Van Life | Laughing 'til You're Blue in the Face | Smurf Village

This week my poor old camper van struggles on the mountains and hills around Andalucia as we head to Ronda with it's amazing bridge that splits the town in two. When we are unable to find a park up in Ronda we decide to move onwards to Juzcar - the Blue Village / Smurf Town where all the houses were painted blue for the Smurf 3D movie back in 2011.
We then headed back down the mountains towards the coast to the outskirts of Marbella and then onto Gibraltar where we bump into two fellow boaters who have a Narrowboat in the UK and a sail boat in Spain - the best of both worlds.
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Winters in the UK can be miserable especially when living on a boat and with all the canal lock closures for maintenance, I began to feel a little trapped. So for the next 2 months I decided to join up with another fellow solo female traveller and set off across Europe in our two very old camper vans in search of sunshine and to experience Van life at it's best.
I hope you enjoy something a little different as I swap boat life for van life.
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Thank you so much for watching. If you are new here, I'm Heidi and I live aboard my Narrowboat The Rum Wench and travel the UK's Canals in search of Adventure. After selling my house to experience an alternative lifestyle I bought a canal boat and a camper van which as a solo female who loves to travel, gives me the best of both worlds. I have recently got myself a new addition to the crew, a fabulous companion - my little rescue dog Bonny who is an absolute joy and the perfect First Mate. I also work full time off grid from my tiny home and trade at canal festivals as The Narrowboat Pirate aboard The Pirate Boat.
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If you want to know more about LIVING ON A BOAT, CANAL RULES or WHAT I DID BEFORE BOAT LIFE then please watch these two videos:
• Live on a NARROWBOAT? ...
• My Narrowboat is batte...
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For more info such as Filming Equipment, FAQ and more: 🏴‍☠️ thepirateboat.co.uk 🏴‍☠️
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You can also follow my adventures as the Narrowboat Pirate aboard The Pirate Boat here:
🟦 Facebook - / thepirateboatuk
🟥 Instagram - / thepirateboatuk
⬛️ Website - thepirateboat.co.uk
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🥃 If you would like to buy me a Rum you can do here :
www.buymeacoffee.com/thepirat...
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🅿️ Alternative way to buy a virtual Rum via Paypal :
PayPal.me/TheNarrowboatPirate/
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❤️ Become a Patreon and long term supporter on the channel: The Narrowboat Pirate
/ thenarrowboatpirate
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#vanlife #solofemaletravel #offgrid

[@geoffingram2742]

When your engine is getting hot. Open the windows and put your heater on full. This pushes the hot water through the heater matrix (second radiator).

[@alanwainwright473]

This gives a "Blue Video" a whole new meaning, ay up duck.

[@scraggy983]

@The Narrowboat Pirate, if your vehicle overheats, DO NOT SWITCH OFF, just park up and run your engine at 1000 to 1200 revs, this will cool the engine quite quickly, If you turn the engine off there is no circulation of the coolant as the pump is driven by the engine. once the temp has dropped to normal, THEN, if you so wish turn it off, I would also suggest at this point, open the bonnet, it will help the heat dissipate.

[@johnnyzander1466]

Exactly as Scraggy says, plus you can turn on full heat and the fan for extra help. Of course with the windows rolled down. Fantastically beautiful views in the mountains otherwise.

[@sungazer454]

If a car overheats, there’s something wrong to begin with. Coolant too low, oil too low, oil/ coolant pump wrecked, thermostat valve defect, etc. Also, if an engine is hot, the ventilator will cool it down with the gravitational coolant flow when the car is switched off. 1000-1200 rpm is also way too high for an engine in idle, and never revv an engine while standing still.

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Thanks the tips … it wasn’t just our vans, lots were struggling on these mountains as they were so steep we had to be in 1st and second gear for a long time …. Once we had left the mountains everything was fine 😃🏴‍☠️

[@lorrainerichardson3280]

@@sungazer454 it's just old....

