Lovely weekend in Abingdon

We decided to moor up on Friday and spend the weekend in Abingdon. This decision was taken just after we had arrived at Clifton Lock when there were a few little spits and spots of rain. As we maneuvered towards the lock the rain got heavier and Jenny picked up her anorak as she ran through the boat to prepare the forward line for the lock. By this time the rain had got even heavier! The lockeeper had put his brolly up as he kindly took the forward line from Jenny who remarked what bad timing this was. The rain got heavier and heavier. Sid had managed to grab an umbrella but could not save the River Thames Book from a soaking! The rain beat down as the lock filled! It was so noisy beating on the bow cover and although Jenny was trying to keep dry it was  impossible with it bouncing and splashing in at her. The lock was full, the forward line being bought on board  and yes, you have guessed it, the rain stopped abruptly as we departed the lock and the sun peeped through. Heigh Ho that's  summer weather for you!

We arrived at Abingdon at 13.15 and managed to squeeze into the very last mooring amongst the extensive free moorings. As it was it was in the perfect position with our stern amongst the bushes!

We then received a call from our good friend Ruth to ask if we would like to go to the Witney Steam Fair with them and other good friends  David and Julia.

Sawing up trees the old fashioned way and not a hard hat or high vis jacket anywhere!

We had a wonderful day with loads of catching up to do and enjoyed a great deal of nostalgia. The sun shone and the day ended with us sharing a tasty BBQ back at the Wilbraham.  David and Julia expressed their desire to see Hunters Moon so they drove us back to Abingdon. Our thanks to them.

Jenny and Ruth enjoying the carousel!

Sunday dawned cool and cloudy but did not deter Janice and Dave from coming to find us. It was so good to see them and as we enjoyed a picnic and relaxed by the boat Emily loved the freedom of the open space but was a bit hesitant of the splash pool. However, Nana (Jenny) and Grandad (Sid) had a great time trying to avoid getting wet and encouraging Emily to have a good splash about! It was a delightful day and it was good to see Oliver appropriately attired in his sailor suit.

Emily, 'sailor' Oliver and Janice

Emily having free climbing lessons from daddy

Nana and Grandad trying to stay dry!

We have now arrived in Oxford for Sid's weekly train ride to Chi and then on Wednesday we head of the Thames and start heading north on the Oxford Canal.