they have any to show you. My favourite is the Gudgeon, a beautiful fish.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Gudgeon are beautiful aren't they? In one of my vlogs, I visited an amazing fish pass built by CRT on the River Severn in Worcester and you could watch different species swimming past the glass window to avoid the weir. It was magical to see them like that! Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🌻🦋

[@garymcguire8529]

Wait for the summer when the carp start spawning in the shallows, in he weeds and get some polarised sunglasses to cut out the glare. Feeding wet bread in the shallows, will bring out the roach too.

[@michaelpilling9659]

Hello Vanessa - greetings from Poland. A really superb video. A bit scary at times but Alice Grace came to the rescue. A fantastic adventure this week. From nail biting to huge smilea via kindness to others and nature at its best, This video had everything. Loved the steam train very much and what gorgeous pottery. Stay safe please

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Michael, I am so pleased that you found the video interesting. It really warmed my heart to have the help from the boaters and Consall Forge and then to be part of the team effort with the crew on the Jemima D. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@anthonypope8429]

Great video I just love your history and the water ways and your books are stunning its nice that you are keeping our heritage going

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you. Thank you so much, Anthony. Take care🌻🦋

[@mickhardstaff6605]

Another fantastic journey in your life , loved the croaking pheasent in the background, nice to see you pay the potter in cash as well , not many of us left now 😂 .

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Mick, I have never seen and heard so many pheasants as I have here! It is impossible to have a conversation without one of them added their contribution! 😂Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@sandyprosser805]

Hi Vanessa wow what a day you had, I was tired watching you lol.i love the end bit a cup of tea and biscuits yum yum, hope you have a better week and stay safe. Xx😊

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It was a bit of an adventure, Sandy but the tea and biscuits set it all right again.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@Redfour5]

There is something very peaceful about watching these vids on the canal boats. Yours and others.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

There are a lot of channels to choose from too! Thank you so much for watching and commenting. Take care 🌻🦋

[@31Alden]

Love your pottery purchases, Vanessa. This was quite an action-packed day for you and Zepher. Exercise, fresh air, steam engine travel = a good night’s sleep! Delightful. Xx

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It was a busy time, but there is so much to do and see in that area. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Take care🦋🌻

[@pancrazioaquilina7029]

Yes another mind relaxing video just what we need in this crazy world, thank you you made us all brewing a cuppa tea as the english say ❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@gerryholland7274]

Now that was a damp week! Crazy weather. 17.5C early this week with Brimstone, Tortoiseshell Buttiflies and some busy Bumble Bees. We have Primroses and Polyanthus well in flower. Great video!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

You've had 17.5C! Oh my goodness!!! Butterflies and bumble bees!! That is crazy weather indeed; or it could be those green fingers of yours, Gerry; you do seem to have a way with plants.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@alanlong1971]

Know this place very well walked that section many times over about 40 years so know every inch of your trip.

[@orchidhouse297]

Beautiful, as usual. So relaxing, in spite of the mud and sand banks. Perfect accompaniment to a bourbon cask single malt. Thank You.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

How fantastic to be watching and enjoying a bourbon cask single malt at the same time!Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@kevanhubbard9673]

'Heavy rain this winter '!It began in July 2023 and we have hardly had a dry day for 8 months and I think that this February is about the driest it's been since July.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I think you should be doing the weather report. That is a very accurate summary! 😄Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@leogreen6116]

I'm gutted 😂. I'm the man who will sometimes message you mentioning normally an animal or bird I think should have been in your journal. All the way through I was thinking about slug love and was sure that he wouldn't have been the star of this weeks adventure. Twarted this time. Another amazing adventure that is a work of art in itself. I just get lost in your stories and escape for half an hour and I'm transported to the canal. I'm from Newcastle and I love canals but sadly that's the one thing Newcastle is missing. I'm totally invested in your stories and love there's always a little drama. Well acted by you and love how it's written all over your face when something happens. It's normally that flippin chimney falling off 😂. But this time it was sand banks and the dreaded boat reversing. You always seem to find the most magical places. That pottery guy had a shop that is definitely from a time gone by. Plus your cinematography is second to none. I'm the kind of person who when I point a camera at something it just never turns out right. You have the eye and its effortless. A few other thoughts I had as I watched was when you were walking along the footpath and all we could see was the barge pole out in from of you. It's was reminiscent of a henry the 8th jousting event as you strode forward with purpose lol. I also thought zephyrs favourite sandwich must be a sausage one. I also love your routine of making a cuppa and selecting the biscuits to settle down and write your journal with. I said you should draw a custard cream once. The routine normally is 3 to 4 biscuits normally one broken. This time you did an upgrade. A chocolate spread on top. Must have been the excitement of getting through January and off that river unscathed. It was like a firework display going off in your narrow boat as I seen those bog standard biscuits all of a sudden get a nutella coat to keep them warm on a cold winter's day. I know the messages are a little long winded and in my head hilarious lol. I never write and your vlogs are the only thing that inspires me to take a moment and put into words what I've watched. So thank you. If only the world had more teachers like you we'd all grow up geniuses.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What an entertaining and thoroughly delightful comment! It really made me chuckle. Thank you so much for taking the time to make it. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@tracyirwin8681]

