Another wonderful vlog which I always share with my 83 year old Mum. She loves them too. But her favourite bit is always the sound of you filling the teapot and the anticipation of what goodies you’ll put on the plate! 😊 Thank you for keeping us entertained. Xx
Between the video and sound, you did a really good job of capturing the feel of being in that storm. When we heard those big whumps, that sounded like someone had kicked the boat, were those wind gusts? It never ceases to amaze me at Zeph's ability to find balls! lol You have an uncanny ability to find birds, bugs and flowers, while Zeph has the uncanny ability to find balls where you would never guess there would be one. Sherlock and Watson would be proud of you two I think. 🙂 Your videos are always good, but this one was especially entertaining!
💙 I absolutely LOVE rainy 🌧 days 💕. I did so enjoy this video. I am amazed at how your so precise at maneuvering your narrow boat and the gates ! As for Zeph, well I think she was just waiting for you to get done, so you would throw that ball so she could get her chase on 😂. I love seeing and hearing the rain. Refreshing, calming and always a pleasure visiting with The Mindful Narrowboat 🩵
They were wind gusts pushing the boat against the side of the bank. Our fenders had slipped which is why the noise was so loud. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
You're videos are all very similar but each one is uniquely different. You're life is like a beautiful adventure. I like your videos because I love nature and I love to travel to places I've never seen. Even though I can not do what you are doing, I can get a real sense of what it would be like by watching your videos. I don't think anyone can do what you are doing better than you. I love how Zephyr takes part in all the big decisions. She's your little hairy co pilot.
You are a modern day Beatrix Potter. 😊You are a tonic in an overly complicated world. (Also Zeph is so like my Labrador - who knows where they find so many balls! Beautiful beasts they are. ❤)
In winter's grip, on the narrowboat's sway, Zephyr leaps, her spirit at play. 😊 A ball of joy in the frosty air, Her laughter dances, free from care. the river flows, In this chilly haven, warmth still glows. Noses twitch, eyes bright and bright, Zephyr and her ball, a heartwarming sight.😊
Another masterpiece,…with Crumpets. Stormy canals reminds me of my childhood growing up in the Tropics where houses were built, up a bit on stilts for cooling. A cool space that our Red Cattle Dog, Tom, took full advantage to dig craters in the dirt to cool himself on the very hot days. Over time that under house space took on a moonscape like appearance, which to my engineering mind represented a special opportunity. Because the house had a gentle slope from one end to the other I saw a natural canal system half built ready for completion with a supply of water. So from the tap at the top end, I set about filling the various lakes and joining them together with linking sluices and locks to allow my “boats” to perform their very commercial purpose moving leaves and stones down the system. I had many days of fun with this till my Dad noticed cracks forming in the house walls as it began to slowly sink into the softened earth below. A sad end to my first canal building industrial enterprise.
Poor Zeph ... "do you think this is a good place to moor?" - her face says: 'if I had known there was going to be a quiz today I would have studied...' What a delight to wake up of a Saturday morning and find a new Mindful video to watch. I admire your hardiness, Vanessa - I've been told that cold has a way of creeping into your very bones.
Living on a narrow boat is something I always wanted to try. Alas family and work commitments did not allow me to fulfil the dream. However, I can live my dream through your vlogs. I keep a nature journal like yourself and have just added my first snowdrop as well. The crumpets were so mouth watering.
How wonderful that you have added a snowdrop to your journal too! I saw one greater periwinkle today and it made me jump for joy. Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
I flew like the wind on a blustery day...not to be deterred from my ball hunting in any way...Mom counted birds on the day... as I held watch only occasionally glancing her way...There is a children's story in here by the way...Maybe the wind will whisper it my way...💨🐦🐦🐦🌬🐶
Glad you survived the storms unscathed. After spending three days in hospital when I really thought I was having a stroke which after loads of tests turned out to be a bad migraine, i really needed to end the week on a happy note watching your wonderful vlogs. Thanks and all the best.
I really hope you are okay? When I was in my late 30s something very similar happened to me; I lost the sensation down one side of my body, had blind spots in my vision but no headache and I was rushed to hospital. They did a brain scan and said that it was a severe migraine. It’s only happened a handful of times since but it is less scary now that I know what it is. I am glad you are okay. Thank you so much for watching. Have a restful Sunday. Take care 🌻🦋
I had to laugh about Zephyr with all her balls. My dog was the same, and if there weren't balls sticks or other toys were good, but balls, definitely number 1.😂 I like the way you live with nature, I understand completely it makes you feel alive. Much love to you both❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Arn't crumpets the funniest things? And so delicious. Zephyr really has a nose for finding balls and this was certainly a red letter day. I picture a corner in Alice Grey with a pile of moldering balls protectively guarded by Zeph! I loved the flute music... seemed to flow so well with the birds. Thanks so much for your offering this week- a place of sanity and joy in these challenging times. Take care Vanessa and happy trails, W xx
Crumpets are funny aren’t they but utterly scrumptious or scrumpetious! 🤭 Zephyr is a ball magnet isn’t she? 🐾🐾😂 Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Wendy. Have a super Sunday! Take care 🌻🦋
Vanessa, as you know, for me, this is Zephyr's channel, you are just the faclitator.... 🤣 Joking aside, seems like you made her the star of this vlog. I'm glad that you stayed safe during the storms of course.... but the footage where you ask her if it is a safe place to moor is priceless, for me anyway - she was beautiful!!
