Trip Four 2019

27th September 2019 – Hull to Whalley

A busy night in the kennels as it’s now the hunting season, so I wasn’t lonely, but I wasn’t very happy either. At least we were off quite early so I was soon at my favorite park for a run around. Then it was home to Whalley for the winter. No more Annapanna until next spring.

So that’s the last entry from me for this year, my second season aboard Annapanna. It’s been quite varied with a bit too much open water for my liking, especially during ‘the big trip’. It could have been worse though, as I might have had to cross the North Sea on that epic voyage!

See you all aboard next year. The plan is to head to the Somme before starting our long journey northbound, firstly to Berlin then on to the Baltic and those Scandinavian countries. On the plus side, that means new languages and new dogs, on the minus side – Baltic has “sea’ attached to it.

26th September 2019 – Maasbracht – Europort

Last day. Packing, scrubbing, cleaning etc etc. So boring. I’m always in the way. We did manage a trip to Linnsen so Sheila could have a look round the showroom and nice Ed Houben showed her the different production lines. I went too, but I’m afraid it all got too exciting so I was banished to the car.

Then it was off to the ferry and the horrible kennels…

25th September 2019 – Maasbracht

Jobs day number one. This included taking me to the vets, which became a problem as the vet in Maasbracht closed at lunchtime and we’d missed it by the time they realised. So it was off to Echt to the very smart animal hospital where they insisted on doing a full examination as well as worming me. No biscuits as payment here, just 30 euros for the pleasure. At least I know I am fit and healthy although Brian & Alison’s pockets are a bit lighter than they were!

24th September 2019 – Roermond to Maasbracht

And so back to our winter base at Van dear Laan. Before that though Mags and Sheila went shopping and Alison set off to Den Bosch to collect the car. The journey should have taken an hour whilst Alison’s trip about three so we set off planning to meet her at the fuel station…. except it all went wrong at the lock. There is a water shortage on the Maas so the locks are only opening with commercial traffic and as the route into Roermond is not a normal commercial route, that meant a long, long wait. So they decided to head back north and take the “motorway” instead, but even by this route the waits were long. We eventually arrived in Maasbracht at 5pm, four and a half hours later. With nowhere to get off for a wee, my legs were well and truly crossed by the time we arrived at Van de Laan!

Then just to finish off a boring day they all went out to dinner at their favorite hotel (not mine as dogs are now banned) and left me all alone.

23rd September 2019 – T’Leuken to Roermond

Tonight is a town but I can’t really complain to much and in fact it has turned out to be the perfect mooring. If I was still scoring places for K9 facilities this place would be a strong 4/5. The only thing letting it down is the long drop down to the shore. The harbour has a lovely long grassy area running alongside the Maas and as the Maas is algae free I could run in and out to hearts my content. Perfect!

We moored next to another Linnsen owed by a couple from New Zealand, John and Margaret and Brian invited them on board for drinks so John could watch the video of “the trip”… Well, it turned out that they were Scottie owners and John used to breed them. Sheila was delighted and they swapped photos and notes on the various breeders they both knew in New Zealand.

22nd September 2019 – Cuijk to T’Leuken

It was a toss up, a town mooring at Venlo or a rural one at T’Leuken and I’m glad to say T’Leuken won. It’s not as dog friendly as Cuijk, but there are still plenty of walks and handily, a nice restaurant and bar overlooking the harbour

Before they could go for their by now regular girly drinks Sheila had to do her exercise, so they went for a walk to Mags favorite little ferry. I wasn’t allowed as I might have knocked Sheila off into the water…. they said. Not impressed. I didn’t even need to go on the ferry as I could have swum over.

21st September 2019 – Maasbommel to Cuijk

Sheila said she wanted see some more lovely little Dutch towns and as our destination for tonight is definitely rural (so perfect for me) we decided to stop at Grave on the way. Grave is such a pretty town they thought she might like it. I like it too as it meant we got an ice cream!