[@youknowme8578]

Two: Two lovely young ladies have gone on a trip. One even abandoned her pirate ship. To travel on land, and not by the sea. But brought lots of rum to drink with just me. They've traveled so much, and time has no matter. I just wish that van wouldn't make such a clatter.

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

😂😂

[@youknowme8578]

@@TheNarrowboatPirate I miss your pirate ship Heidi. BTW, I can cook, and swap a good deck. God bless you on your life's journey, a braver pirate I've never known. Arrrrr me matey.

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

I miss my Narrowboat too but it’s winter and most of the canals are shut for maintenance so I can’t cruise anywhere until the stoppages are lifted anyway … it will just be messing about up and down the same stretch 😂😂

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

That’s so very kind, thank you 😊

[@nelderkin564]

Never thought to see Heidi & Sandra in a blue movie!

[@michaeltamborelli2769]

Now that's what call talking till you're "Blue in the Face". Your videos & background info are Amazing. Cheers.

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Thank you 😁🏴‍☠

[@Acapulc941]

You are providing wee Bonny with such a lovely life. Leigh

[@obiblooze5902]

Help me Ronda! Great vlog again Heidi, thank you x

[@elainef6044]

😂absolutely howling at your blue faces🥶

[@guiart4728]

I always get a big smile watching your videos!!! Lord knows we all need more smiles…can’t get too many laughs!!!❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Aww thank you 🏴‍☠

[@DaveAppleton]

We like quirky, well that's why we like you Heidi 😁. You meet narrow boaters in all sorts of places. Thanks.

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

thank you - such a small world isn't it 😁🏴‍☠

[@andrewhenley7691]

Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ah ah a ha ha ha ha , 6:23, I did not stop laughing ! then at 6:53 with laughter tears rolling down my cheeks (face ! don't be rude.) I very nearly pissed my self. Thank you ! Muchos gracias .

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

😂😂😂

[@skopelos11]

My grandson was on Gibraltar with the Manchester Army Cadets for the past 2 weeks while you were there sorry you couldn't meet up with them all. XX

[@FlyMeToWonderland]

The two smurfettes 😂 Thanks for the joy and happiness you two bring us every week!!! 🚐💨

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Aww thank you 😄🏴‍☠️❤️

[@jamesmaxwell1922]

Another great vlog. 'Polly' didn't really 'break down'; she just wanted to take in the views! Meeting up with the other narrowboaters Lynne and Phil shows how small this World is.

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Thanks and yes such a small world 😄

[@IloveMK]

My first visit to Gib was when I was in the Army way back in 1974 I was then rushed off to Cyprus to evacuate British families when the Turks invaded, they had to leave a lot of stuff behind as we did not have a lot of time to get them out of the country. Happy Days back then.

[@billbrydon3725]

A trick when your vehicle starts overheating: Turn the heater on full (and open the windows). This helps dissipate the heat until you can stop. Learned that a long time ago taking a van full of furniture over the mountains.

[@frankkie3849]

There is just so much historical evidence and things to know about this country..Seems like the back roads are best for the history..thanks for sharing..😊

[@dawnoakley1776]

Good job your not on the Rum Wench heidi, the uk is virtually under water, i dont think its ever going to stop raining!!!!! Weve just driven to our caravan in wales and the fields are under water , like big lakes!! Feel sorry for the farmers and the animals Good to see your having a great time, looks amazing👍❤️xx

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

I'll be back aboard very soon 😩😂

[@user-pf3ez5vf6z]

Wonderful to see the sun, it’s rain, rain, rain here. Enjoy gals xx

[@investigativeresearchcounc8388]

Blue by you! The 2 of you are a riot!!

[@carriewoodburry8923]

It is so much fun , to ride along. ❤😂

[@keithbraham6438]

We get to see Heidi and her soulmate Smurfette together at last

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

😂😂

[@vanbertha7376]

Love to see your smiling face....🍷

[@timdewey3798]

I just love you're videos

[@helenleat6704]

Absolutely loving your adventures in the van. Bonnie looks like she's in holiday mode too!

