Winter Crick 2015 16 8

Monday 14^th March to Saturday 26^th March

 Monday 14^th March

 Surprisingly for us we found the cottage without losing our way or missing a turning. First impressions, a great little place to stay, with easy access to Rutland Water. Economy 7 electricity does not keep the cottage as warm as we would like, but then we do have a solid fuel burner on the boat and diesel powered radiators, so we’re not used to a cooler atmosphere. Which is why we’ll be taking a drive into Oakham so that I can buy a warm cardigan.

 We were far too early for the cottage; although it was already open when we arrived at half eleven; so we stopped off at a car park and had a stroll around, eventually finding a café that was open. We ordered a coffee and slice of carrot cake, which came to £13.00p. Yes, folks, you read that right, £13.00p for coffee and slice of cake each. Now that is taking the wee, wee!!

 Still, we’re only here for three days and the nearby hotel boasts of being dog friendly. So, if we’re caught in bad weather, we can always dine there.

 Tuesday 15^th March

 This is a lovely little cottage and, along with a second one of similar proportions, has a short, private drive down to it. Also, and apart from the lack of warmth for this time of year, we didn’t have any hot water for washing up or washing ourselves. So, when it came to dirty dishes after dinner, we had to boil the kettle up. Then, just after I had done the washing up, my phone rang and, who should it be but Rebecca, the owner of the cottages. She’d phoned me instead of the person she should have phone and I told her about the lack of hot water. Apparently this is an ongoing problem, but it was soon solved by switching on the immersion heater.

 As it happens, as I mentioned earlier, we drove into Oakham; instead of walking to the nearest village; where I found a really comfortable, warm’ zip-up cardigan and Wifey popped into the local Tesco for a few odds and ends.

 This morning we’ll probably take a walk to the aforementioned village, just for the sake of doing so and to enjoy some more of the stunning views around the area.

Wednesday 16^th March

 Yesterday morning was pretty cold in the cottage, despite the radiators and, although we went out with the intention of taking a long walk by the water, we took a trip into Oakham and bought a fan heater instead. We then went straight back to the cottage and switched it on. It seems a pity that we had to resort to such a move, but I’m afraid it was absolutely necessary in this instance. Perhaps we’ve been spoilt with our solid fuel burner and 3 radiators on the boat. We’ll probably leave a note for Rebecca before we leave.

 Also yesterday morning, I found I was unable to log on to the Internet. Initially I thought it was because the WiFi had switched itself off, but this wasn’t the case. It was simply because I had connected the WiFi unit to the mains, rather than directly to the laptop. As a result of this the WiFi then wanted my security details, which I couldn’t enter, simply because I hadn’t brought the card with me. The problem was soon solved by connecting to the laptop via an extension lead which, luckily, I had brought with me.

 This morning, however, I have been unable to download my messages using Outlook, and it’s not because the WiFi is off. So, rather than waste time fiddling, I accessed my Absolute account online. Strange that I can access the Internet, but not Outlook. Hmmm!

 Thursday 17^th March

 Well, we’ll be on our way back to Crick this morning, having spent a very pleasant three days by the side of Rutland Water.

 Yesterday we simply chilled out, having first walked along to Edith Weston; the nearest village; for the Mail. After which we did nothing in particular, except take Alex out for a couple of longish walks. The cottage has been pretty comfortable since we included a fan heater.

 So, what next for our future moorings? Well, I have drafted a letter to Tim Langer, voicing our concerns and have toned it down somewhat in order not to offend. I’m pretty good in that regard.

 As we see it, we have two choices. We pay the man his new fees throughout the year – not likely. Or we simply look at alternative marinas for next winter. The third option would be to hope we can return here, but we’re not sure that that’s a good idea, as we’ll be leaving under a cloud. We’ll just have to see.

Friday 18^th March

 Returning to the rise in mooring fees at Crick Marina. Sheila and I are quite puzzled as to why we received that letter. After all, we normally only winter over, wherever it may be, and then get out for more cruising by the beginning of April. The fact that we paid for the whole of 2015, was simply to guarantee a mooring spot for this winter. Had we not done so I would have missed several hospital appointments and diabetes checks. So it was essential that we come back here. Now, as far as the hospital is concerned, I no longer need to return at six monthly intervals, so I can just as easily make an appointment at another hospital. My diabetes checks can also be carried out locally, wherever we may be.