Over the last week there have been celebrations throughout the Netherlands marking the 75th anniversary of Operation Market Garden. Operation Market Garden was an allied Second World War operation which planned to capture 9 bridges across the Rivers of the Netherlands, including the Maas and the bridge at Grave. Today there was a massive parachute drop at Arnhem – 1500 parachutes – all dropped from the military planes flying over as we wound our way to our destination. One of the parachutists was a 94 year old veteran. Imagine, 94, or 658 in dog years. It’s not something on my bucket list, I can assure you.

Our destination today is one of my favourite places, Yachthaven T’Loo at Linden in the lakes around Cuijk. It was perfect; there was no algae, it was warm and sunny and as we were only one week away from lifting the beach ban on dogs, no one seemed to mind about me playing in the water. I was left home alone whilst they went to the restaurant for dinner, but to be honest after my afternoon swim all I wanted to do was sleep it off.

20th September 2019 – S’Hertogenbosch to Maasbommel

After another trip to the ramparts and a play with the ball we set off on the next stage of our journey back to Maasbracht. We didn’t get far though before a 2 hour wait at the lock – but luckily we weren’t going too far.

We arrived in Maasbommel with its lakes of De Goulden Ham and found a perfect rural mooring at Hanzeland. Nice long fingers, lots of grass, a beach and a big field to play in. Perfect, except for two things: an unfriendly Alsatian, so off lead from the boat was not advised and the dreaded algae, the bane of my life, which meant swimming once again was out of bounds.

There were picnic tables by the boat so as the sun was shining us girls had our drinks at the table. I’m not sure what I think of an Aperol Spritz but I love the paprika Crisps.

19th September 2019 – S’Hertogenbosch

Today was travel day. We left Den Bosch in the morning to catch the train back to Culemborg to pick up the car, then after lunch at Brownies & Downies we set off for Eindhoven where we were collecting Sheila and Mags from the airport. Ryanair staff are on strike for two days so no one really knew how the flights would be affected – but as it turned out, they weren’t. So after a trip to the Philips museum (for them) we set off to the airport. I was so excited to see them although sad that, yet again, Sheila had left Mattie at home. Never mind, I have loads of dogs to play with here!

18th September 2019 – S’Hertogenbosch

Shopping …! But first we moved round the corner onto our perfect new mooring. There is so much to see here it could keep me busy all day. We had to leave though and headed into town for a wander round the cobbled streets of the city and it’s interesting shops.

Later on I was lounging on the deck and idly checking out the scene when I noticed more and more dogs gathering below the ramparts. They were all barking and playing and I was desperate to join them… so I did. Some of them ganged up on me a bit but I didn’t mind and anyway I could run faster than most of them. Alison was worried I was going to jump in the canal even though a nice man said it hadn’t happened yet. There is always a first time and I must admit it crossed my mind! Then another man showed us where I could go in the water and even better, started throwing a ball. Several of the dogs joined me but as I’m the Adam Peaty of the dog world they didn’t get a look in! Selfish, yes I suppose so, but I can’t help it, I just have to swim flat out at all times.

17th September 2019 – Heusden to S’Hertogenbosch

Another walk on the ramparts and a long play with Kong (balls are banned for some reason) before coffee (and a much needed drink)in town. Then we were off again, this time to S’Hertogenbosch where we are staying for 3 nights – territory for me although they have been several times before. The lifting bridge to the main mooring area was closed and as we are too high to get underneath it we had to moor on a short finger in the small private harbour next door. A short finger means we have to get off from the bow of the boat, which is not problem for me as I am such an adaptable canine! It will be a problem for Sheila though when she arrives on Thursday, so tomorrow we have another place reserved round the corner.

16th September 2019 – Arkel to Heusden

Oops, we were woken up to a problem. Well I was already awake and tried to alert them but all I got for my efforts was a shout to shut up. Huh, maybe next time they will take me more seriously. Anyway, it took a knock on the window by our neighbour to alert us to the fact that 2 out of the 3 mooring pins had been dragged out by the wake of a passing ship and Annapanna’s stern was floating into the middle of the canal! Does this remind you of anything? The trauma on the Rhône last year? This time though it was a case of not enough welly being put into hammering in the mooring pins (I think Brian will be back in the gym when we get home) and on a slow moving canal rather than a fast moving river, nothing like as dramatic.

