Solace Day 1

The news was full of snow-covered roads and warnings about not making non-essential journeys. We checked our route and, despite light snowfall at home, we set off. No problem whatsoever the M6 was completely clear from Penrith to Stafford.

An uneventful journey and a trip to the farm shop with coffee and cake at the cafe. Oh, one of The Late Mate's favourite Queen tunes playing in the shop. :-(

A strange trip. A bit sad. The first time since 2008 that we've taken a boat on our own. No! First time since our honeymoon 46 years ago! Of our crew members, 3 have died, one has separated from the "family" and Kat couldn't take any holiday at this time. So here we go. No more sitting on the foredeck with a camera on my lap. I will be steering or working the locks! But we aren't planning on moving Solace tonight. 

Now, what's wrong? The gas heater for the central heating won't ignite! Coats on. Thankfully we discover there is some coal left in the scuttle and some kindling. Never used the stove before. Oh, dear, it seems to be going out!