[@mikem201]

It would be great to see you meet up with the 2 narrow boaters back home on the cut...

[@richardbrown7153]

Morning Ladies, Glad you've found some sun and you look like you're having a good laugh 👍 I see you managed to wear Bonny out - knackered but happy 😂 Looking forward to the next episode. Stay safe and happy

[@user-nt6zd8ny3w]

Great episode. What a laugh at Smurf Town. Loved it.😀. I was always told that if vehicle overheats, make sure you open all the vents and put blowers on full..takes the heat out of the engine..😉 xx

[@cynthiakeyes7197]

Oh I love it I cracked up to your blue faces what a beautiful place Juzcar, and little Bonny snoozing in the back just adorable Gosh y'all had me laughing so hard. The scenery was so gorgeous 😍 ❤ thank you Heidi, love y'alls adventures ❤❤❤

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

😃🏴‍☠️❤️

[@Judith46]

Bonny is so cute and adorable.

[@Steve9357]

Always a pleasure watching you and Sandra having fun! Not enough of it in the world today. You too seem to have friends all over the EU

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Aww thanks Steve 😃🏴‍☠️

[@vivianewing7154]

I have been to Gibraltar and heard the story about Gibraltar changing from driving on the left side to driving on the right side like Spain because of all the head-on crashes crossing the border into Spain. It was easier for Gibraltar to change being the smaller country than Spain. Also saw many monkeys and they are protected but be careful you don't want any jumping on you as they may bite your ear.

[@crasher303]

Switch your heater on when your engine is over heating, It is another small radiator . Like turning your hot taps on when boat engine over heats. Really enjoying grand tour.

[@dianedonnelly6364]

A fab, frolicking faff as usual! Moonlighting as members of KISS, boarding a (friendly) pirate ship and mountain climbing like fearless GOATS! 😂 You two are having a blast, thanks for taking us all on a great adventure! Looking forward to seeing ye monkey around on Gib, keep yer deadlights peeled or yer booty will get plundered! Stay safe ladies 🏴‍☠️🌈❤xx

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

😂😂 thanks Diane 🏴‍☠️

[@ElevatedThreat]

My favorite van trip video yet! Yall are a hoot, painted up blue faced. 😂

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

aww thank you

[@mikeboone4425]

We can find only one fault with you video TO DAMN SHORT take care you 2. Happy Trails

[@tommyrot7276]

Really enjoyed that episode, cannot wait for the next. Well done girls, stay safe.

[@philbosworth3789]

you two are smurfily amazing

[@Minikisses20000]

Heidi, you and Sandra did it again. Oh my gosh. I laughed so hard. When Sandra turned around with the blue face i almost choked on my Dr. Pepper. I had just taken a sip not knowing you two were going to be looking like 2 smurfettes.🤣🤣🤣 Great Vlog today. Thank you and have fun and please stay safe. 🩷🩷

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

😂😂

[@StevesRepairs]

Thanks Lovely Heidi, this looks like you had even more fun on this stretch of your adventure but I didn't think that I'd be watching a "blue movie", lol. I hope that you three are doing well and having lots of fun. Take care and all the best. Stevie

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

😂😂 thanks Stevie 😃🏴‍☠️

[@andyrbush]

Amazing scenery

[@stephenjones219]

I feel like I am right there along with you, minus the blue face. Can't wait to see Gibraltar..

[@karenhellmann7707]

Going up those mountains, you'll be overtaken by a snail 🐌🐌

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

😂😂

[@marielouisebeck8732]

Great ladies love Smurf town, how free you must be feeling, stay safe

[@veesimmons2464]

Stupid, greedy Sony! Ugh! Other than that upsetting tidbit of info I LOVED the vlog! You and Sandra on the loose is such great fun to watch. Thanks for sharing your adventures with us.