I always look forward to your videos Vanessa and this has been so lovely to watch, the scenery is beautiful where you are and well done on coping in such challenging weather conditions. The rain is unbelievable. I'd really like to visit this part of the country one day it looks like a hidden gem especially the railway and the pottery. Your nature observations are very interesting not to mention the beautiful drawings, poetry and music. So relaxing to watch. Thank you x

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you look forward to the vlogs, Tracy- that is so special to know. Consall Forge is definitely a hidden gem.Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care 🌻🦋

[@dallassukerkin6878]

Ahh, that inner happy feeling of seeing a boater at places I know well :) I'm a Cheadle lad by birth and my dad (and mates from school) worked at the copper works at Froghall. It used to be a summer adventure to cycle up the disused railway to the Black Lion for an illicit pint :D EDIT: Unexpected sadness at seeing Bolton's all shut down now. It's one thing to know about it, quite another to see it. And the memories keep on flowing with this one :) The last time I was on the Churnet Valley railway was when my late wife photographed a wedding there - I was gear porter for the day.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Wow! So many memories for you. What a beautiful place to know so we’ll. I am so sorry to hear about your wife. Take care 🦋🌻

[@headinclouds6733]

Hello Vanessa, I really admire your lifestyle. It must be hard at times. Have been watching your stories for a long time now and they bring me a lot of happiness. Have a lovely Christmas and be safe.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I’m so pleased that you are enjoying the vlogs. Thank you for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@obiblooze5902]

Your vlogs are always so interesting and absolutely love the journal at the end. How do you cope with Zephyr's muddy paws after walking those towpaths? I have a doggie too and so much rain lately, I try and find nice wet grass for him to clean off in, but not always easy, there's lots of towelling off when we get in 😃

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you enjoy the vlogs. To be honest, the mud wins every time! Zephyr doesn't like having her paws wiped, so she swims just before getting in the boat and then I deal with the soaking wet dog issue rather than the mud, luckily I'm not boat proud! 😂🐾🐾 Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@obiblooze5902]

@@themindfulnarrowboat Ah, so good that she likes the water. Yep, better to be wet than muddy :-) have a great weekend too, hopefully a drier one! 🌞x

[@terencehammond8878]

Thank you so much ,your vlog made for an excellent start to my weekend ,even through the damp there was so much warmth in the wonderful sights of the of your brilliant filming and of course your excellent narration , Terence & my Border Collie Kate 🐾🐾

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Terence and Kate, that is so kind of you!Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@Mog435]

Excellent vlog , nice seeing the railway again I do pop up there in my old troop truck in the summer with my dog Ellie .

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I bet Ellie loves that trip!Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🦋🌻

[@Mog435]

@@themindfulnarrowboat aw thank you I so love watching your vlogs . It’s a breath of fresh air from the crazy things going on in the world . Looking forward to getting out in the truck camping as I have done a basic camper set up in the load bay . Has your buy me a coffee address got a glitch as I tried to get on it earlier ! Regards Kev

[@oldmanhuppiedos]

The rain doesn't seem to stop, hopefully spring will be nicer. The sandbank makes it difficult for you to pass. 🥵 But another nice vlog Vanessa from the water.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@lincolntrewethey]

I just found your channel. I'm binge watching. You are living the lifestyle I soooo want to live. I want to sell my houses in Kanada and move to the UK to buy a narrowboat. I nearly did it 4 years ago, but...well, you know what happened. Zephyr is a pretty girl, indeed. She's lucky to be sharing her life with you. Maybe I'll see you on a canal somewhere...