We set off for Heusden a bit later which unfortunately required a short time on the Waal. The Waal is a big, busy river and on a Monday morning there were lots of commercial boats about – and that means lots of rocking and bumping. Not happy. Heusden made up for it though with all those ramparts to walk round.

15th September 2019 – Culemborg to Arkel

After a final walk and swim we all said goodbye to my favorite place and set off along the Lek towards the Merwede canal, where they had planned a country mooring somewhere in the middle of nowhere. Actually, the middle of nowhere was just outside the town of Arkel, but it was rural and even better it was on a busy dog walking route, so I had plenty to keep me occupied. I even managed another swim and stick chase with a laid back retriever. It meant I had to jump into the canal and Alison was worried I wouldn’t be able to get out, but she forgets, my other name is Miss Agility. So once I realised what I had to do it was child’s play.

14th September 2019 – Culemborg

Alison went off for an early morning run and came back enthusing about what a beautiful day it was. She then took me out to show me. Yes, yes, very nice, but I need my breakfast and your little excursion had already delayed it!

Then it was off to the station to catch our train to Utrecht. I’m not usually into sightseeing but the town was buzzing, I got lots of attention, biscuits at the coffee stop and a lie in the sun at lunch time. Not a bad day. The train ride was a doddle as well. If we had stayed in Utrecht the other day all this would have been in the rain, so maybe it was fate..

13th September 2019 – Maurik to Culemborg

Although I like Maurik, I like Culemborg even more, so I was a very happy dog when we arrived (by car) and set off for a swim and a walk in my favourite of all places. Even better, I found a doggy friend, an old ball and a nice man to throw it for me. Heaven.

Brian arrived with Annapanna a bit later and off they went for a spot of shopping, just for a change. I think Brian must have been getting Albert Heijn withdrawal symptoms as they’ve been spending too much time in Jumbo recently.

We’re here for 2 nights as tomorrow we’re all going to catch the train to Utrecht and complete the retail and sight seeing trip that was cut short because of the bridge problem. I’m cool about the train, been there, done that when we were in the UK on Annapanna.

12th September 2019 – Vreeland to Maurik

Firstly, a bit of good news. it rained virtually all day yesterday and most of the night…but nothing came through the rip in the canvas. Amazing and quite surprising, they thought. Especially as we can see daylight through it!

After a walk round the lovely village of Vreeland – including an off lead woodland walk, we headed a little further up the Vecht to Nigtevecht. We could leave the river here without taking the canvas down, a big plus for them, but definitely not for me! Why? because it meant more time on the Amsterdam Rijn canal – and I don’t like the Amsterdam Rijn canal.

We had almost 4 hours of being buffeted around by big ships either passing or overtaking us. No wee stops, no respite. I was just glad when it was all over and we got to the lock at the end. Then it was on to Maurik and the first thing I did was jump off and race into the water. It was heaven, for me anyway, but I’m not sure the ducks and coots I disturbed would agree.

We’re back in Maurik for one night to do some washing and prepare for our next guests (Sheila and Mags), pick up the car and return the access card. Tomorrow we leave to start our journey back to Maasbracht, so its goodbye Maurik for this year. Who knows when and if we will ever return.

11th September 2019 – Utrecht to Vreeland

Things didn’t go quite as planned. We were going to stay another night in Utrecht and spend the day wandering round the city, shopping and exploring, but at about 9.30 the lock keeper came to tell us one of the Vecht bridges was faulty and they were shutting it at 10am – and he wasn’t sure when it would open again. As this was our only route out of the city we had no choice but to pack up and join the other boats in the lock. It was very disappointing – even for me who doesn’t even like shopping and sightseeing…. I had heard about a great dog walking park….

So off we set, a day earlier than planned, back up the Vecht to Vreeland where we are spending the night moored in front of the lovely hotel we’ve noticed every time we passed. To make up for the disappointment of leaving Utrecht they are having dinner in the hotel’s restaurant, which means we can use their mooring.

