Just found your vlogs on narrow boating and am enjoying them immensely. I grew up not far from Lechlade in a village called South Cerney , worked in Cirencester. I went on holiday I think in the late 70’s on a narrow boat can’t remember what canal we were on. Fell in at my first lock I guess the bank was farther away than I thought, or my legs are just too short. We had a great time. Not sure where we started I know we went north until we came to a bunch of locks 21 I think, and decided to turn around and go back as time was running out, and I don’t think we wanted to go through all those locks to turn around and do it again.
Hi Guys,dont know if you are aware you can go to any Doctors surgery and register as a tempory or holiday patient. This should allow them to refer you for what you need. Kind regards Mark & big kiss from my border collie ZAC xx
That is so true. We really do have to tight for treatment even though we have paid national insurance all our lives. The NHS really needs to look at how it treats people without an address.
I just wanted to say that I really like your video diary of the Thames. I live on the river at Oxford Cruisers which you called the Anglo Welsh boat yard. We are actually Oxford Cruisers and would love to see you on the way back down on your journey from Lechlade my husband Andi owns the yard and can help with pretty much any boaty query. Please do pop into the shop have a coffee or a cold drink , you can fill up with diesel, water or pump out here. Safe travels and I hope you enjoy the journey. 🤗🤗
'Swiss' Peter here! Saw your comment and thanks. I'm back in Switzerland now and fairly sure my plans will go ahead. Will be next year before anything happens but I hope to catch up with you. By the way, my home was a lot of Norfolk, near Norwich. It was great to meet you on the Oxford. Thanks for talking to me.
If you wind up having your torn miniscus trimmed, don't hesitate! Had both knees done, micro surgery, same day surgery, in and out and you will walk out with NO pain! Its been at least 5 years now and its great no pain, no problems!
Lovely video of the scenery again well done ,the cows and horses in the river looked like a Constable painting.Fran the curtains look great and you both look much more relaxed and healthy hope you both feel it as well.Give the dogs pat from us and happy Cruis'n
Daryl Bunji thank you. We are both feeling relaxed and healthy. Dogs have had a big pat as requested and have a wonderful day swimming/ playing in the upper Thames. Fan x
I really love the scenery in this one, especially at the 3 min point, like a Constable painting! Would it be okay if I had a go at painting inspired by a screenshot? I'd credit you if the painting worked out! If not, no worries!
I’ve only just discovered your channel this last week so getting a daily dose from the beginning! Love it. Brilliant to see your caring for the environment and promoting helpful tips and products. Also wanted to say the boat window curtains you created look fantastic, like stain glass with the light coming through. I’ve ordered some Scottish local bread flour and yeast (I live in the Borders!), you inspired me, so am going to try your bread recipe Fran, hope it turns out as good as yours. All the best to you and your Furries, looking forward to catching up and keeping up! 🥳🤩🌞xx
Lechlade is a lovely little place. It's on the edge of the Cotswolds. Little drive from we're I live. In this vlog I saw a bridge with narrow arches I have driven over the bridge a few times with my lorry. Lovely vlog as well
I have seen some boats with a hatch in the floor and small compartment underneath in the bilge, where it is usually significantly cooler. It might be worth looking into- you could increase your storage space and have a slightly cooler space for produce all without any extra energy use. I would think it would be perfect for veg which generally keeps better in the dark.
Up to number 18 now, as you can see.....HOOKED! At the moment watching about three "Episodes" per evening and TOTALLY LOVING IT! You're both very amusing.....in a good way, I mean!🤣
We cruised the Thames back in the 60's but gave it up when most hire boats just wanted to race to the next lock. Not cruising at all! By the way we had in those days a Polystyrene "fridge" that just needed a cup full of water on the top daily to run but I don't know if they are still available.
Thanks for sharing. I’ve been waiting for this update. The horses and cows in the river were lovely. Thank you for the list of music - your soundtracks always compliment your videos so nicely. We drink oat milk but haven’t tried making our own yet. Is it easy? Could you visit a local GP as a temporary patient? Hope your knee is better soon Rich. Curtains look fantastic! Good luck with the DIY. Safe travels!
Hi guys. Thanks for another brilliant vlog. Beautiful scenery where you are. I wanted to share my story about my torn meniscus. I damaged it originally a couple of years ago running in the Malvern hills. Then, last November I suffered a lot of pain during a Parkrun. I’ve had X-rays. An MRI. Also a pre op assessment. I’m still waiting for a date for keyhole surgery to remove the torn off piece of meniscus and to repair the lateral splits. Unless you can afford to go private you’re in for a long wait. I manage the pain with ibuprofen if it gets bad. Physio doesn’t help long term because a meniscus doesn’t repair on its own.
Well, mine was probably fairly minimal and I decided against surgery [risky area], it is still torn, after five years, but It is not a problem as such, I just have to avoid quick sharp twists, [well any twists]. I rarely feel it now, so to some extent it must have healed a bit, but I avoid falling, and laying flooring, I swim and do exercises very gently in the pool.
It’s so nice to see stretches of the river we used to sail on. Forgot to mention there is a small supermarket in Lechlade. Not sure when you filmed this....you maybe in Lechlade now but if you need anything feel free to get in touch. It would be a pleasure to help. Enjoy the Thames 😀
Ohhhh, here I am watching your knee problems way into the yr 2020. Hope you are doing better! I had an MRI 8 mos ago and have a torn meniscus too. I am much older than you, but like you it is good to know what it is. No more hiking Mtn trails for me, do walk on flat ground now. Ice packs are great, Aleve, and I highly recommend a Physix Gear knee sleeve I found on Amazon! Also roll-on called Biofreeze when it aches too much to sleep. Beware...my torn meniscus caused me to have a “Baker’s cyst” behind my knee. I was lucky that it ruptured on its own within hours. Cold compresses for it too. Hope by the time you are reading this in 2020, yours is better! Where mine is torn with also thin cartilage I am looking at a new knee down the road...ugh! So take care!