[@joolson8657]

We sure enjoy watching your adventures and I want you to know that I absolutely love your music!! I hope you can find time to continue to create those wonderful sounds.

[@martyncleaver3961]

Great video, very informative and great banter. Old vans are the best, stop you from rushing and missing great scenery 👍🚐

[@pamelajohnson9260]

Yay, Barbados, we got a mention.😅 Loved the video as always. Looking forward to Gibraltar.

[@beckypaulley5363]

Watching you get up them hills(mountains!) in your van,reminded me of my Dad when we were kids...He would rock back and forth sometimes,driving up hills,encouraging our car...So me and my brother would do the same...😁

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

It’s all part of the fun 😂😂

[@alisymes2011]

Another great vlog and the blue faces 😂 well done ladies x

[@bethwiles8214]

So enjoying your trip. Can’t wait for each episode, and love the blue faces. Keep safe ladies

[@blackbob3358]

It's pronounced " Kassam" dear, and yes, they usually have "huge gash's ". I'm supping one with you, right now ! xx

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Thank you 😄🏴‍☠️❤️

[@Martin-se3ij]

What an adventure!

[@glennalillpop3590]

Hello Heidi and Sandra and Bonnie and Sandra's two fur kids ... this is my absolute favorite of the European road trip so far. Smurf Town was absolutely adorable and the two of you seem to have a wonderful time being Smurfs for awhile. The look on Bonny's face was priceless ... she did not sign up for a Blue Mama ... but she seems to be quick to forgive and is having a wonderful time on the trip. I am excited to see what comes next. Save my seat for me ... I will be there ... I will NOT however be sporting blue makeup ... Hugs from Gramma Lainee.... May we all know peace in our lifetimes.

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

😂😂 oh we really did laugh, thanks for joining us again Gramma Lainee

[@annhay4572]

Good on your van for making that climb! And good on you for watching temp and such. Just go slow and it will all work out just fine. Sure you could replace the engine with a larger one, with a turbo, for a LOT of money, and you could replace the rear differential with one that provided more power to the rear axle, for a LOT of money, and you could replace the transmission for a more powerful one for a LOT of money. But you have a perfectly good van. Onward! Said by me a retired truck mechanic. Check the engine oil and transmission oil and the coolant levels every day when you're putting stress on the system. Should be just fine. Wow, that 1793 bridge is stunning. And that's the NEW one. And 393 feet down to the bottom. My word. LOL!!! Sandra! You are a smurf! Ah ha, both of you! Loved the squeaky voices. LOL! 🙂 Wow, they sailed the west coast of Scotland, I've driven as close as I can get to that coast, around all the islands and peninsulas (having owned my own boats here in the USA for 28 years). But these folks have sailed so many places, good on them!! Thanks Heidi, and Sandra. 🙂

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Thanks Ann, yes we checking the oil and water etc every day 😃🏴‍☠️

[@franktuckwell196]

Well you've missed out on about 40 inches of rain, back here in Blighty, take care stay safe. Glad you are all having fun.

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Oh wow!

[@wayneharris7534]

Another stunning video girls .. If you were back home . blue would be your colour because it's blooming freezing where I am..??? Anyway keep safe and well girls..

[@trevorsbarkingmadchannel4501]

Great vlog and travels. Awesome. As a coach driver of years gone by. If your van gets hot going uphill put the heaters on hot ! I gives the coolant more pipes to circulate in and cools down better. Might get a bit sweaty but the van will not get as hot. Best wishes. Loving the tour. ❤

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

thank you for the tip 🏴‍☠😁

[@Christine-xq9ep]

Fabulous! xx

[@skampster]

They are correct, overheating engines need to sit at high idle to cool off.

[@deballen6147]

Another great vlog ladies. Love the smurf town no surprise you both had blue faces. Crazy pair. Glad the van made it and good you both are together on this adventure. Cant wait for Gibraltar. Take care stay safe 😊

[@christineprice5463]

Thanks for sharing your journey! Great video! Awesome work!