Dinner at de Nederlanden restaurant turned out to be another Michelin star job, the second in a week! Very extravagant and completely over my head. My dinner is exactly the same day in day out and I still can’t wait to wolf it down. I suspect Michelin star food would be wasted on me as I don’t often bother to chew food, never mind savour it.

10th September 2019 – Loenen to Utrecht

Today was a lovely sunny day and as they didn’t get their planned bike ride yesterday, Alison suggested that she and Suesi cycle along the Vecht and meet up with Brian, Martin and me in Bruekelen. Then once we got to Bruekelen they decided to cycle a bit further to Maarsen…. I didn’t really mind, really I didn’t, but it would have been nice to have been invited. A bit of female solidarity wouldn’t have gone amiss.

Once we picked them up we continued down the Vecht, all the way into Utrecht. They haven’t done this before as Annapanna is really too high for the many bridges in the city. They could get into the northern basin though and it turned out that this was actually very convenient for the centre and more importantly, the station, as Susie and Martin were leaving by train later on.

Once we had settled, down came Little Dick in preparation for tour of the city waterways. As you know I’m not really a Little Dick fan, so was very relieved when it became clear that my presence on the trip was not required. I guarded Annapanna instead -a very important role in a big city like this.

Off they went under all those very low bridges right through the centre of the city. Beautiful, they told me when they got back. I’m sure, I replied, totally not bothered.

Then it was time to walk Suesi and Martin to the station for their trip home. I’ll miss them, especially as Suesi gave me plenty of cuddles, but I won’t miss those noisy games. I’m a bit worried though, as they are still on board. I just hope they don’t get Mags and Sheila to play when they join us next week.

9th September 2019 – Weesp to Loenen

A lovely meander along the Vecht to Loenen, the beautiful village we stayed in last time we were on this river. Although there isn’t any swimming, there is plenty of space to run around and best of all, loads of canines walking past – and it’s easy an jump off to go and greet them.

It was Suesi and Martin’s last night, so after a lengthy debate, that I don’t pretend to understand, they decided they would have a barbecue. If they had asked me I would have told them that I was happy with a barbecue too, but of course, as usual, my opinion was not requested.

All along the Vecht there are beautiful houses and many of them have even more beautiful summer houses on the waters edge. One of the loveliest is in Loenen and we moored right opposite it. Have a look at the picture.

8th September 2019 – Enkhuizen to Weesp

And so to the return trip. The wind was much less and a smoother crossing was expected, but this time we took no chances. Everything was stowed properly and I had my life jacket on before we left the Harbour so the journey was fairly uneventful. I still didn’t like it though and was very glad to see the Muiden lock at the start of the lovely quiet and pretty River Vecht.

Then we hit another problem – literally. Just through Muiden is a low bridge, usually four metres high and no problem for Annapanna with the mast lowered. Not this time though. We’re not really sure why or what, but we hit something and it ripped the canvas at the seam. Oops! Luckily it wasn’t raining, so once we had moored up in Weesp Brian and Martin set to work with the gorilla tape. A temporary mend for what could end up being an expensive winter job.

After the repair was complete we headed off into town for a wander round. In the old harbour was a moving boathouse with band on board. it wasn’t too loud so I quite enjoyed it. Suesi of course, the dancing queen, started to dance to the music. How embarrassing, I pretended I wasn’t with them, although I suppose I should be grateful that Martin didn’t start Dad dancing as well!

I need to tell you something about how they are whiling away the evenings (and sometimes the journeys) on this trip – when not leaving me and going out for dinner. Suesi and Martin are avid game players and as Brian and Alison are quite keen too, it’s games night every night. This only affects me when it all gets too exciting and they start shouting and cheering. I don’t like shouting and I don’t like loud cheering, so I have to retire to bed. Ideally, I would like to go to another place altogether like I do at home, but that’s not easy on a boat, so I just suffer in silence. Perhaps if they invited me to play I might get excited too, but they never do.

7th September 2019 – Enkhuizen

A museum day, but not for me as no dogs allowed. So as they wandered round the outdoor museum dodging rain showers and learning about the Zuiderzee, I stayed on board catching up on my beauty sleep and guarding the boat against any invaders.