Thanks and Yea! Glad you are better!! Yeah I am 70 and Dr thought my knee problem was caused by overuse having JUST gotten out of a foot boot for 10 weeks with a torn foot tendon on the opposite side (caused by too much exercise). I do walk and ride my bike now (stationary and regular bike w/out any trouble). Just can not overdo. Soooooo glad you have not developed that Baker’s cyst!
Great update Fran and Richard, I drive through Lechlade every day so do not build you hopes up too far! It is well know for some episodes of Morse being filmed there. There is the Christmas Shop of course! If I see you driving through I will stop to say hello! Regards Dale
If you have a torn meniscus (and there is a simple test for it) you need a meniscotomy. A simple operation, keyhole surgery, and it works. I suffered for two years terribly, but had the op, and went off and walked all over Europe for 3 years and not a twinge, and still good 20 yrs later. Also its not the fault of the NHS that you are living on a boat. See your doctor and he will start you on the process. Going through London was an interesting blog for me; I've walked that whole route. Good luck and carry on!
Once again another great video. We are only down as far as Staffordshire on our way to Bath. Hopefully we might meet up some time on the cut. Take care both. Sue & Dave
Hard choice to make on the fridge, you may want to look at a small propane burning one if you change your mind. You should be able to pick one up used from a caravan for around 150 pound. New on amazon run about 350...I ran across one last week from a crashed rv, the owner backed it into a pole and ripped the side off, fridge was untouched an he was selling it for 50.00. Keep looking if you want one eventually.... take care of that knee!
Charging batteries on boats seems to be a case by case matter, via a search on canalworld dot net forum. There are a lot of variables to consider from the condition of the batteries to output of the alternator, how many and type of appliances etc. There is agreement that an energy audit by a reputable technician that can explain in layman's terms your system to you is of great benefit. There also seems to be agreement that running an engine at idle for hours at a time everyday should not be necessary. There are various meters and monitors that can be hooked up in line that can help in determining usage etc.
I have at last got myself up-to-date with your vlogs, having discovered you both last week. It's been really enjoyable following your journey into a new life afloat. You are both looking so fit and healthy in this vlog, all except for Rich's knee. Having broken my hip some years ago I take Diclofenac Sodium/ Voltarol pills whenever I have a flare-up, which thankfully isn't too often. Perhaps you could try that or the cream. Anyway good luck from here in Australia and I will look forward to the next episode.
I will certainly try to avoid a fridge, but might try a small camping 12v coolbox, with some of those freezerpacks which I'd leave in a supermarket freezer for a few hours to cool, then buy all my frozen food, enough to fill the coolbox, I think this will keep ice for 36 hours and meat for two days. I can live without milk in tea.
The Airbnb link in your description takes me to a home available in Austria, which is quite far from Herefordshire. Might want to take a look at that (also, your Instagram link isn't working either) :)
I've got knees, one is like yours, to heal it, I had to stop moving, this gave me DVT! Not to worry: walk in barefeet a much as possible. When wearing shoes your prio-receptors are dulled and you need them to automatically adjust to uneven surfaces. If you can, do the physio exercises, gently. Swimming might help once it is healed. I have trained myself to always keep my eyes on the ground and walk steadily. Keep leg elevated when at rest. A cold wet facecloth will keep knee cool. I keep my crutches handy to save a visit to A&E, there is nothing they can do at the acute stage.
Newbridge 13th Century. Newcastle 12th Century. It takes a lot to be 'old' in England! ;) Great vid peeps, once again. It's interesting that you're doing without a fridge. Even though I'm not a vegetarian, I'd be lost without salad, chilled fruit, ice and cold drinks - esp. lager - in this weather. I'm sure you're perfectly capable of putting that floor down, Fran. Hope you get your knee sorted, Rich. Happy travels.
Seeing your vlog absolutely made my day! I'm from Essex, though live in America now, but your accents are a little slick of home for me. I saw you were having link issues on Instagram. If you get a linktr.ee account, you can link to both your RUclips channel and Airbnb account, I use it for my blog.
Martin Bissell it has not been east finding moorings especially with the river so low. Lechlade has been lovely but the cows were very interested in the plants on the roof. This stretch of river has been the only time we have had to pay for moorings!
Twenty-Three months behind - running as fast as I can - what a great summer it was in 2018 - nothing like an English tan! Heard today (28th April) that Naples is opening their beaches next Thursday - might take a walk - doubt the bars or restaurants will be open - fingers crossed - well that's enough for today - I reckon in a month I'd have caught up ;)
Hi James. Thank you for joining us. We had a fantastic first summer on the boat, we were really spoilt. Let's hope we get another this year, it might make lockdown a little more bearable although we would miss the cold beers at the pub as ours don't look as if they will open until Christmas!!
Fran", chop richies leg off above the knee and replace with a wooden stump ?" then come christmas buy him a parrot to sit on his shoulder",just think how many more subscribers and patreons this will attract ?. .No need to thank me for this advice. x
John Parkin Thank you anyway! I think I prefer him whole rather than have a million patrons or subscribers.......however a parrot on his shoulder might be interesting. Isn't it lucky to have a bird pooh on you?????
Knowing that the Thames River is a tidal River, do they have dams or Wiers that control the level or is it title from one end to the other. I live in the USA so I'm not all that familiar with how your rivers are in the UK?
I tore my meniscus and had to wear a knee brace for about 6 months and took anti-inflammatories and glucosamine/chondroitin with MSM (not sure if it is available where you live) and my knee got better. Took a while though.