Every big storm that comes your way, I always think of you and hope that you are safe. “A Coil of Widgeon” succinctly summarizes the knowledge and beauty that the vlog will contain. Your perfect choice of music always brings a tear to my eyes, your incredibly smart dog brings me wonder. And then you are safe to enjoy your tea and treats, and record for us the miracle of this particular part of the world. Thank you, Vanessa.
The calm after the storm is more peaceful after a fierce storm. True with wind and rain and circumstances of life. Today I completed my weekly grocery shopping after having completed 3 loads of laundry the day before. Learning to be a housekeeper at my age is most interesting. God bless, Your East Coast USA Friend.
Oh my goodness! Zephyr hit pay dirt this time! I could almost hear her shouting, Eureka, I found the balls!😂 and then your dismay as she found a way into the river! That was fantastic and Im so glad you got through the storm safely.❤️🇨🇦
I can't tell you, Vanessa, how much I've been looking forward to watching this video. I've been busy this morning, and now I can lay down for a few minutes and enjoy your vlog. I have been watching several of the older videos, and I wish that I had enough money to buy all of your narrowboat journals. Perhaps in the future I will? I've noticed myself since watching your channel, becoming more observant regarding the bird life in my local area and enjoying them more. Sometimes, we just need to SEE and not merely glance at something momentarily. I hope that you and Zepher are well, and I love seeing how much Zepher enjoys her walks AND her balls and sticks. She gives me the laughs I need to rise above the circumstances I live in with disability and chronic pain. I don't know if you are aware of how diverse a group of people you engage with in your vlogs, but I know that I am not the only one who eagerly awaits a new video. It's just so peaceful, and in this chaotic world, truly a breath of fresh air! Take care now from country NSW Australia.
Hi Michelle, your comment is so beautiful and heartfelt. It means so much to me to read this. I am so sorry to hear about the pain you are in and I wish that you didn’t have to endure that. I’m sending you all the best in health and happiness. Thank you for your kindness. Take care 🦋🌻
Zephyr explores nature in her own fashion, that is, through her ball finding missions 😂 She becomes more adorable every episode. Another great vlog. Thank you for sharing. Stay safe. 🐶 🐾🐾 🐾 🥎
So lovely- I am also comforted by your tradition of pouring the tea and putting a treat on the plate! I love your drawings and words as well- so beautiful. Thanks for sharing!
I have your nature journal from 2023, and your drawings and your writings are just lovely really enjoy watching your videos and your adventures with your puppy😊
I wish that I could afford to buy all of them, but I do have her calendar for 2025, which I am enjoying immensely. Vanessa has such a talent when it comes to drawing life, and I am very glad that I stumbled upon her channel. Take care now from country NSW Australia.
Vanessa, so glad your gut instinct served you during storm Eowyn! I loved all the flocks of birds! And the music was so apropos to the varying moods from calm to storm and back to calm.
Zephyr is one ball motivated dog. Tail in constant motion; no water is an obstacle in the constant quest of finding the perfect ball. She brings constant enjoyment to all. Safe boating. Sarah from Tasmania
Rough weather Vanessa and bless Zephyr's heart collecting balls. Blaze was watching and is very jelouse! Stay safe and well love to you both from Blaze and me xxx.
Happy to see you came through the storms safely. Your experience paid off when it came to choosing a sheltered mooring. The welcome sight of spring flowers and crumpets for tea at the end of a brisk walk - the perfect end to the day.
I have had a bad week when it comes to computers so missed the your last 2 vlogs it got so bad I had buy a new one I had to recover all my passwords and links It was s0 good t0 see y0u again you inspire me with h0w you deal with the problems you have to face with storms and the like Zeph is so good at finding balls. Thanks for being there and see you next Friday God willing Steve
I’m so pleased that you sorted your computer issues. It’s so frustrating when that happens isn’t it? Thank you so much for watching and for your lovely comment too. Take care 🦋🌻
Hello Vanessa and Zephyr, wow Vanessa you are certainly having a time of it this winter, but may I say you are handling our weather like a pro, you could be a local, nothing phases you, I even think that Zephyr is starting to question your sanity 😂😂, I think that this is the first time I've seen Zephyr in the water, even to get a ball 😃😍, your photography is amazing, your poetry is soothing and your whole aurora is so relaxing, I'm really loving your vlogs, after a rubbish week you make life feel good ❤.
I’m so sad to hear that you had a rubbish week. Make sure you treat yourself this weekend and I wish you a much better week next week. Thank you so much for watching and for your kind comments too. Take care 🦋🌻
What a storm it was, our boat rocking a bit, glad your all safe and sound. Zeph is so lovely he really listens to what your saying, dogs are the best.❤
Glad you found somewhere safe to ride out the windstorm - Zephyr is so funny, she's really not too bothered, as long as she has a ball to find. Take care and roll on the calmer weather. We're looking forward to some warmer days ourselves.
What a strong storm. I can see how the bridge could shelter you somewhat from the winds. Lovely first blooms of spring and I always love the birds. Great video. Love the flute music.