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Good luck with the move! Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🌻🦋

[@lyndaturner6686]

I love all the nature you find , it’s a nature lesson for me reminding me of things I’d forgotten since I was a child, I’m 75 now although I still get out into natural environments I haven’t seen many of the plants you find for many years.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

It is so rewarding to find something growing, especially if it's in a stone wall or in gravel; I have so much admiration for the plants that spring up out of virtually nothing. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care🌻🦋

[@MichaelDavis-pq6ei]

I can't believe you do this alone. Or I guess your alone just the lad for company what a wonderful existence 😊.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I live with my husband but he can't appear on the vlogs for work reasons. There are many solo female boaters though. The Narrowboat Pirate is a great vlog to watch as she navigates single-handedly. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care🦋🌻

[@deborahjohnston2808]

Thank you for. Showing all the wonder you see❤️Always gives me joy

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Thank you so much 😊 Deborah. Have a wonderful weekend. Take care 🦋🌻

[@butchbinion1560]

Thanks, amazing. ✌🏻👊🏼

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@dnewnova]

a truelly wonderful video thank you the end of your videos always makes me hungry but only have donuts and coffee re watch with

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Donuts and coffee sounds wonderful! Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care 🦋🌻

[@charlesarbuckle7958]

Four biscuits seemed at lot, but when you put nutello/nusfit on them I had to watch another vid to see how many you'd nibble down. Chow for now, excuse the pun, and do remember to keep the hatches battoned and a tight ship without walking the plank🐕

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I must have had a tough week that week to go for four biscuits! 🤭 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🌻🦋

[@barryjubber175]

Great vlog. Enjoyed the pottery shop and steam train. I remember re-metalling slippers for the steam engines in my apprentice years.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

What an amazing job that must have been working with the steam engines. Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super rest of the weekend, take care 🦋🌻

[@sprokthered]

Love the “where to duck”!!

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I'm picking up the local dialect quickly and especially like being called 'duck'. 🦆Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care🦋🌻

[@G0RXA]

Brilliant video once again Vanessa, you’re really having an adventure on that canal. Shame you couldn’t get to the end. Have travelled behind Braveheart many times on the Dartmouth Railway, lovely engine. Glad you enjoyed the trip. Have a fun week ahead 👍🚂

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Hi Nigel, yes, Braveheart was a visiting engine that day so I was so lucky to see her; I'm sure she'll be back at Dartmouth Railway again soon for you to enjoy some more steam rides.Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care 🌻🦋

[@robinhall3347]

I love your vlogs, they are calming and thought-provoking, Thank you!💞

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you, Robin. I am so pleased that you are enjoying the vlogs.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@chrisandjaneonnarrowboatpo3917]

Brilliant video. Really enjoyed watching. A big thumbs up from Chris and Jane 🎉

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I am so pleased that you both enjoyed it, Chris and Jane.Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Take care🦋🌻

[@Drforbin941]

Really enjoy your videos. thank you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@nigelh3253]

Your videos are lovely and i thank you for taking me with you

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is so kind of you- I really appreciate it.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋

[@garphykeks]

So many wonderful parts to this story❤ I particularly loved seeing the piglets! (I love pigs🤣) A full blown fantastic adventure. Thanks for taking us along👏👍

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I love pigs too! I could have watched and filmed them all day as they are so full of personality and intelligence.Thank you for your lovely comment. Have a super weekend, take care🌻🦋🐷

[@RestorationRanchHealing]

I have been off grid since 2014 in a motorhome and winter is no fun at all! Crazy repairs afterwards can spend the spring making repairs- and the cold temps just awful 🎉 love binge- watching your videos and I have subbed 🎉🎉🎉

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Winter definitely takes a lot of preparation doesn’t it? Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@rosinah1169]

Dear Vanessa, give yourself a checklist before you move off and take your chimney down before you move off. Love from Oz❤

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

Good idea! 👍 Thank you for watching. Take care 🦋🌻

[@robertseaman2254]

That’s a very beautiful poem ms mindful. It’s all so peaceful and ful of interesting facts best wishes robert

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

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

[@tricialyn4645]

I admire you so much. You show so much commitment and you also work really hard!! Thanks for sharing your adventures as it's pleasing to watch and to hear your stories too. You deal with every hardship in the most serene way and Im proud to subscribe to your channel. Take care of yourself and Im sending very positive thoughts to you for the days ahead x 🛥🚢🛳

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

That is such a kind thing to say and I really appreciate your words.Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Take care🦋🌻

[@ZubairKhan-vs8fe]

I really love your videos. Nature, local communities, boat life and the most beautiful sceneries, music and your soothing voice.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

I’m so pleased that you are enjoying the videos. Thank you so much for watching. Take care🦋🌻

[@rskeyesful]

Last May, I spent two weeks on the Grand Union Canal for a narrow boat holiday. Watching and listening to you embodies what I felt and experienced but have been unable to express (I'm a retired engineer :-) ). Thank you.

[@themindfulnarrowboat]

May is the perfect time to be on the canals so I'm sure the Grand Union was gorgeous to travel on last year. I am so pleased that my vlogs bring back that memory for you. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Have a super week, take care 🌻🦋