Buzzardgirl13 I'm still experimenting. I found several recipes on the internet. Many needed to soak oats overnight, strain, add more water then blend and strain through muslin. One girl recommended a quick version of just mixing 1 part oats to 4 parts water, then simply blending and using straight away. This is what I have been doing for use on cereal and it is ok. It does settle out so needs shaking and I have found that a little more than 4 parts water is better as it is not so thick but I'm still working on It! Hope this helps Fran x
on the car business GET SHUT !! Bit harsh but there it is On the knee job . On asking my previous Doctor. Dr Ali Ali Kchouk some years ago with a similar knee problem ,when I said I had so much work to do that involved kneeling ,his remedy was “get somebody else to do it “Again a bit harsh but thinking about it absolutely spot on !! If life was so easy !! Best wishes Terry Hammond
We get enough flack for not having a freezer compartment in the fridge. Luckily, we don't drink G&Ts, so it's not too much of an issue but we can't store a 4-pack of Magnums which is a bit of an issue. We drink red wine, so fridge not required for that, but we do like a cold Cobra with a curry and we also like alcoholic ginger beer which really needs to be cold. The real killer for us would be milk as I'd rather give up tea than use UHT. So, we'll stick with our £100 mains fridge (the money we saved not buying 12v went on solar) but we don't live aboard and usually on mains hookup.
Sue from 'Retirement with No Problem' has an excellent blog on her widebeam travels.. she includes a recycle bin location list (amongst other great tips) which everyone can help to update noproblem.org.uk/blog/recycling/
Thanks for the great video! Loved seeing the old bridge, amazing shape for something so old! The curtains are lovely and give such a nice glow to the room. Take care! R & D Matthews, Canada
That's not the real river Thames, that starts at Brentford really, ha, ha, lol, only joking of course but like Jan i'm from London and when I think of the Thames its a bigger wider fasting flowing mighty beast, not that. Thanks guys and I'll follow your progress.
I'm vegetarian I have small fridge with little freezer half size of an apartment fridge when I was no longer cooking for my son. Here it's much hotterin Australia, it's fine I found my power bills halved!💙👍💂♂️🍇🍈🍋🍌🥭🍎🍏🍑🍒🍓🥒🥦🧄🧅 *Black Tea use almond milk
Being vegetarian definitely made it easier not having a fridge. We have our tea black anyway and make our own oat milk for cereals so that is no problem
Just watched your recent video, you mentioned that you are vegetarian, and depend on fresh veg every few days. Have you investigated using a small pressure cooker to extend your variety into dried beans and peas? Besides saving a fortune in gas ( Potatoes cook in four minutes, Lentil soup in ten ) dry goods are much cheaper, store well and are lighter than canned food. I would suggest looking at some indian cooking shows on utube as most of their meals are vegetarian. I use a one and a half litre pressure cooker and can make four servings from that.
Every time I see you both you are more and more tanned and look wow! This article is a bit old 2015 I have attached but never the less I am thinking it is still valid and might help. Poor you Rich...Fran how about taking up physio? Looking good guys! xx Oh I left you a message on your FB page not sure if you got it about the soapnuts! nbtalondon.wordpress.com/2015/10/05/registering-with-a-gp-as-a-boat-dweller-without-a-home-mooring/
Lovely vlog! When you were heading into Oxford did you notice the amazing painting of the kingfisher under a bridge?? I do hope it still there... Was a masterpiece!!
Hi yous two. Recently bought an Amazon firestick. Then found your vlog. Very entertaining you are too. Amongst others of course. (Dave on 'cruising to cut'). Now we watch nothing else. My wife and I took the leap to live on our own narrow boat ten years ago. We rented out our house to fund our dream. And did it for three years solid. As we had no home now to go home to. It was the best thing we ever did. And we envy you in your quest. We will be back soon. And hope you are still at it. Over the course of viewing around thirty of your vlogs, we can't help looking at each other evertime you say it when you mention again that "We are vegetarians". Do you have to keep on saying that?? I'm a meat eater. But I don't keep telling everybody. Another thing I would like to point out that you both seem very PC. But its not very PC to let your dogs out onto the towpath without you going with them. Because everyone knows what dogs do on the tow path. Many times whilst moored up we saw other boaters open the cratch, out jumps the dog. and promply have a c*rap. I pointed it out to a few, And was told to "F**k off" on more than one occation. Did i mention I was a meat eater ? Keep up the very entertaining vlogs. You are a lovely natural couple. And your missus is sexy too. Dave and Di.
Thanks for watching glad you enjoy. Didn't realise we keep on saying we're vegetarian We let the dogs out on the towpath but always pick up ... Why would you assume we don't ? And yes 'my missus' is sexy thanks , not that I need you to tell me.
.......and as far as us commenting about our vegetarianism that's our prerogative. We make these vlogs to portray our lifestyle and put across who we are and where we're going. Vegetarian ism is part of that. Maybe you're feeling a bit guilty about your meat eating huh??
@@FloatingOurBoat . Hi Fran and Rich. I'm ever so sorry for my comment on your vegitarianism. I was wrong to judge you like that...Honest. I must have come across as an opinionated tw*t. please forgive me. We both love your vlogs. We have simular thoughts about the Thames. We were pulled off our mooring four times on our way up to Lechlade by the cruisers etc not sticking to the speed limit. But heyho. Differant mentality to us ditch dwellers (as they call us). We have been finding it a problem watching your vlogs, as they are not in order of how you posted them. Not your fault I know. Before I get told off again for my big mouth. Where are you traveling now? Dave and Di
Like the rest of the country the levels have dropped but not by as much on the Thames from what I seen in the video. We're being told to turn the tap off when brushing teeth, save a litre of water, take a shower instead of a bath save 15 litres yet it takes 10,000 litres of water to produce 1 pound of beef!!! They can stick their water saving advice when I don't even consume meat! What's the point in saving 1-15 litres when Bob next door is tucking into a steak every evening and causing 10's of 1000s of litres of water usage? In case anybody thinks eggs and cheese isn't as bad think again.. it takes 2000 litres of water to produce 10-12 eggs and 4000 litres to produce 1lb of cheese. I just find the whole situation frustrating.. Can't use the hose pipe yet 80-90 of the countries water usage goes to animal agriculture through a mixture of growing crops to feed to them and water for them to drink. I might be having a good moan here but I feel like I'm being punished for everybody else's choices.