So glad you chose that sheltered spot and came through the storm OK... Zephyr had me laughing out loud at her ball hunting antics! Always a gentle joy to watch your videos.. safe cruising this coming week. 💚
Dear Vanessa and Zeph, OMG Vanessa you have disappointed me this week. I thought for sure that you would have pulled out either the strawberry or raspberry jam for the crumpets LOL. I really admire how calm and practical you are when storms are on the horizon. I suppose after all of the years you have been on the canals you are becoming use to them and how best to prepare for them. This week I came across a most spectacular little bird that resides in South America, you may be familiar with it. This little bird is known as the Royal Fly Catcher. You should be able to find it on both UA-cam and through Uncle Google. Mark Alberta, Canada
I’m sorry Mark, I didn’t have any jam but if I did, it would have been on those crumpets for sure! 😂 Thank you so much for watching. Have a super weekend. Take care 🌻🦋
All the storms. What a nightmare. Despite all the concerns, you still find time to enjoy nature and your surroundings. Love it. Zeph is as just like our lurcher Daisy. She can find a ball anywhere too....🐕🙂. You had the perfect spot to moor up and ride out the last storm. Instinct and experience xx
Zephyr would love Daisy as she has this weird worship of greyhounds and any dog similar looking. She lies down at their feet and tries to lick their face. It is so embarrassing and the poor dog on the receiving end is quite disturbed by it all. 🙈 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Saw some of the damage from that storm across Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland Wales and England...woa 😬. Not ashamed to say after a terrible morning at home with damage during a hurricane, I'm afraid of heavy winds. Time will no doubt temper the fear, we are not masters over Mother Nature.
What a delicious reminder of our great British food of drenched buttered crumpets!!! 1st item in the big shop trolley tomorrow! Sorry but it seems superfluous to say take care, warm & dry, when you are the ultimate storm dodger! Salute!
I am surprised to see flowers blooming in January; here in Ohio we will not be seeing any flowers until at least March. The weather here today is very like your weather at the beginning of the video - gray, damp, dreary. It was so nice to join you on your walk and watch Zephyr enjoying the finding of balls!! Zephyr seems to be a very good first mate. Happy cruising!
January is a tough month isn’t it? That’s why I look for snowdrops and hazel catkins. I found a periwinkle today all by itself and that gave me a huge boost too! Spring is just around the corner! Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
Another wonderful insight and images* into narrow boat life, especially in a harsh winter. *All creatures great and small 🤔Was prat the noun that we should be thinking of ? ; Zephyr ✨ certainly is...having a ball or two during this road trip 😅 The water temp must be about 5 degrees 🥶 And to finish off ..settled down with a nice cuppa and a bit of crumpet. Thoughts and prayers 🙏 with anyone reading this from the north east coast of Oz especially around Townsville .
A melody sweet In olden times, speedwell helped the traveller to find, A talisman of luck as they navigate the cut, A golden flute was the melody to suite, the Galway shawl wrapped around Thornhill hall, And the catkins were high, As the Nuthatch flew by, An Irish linnet and 'feckles' were in it, The bird watch of fame came round again, For her jewels and her diamonds were the birds that define her, The girl in a bonnet , Recites mother nature's sonnet, And Zephyr's gone solo, playing waterpolo, As two statues tall stand guard over her ball, And Tambourin replies with a flute by her side. ❤xx Stay safe Vanessa, and thank you. Andrew❤Xx
Snowdrops! My neighbor has a hazel nut tree. Never seen a blossom. I'll have to look. Speedwell, aka Verronica. I did have to look that one up. Glad you got through the storm.
Thank you for your wonderful vlog! I'm a new subscriber and look at the world so different now! Because of your beautiful perspective of your life in the UK! I can't wait until your next vlog 👏👌👍✌️😁
You captured the shy droop of the snowdrop in your sketch - a joyful portent of Spring! I do think you needed some honey on those crumpets - so that it melts with the butter and droozles through the holes! And don't worry about the calories - crumpets are full of holes, so it's like eating air, really! (That's what I tell myself!) And Zeph was obviously trying to tell you that it takes a lot of balls to live on a narrow boat!
Zephyr has balls, lots of them. Hi vanessa, long time no comment, I have been busy, so nice to see your video during the storm. The last time I commented was when you found the Golden eye at Gailey Resevoir, You are truly an outdoor girl, and an inspiration to us all. I hope to see you on the 'CUT' at some time when you come back into staffordshire.
I hope you are well? Strangely enough a goldeneye flew over as we were cruising today but I didn’t catch it on camera. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻
Just discovered your channel and we are both captivated by your interesting and informative vlogs and being 80 we find your presentations a new window into narrowboating, the wonderful nature and the history of the uk canal system. We have just purchased 2 of your wonderful books and look forward to joining you on your future journeys. I try to make interesting videos myself but yours are a great model to try to emulate. Stay safe and well.
Another lovely one Vanessa, thankyou. So good to see the first signs of Spring in the countryside, snowdrops out here too under my Beech hedge , and heard two Thrushes on my walk today, which was amazing, we hardly ever see them now. ( l am in Hertfordshire) Loved the arrangement at the end of your vlog of Gossec’s Tambourin.
WOW amazing Vanessa...such a professional production, loved every minute, ...the rooks, the heron, the swans....the surprise shelter in the storm, the windfall of balls in storm Eowyn that the all news headlines missed [!], the music, your lovely colours, red with that coat is amazing on you...always sad to see the kettle go on because it means coming to the end! If you included affiliate links eg to the pencils you may make a lot more than you imagine!
