Having moored up near the passageway to Paddington Station last Wednesday, and seen Pat, Grannie & the dogs off home I now had to wait out the two days until Saturday when our friend Debbie was to join us with her 6 year old son for a trip down the Regent's Canal. The time was usefully spent doing a bit of cleaning and shopping and I returned home briefly to pick up the ships radio as it seems more sensible to return to Harefield via the Thames which we can do in one day. Gemma stayed over two nights and Pat joined me on Saturday with a "catering pack" for the day, which looked very promising with blue sky and little wind.
Debbie & Harry turned up promptly and we left at about 9.30 to follow a boat with no name being taken to Springfield Marina, so we were able to share locks down to Islington where we stopped for one of Pat's unforgettable buffet lunches. All the locks bar Camden and Old Ford were against us and travelling for the first part with a professional crew on the accompanying boat, all exit gates were left open. I had requested mooring for two nights at Limehouse, but none were available. However, we were given permission to spend two nights (rather than the usually limited one) on the open moorings by the south wall. On arrival the wall was full, so we attached ourselves to the only 60 foot boat there and sat down to enjoy the last of the sunshine with a few beers, some wine and the company of Tom who had cycled over (or under really) from Greenwich to join us for the evening. Leaving Debbie to return home, the party transferred to The Grapes for more liquid refreshment and finally to the excellent Cafe Rajistan Curry House on Commercial Road.
Today, Sunday, has been spent watching and encouraging the London Marathon which passes by the swing bridge at Limehouse - Gemma's boyfriend Sam was taking part and using the boat as a base, we met his parents for the first time. Well done Sam - a time of 4 and a half hours isn't at all bad. I must say that the never ending packed stream of runners appearing over the bridge was really awe inspiring.
Now all our guests have gone it's time to ready the boat for the tidal river transit and prepare ourselves for the morning departure.
WHAT A WAY TO SPEND A DAY
Not only did we get the opportunity to see our favorite (only) son Sam, running the Marathon at two outstanding locations, but we also had a wonderful day aboard the NB NUGGLER, with the best hospitality the Limehouse Basin can offer. By the way what is a 'NUGGLER'. We may have to loosen your tongue with wine or Guiness at some future juncture. Once again thanks for rounding off a truly wonderful day.
With our best wishes.
Dave and Rosie
Posted by: Dave and Rosie | April 24, 2006 at 22:16