PLAUSIBLE I love your rant. I can't agree with you more we even use shower water to fill the washing machine then train the washing machine rinse water to water our plant. Boaters must be done of the most frugal water users Fran
PLAUSIBLE the majority of water used in agriculture however is not quality treated drinking water that has to be stored then expensively treated and distributed. Plus the figures quoted include natural rainfall on crops, rain that would fall on the land regardless of what is grown on them! In Britain we do not routinely irrigate crops either so I'm afraid I really don't believe the numbers apply here.
Another drawback of the Thames.................summertime tupperware cruisers do not like Narrowboats............especially liveaboards...............................it really upsets there uppercrust , champagne flute playtime. Today I travel through a lock only to find my boat is being whinged about coz it's in the same place quite a lot......................First rule , if you want a spot.............come early otherwise you will be dissapointed..................roll on autumn time when they all bugger off for another 8 months......................
hi here 'a idea why not get together with other narrow boat families and get some sort recyclable area that boats can pass by or drop off then slowly branch out placing reo bins here there with access to the boat's no govt or large charity wants to this you need ground up make reo bins out of four tomato stacks and chick wire easy enclose plastics and plastic big bins for glass if you approach glass and plastic recycle companies they will probably help you out if the canal trust has not done it by now they never will up side if you get it going is the money you could make from it can be put into a bank and used for something narrow boat thing help repair a lock or wharf buy water weeder help clean rivers
But no one is going to lift the re-cycling, it ends up in landfill cos its easier and cheaper. I think best thing is to swerve packaging, leave it at the supermarket, and/or take it back to the supermarket when shopping.
hi you lovely people, loving your video. I also like your curtains and would like to ask you would you make me a scarf 10" inches wide and 72" long ......6 foot in old money. ill pay you for it like I said, I like your curtains I like the light and dark blue and if you could throw orange in it ,would be fab. when you reply to this if you put your email with it I contact you and you can tell me how much ok.. thank you so much talk soon and keep on cruising. xx
ray 1 Hi Ray. If you could contact us via facebook or send us contact details I will certainly make a scarf for you. A 6 ft scarf made from mainly natural fibres e.g. Silk, mohair, wool and cotton with a few synthetic embelishments in colours of your choice would cost £45. I make to order so we can discuss your requirements if you contact us. We are just in the process of setting up a website but at the moment it will be best to talk via facebook. Hope this is ok Fran x
Thanks for showing those cows and horses guys...............................................Cows are so cool!!!
lovely to see the horses in the river and what a beautiful old bridge...BOTH LOOKING WELL TANNED...love the curtains you made...
Your curtains look absolutely fabulous. I'm really enjoying binge watching all your episodes. Thankyou so much xx
Thank you
I love the colors in the curtains. Great job Fran.
Thank you! 🤗
Just found your vlogs on narrow boating and am enjoying them immensely. I grew up not far from Lechlade in a village called South Cerney , worked in Cirencester. I went on holiday I think in the late 70’s on a narrow boat can’t remember what canal we were on. Fell in at my first lock I guess the bank was farther away than I thought, or my legs are just too short. We had a great time. Not sure where we started I know we went north until we came to a bunch of locks 21 I think, and decided to turn around and go back as time was running out, and I don’t think we wanted to go through all those locks to turn around and do it again.
Wow, so glad we have brought back your narrowboating memories. Thank you for joining us
Hi Guys,dont know if you are aware you can go to any Doctors surgery and register as a tempory or holiday patient. This should allow them to refer you for what you need. Kind regards Mark & big kiss from my border collie ZAC xx
Sounds like you need to get a petition up for the NHS to treat boat owners better. Great Video. Thanks
That is so true. We really do have to tight for treatment even though we have paid national insurance all our lives. The NHS really needs to look at how it treats people without an address.
I just wanted to say that I really like your video diary of the Thames. I live on the river at Oxford Cruisers which you called the Anglo Welsh boat yard. We are actually Oxford Cruisers and would love to see you on the way back down on your journey from Lechlade my husband Andi owns the yard and can help with pretty much any boaty query. Please do pop into the shop have a coffee or a cold drink , you can fill up with diesel, water or pump out here. Safe travels and I hope you enjoy the journey. 🤗🤗
Oops sorry Natasha, thanks for your lovely message. We're off the Thames now and on the K&A x
'Swiss' Peter here! Saw your comment and thanks. I'm back in Switzerland now and fairly sure my plans will go ahead. Will be next year before anything happens but I hope to catch up with you. By the way, my home was a lot of Norfolk, near Norwich. It was great to meet you on the Oxford. Thanks for talking to me.
Good to meet you too Peter. Keep us informed x
Fran & Rich
Hello from Thornton Colorado 🇺🇸 Thanks for sharing your Narrow Boat life with all of us! Great Content always a joy to watch!
Instablaster.
If you wind up having your torn miniscus trimmed, don't hesitate! Had both knees done, micro surgery, same day surgery, in and out and you will walk out with NO pain! Its been at least 5 years now and its great no pain, no problems!
Rich is so much better now and no problems
Lovely video of the scenery again well done ,the cows and horses in the river looked like a Constable painting.Fran the curtains look great and you both look much more relaxed and healthy hope you both feel it as well.Give the dogs pat from us and happy Cruis'n
Daryl Bunji thank you. We are both feeling relaxed and healthy. Dogs have had a big pat as requested and have a wonderful day swimming/ playing in the upper Thames.