Another wonderful vlog which I always share with my 83 year old Mum. She loves them too. But her favourite bit is always the sound of you filling the teapot and the anticipation of what goodies you’ll put on the plate! 😊
Thank you for keeping us entertained. Xx
Please say hello to your mum from me. 🤗 Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
@@themindfulnarrowboat gosh Mum was so pleased you said hello ❤️
Between the video and sound, you did a really good job of capturing the feel of being in that storm. When we heard those big whumps, that sounded like someone had kicked the boat, were those wind gusts? It never ceases to amaze me at Zeph's ability to find balls! lol You have an uncanny ability to find birds, bugs and flowers, while Zeph has the uncanny ability to find balls where you would never guess there would be one. Sherlock and Watson would be proud of you two I think. 🙂 Your videos are always good, but this one was especially entertaining!
💙 I absolutely LOVE rainy 🌧 days 💕. I did so enjoy this video. I am amazed at how your so precise at maneuvering your narrow boat and the gates ! As for Zeph, well I think she was just waiting for you to get done, so you would throw that ball so she could get her chase on 😂. I love seeing and hearing the rain. Refreshing, calming and always a pleasure visiting with The Mindful Narrowboat 🩵
They were wind gusts pushing the boat against the side of the bank. Our fenders had slipped which is why the noise was so loud. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
Rain on the roof when we’re all tucked inside is a heavenly sound. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
You're videos are all very similar but each one is uniquely different. You're life is like a beautiful adventure. I like your videos because I love nature and I love to travel to places I've never seen. Even though I can not do what you are doing, I can get a real sense of what it would be like by watching your videos. I don't think anyone can do what you are doing better than you. I love how Zephyr takes part in all the big decisions. She's your little hairy co pilot.
What a kind comment, Dave. I am so pleased that you enjoy the vlogs. They are a pleasure to make. Have a super weekend. Take care 🌻🦋
You are a modern day Beatrix Potter. 😊You are a tonic in an overly complicated world.
(Also Zeph is so like my Labrador - who knows where they find so many balls! Beautiful beasts they are. ❤)
This channel walks the extra mile with the editing quality. Full respect.
What a kind comment! I really appreciate that. Thank you so much 😊 Take care 🦋🌻
In winter's grip, on the narrowboat's sway,
Zephyr leaps, her spirit at play. 😊
A ball of joy in the frosty air,
Her laughter dances, free from care.
the river flows,
In this chilly haven, warmth still glows.
Noses twitch, eyes bright and bright,
Zephyr and her ball, a heartwarming sight.😊
Beautiful! 🤩 Thank you so much 😊 Have a super weekend. Take care 🌻🦋
@@themindfulnarrowboat thank you both for the joy you give us allx
Zephyr's face when you're asking him if it's a safe place to Moor. Adorable! ❤
Wasn’t it funny! 😁 Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
So endearing just like my old Ellie was xxxx❤
Another masterpiece,…with Crumpets. Stormy canals reminds me of my childhood growing up in the Tropics where houses were built, up a bit on stilts for cooling. A cool space that our Red Cattle Dog, Tom, took full advantage to dig craters in the dirt to cool himself on the very hot days. Over time that under house space took on a moonscape like appearance, which to my engineering mind represented a special opportunity. Because the house had a gentle slope from one end to the other I saw a natural canal system half built ready for completion with a supply of water. So from the tap at the top end, I set about filling the various lakes and joining them together with linking sluices and locks to allow my “boats” to perform their very commercial purpose moving leaves and stones down the system. I had many days of fun with this till my Dad noticed cracks forming in the house walls as it began to slowly sink into the softened earth below. A sad end to my first canal building industrial enterprise.
Oh what a brilliant story, William! 🤩 Thank you so much for sharing it. Take care 🦋🌻
Great filming again, Vanessa. Loved the music too. Pleased you survived the storm. Thanks for posting.
That’s so kind of you, Robin. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
@@themindfulnarrowboat what IS that music?...I remember it from school so clearly!...can't for the life of me think of what it's called though
I'm so pleased for Zephyr (even though that breeze wasn't so gentle😄) that the storm brought her so many balls! ❤ 🐕
I like what you did with Zephyr’s name there! 🤩👍 Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
Poor Zeph ... "do you think this is a good place to moor?" - her face says: 'if I had known there was going to be a quiz today I would have studied...'
What a delight to wake up of a Saturday morning and find a new Mindful video to watch. I admire your hardiness, Vanessa - I've been told that cold has a way of creeping into your very bones.
😂😂😂 This really made me laugh, Robin. Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
When I saw the footage of that raging storm, my first thought was about how you and Alice Grace had fared. I’m glad your are both fine.
That’s so kind of you, Ginny. Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Living on a narrow boat is something I always wanted to try. Alas family and work commitments did not allow me to fulfil the dream. However, I can live my dream through your vlogs. I keep a nature journal like yourself and have just added my first snowdrop as well. The crumpets were so mouth watering.
How wonderful that you have added a snowdrop to your journal too! I saw one greater periwinkle today and it made me jump for joy. Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Without doubt this is the best canal barge vlog in the western world. Superb. And Zephyr.... Well what can I say... The star of the show💯💥💪👍
What a generous comment! Zephyr loves it too! 🐾🐾🤗 Thank you so much 😊 . Take care 🦋🌻
I flew like the wind on a blustery day...not to be deterred from my ball hunting in any way...Mom counted birds on the day... as I held watch only occasionally glancing her way...There is a children's story in here by the way...Maybe the wind will whisper it my way...💨🐦🐦🐦🌬🐶
Rodney, this is wonderful! 🤩 Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
Thank God you were all safe, Ireland is still in a mess, and will be for another week. What a happy doggie ❤
That’s so sad to hear. I hope it is back to normal very soon. 💚Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Glad you survived the storms unscathed. After spending three days in hospital when I really thought I was having a stroke which after loads of tests turned out to be a bad migraine, i really needed to end the week on a happy note watching your wonderful vlogs. Thanks and all the best.
