end of our season creeps closer

The weather for our 3 day sojourn at Thrupp was not as kind as it has been lately.  However this was compensated for by our visitors.   On Tuesday Fran and Keith braved the traffic to visit us and sadly they were rewarded with a rather indifferent lunch at the Boat Inn.  Lots of catching up done though.

Maffi was moored a couple of boats down so on Thursday night we had a somewhat better meal at the Jolly Boatman with him and Susan.   A somewhat better meal.

Friday we continued on our way to Lower Heyford.  Despite an early departure the rain did catch up with us but it could have been a lot worse.  It is still relatively warm and the worst of the rain held off until we were snugly moored up.  After supper Bones came down for a drink and a certain amount of putting the world to rights was done.

Very early start today to get on the water point as we know it is extremely slow.   It took over an hour to fill but it was good timing as it finished about 8.30 just as the café was opening for our cooked breakfast. 

All the cows were lying down But we didn't have rain

By the time we reached Somerton Deep lock the wind was blowing hard, but luckily there was a boat waiting to come down as we emerged from the lock so I didn't have to fight it as I picked Geoff up.

We were lucky to find a space just before the bridge at Ayno Wharf.   Tying us was more challenging than normal with the wind, especially with boats passing in the other direction.  Still all achieved before lunch.



Total distance:6.07 miles
 Elapsed time:2h48m8s
 Locks:4 
Bridges:15
Average speed:2.17 mph (3.24 lock/mph)