Fan x
I really love the scenery in this one, especially at the 3 min point, like a Constable painting! Would it be okay if I had a go at painting inspired by a screenshot? I'd credit you if the painting worked out! If not, no worries!
Yes of course! Help yourself to any screen grabs x
OMG! The beautiful horses! I have a horse here in Australia 🦘🇦🇺🐎
You’re both looking great.
You two are great 😃 another feel good film. Thank you keep it up 😃
I’ve only just discovered your channel this last week so getting a daily dose from the beginning! Love it. Brilliant to see your caring for the environment and promoting helpful tips and products. Also wanted to say the boat window curtains you created look fantastic, like stain glass with the light coming through. I’ve ordered some Scottish local bread flour and yeast (I live in the Borders!), you inspired me, so am going to try your bread recipe Fran, hope it turns out as good as yours. All the best to you and your Furries, looking forward to catching up and keeping up! 🥳🤩🌞xx
Thanks for the update. The curtains look great.
Sylvia Page thank you Sylvia x
We watch all your videos. Fabulous stuff. Thanks for sharing your experiences 🙂🙂
Lechlade is a lovely little place. It's on the edge of the Cotswolds. Little drive from we're I live. In this vlog I saw a bridge with narrow arches I have driven over the bridge a few times with my lorry.
Lovely vlog as well
We've loved the Thames.... I wish we could stayed there longer 🌞
I have seen some boats with a hatch in the floor and small compartment underneath in the bilge, where it is usually significantly cooler. It might be worth looking into- you could increase your storage space and have a slightly cooler space for produce all without any extra energy use. I would think it would be perfect for veg which generally keeps better in the dark.
Up to number 18 now, as you can see.....HOOKED! At the moment watching about three "Episodes" per evening and TOTALLY LOVING IT! You're both very amusing.....in a good way, I mean!🤣
You better slow down, we wont be able to keep up with you. So glad you are enjoying our travels.
I was watching Shaun and Colin earlier, (Foxes Afloat), and heard your names mentioned!
We cruised the Thames back in the 60's but gave it up when most hire boats just wanted to race to the next lock. Not cruising at all! By the way we had in those days a Polystyrene "fridge" that just needed a cup full of water on the top daily to run but I don't know if they are still available.
I am finding myself humming your theme tune in my sleep ......
Goodness you two caught the sun ...
This is the first time I've seen this part of the network. Very nice
Thanks for sharing. I’ve been waiting for this update. The horses and cows in the river were lovely. Thank you for the list of music - your soundtracks always compliment your videos so nicely. We drink oat milk but haven’t tried making our own yet. Is it easy? Could you visit a local GP as a temporary patient? Hope your knee is better soon Rich.
Curtains look fantastic!
Good luck with the DIY. Safe travels!
Hi guys. Thanks for another brilliant vlog. Beautiful scenery where you are.
I wanted to share my story about my torn meniscus. I damaged it originally a couple of years ago running in the Malvern hills. Then, last November I suffered a lot of pain during a Parkrun. I’ve had X-rays. An MRI. Also a pre op assessment. I’m still waiting for a date for keyhole surgery to remove the torn off piece of meniscus and to repair the lateral splits. Unless you can afford to go private you’re in for a long wait. I manage the pain with ibuprofen if it gets bad. Physio doesn’t help long term because a meniscus doesn’t repair on its own.
Well, mine was probably fairly minimal and I decided against surgery [risky area], it is still torn, after five years, but It is not a problem as such, I just have to avoid quick sharp twists, [well any twists]. I rarely feel it now, so to some extent it must have healed a bit, but I avoid falling, and laying flooring, I swim and do exercises very gently in the pool.
Cheers Andrew - sorry for delay in responding. I had physio which really helped. Taking it steady and not pushing it seems to be working. :)
You both look great and those curtains are gorgeous xx
Linda Cartlidge thank you
Fran x
It’s so nice to see stretches of the river we used to sail on. Forgot to mention there is a small supermarket in Lechlade. Not sure when you filmed this....you maybe in Lechlade now but if you need anything feel free to get in touch. It would be a pleasure to help. Enjoy the Thames 😀
Buzzardgirl13 Thank you for that. We found the supermarket and love Lechlade. Had a lovely swim In the river and a chat with the cows!
Hey both curtains up now. They're looking good!
Lew Lew thank you
Fran
Ohhhh, here I am watching your knee problems way into the yr 2020. Hope you are doing better! I had an MRI 8 mos ago and have a torn meniscus too. I am much older than you, but like you it is good to know what it is. No more hiking Mtn trails for me, do walk on flat ground now. Ice packs are great, Aleve, and I highly recommend a Physix Gear knee sleeve I found on Amazon! Also roll-on called Biofreeze when it aches too much to sleep. Beware...my torn meniscus caused me to have a “Baker’s cyst” behind my knee. I was lucky that it ruptured on its own within hours. Cold compresses for it too. Hope by the time you are reading this in 2020, yours is better! Where mine is torn with also thin cartilage I am looking at a new knee down the road...ugh! So take care!
Sorry to hear your having so much trouble with your knee. I think we are mainly suffering from covid joints, not enough exercise during lockdown
Thanks and Yea! Glad you are better!! Yeah I am 70 and Dr thought my knee problem was caused by overuse having JUST gotten out of a foot boot for 10 weeks with a torn foot tendon on the opposite side (caused by too much exercise). I do walk and ride my bike now (stationary and regular bike w/out any trouble). Just can not overdo. Soooooo glad you have not developed that Baker’s cyst!
Great update Fran and Richard, I drive through Lechlade every day so do not build you hopes up too far!
It is well know for some episodes of Morse being filmed there. There is the Christmas Shop of course!