I really hope you are okay? When I was in my late 30s something very similar happened to me; I lost the sensation down one side of my body, had blind spots in my vision but no headache and I was rushed to hospital. They did a brain scan and said that it was a severe migraine. It’s only happened a handful of times since but it is less scary now that I know what it is. I am glad you are okay. Thank you so much for watching. Have a restful Sunday. Take care 🌻🦋
@ Thank you. Never been so scared in my life!
I had to laugh about Zephyr with all her balls. My dog was the same, and if there weren't balls sticks or other toys were good, but balls, definitely number 1.😂 I like the way you live with nature, I understand completely it makes you feel alive. Much love to you both❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Balls are definitely number 1 for Zephyr too. Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Arn't crumpets the funniest things? And so delicious. Zephyr really has a nose for finding balls and this was certainly a red letter day. I picture a corner in Alice Grey with a pile of moldering balls protectively guarded by Zeph! I loved the flute music... seemed to flow so well with the birds. Thanks so much for your offering this week- a place of sanity and joy in these challenging times. Take care Vanessa and happy trails, W xx
Crumpets are funny aren’t they but utterly scrumptious or scrumpetious! 🤭 Zephyr is a ball magnet isn’t she? 🐾🐾😂 Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Wendy. Have a super Sunday! Take care 🌻🦋
Vanessa, as you know, for me, this is Zephyr's channel, you are just the faclitator.... 🤣
Joking aside, seems like you made her the star of this vlog.
I'm glad that you stayed safe during the storms of course.... but the footage where you ask her if it is a safe place to moor is priceless, for me anyway - she was beautiful!!
This is totally Zephyr’s channel! 😂😂😂🐾🐾 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Love to see Zeph finding balls. I guess she's just as happy with that, as you are with finding the lovely little flowers.😍❤️😍
I think you’re right there. 😊 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Every big storm that comes your way, I always think of you and hope that you are safe. “A Coil of Widgeon” succinctly summarizes the knowledge and beauty that the vlog will contain. Your perfect choice of music always brings a tear to my eyes, your incredibly smart dog brings me wonder. And then you are safe to enjoy your tea and treats, and record for us the miracle of this particular part of the world. Thank you, Vanessa.
What a kind comment- thank you so much, Wayne. Take care 🌻🦋
I just love how happy your dog gets when she finds a ball, you must have a collection of them by now lol
She loses them as quickly as she finds them! 😂🐾🐾 Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
Maybe she leaves them for the people that lost them 🐕
The calm after the storm is more peaceful after a fierce storm. True with wind and rain and circumstances of life. Today I completed my weekly grocery shopping after having completed 3 loads of laundry the day before. Learning to be a housekeeper at my age is most interesting. God bless, Your East Coast USA Friend.
What a sense of accomplishment though! Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Oh my goodness! Zephyr hit pay dirt this time! I could almost hear her shouting, Eureka, I found the balls!😂 and then your dismay as she found a way into the river! That was fantastic and Im so glad you got through the storm safely.❤️🇨🇦
If there's a better feel good moment than a cup of tea and not one but TWO crumpets - I don't think I want to know about it. Lovely way to relax.
It is such a comforting combination isn’t it- crumpets and tea! 😋 Thank you so much for watching. Have a super Sunday! Take care 🌻🦋
Baby Girl Zephyr is beyond delightful 🐾 ❤
🐾🐾🤗 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Zephyr is an absolute delight! xx
She makes me laugh! 😂🐾🐾 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🌻🦋
I can't tell you, Vanessa, how much I've been looking forward to watching this video. I've been busy this morning, and now I can lay down for a few minutes and enjoy your vlog. I have been watching several of the older videos, and I wish that I had enough money to buy all of your narrowboat journals. Perhaps in the future I will? I've noticed myself since watching your channel, becoming more observant regarding the bird life in my local area and enjoying them more. Sometimes, we just need to SEE and not merely glance at something momentarily. I hope that you and Zepher are well, and I love seeing how much Zepher enjoys her walks AND her balls and sticks. She gives me the laughs I need to rise above the circumstances I live in with disability and chronic pain. I don't know if you are aware of how diverse a group of people you engage with in your vlogs, but I know that I am not the only one who eagerly awaits a new video. It's just so peaceful, and in this chaotic world, truly a breath of fresh air! Take care now from country NSW Australia.
Hi Michelle, your comment is so beautiful and heartfelt. It means so much to me to read this. I am so sorry to hear about the pain you are in and I wish that you didn’t have to endure that. I’m sending you all the best in health and happiness. Thank you for your kindness. Take care 🦋🌻
No Marmite on the crumpets ? Blimey !!!
And another storm to contend with.....
Brilliant stuff as always....
I don’t eat marmite but I can imagine it’s a good accompaniment with crumpets. Thank you so much for watching. Have a super Sunday! Take care 🌻🦋
You are a very brave soul and very kind. I love your poetry and drawings, your videos bring me so much peace!
