Oct 28

Lots to report, but first, thanks to all who post replies or comments. I appreciate your interest and input!

The church in Hartshill was a surprise. The interior was enormous, white, with a false ceiling, installed in the late 1930’s. Very startling and different from the Victorian exterior. Very friendly and welcoming folk there.

A large storm of hurricane proportions was forecast for Sunday night, so we decided to find a well sheltered part of the canal for the evening. I knew of a well sheltered space that I have been to previously (and posted pictures- see Oct 19.), but we were just too far up the canal to get there, so found a place just outside Nuneaton. Storm didn’t materialize until about midnight, then lots of rain and wind- we felt the rain, but only heard the wind- such was the protection offered by the trees and hedges along that part of the canal.

Off we went this morning, and the canal was bursting full of water (the automatic level control run-off places in full use). The weather was blustery and rainy, but our waterproofs worked, and we had no issues, making very good time. We arrived back in Braunston, just as the light from the sun faded into the cloudless sky. Moored up, and then prepared to go to the local pub for supper, in the now dark evening. Dad stepped out of the boat, saw the streetlight, and made for that. Unfortunately, the light was on the opposite side of the canal, and we have definite proof that he has not yet mastered the skill of walking on the waters yet. We fished him out, and the only casualty was his hat which floated away until he reminded me of that, and I saw it going down for the third time. Glad that was only his hat, though!

The Old Plow pub was a warm and welcome place to have our evening meal.

Tonight is a clear, starry sky night: that fall image that is so welcome after a storm. Reminds me of those nights, far from towns and lights, that are so special: crisp fall air, geese flying south (Canada geese- bet the Brits wish we had kept them at home!), and clear starry skies. A great end to a great day of fall canal travels.