If I see you driving through I will stop to say hello! Regards Dale
Fran... the curtains look amazing 😍 well done 👍
Negatively Buoyant Thank you
Lovely! I love the lighthearted tone of your videos. Best wishes from French subscriber!
That's my coffee time watch for later sorted. Thankyou
Another Great Vlog ... Well done
Hi and good luck from New Zealand
If you have a torn meniscus (and there is a simple test for it) you need a meniscotomy. A simple operation, keyhole surgery, and it works. I suffered for two years terribly, but had the op, and went off and walked all over Europe for 3 years and not a twinge, and still good 20 yrs later. Also its not the fault of the NHS that you are living on a boat. See your doctor and he will start you on the process. Going through London was an interesting blog for me; I've walked that whole route.
Good luck and carry on!
nice weaved curtains Fran just to the left of Rich's head an sorry Fran and to the right of yours bang on
Nice vlog. I have just returned to work after a few weeks out with my knee. Worst pain. Has river level risen with the rains.
Hi Jon, thanks for watching. Hope your knee is getting better. Rivers and canal levels here in Oxford looking good.
Once again another great video. We are only down as far as Staffordshire on our way to Bath. Hopefully we might meet up some time on the cut. Take care both. Sue & Dave
keep us posted - we're in Oxford now x
Oh....... Lordy........ No fridge! How on earth do you keep your beer & wine cold LOL! 😂 Great vlog though 👍
Red wine and real ale no need for a fridge lol x
Mmmmmmm red wine.
Hard choice to make on the fridge, you may want to look at a small propane burning one if you change your mind. You should be able to pick one up used from a caravan for around 150 pound. New on amazon run about 350...I ran across one last week from a crashed rv, the owner backed it into a pole and ripped the side off, fridge was untouched an he was selling it for 50.00. Keep looking if you want one eventually.... take care of that knee!
Charging batteries on boats seems to be a case by case matter, via a search on canalworld dot net forum. There are a lot of variables to consider from the condition of the batteries to output of the alternator, how many and type of appliances etc. There is agreement that an energy audit by a reputable technician that can explain in layman's terms your system to you is of great benefit. There also seems to be agreement that running an engine at idle for hours at a time everyday should not be necessary. There are various meters and monitors that can be hooked up in line that can help in determining usage etc.
Another great video, free car parking at Henley on Thames football club 1 min walk from marsh lock if you still have the car. Local knowledge 😄. Tim.
Tim Morgan thank you. That may be useful
Fran x
No rush with the tongue and groove Richy, ........it’s taken Fran 5 months to weave another set of curtains 😂👍🏼😉
But what fantastic curtains they are!!!!!!!!!
I have at last got myself up-to-date with your vlogs, having discovered you both last week. It's been really enjoyable following your journey into a new life afloat. You are both looking so fit and healthy in this vlog, all except for Rich's knee. Having broken my hip some years ago I take Diclofenac Sodium/ Voltarol pills whenever I have a flare-up, which thankfully isn't too often. Perhaps you could try that or the cream. Anyway good luck from here in Australia and I will look forward to the next episode.
I will certainly try to avoid a fridge, but might try a small camping 12v coolbox, with some of those freezerpacks which I'd leave in a supermarket freezer for a few hours to cool, then buy all my frozen food, enough to fill the coolbox, I think this will keep ice for 36 hours and meat for two days. I can live without milk in tea.
Jo Allan I absolutlely love the idea of using supermarket freezers to chill our cool packs. Thanks for this
Fran x
The Airbnb link in your description takes me to a home available in Austria, which is quite far from Herefordshire. Might want to take a look at that (also, your Instagram link isn't working either) :)
Jeez! Sorted the Airbnb out will check the Instsgram. Thanks Steven.
I've got knees, one is like yours, to heal it, I had to stop moving, this gave me DVT!
Not to worry: walk in barefeet a much as possible. When wearing shoes your prio-receptors are dulled and you need them to automatically adjust to uneven surfaces.
If you can, do the physio exercises, gently. Swimming might help once it is healed. I have trained myself to always keep my eyes on the ground and walk steadily. Keep leg elevated when at rest. A cold wet facecloth will keep knee cool.
I keep my crutches handy to save a visit to A&E, there is nothing they can do at the acute stage.
Thanks Jo, I certainly keep my eyes on the ground more. Physio worked well for me. x
Thanks for watching - Rich x
Were coming at you from the opposite direction! Up to Letchlade
We too are heading to Lechlade x
What boat are you on. Well look out for you
Fran x
Newbridge 13th Century. Newcastle 12th Century. It takes a lot to be 'old' in England! ;) Great vid peeps, once again.
It's interesting that you're doing without a fridge. Even though I'm not a vegetarian, I'd be lost without salad, chilled fruit, ice and cold drinks - esp. lager - in this weather.
I'm sure you're perfectly capable of putting that floor down, Fran. Hope you get your knee sorted, Rich. Happy travels.
graceygrumble we are managing by dangling cold drinks in the river and are picking some salad fresh from the roof so ok for now!
Where there's a will there's a way. It also gives you a better excuse to pop to the pub, I suppose! ;) x
Those "wide beams" are "Dutch barges".
Narrowboat Longpod that would be correct. And would be my 1928 Dutch barge. 😁
Seeing your vlog absolutely made my day! I'm from Essex, though live in America now, but your accents are a little slick of home for me. I saw you were having link issues on Instagram. If you get a linktr.ee account, you can link to both your RUclips channel and Airbnb account, I use it for my blog.
How are you finding mooring on the upper Thames - are there plenty available or are you having to search for them ?
Martin Bissell it has not been east finding moorings especially with the river so low. Lechlade has been lovely but the cows were very interested in the plants on the roof. This stretch of river has been the only time we have had to pay for moorings!