 Saturday 20^th March

 Well, after a heated discussion about our commitment to this marina, i.e., the payment of a termination fee, we have decided to pay up and use the additional time here working on the boat. Nuff said!!

 Today is the long-awaited Kennett family bash, which starts at midday, for a sit down meal at 1.0 pm. As far as we are aware we’ll be at The fox at Matching, but nobody has confirmed this. Won’t it be a surprise when we turn up, only to find nobody there? Nah! Carole would have told us of a different venue – wouldn’t she??

 Alex, as usual, will stay with his bestest pal, Tommy and his owner, Peter, for the day. Peter is the one person that Alex took to as soon as they met. He was very wary of other men, but took to Peter as if he’s known him all his life. Tommy is also a Jack Russell, although much smaller than Alex. And he has a tail and a full set of kit, if you know what I mean.

 Monday 21^st March

 The Kennett family bash went well yesterday, although there were far fewer attendees this time. Still, the food was good and the conversation brought quite a few laughs, especially from Michael, Sheila’s brother. Next year we’re hoping to change the seating arrangements. Thus far we’ve been separated into two distinct groups but, if we can join tables together next time, we can all natter across the table and generate more noise. Lovely!

 So, everything is back to normal, with shopping our first priority today. Alex was very pleased to see us again, although he does enjoy his stay with Peter and Tommy.

 We’ve now decided to stay here until the end of June, so that we can carry out more work on the boat; mostly painting, but there’s also the top-box to put together. Of course this means paying the increased fees for that quarter, but saves us carrying out the paintwork out there on the cut. In order to do so when cruising, it’s necessary to have a spell of dry weather, It’s also important to find a mooring spot that’s near a turning point, or winding hole, as it’s known in the trade, so that the boat can be turned around as and when necessary.

 Tuesday 22^nd March

 Yesterday was just another one of those non-days, in that, apart from a bit of shopping at Sainsbury’s, we did nothing of any account. Although, the following might give you a chuckle.

 Yesterday evening, at about seven of the clock, Wifey took Alex for his evening stroll, as is her wont. Between our marina and the next; there are three altogether here at Crick; there’s an alternative office, which sports a WiFi aerial. This log cabin sits on a small hillock, along with a few trees. On passing the office Wifey spotted a notice and, being the Nosy Parker that she is, went to investigate.

 Now, bearing in mind that the hillock upon which this office sits is only a few square yards in area, she was most surprised to find the words, ‘This area is a wildlife preserve and dogs must not be allowed on it’. Had it stated that some owners were allowing their dogs to use the area as a toilet, we wouldn’t have thought if very funny. But, what do we know, we’re only a couple of unwanted boaters?

 Friday 25^th March (Good Friday)

 I received a return email from RBOA this morning, having asked for their comments regarding the new structure here at Crick. Their comments were as I expected and I was reminded that the owner of Crick Marina can do as he pleases where fees are concerned. Well, I had already stated that obvious fact in my email to the owner, so we feel that the situation is what it is, and we’ll vote with our feet, or boat in this case. It’s a real shame though, as we quite like Crick and the surrounding area. Unfortunately, Noel’s offer of seven months’ moorings at the end of this year, with payment up front, is not something we can contemplate at this time. We’ve had the expense of the boat blacking and the enforced three-day break whilst that was being done, so we’re hardly in a position to find such a sum right now. We also had the additional expense of having our engine serviced.

 Ah well, that’s life, etc, etc.

 I’m due for a kidney scan on 2^nd April, a Saturday, would you believe? So, we now have to go out and find me a decent housecoat. This is to preserve my modesty when walking across the waiting room in one of those soppy gowns. Those ridiculous thingies’ that tie up at the back and show your bum. We’ll probably pop over to Sainsbury’s for that little item.

 Hopefully, this Bank Holiday won’t be the total washout that the forecasters would have us believe.

 Saturday 26^th March

 Didn’t bother with Sainsbury’s yesterday as we’ll be going there on Tuesday, so I can get my housecoat then, if they have one.

 Yesterday was great weather-wise. We took a walk over to the office and paid our ‘dues’, so we’re officially here until the end of June. Of course, we won’t spend all the intervening weeks here, but will g out for a week or two here and there.  This morning we’ll be putting our postal forwarding address in to the Post Office.

 We have yet to receive replies from the two marinas we emailed about winter moorings for this coming November, but it’s early days yet. As soon as we know, you too will know.