That’s so kind of you, Jen. Thank you so much for watching. Have a super Sunday! Take care 🌻🦋
@ You as well!🤗
Zephyr explores nature in her own fashion, that is, through her ball finding missions 😂 She becomes more adorable every episode. Another great vlog. Thank you for sharing. Stay safe. 🐶 🐾🐾 🐾 🥎
🐾🐾🤭 She does! Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
So lovely- I am also comforted by your tradition of pouring the tea and putting a treat on the plate!
I love your drawings and words as well- so beautiful.
Thanks for sharing!
That’s so kind of you, Faith. Thank you so much 😊 Take care 🦋🌻
I have your nature journal from 2023, and your drawings and your writings are just lovely really enjoy watching your videos and your adventures with your puppy😊
I wish that I could afford to buy all of them, but I do have her calendar for 2025, which I am enjoying immensely. Vanessa has such a talent when it comes to drawing life, and I am very glad that I stumbled upon her channel. Take care now from country NSW Australia.
That’s so kind of you. Thank you so much for watching and for supporting my shop too. Have a super Sunday! Take care 🌻🦋
Love your videos, I look forward to seeing the next. So relaxing. Take care, and thank you. 🤗🤗🤗🐞🐞🐞
That’s so lovely to know, Gordon. Thank you so much for watching. Have a super Sunday! Take care 🌻🦋
Vanessa, so glad your gut instinct served you during storm Eowyn! I loved all the flocks of birds! And the music was so apropos to the varying moods from calm to storm and back to calm.
This time it worked 😅 Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Karen. Have a super Sunday! Take care 🌻🦋
I can remember crows sworming like that when I was young they do make a load noise. Until I saw yours I had forgotten. But thankyou.
It’s a fabulous sound isn’t it? 🤩🦋🌻
Zephyr is one ball motivated dog. Tail in constant motion; no water is an obstacle in the constant quest of finding the perfect ball. She brings constant enjoyment to all. Safe boating. Sarah from Tasmania
Thank you so much 😊 She is such a wonderful dog and I feel blessed to call her mine. Take care 🐾🐾🤗🌻🦋
I could feel the wind! Thankyou...love watching you draw in your journal!
Thank you so much 😊 Take care 🦋🌻
Your Zephyr is so precious! ❤🦮
She is isn’t she🤗🐾🐾 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Another excellent video. I always love the tea ceremony at the end with your talented poems and drawings. This week you had crumpets with your butter.
I’m so pleased that you enjoy the vlogs. Thank you so much 😊 Take care 🌻🦋
Rough weather Vanessa and bless Zephyr's heart collecting balls. Blaze was watching and is very jelouse! Stay safe and well love to you both from Blaze and me xxx.
Stay safe too! Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Happy to see you came through the storms safely. Your experience paid off when it came to choosing a sheltered mooring. The welcome sight of spring flowers and crumpets for tea at the end of a brisk walk - the perfect end to the day.
That’s so kind of you, Marie! Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
What an utterly fantastic boater video with an incredible Dog called Zephyr ❤
Thank you so much, Matt. Have a super weekend. Take care 🌻🦋
I have had a bad week when it comes to computers so missed the your last 2 vlogs it got so bad I had buy a new one I had to recover all my passwords and links It was s0 good t0 see y0u again you inspire me with h0w you deal with the problems you have to face with storms and the like Zeph is so good at finding balls. Thanks for being there and see you next Friday God willing Steve
I’m so pleased that you sorted your computer issues. It’s so frustrating when that happens isn’t it? Thank you so much for watching and for your lovely comment too. Take care 🦋🌻
Wonderful choice of soundtrack druing the storm. Hollywood here you come :)
Thank you so much 😊 Take care 🌻🦋
Hello Vanessa and Zephyr, wow Vanessa you are certainly having a time of it this winter, but may I say you are handling our weather like a pro, you could be a local, nothing phases you, I even think that Zephyr is starting to question your sanity 😂😂, I think that this is the first time I've seen Zephyr in the water, even to get a ball 😃😍, your photography is amazing, your poetry is soothing and your whole aurora is so relaxing, I'm really loving your vlogs, after a rubbish week you make life feel good ❤.
I’m so sad to hear that you had a rubbish week. Make sure you treat yourself this weekend and I wish you a much better week next week. Thank you so much for watching and for your kind comments too. Take care 🦋🌻
What a storm it was, our boat rocking a bit, glad your all safe and sound. Zeph is so lovely he really listens to what your saying, dogs are the best.❤
Dogs really are the best aren’t they? 🐾🐾🤗 Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
No jam on your muffin?? You are set in your ways. Thank you again for calming me so.
No jam in the cupboard otherwise I would have done. 😋 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Glad you found somewhere safe to ride out the windstorm - Zephyr is so funny, she's really not too bothered, as long as she has a ball to find. Take care and roll on the calmer weather. We're looking forward to some warmer days ourselves.
Roll on the spring I say! 🤩 Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Sian. Take care 🦋🌻
What a strong storm. I can see how the bridge could shelter you somewhat from the winds. Lovely first blooms of spring and I always love the birds. Great video. Love the flute music.
The bridge was a great wind break. Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
So glad you chose that sheltered spot and came through the storm OK... Zephyr had me laughing out loud at her ball hunting antics!
Always a gentle joy to watch your videos.. safe cruising this coming week.
