Sept 24th moored at Napton on Oxford canal

         93 miles, 25 locks and 1 (short) tunnel from Aston Marina

Monday 24th - Napton

Well it has been raining pretty much non stop since we moored up yesterday and we have been rocked gently by the wind.  Not enthuastic about doing nine locks in present conditions so trying to keep fire in and read books.  Not that many boats moving so guess the only ones that are have targets and destinations planned and are ignoring the wet.

Sunday 23th Sept

Weather is changing today, after several fine days it is very grey this morning with a breeze picking up during the morning. Set off quite early (before 10am) and watered up just beyond bridge 90. Also purchased another bag of coal from Midland Chandlers. Then right hand down at the junction and off down the Oxford, plenty of boats on the move - even a wide beam to dodge this morning.  Gradually the few spots of rain turned into real wet stuff as we approached the junction at Wigrams turn.  By the time we reached the winding hole before the Napton lock flight it was really pouring and with nine locks ahead we chickened out and moored up about 1pm.  luckily we had managed to keep the fire in overnight and throughout this mornings cruise so the boat was reasonably warm to get dried out. Also Bridie had done two wash loads in the machine this morning so the boat has the air of a chinese laundry about as we prepare for lunch!

Saturday 22nd Sept - Braunston

Applied a top coat in engine bay but it isn't a good cover over primer and will need more work.  Also painted water channel round engine bay that the floor cover rests on and rear step.  Must have been a wedding at the church today as the bells were rung again this morning.  Managed a couple of trips into Braunston today, first to replenish beer supplies and general shopping at the butchers and Bargain Booze, then for a nother dog walk down to the locks.

Friday 21st Sept - Braunston

Working on bilges (!) today trying to get rid of some of the dried up gunge and rub down before applying a zinc oxide primer at port side of engine bay.

Thursday 20th Sept - Braunston
Moved on this morning for a short hours cruise for the three miles into Braunston.  Moored on the 14day moorings below Braunston church and between bridges 89 and 90.  Another fine day and we went into Braunston to the Chandlers and for a bit of shopping and for a general wander round the boatyard without the dogs.   Later we did another circuit with the dogs through the village and down to the locks. Listened to the bell ringers practising this evening as we had our meal.