Lovely and you both look as though you have been Tangod
ha ha - and we hide from the sun as much as poss x
Twenty-Three months behind - running as fast as I can - what a great summer it was in 2018 - nothing like an English tan! Heard today (28th April) that Naples is opening their beaches next Thursday - might take a walk - doubt the bars or restaurants will be open - fingers crossed - well that's enough for today - I reckon in a month I'd have caught up ;)
Hi James. Thank you for joining us. We had a fantastic first summer on the boat, we were really spoilt. Let's hope we get another this year, it might make lockdown a little more bearable although we would miss the cold beers at the pub as ours don't look as if they will open until Christmas!!
Fran", chop richies leg off above the knee and replace with a wooden stump ?" then come christmas buy him a parrot to sit on his shoulder",just think how many more subscribers and patreons this will attract ?. .No need to thank me for this advice. x
John Parkin Thank you anyway! I think I prefer him whole rather than have a million patrons or subscribers.......however a parrot on his shoulder might be interesting. Isn't it lucky to have a bird pooh on you?????
Knowing that the Thames River is a tidal River, do they have dams or Wiers that control the level or is it title from one end to the other. I live in the USA so I'm not all that familiar with how your rivers are in the UK?
I tore my meniscus and had to wear a knee brace for about 6 months and took anti-inflammatories and glucosamine/chondroitin with MSM (not sure if it is available where you live) and my knee got better. Took a while though.
I forgot to ask, if you have time please could Fran share her oat milk recipe? I would love to have a go at making my own x
Buzzardgirl13 I'm still experimenting. I found several recipes on the internet. Many needed to soak oats overnight, strain, add more water then blend and strain through muslin. One girl recommended a quick version of just mixing 1 part oats to 4 parts water, then simply blending and using straight away. This is what I have been doing for use on cereal and it is ok. It does settle out so needs shaking and I have found that a little more than 4 parts water is better as it is not so thick but I'm still working on It! Hope this helps
Fran x
Frances McCarty I Saw that quick recipe too. Thanks will give it a go
on the car business GET SHUT !! Bit harsh but there it is On the knee job . On asking my previous Doctor. Dr Ali Ali Kchouk some years ago with a similar knee problem ,when I said I had so much work to do that involved kneeling ,his remedy was “get somebody else to do it “Again a bit harsh but thinking about it absolutely spot on !! If life was so easy !! Best wishes Terry Hammond
Ha ha. Fran's doing all the kneeling for me. Except for when I pray .....
Thanks for the Vlog. What editing program do you use?
We get enough flack for not having a freezer compartment in the fridge. Luckily, we don't drink G&Ts, so it's not too much of an issue but we can't store a 4-pack of Magnums which is a bit of an issue. We drink red wine, so fridge not required for that, but we do like a cold Cobra with a curry and we also like alcoholic ginger beer which really needs to be cold. The real killer for us would be milk as I'd rather give up tea than use UHT. So, we'll stick with our £100 mains fridge (the money we saved not buying 12v went on solar) but we don't live aboard and usually on mains hookup.
We're ok with black coffee and black earl grey so milk is not essential and. Have been managing to cool white wine in the river this week!
Tell the A&E department you just arrived in the country (By boat) and came up the canal from Dover. Then see how quick you'll be treated lol
Sue from 'Retirement with No Problem' has an excellent blog on her widebeam travels.. she includes a recycle bin location list (amongst other great tips) which everyone can help to update noproblem.org.uk/blog/recycling/
ooh thanks for the link
I can help with fitting t and g if it helps
Hydeaway nb that's really kind if you. We did another stretch today so we are winning but thank you so much for the offer x
⛑ Get wheat bags to heat + arnica cream for your first aid
Thanks for the great video! Loved seeing the old bridge, amazing shape for something so old! The curtains are lovely and give such a nice glow to the room. Take care! R & D Matthews, Canada
Roger Matthews Thank you for nice comments re the curtains
Fran x
That's not the real river Thames, that starts at Brentford really, ha, ha, lol, only joking of course but like Jan i'm from London and when I think of the Thames its a bigger wider fasting flowing mighty beast, not that. Thanks guys and I'll follow your progress.
I'm vegetarian I have small fridge with little freezer half size of an apartment fridge when I was no longer cooking for my son. Here it's much hotterin Australia, it's fine I found my power bills halved!💙👍💂♂️🍇🍈🍋🍌🥭🍎🍏🍑🍒🍓🥒🥦🧄🧅 *Black Tea use almond milk
Being vegetarian definitely made it easier not having a fridge. We have our tea black anyway and make our own oat milk for cereals so that is no problem
Cart are quite good compared to e a, where your lucky to find a bin at all.! I have just taken my dark clothes off after sneaking it into a pub bin.
Key message with NHS is don’t get ill.
Just watched your recent video, you mentioned that you are vegetarian, and depend on fresh veg every few days. Have you investigated using a small pressure cooker to extend your variety into dried beans and peas? Besides saving a fortune in gas ( Potatoes cook in four minutes, Lentil soup in ten ) dry goods are much cheaper, store well and are lighter than canned food. I would suggest looking at some indian cooking shows on utube as most of their meals are vegetarian. I use a one and a half litre pressure cooker and can make four servings from that.
Thanks for your suggestion we will investigate Fran X
Every time I see you both you are more and more tanned and look wow! This article is a bit old 2015 I have attached but never the less I am thinking it is still valid and might help. Poor you Rich...Fran how about taking up physio? Looking good guys! xx Oh I left you a message on your FB page not sure if you got it about the soapnuts!
nbtalondon.wordpress.com/2015/10/05/registering-with-a-gp-as-a-boat-dweller-without-a-home-mooring/
Lovely vlog! When you were heading into Oxford did you notice the amazing painting of the kingfisher under a bridge?? I do hope it still there... Was a masterpiece!!