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Thank you 😄🏴‍☠️

[@tonycraib5939]

Thanks guys once again for a great video

[@johnmcalpine8903]

Heidi. Your videos are amazing. You and Sandra make a fantastic team. You two are so funny. What a surprise when Sandra turned around and looked at the camera.....blue face. Sandra is hilarious and is good with the history. Love that girl, and, you too Heidi. Safe journey and look forward to the next vlog

[@sandrawillis243]

Thank you 🙏

[@kellyheywood503]

Well, said itoatlly agree !

[@groutmanalan5156]

Heidi hi! Another cracking vlog, butonyour bithda6 you were 28 - now you are 23! Stay safe.

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

😂😂

[@anthonybutler3157]

Another fun vídeo. Your Joie de vivre is so infectious

[@t-n-tew7468]

Love the smurf blue face.

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

😂😂

[@t-n-tew7468]

@@TheNarrowboatPirate Love you sharing your adventure. Simply love it. Thanks

[@brodie2711]

What a smashing episode that was. Thanks so much for taking the time to share your holiday experiences with us. Bonnie seems to be enjoying herself and looks chilled. All the best ❤ Stephen

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Thanks Stephen, yes Bonny is loving it all … she loves all the adventures and walks 😄

[@jaymore1178]

Stoped with the engine ON is your best choice. It keeps the water circulating, THEN the fan does its job. :^)

[@donhaines4720]

Very interested in this week’s video, shot in an area where we have spent a lot of time in the past.

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

It was just so beautiful 😃🏴‍☠️❤️

[@karenchapman6225]

Great vlog. Howled with laughter! So funny 😂😂😂

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Thank you 😄🏴‍☠️❤️

[@anthonysmith-storey9247]

Love Ronda. Glad you got to go. It is just stunning. Keep safe girls ❤️

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

It was amazing, we wanted to stay longer but couldn’t find a park up …. But Smurf town was a brilliant laugh 😂😂

[@anthonysmith-storey9247]

@@TheNarrowboatPirate 😂

[@marionjohansson4235]

What fun!

[@wendyjohnson4162]

Fabulous place Rhonda! I loved it there! But you're the only smurfs I've seen there! 😉😂

[@cbeuck5024]

My mind went into overdrive - what would have the Civil Guard said had they pulled you over? - what a hoot not one but two middle aged smurffettes😂😂❤ Enjoying the vlogs and the dogs! And the scenery! Thank you safe travels - fewer hills - no red lights ( in the van!! "don't be rude" I hear you say!😂 Jan Adelaide 💖

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

😂😂😂

[@markcarpenter6300]

Thank you Heidi, you made us both smile. Another great video.

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Thank you 😄🏴‍☠️

[@LauraHenderson-wx6xy]

Oh my gosh, it’s the Blue Woman Group ! 🫲🔵🔵🫱 I’ve never been into the Smurfs but that town looked pretty cool, a nice 🆒🔵. How wonderful to meet up with fellow Narrow Boaters so far from home. It really is a small world after all, and a blue one. 🌎🌍🌏 Safe travels 🔵ladies, we’ll see you in Gibraltar ! 💙🤗💙

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Thank you 😄🏴‍☠️

[@judewilliams9345]

Stay safe and have fun xxxxxxx

[@Flint-I]

Absolute beauty Heidi Thank you for popping into see the Ronda. That brought back some amazing memories for me WOW 😉 . We had ( owned ) a villa in Puerto Banus ,sadly no more 😞, but went to GIB many times . Watch out for the Monkey's !! .....💙 Phil

[@lilesosannaflower9956]

you two are a tonic, fantastic vlog and just cracked up at the blue faces. Bonnie is taking all of these adventures in her stride, it will be interesting to see if she still has big dog issues when she's back on the narrowboat.