The Zuiderzee was part of the North Sea until the 1920’s when, as part of a massive reclamation project, it was sealed off from the sea, converted to a fresh water lake and renamed the IJsselmeer. Another polder and reclamation project later then divided the Ijsselmeer, forming the Markenmeer at its southern end. I hope you find that interesting. I’m not sure I do, but my job is to inform and educate, so there it is.

The Museum is split into two parts, an indoor and outdoor section, but the main event is the outdoor bit that, rather like the Zaandam, has houses and shops from villages throughout the region. Each house tells a story about the old occupants, many of them fishing families and most of them had lost at least one person to the sea. That could have been us yesterday, I thought!

When they eventually came back we all went out for a nice walk and a beer (of course) before they left me – again – to go out for dinner. I’m really not impressed with all this gadding about.

6th September 2019 – Hoorn to Enkhuizen

What a day! Drama on the high seas. Well not quite high seas but it might as well have been. It was my biggest nightmare and I think it was Martin and Suesi’s as well!

We knew it was going to be windy but I don’t think anyone was expecting the waves we got and we just weren’t prepared. You’d think after a North Sea crossing and two weeks sailing along the English coastline they would be ready for anything… but no. Nothing was stowed and Annapanna started rolling, side to side, up and down. Suesi was down below when everything started coming off the shelves and flying across the saloon. Poor Suesi, she didn’t know what to catch next. Martin went to help and Alison tried to reassure me but in the end she had to go down too and I was left alone. Now you know I don’t like that so I just stood by Brian shaking until they all came back. It was horrible. Down below they eventually managed to stow and clean up with amazingly few casualties, just a sugar container and the wine cooler. Thank you Suesi and Martin, without your athletic feats a lot more would have ended up in the bin. I don’t think we’ll cross the Ijsselmeer again without proper sea preparation!

We eventually arrived in Enkhuizen and sailed into the nice sheltered harbour, our destination for two nights whilst they visit the Zuiderzee museums and explore the town. So at least I have time to recover before I have to face the return journey – not something I’m looking forward too.

After dinner I was left home alone – again – whilst they went off to listen to some live music in the tower. I’m not sure that they considered that I might still be traumatized from crossing and not want to be left alone. On the other hand I definitely didn’t want to go and listen to live music – anywhere.

5th September 2019 – Durgerdam to Hoorn

After another couple of ferry trips we left Durgerdam for Markem on our way to the tonight’s destination, Hoorne. It was blowing a gale and a bit rough on the Markenmeer which I didn’t like very much but at least it didn’t take too long to get to Marken where we were going to do a bit of sightseeing. It was my type of sightseeing though, as basically we wandered round the village looking at all the houses and hunting for people in costume.

Then it was back to the boat and on to Hoorn, another favorite of theirs. It looked like it was going to be one of mine too except my hopes were dashed when we suddenly moved from the park side of the harbour to the town side. Do my needs never get taken into account? The park was perfect for me.

The reason we moved to the town side was because the bridge at the end of the harbour was broken – and open – so it was a long walk round into town. As they were going on a restaurant recce before going out for dinner that night, they, (and by that I mean Brian) wanted to be nearer wherever they chose. Well it couldn’t have been nearer as Restaurant Lucas Rive was about 20 metres away from the boat. If you ask me a little exercise after a big meal is no bad thing…. but then again I have no experience of big meals so I might be wrong. They told me the restaurant had a Michelin star – very fancy – but am I bothered!

4th September 2019 – Maurik to Durgerdam

Then we were off. We bashed up the Amsterdam-Rhjn canal so we could get to the Markenmeer and have plenty of time to explore places on its coast with Suesi and Martin. The problem with the Amsterdam-Rjn canal is that there is nowhere to stop, so I have 6.5 hours to cross my legs, then, just to make matters worse, when we arrived at our destination we discovered that we had to take a little ferry to the land. A bit like a night on the big ferry, this was a major test in bladder capacity.

3rd September 2019 – Rotterdam to Maurik

Quieter night in kennel land with no less than 3 labradors to keep me company and no yapping little dogs to keep me awake. Then we were off to Maurik after a quick breakfast stop. Still no beach due to the algae, but as its only an hour or so to Maurik I can cope – as long as I can run straight down the slipway as soon as we arrive.