Matt Stubbington yes we did. It was wonderful. Batteries were dead on the camera so couldn't record it
Fran
Hi yous two. Recently bought an Amazon firestick. Then found your vlog. Very entertaining you are too. Amongst others of course. (Dave on 'cruising to cut'). Now we watch nothing else. My wife and I took the leap to live on our own narrow boat ten years ago. We rented out our house to fund our dream. And did it for three years solid. As we had no home now to go home to. It was the best thing we ever did. And we envy you in your quest.
We will be back soon. And hope you are still at it. Over the course of viewing around thirty of your vlogs, we can't help looking at each other evertime you say it when you mention again that "We are vegetarians". Do you have to keep on saying that?? I'm a meat eater. But I don't keep telling everybody. Another thing I would like to point out that you both seem very PC. But its not very PC to let your dogs out onto the towpath without you going with them. Because everyone knows what dogs do on the tow path. Many times whilst moored up we saw other boaters open the cratch, out jumps the dog. and promply have a c*rap. I pointed it out to a few, And was told to "F**k off" on more than one occation. Did i mention I was a meat eater ?
Keep up the very entertaining vlogs. You are a lovely natural couple. And your missus is sexy too.
Dave and Di.
Thanks for watching glad you enjoy.
Didn't realise we keep on saying we're vegetarian
We let the dogs out on the towpath but always pick up ... Why would you assume we don't ?
And yes 'my missus' is sexy thanks , not that I need you to tell me.
.......and as far as us commenting about our vegetarianism that's our prerogative. We make these vlogs to portray our lifestyle and put across who we are and where we're going. Vegetarian ism is part of that. Maybe you're feeling a bit guilty about your meat eating huh??
@@FloatingOurBoat . Hi Fran and Rich. I'm ever so sorry for my comment on your vegitarianism. I was wrong to judge you like that...Honest. I must have come across as an opinionated tw*t. please forgive me.
We both love your vlogs. We have simular thoughts about the Thames. We were pulled off our mooring four times on our way up to Lechlade by the cruisers etc not sticking to the speed limit. But heyho. Differant mentality to us ditch dwellers (as they call us). We have been finding it a problem watching your vlogs, as they are not in order of how you posted them. Not your fault I know. Before I get told off again for my big mouth.
Where are you traveling now?
Dave and Di
Like the rest of the country the levels have dropped but not by as much on the Thames from what I seen in the video. We're being told to turn the tap off when brushing teeth, save a litre of water, take a shower instead of a bath save 15 litres yet it takes 10,000 litres of water to produce 1 pound of beef!!! They can stick their water saving advice when I don't even consume meat! What's the point in saving 1-15 litres when Bob next door is tucking into a steak every evening and causing 10's of 1000s of litres of water usage?
In case anybody thinks eggs and cheese isn't as bad think again.. it takes 2000 litres of water to produce 10-12 eggs and 4000 litres to produce 1lb of cheese.
I just find the whole situation frustrating.. Can't use the hose pipe yet 80-90 of the countries water usage goes to animal agriculture through a mixture of growing crops to feed to them and water for them to drink.
I might be having a good moan here but I feel like I'm being punished for everybody else's choices.
PLAUSIBLE I love your rant. I can't agree with you more we even use shower water to fill the washing machine then train the washing machine rinse water to water our plant. Boaters must be done of the most frugal water users
Fran
PLAUSIBLE the majority of water used in agriculture however is not quality treated drinking water that has to be stored then expensively treated and distributed. Plus the figures quoted include natural rainfall on crops, rain that would fall on the land regardless of what is grown on them! In Britain we do not routinely irrigate crops either so I'm afraid I really don't believe the numbers apply here.
Another drawback of the Thames.................summertime tupperware cruisers do not like Narrowboats............especially liveaboards...............................it really upsets there uppercrust , champagne flute playtime. Today I travel through a lock only to find my boat is being whinged about coz it's in the same place quite a lot......................First rule , if you want a spot.............come early otherwise you will be dissapointed..................roll on autumn time when they all bugger off for another 8 months......................
No need to dis us widebeams...................we can't all afford a Dutch barge........................
Sorry - was just expressing a preference. Each to their own etc.
hi here 'a idea why not get together with other narrow boat families and get some sort recyclable area that boats can pass by or drop off then slowly branch out placing reo bins here there with access to the boat's no govt or large charity wants to this you need ground up make reo bins out of four tomato stacks and chick wire easy enclose plastics and plastic big bins for glass if you approach glass and plastic recycle companies they will probably help you out if the canal trust has not done it by now they never will up side if you get it going is the money you could make from it can be put into a bank and used for something narrow boat thing help repair a lock or wharf buy water weeder help clean rivers
But no one is going to lift the re-cycling, it ends up in landfill cos its easier and cheaper. I think best thing is to swerve packaging, leave it at the supermarket, and/or take it back to the supermarket when shopping.
I agree with Jo. This answer really is to avoid packaging completely but at least if we have good information about recycling it would help
Fran
Unfortunately your health care system does not meet your needs.
hi you lovely people, loving your video.
I also like your curtains and would like to ask you would you make me a scarf 10" inches wide and 72" long ......6 foot in old money.
ill pay you for it like I said, I like your curtains I like the light and dark blue and if you could throw orange in it ,would be fab.
when you reply to this if you put your email with it I contact you and you can tell me how much ok.. thank you so much talk soon and keep on cruising. xx
ray 1 Hi Ray. If you could contact us via facebook or send us contact details I will certainly make a scarf for you. A 6 ft scarf made from mainly natural fibres e.g. Silk, mohair, wool and cotton with a few synthetic embelishments in colours of your choice would cost £45. I make to order so we can discuss your requirements if you contact us. We are just in the process of setting up a website but at the moment it will be best to talk via facebook. Hope this is ok
Fran x