[@lovelyskull3483]

Thank you, wonderful video.

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Thank you too!

[@markrant1460]

Dear Heidi Thank you so much for sharing such an incredible adventure. I have to admit that I peed myself when I saw you and Sandra with the blue faces, I will never forget it. Remember that your wonderful van has a lot of extras in it that would weigh it down. Aye me hardies, have yourselves a super safe week. Looking forward to next week. Mark Alberta, Canada

[@jacquelineryde7339]

Wow some stunning places in Spain, I have been quite a few times over the years but I think we might have a winter venture and put the boat in a marina. Your van has got heart, the old girl gets you there. Super vlog as always ❤❤❤❤

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Thank you 😃🏴‍☠️❤️

[@suzukirgv250runningsweet7]

You should have put ya heater on hot and blowers o flat out😂

[@jimmunro4649]

If start Over heating Turn heater on open windows to

[@karenjaques3937]

Another pirate episode of 2 sweet ladies voyaging at high altitude with the old gals. You made it to your pirate company who hauled you off to be kidnapped by the Jesus pirateers. Can't wait to see your next adventure with the rock. Have a great time with all that contraband, I hear Gibralter doesn't pay Rum Tax. Smart thinking. I'm into hot chocolate over here. Cheers me hearties. PS don't let them make you walk the plank. Have a great time. ❤ from Arizona. 🇺🇸

[@_Tiamat_.]

💜💙💚

[@carycoombe3380]

>RUM< raisin ice cream? Of course! 🤩

[@augabby7]

That was kismet bumping into friends from the UK, how wonderful! Thanks again for the wonderful video. Stay safe ladies keep on having amazing adventures.

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Thank you 😄🏴‍☠️❤️

[@JohnPayce-vk3ni]

Thanks

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

Thank you

[@nigelblair2182]

Love it. Please tell me that you visited the East side of the rock. So many vlogers just do the town side and upper rock and miss out on where the real fishing families from Genoa settled. Beautiful area. So pleased that you are enjoying your tour.

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

We only had a few hours because we can’t leave the dogs too long … it’s very difficult to stay in Gibraltar as vans aren’t allowed so we just didn’t have time …. So many we met wanted to stay and they couldn’t …. The border controls are harsh now too - it we could have taken our vans and dogs we would have spent more time

[@christinebessah871]

🙌🙌🙌❤

[@roblloyd1879]

Brilliant, keep up the good work!

[@patrickmurray4405]

Love your wondering adventures. In 2019 my wife and I won a two week trip to the very area you just showed and it was great seeing some of the same places that we explored ourselves. Rhonda was a blast and Gibraltar was an awesome time, even with the smelly monkeys!

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

We love monkeys 😂😂

[@user-pb7zh5sr4c]

Great video Heidi👍 you are visiting places I would love to see 🙂by the way that was me leaning on the gate at Dutton when I put you up the lock😀 (don't be rude !!!)

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

😂😂 I’ll be there soon again … I need a weaver fix 😃🏴‍☠️

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

😂😂 I’ll be there soon again … I need a weaver fix 😃🏴‍☠️

[@dragnfli520]

Incredible views at Rondo🎉 & Smurftown‼️ Qwirks are perks ❣️💯 OMG the face paint 🎨💙🔵🧢💙🔹🔷

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

thank you 😁🏴‍☠

[@TheNarrowboatPirate]

😂😂

[@dingnextstop]

You weren’t far from my sisters place in Estepona Heidi, whenever I visited we used to drive up to Rhonda in her car and loved it… also head into Gib for a proper English breakfast! You’re in a Beautiful part of Spain, have fun and be safe👍🏻

[@lorraineowen7978]

Absolutely brilliant 😀

[@Joe_Sant]

Bollox??? Charming…. I only wanted to see your holiday vlog….🤣🤣🤣❤️

[@Joe_Sant]

Sorry I wrote Tollox. Bloody spell check. Really enjoying you vids.