Unpacking seemed to take less time than usual. I’m not sure why as it definitely wasn’t to do with any reduction in the amount of stuff they continue to cart back and forth. Then it was off to Culemborg to pick up our guests for the next week, Suesi and Martin. I’ve been to Suesi and Martin’s house in Cumbria and stayed the night with Tilly, their collie/Labrador cross. In fact we even swapped beds for a while. Unfortunately she was left at home this time, so no canine company for me.

Suesi and Martin were late – but my lips are sealed as to why – so we went for coffee at the Andermaal by the station. It’s not really called Andermaal but as its owned by the same people as their favorite Restaurant, that’s what they call it.

Then it was back to Maurik, lunch at the pancake house then the inevitable…. shopping. Not for me though as there wasn’t enough room, so I had plenty of time to catch up on my sleep.

2nd September 2019 – Whalley to Hull

New car, new adventure. This time there are no selt belts for me to chew – although on the whole, I’ve grown out of excessive chewing now. I would have happily stayed in the car overnight but sadly its not allowed, so it was back into the kennels for another 14 hours of purgatory. Actually, its not that bad, but I like to milk it.

Trip Three 2019

11th August 2019 – Hull to Whalley

Thank goodness that’s over (although its only 3 weeks until we return). I just hope the kennels are quieter next time. I soon forgot all about them though when we arrived at my favorite park for a run around. Best of all I met 4 spaniels and we spent ages chasing each other. They were all very well trained, including an 8 month old one who puts me to shame (although she did still chew at night so I get better marks in that area). The lady owner was giving them some tips so I see even more training going on….

Then it was back to Whalley and the end of this trip. For me there has been a lot of travelling between the UK, Belgium and the Netherlands, some rough sea that I didn’t like, and lots of people that I did. For Brian, Jas, Robert and Ron it was a big adventure across the North Sea, a trip they won’t forget, they tell me. Good for them, I’m just glad I wasn’t there. See you all at the start of next month when we set off again in the new car. Must remember not to chew the seatbelts!!!

10th August 2019 – Maurik to Europort

This is the day I like least, they are so busy cleaning and packing up there is never much time to walk or play. I did jump off the boat on my own at one time and headed for a dip in the slipway, but it wasn’t a very popular move as you can probably imagine.

Eventually everything was ready and I did get a play and swim, but then we were off westward in the wind towards Europort and the ferry with my overnight solitary confinement.

The best thing about Europort is that I have to check in personally and I know now that this means lots of cookies! The desk is pretty high and I can only just reach when I’m at full stretch… but its enough and those cookies keep coming.

But then it was time for the kennel…. and I wish I was in solitary confinement. As you know I have very sensitive ears, so you can imagine my horror when I saw that above my kennel were two of the yappiest little dogs I’ve had the misfortune to meet. Fortunately they did shut up when the door was shut and the lights out, but I was almost deafened by then!

9th August 2019 – Culemborg to Maurik

And so back to base at Maurik as tomorrow we head back to Whalley via the dreaded ferry. No luxury of the tunnel this time, just 14 hours of total boredom in my cage… Before that though I could enjoy Maurik, swim off the slipway and chase balls in the field. It might not be quite Culemborg, but its not a bad base to have.

8th August 2019 – Culemborg

We are here for another night as today was car moving and vet day. Alison set off to collect the car from Willemstad and Brian and I went off to see the local friendly vet. Then it was time for another swim, this time off the beach at the campsite.

After another car move – from Culemborg to Maurik, with a cycle back – they left me alone on Annapanna and went off for dinner at their favorite restaurant. It could be mine too but I’m rarely allowed to go with them. They told me they ate outside and there were other dogs around… as if I wanted to know….

7th August 2019 – Marnemoende to Culemborg

After another off lead chase around we left Marnemoende early so we would get to our destination in good time to get a mooring. Although I loved it in Marnemoende I was quite happy to leave as tonight we are in my favourite of all places, Culemborg. I overheard Brian say that I wouldn’t remember Culemborg… he has to be kidding… forget the place where I can race along off my lead, running from beach to beach, in and out of the water……. never, ever…..