💚
She made me laugh too! 🐾🐾😂Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
Thankyou. A lovely windy, birdy, beautiful video. Lovely to see snowdrops and definite signs of spring. Love and take care both of you
Oh spring! Wouldn’t that be lovely? Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Dear Vanessa and Zeph,
OMG Vanessa you have disappointed me this week. I thought for sure that you would have pulled out either the strawberry or raspberry jam for the crumpets LOL.
I really admire how calm and practical you are when storms are on the horizon. I suppose after all of the years you have been on the canals you are becoming use to them and how best to prepare for them.
This week I came across a most spectacular little bird that resides in South America, you may be familiar with it. This little bird is known as the Royal Fly Catcher. You should be able to find it on both UA-cam and through Uncle Google.
Mark
Alberta, Canada
I’m sorry Mark, I didn’t have any jam but if I did, it would have been on those crumpets for sure! 😂 Thank you so much for watching. Have a super weekend. Take care 🌻🦋
I'd say you earned your tea and crumpet today!
Thank you so much 😊 Take care 🦋🌻
All the storms. What a nightmare. Despite all the concerns, you still find time to enjoy nature and your surroundings. Love it.
Zeph is as just like our lurcher Daisy. She can find a ball anywhere too....🐕🙂.
You had the perfect spot to moor up and ride out the last storm. Instinct and experience xx
Zephyr would love Daisy as she has this weird worship of greyhounds and any dog similar looking. She lies down at their feet and tries to lick their face. It is so embarrassing and the poor dog on the receiving end is quite disturbed by it all. 🙈 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
I agree, it’s hard to read swans, especially when they’re mute swans. 😊.
Wonderful video as usual.
You really have to look into their eyes don’t you which can have all sorts of consequences!😂 Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
Be thankful that it was a large ball and not another ultra large stick as she had once before. The first mooring spot was a good one.
Love that Zephyr keeps finding balls!
Saw some of the damage from that storm across Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland Wales and England...woa 😬. Not ashamed to say after a terrible morning at home with damage during a hurricane, I'm afraid of heavy winds. Time will no doubt temper the fear, we are not masters over Mother Nature.
They can be so destructive can’t they? Thank you so much for watching. Have a super Sunday! Take care 🌻🦋
Zeph is quite the water hound and always finds a new treasure. 😊😊
She would swim all day if she could. 🐾🐾🤗 Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
You really do need your wits about you winter cruising😮 thank you Vanessa for sharing your journey 🙂
It is such a high adrenaline sport sometimes in the winter! 😱 Thank you so much for watching. Have a super Sunday! Take care 🌻🦋
Zeph the great ball hunter! Really enjoyed her searching. Thank you.
She is on constant lookout for them! 😂🐾🐾 Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
What a delicious reminder of our great British food of drenched buttered crumpets!!! 1st item in the big shop trolley tomorrow! Sorry but it seems superfluous to say take care, warm & dry, when you are the ultimate storm dodger! Salute!
They are the perfect comfort food aren’t they? 😋 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
I am surprised to see flowers blooming in January; here in Ohio we will not be seeing any flowers until at least March. The weather here today is very like your weather at the beginning of the video - gray, damp, dreary. It was so nice to join you on your walk and watch Zephyr enjoying the finding of balls!! Zephyr seems to be a very good first mate. Happy cruising!
One here and there but hopefully lots blooming in the next few weeks. Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Loved the animal chewing at the sead bless it.
I love the rain. I so enjoyed the safety from the elements aboard Alice Grace, even if only vicariously. ❤
It’s a lovely sound to hear the rain pinging off the roof. Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
U2
That sure was a wet section but zephyr don't care much let's hope sunshine is not too long away... be safe feel like a bru again....ttfn 🐾
Sunshine is on its way!!! 🤩Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Lovely to see the first signs of spring. I can't wait for it to come. I've developed a real aversion to January.
January is a tough month isn’t it? That’s why I look for snowdrops and hazel catkins. I found a periwinkle today all by itself and that gave me a huge boost too! Spring is just around the corner! Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
Another wonderful insight and images* into narrow boat life, especially in a harsh winter.
*All creatures great and small
🤔Was prat the noun that we should be thinking of ? ;
Zephyr ✨ certainly is...having a ball or two during this road trip 😅
The water temp must be about 5 degrees 🥶
And to finish off ..settled down with a nice cuppa and a bit of crumpet.
Thoughts and prayers 🙏 with anyone reading this from the north east coast of Oz especially around Townsville .
Glad you made it through the storm - thanks for sharing. As a flutist, I love the flute music too!
I love the sound of the flute! Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Could we have more flute music please Vanessa. It seems so fitting with narrowboat life. @@themindfulnarrowboat
Very enjoyable vlog,Vanessa. We liked the music.Zephy certainly goes for some big balls,bless her.See you soon xxx😍
Tea and crumpets!! I haven't seen crumpets here in Mexico. I love your photography.
Crumpets are such a comfort food. Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Another wonderful video😊enjoyed watching Zeph with his big find😊carrying n g that big ball in his mouth made me smile😊 take care God bless❤
🐾🐾😂 Zephyr is ball obsessed! Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
We have five or six humming birds in our garden and it's so charming.
Oh wow!!!!!😍 you lucky things! Thank you so much for watching. Have a super Sunday! Take care 🌻🦋
❤ I just love Zephyr ❤️
🐾🐾🤗 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
A melody sweet
In olden times, speedwell helped the traveller to find,
A talisman of luck as they navigate the cut,
A golden flute was the melody to suite, the Galway shawl wrapped around Thornhill hall,
And the catkins were high,
As the Nuthatch flew by,
An Irish linnet and 'feckles' were in it,
The bird watch of fame came round again,
For her jewels and her diamonds were the birds that define her,
The girl in a bonnet ,
Recites mother nature's sonnet,
And Zephyr's gone solo, playing waterpolo,
As two statues tall stand guard over her ball,
And Tambourin replies with a flute by her side. ❤xx
Stay safe Vanessa, and thank you.