 

So, with no further ado, I'll post this blog.

 

Have a great Bank Holiday

 

Dave, Sheila and Alex

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Winter Crick 2015 16 7

Friday February 26^th to Monday 14^th March

Saturday 27^th February

 Yesterday seemed to be one of those days when we’re constantly on the go. At first we intended to catch the 09.40 bus to Rugby, but due to circumstances beyond my control, we took the one an hour later.

 Rugby itself was OK, but what with it being a Friday and very busy, we had no hope of catching the next bus bac, so we ended up at our usual coffee shop and the wandered around the charity shops, where we bought four books.

 Upon our return to Crick marina; on a packed and very warm bus; Alex needed to go out, which fell to me whilst Wifey made the tea. After which I emptied the decking from the car so that we could get some coal. We then had to take a walk up to the Co-op for some eggs for dinner; which we had already highlighted as scrambled eggs, bacon and mushrooms, as part of our 800 calories a day diet.

 During all this kerfuffle, I fell to talking to another couple of boaters, following on from which we dipped the fuel tank and then walked around to the garden centre for those eggs; which we didn’t get from the Co-op after all, because they were too small.

 Eventually we settled down and watched TV for a couple of hours and then had dinner, followed by more TV, which included Wilhelmina, the film with Judie Dench. We also have the book of the same name. All in all, a pretty hectic day, well, for us anyway.

 Today I have some printing to do and then a copy of Wendy’s family cartoon portrait.

 Tuesday 1^st March

 I had an appointment with the NHS Optician yesterday, to assess the state of my cataract and, after a thorough examination and questions as to whether I have any problems with my eyesight, it was decided that no action needs to be taken at this time. Goody, goody!

 Saturday 5^th March

So far everything seems to be going well with the 8-week diet. We’re taking at least one long walk a day, sometimes two, although I don’t feel as if I’ve lost weight this week. I’ll know for sure on Monday morning, which is when we usually weigh ourselves.

 I’m now in the process of building our new top-box, having drilled all the necessary holes in the base. Wifey will be taking the bus into Northampton on Tuesday, so I’ll probably do some more while she’s out of the way.

 Sunday 6^th March

 I have finally finished Wendy’s Cartoon Portrait, but (sorry Bruv), I only used short shadows. I tried several variations of longer shadows, but they just didn’t seem to fit with a cartoon.

 Tomorrow morning will tell me if I’ve lost any more weight, because, despite Dr Mosley’s assertion that we should weigh ourselves more often, we’re of the opinion that, if we find we’re not going down, it’s more likely to disappoint us and, just maybe, put us off the diet. I’m hoping to have cracked the 14 stone mark.

 Today we’ll be visiting the club as usual, but it’s had a bit of a makeover this past week, with new pumps, furniture and bar, so it should look pretty good.

 Monday 7^th March

 This morning has to be the coldest this year; very thick frost out there. Hopefully it won’t be like this next week, when we take our three-day break while Shiralee’s hull is being blacked. We’ll be spending those three days in a small cottage by the side of Rutland Water and are hoping for some interesting walks.

 Today we’ll be driving over to Sainsbury’s for our weekly shop. Unlike most men I rather enjoy our shopping trips. Perhaps that’s because Wifey doesn’t dither and we don’t always shop at the same place. We sometimes use Asda in Rugby and we sometimes shop in Daventry.

 I weighed myself this morning and found I had lost another 2 lb. I am now at 14 stone 3 lb, which means I have now cracked the 200lb mark.

 Next Monday our boat goes in for hull blacking; a necessary evil every two to three years; and, since paint is far cheaper than rust, needs must when the Devil drives. So, since we aren’t able to stay on the boat whilst it’s in dry dock, we’ll be renting a cottage right on the edge of Rutland Water. Unfortunately, we can’t arrive before 3 pm, so we’ll have to poodle around the Water for a while, or visit Oakham. There are a few cafes scattered around the Water, so we’ll be able to break our daily walks. There’s also a pub about a mile away and so, if they allow dogs in; which most pubs in this neck of the woods do; we could enjoy a lunchtime break. We’re both quite looking forward to the break.