Andrew❤Xx
Thank you so much, Andrew! I laughed at Zephyr’s waterpolo bit! 😂🐾🐾 Take care 🦋🌻
Always fascinated how you sort out how to move in difficult weather and getting through the crazy rain.
Thank you so much 😊 Take care 🦋🌻
Always so calming to watch your videos, especially when there are storms in one’s own life. Zephyr did make me laugh with so many ball discoveries!
I hope your storms subside. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
Snowdrops! My neighbor has a hazel nut tree. Never seen a blossom. I'll have to look. Speedwell, aka Verronica. I did have to look that one up. Glad you got through the storm.
Thank you for your wonderful vlog! I'm a new subscriber and look at the world so different now! Because of your beautiful perspective of your life in the UK! I can't wait until your next vlog 👏👌👍✌️😁
That’s so wonderful to hear! Thank you so much 😊 Have a super weekend. Take care 🌻🦋
love you ,,, love your photography ,, best of all ,, love your wildlife knowledge ,, stay happy xx
That’s so kind of you. Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Thank you, dear lady. You’re beautiful, wonderful, brilliant. You spark joy in me. Take good care.❤❤❤
That’s so kind of you. Thank you for your lovely comment. Take care 🌻🦋
Thank you once again for. Very interesting trip. I don’t envy you being outside in the rain. I’ll be below deck drinking oat milk hot chocolate. 😊
Oat milk hot chocolate! 😋 I don’t blame you. Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Beautiful images, much love and gratitude.
That’s so kind of you, John. Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Hope you have a wonderful weekend ❤❤❤
You too! Thank you so much 😊 Take care 🦋🌻
Soooo cute when you made that little whoop noise, 7:45... love your vids and dog...play safe and howdy from Calgary Alberta Canada
🤭 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Dogs have 4 paw drive so they can go almost anywhere. 😎. Great video again.
😂👍 They do! Thank you so much for watching. Have a super Sunday! Take care 🌻🦋
You captured the shy droop of the snowdrop in your sketch - a joyful portent of Spring! I do think you needed some honey on those crumpets - so that it melts with the butter and droozles through the holes! And don't worry about the calories - crumpets are full of holes, so it's like eating air, really! (That's what I tell myself!) And Zeph was obviously trying to tell you that it takes a lot of balls to live on a narrow boat!
Eating air! 😂😂😂 brilliant 🤩 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Zephyr has balls, lots of them. Hi vanessa, long time no comment, I have been busy, so nice to see your video during the storm. The last time I commented was when you found the Golden eye at Gailey Resevoir, You are truly an outdoor girl, and an inspiration to us all. I hope to see you on the 'CUT' at some time when you come back into staffordshire.
I hope you are well? Strangely enough a goldeneye flew over as we were cruising today but I didn’t catch it on camera. Thank you so much for your lovely comment. Take care 🦋🌻
Just discovered your channel and we are both captivated by your interesting and informative vlogs and being 80 we find your presentations a new window into narrowboating, the wonderful nature and the history of the uk canal system. We have just purchased 2 of your wonderful books and look forward to joining you on your future journeys. I try to make interesting videos myself but yours are a great model to try to emulate. Stay safe and well.
That’s so kind of you. Are your videos on UA-cam? Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Beautiful. Thanks, the struggle of new life, hardship to come, hope reborn.
Thank you so much, Glenn. Take care 🦋🌻
Lovely 🥰 thank you 😊
Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Just love your new book ❤❤❤❤❤
Thank you so much, Hatty! Take care 🤗🌻🦋
Hi , one determined dog , and another very amazing video . Thank you .🤔❤👍💅🐕
Thank you so much 😊 Have a super Sunday! Take care 🌻🦋
we ordered your book and it has arrived. We love it and enjoy your boating life!
That’s so kind of you. I’m so pleased that you like it. Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Just lovely watching you two my dear 😂😂😂😂❤😊
That’s so kind of you. Thank you so much for watching. Have a super Sunday! Take care 🌻🦋
Another lovely one Vanessa, thankyou. So good to see the first signs of Spring in the countryside, snowdrops out here too under my Beech hedge , and heard two Thrushes on my walk today, which was amazing, we hardly ever see them now. ( l am in Hertfordshire) Loved the arrangement at the end of your vlog of Gossec’s Tambourin.
Song thrush and snowdrops- what a wonderful combination! Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻
Love the birds.Such a variety!
Thank you so much 😊 Take care 🦋🌻
WOW amazing Vanessa...such a professional production, loved every minute, ...the rooks, the heron, the swans....the surprise shelter in the storm, the windfall of balls in storm Eowyn that the all news headlines missed [!], the music, your lovely colours, red with that coat is amazing on you...always sad to see the kettle go on because it means coming to the end! If you included affiliate links eg to the pencils you may make a lot more than you imagine!
I hope you were ok in the storm. It hit hard where you are didn’t it? Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Mary. Take care 🦋🌻
Thank you Vanessa….Friday complete !!
You’re so welcome 🤗 Thank you so much for watching. Take care 🦋🌻