 Tuesday 8^th March

 So, there was I at about 06.00 yesterday morning, girding my loins all ready to get stuck in to a new Cartoon Portrait, when the programme took it upon itself to stop working. It seemed to get through part of the setup, but stalled at finding the fonts. So, having checked that all the fonts were where they should be, I then, with great hesitation, pressed ahead and installed the programme again. At first this didn’t do much, so I tried again, and again, and finally the programme loaded. Just to be sure, I then ran a scan for bugs, but none showed up.

 Sheila is taking the bus into Northampton this morning; probably to browse clothing and such; while I soldier on with building our new Top-Box, which is now showing signs of wear after almost 10 years sitting on top of the boat in all kinds of weather.

 I bought the timber when I last went down to see Alan and, after having it all cut to length by the nice man at Wicke’s, brought it all home, along with some thick, exterior ply that Alan supplied. With Alex watching over me I’m pretty sure I won’t make any boo-boos.

 Wednesday 9^th March

 Wifey came to me after her morning wash and brush up, to show me, what she called, a wonky face. It seems she has an abscess under a tooth. So, no bus trip to Northampton and she had to visit the quack for anti-biotics. That trip will now take place on Thursday as she’s having her Barnet cut today.

 This was good for me, because she was then able to help me partly assemble the new Top-Box. We’ll finish assembling it before we go off cruising. The old one will be broken up for firewood. Well, it is nearly ten years old and rather flimsy now.

 This morning has started with heavy rain, something Alex doesn’t think much of when I take him for his morning pee. But, needs must when the Devil drives. I don’t much like it either, but…….

 Saturday 12^th March

 Apart from a trip into town and having more work done on the car, not a lot has happened since Wednesday. Except that we won’t be coming back to Crick this coming winter.

 We received a letter from the owner of this marina Mr M. T. Langer, in which he states, “We are writing to you, as a Crick Marina moorer whom we believe uses their narrowboat as a residence on at least a part-time basis.” All of which is true, of course. However, he also states that Crick Marina Ltd provides moorings primarily for leisure moorers, i.e., those who do not live on board, but leave their boats here when not in use.

 This is, of course, a load of nonsense, because they have quite a lot of boats here whose owners do live on their boats, but pay a premium for the privilege of doing so. The only reason we can think of that has prompted him to do this, is greed, pure and simple. In order for us to continue mooring here he has increased our fees by 15%, leaving us with an extra £400 per year to pay.

 We wintered over here for the first time during the winter of 2014/15 and those five months cost us £912.66. Since then the fees have increased a couple of times. But using that period as an example, we would now be looking at £1049.60.

 The only reason we agreed to pay throughout the whole year; rather than just the winter period; was so that we could guarantee a mooring when we came back. This has cost us dear, but we really didn’t want to find another marina every winter, which means registering with a different doctor, to say the least.

 So, since this prize greedy-guts insists upon this extra 15%, we’ll be finding somewhere new next winter.

 Later…

 I mentioned the above to a fellow boater this morning, but he hadn’t received his letter yet. He did say though, that if the fees are going up by 15%, he would also leave. Later in the day we saw him with two other boaters holding, what looked like an envelope.

 Methinks Mr Langer has shot himself in the foot.

 Monday 14^th March

 This situation regarding the rise in fees quite interesting. We’ve spoken to more boaters about this and, without a doubt many of them will leave. You see, most boaters, whether they live on board or not, do like to spend quite a lot of time cruising. Not everybody goes off for seven months, like we do. However, when we do leave the marina, for whatever length of time, we are required to leave our car keys, so that, should an emergency arise while we’re away, our cars can be moved. And, where the Crick Boat Show is concerned, our cars must be left in the big car park, so they can be moved to make way for the people arranging the show rents and such can park their cars.

 So, why all that info? Well, while we are away enjoying the scenery, our mooring bays can be used for other boaters wishing to spend a day or two here, in the safety of a marina. This means that, while we’re away Mr Langer is earning even more money from our vacant pontoons. All marinas do this, but it still rankles that we’re paying for him to make more money.

 Anyway, whatever the case, we’ll be leaving sometime in April, never to return.

 Incidentally, the boater I spoke to earlier has already given in his notice to leave. And he’s just the tip of the iceberg. Like I said, nobody likes being held to ransom.

 Now, on a much lighter note, we’ll be able to get into our cottage by noon today, so we have no need to wander around Oakham with Alex in tow. This is great news, because it will give us the afternoon in which to wander around the Water instead.

 And that, as they say, is that. Let’s get on with posting this blog.

 Have a good week folks.

 Dave, Sheila and Alex.