I had to wait until after lunch, but then we were off. Sadly, there were no other dogs around, but really as long as I have my ball and someone to throw it, I don’t need anything else. I am one tired and happy dog tonight.

6th August 2019 – Montfoort to Marnemoende Marina

Marnemoende K9 rating: 4/5. This place has off lead walks, lots of grassy areas to play and clean water to swim in. OK, access to the river is limited because of all the reeds, but I only needed one place.

Just a short sail further down the Hollandse Ijssel to the Marnemoende marina, another favorite place they wanted to revisit. Well, now its a favorite place for me too. I’m so glad we moved here. The marina might seem to be in the middle of nowhere but actually it’s not too far out of IJsselstein, so later on Alison went off on her bike to explore. But… this was after my walk, play and swim… just heaven.

5th August 2019 – Rotterdam to Montfoort

Montfoort K9 rating: 2/5. Not great I’m afraid. Jane said I had to play ball and go for a swim, but I can’t do either here. The water is so near but the banks too high so I wouldn’t be able to get out. Just to make it worse I could hear children playing in the swimming pool nearby. There is plenty of local interest though and its a pretty mooring.

I’m not sure Jane and Walton will agree with the comment about Rotterdam being an easy place to catch the train to the airport. They left us yesterday afternoon in what should have been plenty of time, but on reaching the station discovered that many of the trains weren’t running. The only just got to bag drop in time …. oops, I bet it was stressful.

We left the city after a lazy start and headed towards Gouda and the Hollandse IJssel. Yes, we are back on small rivers after weeks of sea and large meers (lakes). It was much more interesting for me as there was plenty to bark at – or just keep an eye on. Then when I got a bit tired I just nipped downstairs for a nap. I’m up and down the steps like a yo-yo now. I can’t even remember why I was so scared of them.

We were planning to stay in Oudewater but the mooring was full so we moved onto Montfoort instead. Even this was busy, but we were warned before we went through the bridge and found a mooring on a grassy bank just outside the town. This is a busy waterway and there are lots of hire boats around…..

4th August 2019 – Dordrecht to Rotterdam

Rotterdam K9 rating: 1/5. Not for me this mooring. No swimming and the only bit of green around has a sign saying no dogs.

We moved onto Rotterdam Marina this afternoon as Jane and Walton are leaving us today and this is an easy place to catch the train back to the airport. The marina is big and surrounded by restaurants but they are too high up to give me any people watching interest. Boring, boring…. they even went out for a late lunch and left me on board. I’m so glad we are only here for one night. I’m hoping for a higher rated place tomorrow!!

There is something of interest in the marina though. Those of you who followed my blog last year will know that I have an interest in helicopters and think they might be preferable to long, boring car journeys. Well what about one on the boat? Just think, I could fly to Culemborg for a swim or even take a quick trip back to Whalley to check on Mattie. Sounds brilliant doesn’t it? So imagine my delight when I saw one in the harbour – on a boat. Amazing. I want one! I’ve even got an idea about where it could go. Dump Little Dick – no loss in my opinion – and have the helicopter on the stern instead.

Then it was time to say goodbye to Jane and Walton. Oh Jane, I’m going to miss you… For the rest of this trip – the only time this trip – its just the three of us. Think I’ll have a rest. I do promise though, I will keep going down those steps!

3rd August 2019 – Willemstad to Dordrecht

Today the high winds had gone, so after a long walk – before breakfast! – we set off for Dordrecht. We are still retracing our steps as we head slowly back to Maurik and they thought Jane and Walton might like the harbour and town of Dordrecht as much as they do. Note the they as it is not doggy heaven in my opinion. I would have preferred somewhere else, but then who am I to have a choice!

2nd August 2019 – Willemstad

The day did not start well. Jane was up early so she took me out for my morning walk and constitution and I was very happy with that. We toddled along to the rampart walk and whilst Jane was distracted cleaning up after me I had a closer look at the sheep behind the coloured fence. Then disaster…. oh the pain… well, it was such a shock – and it was a shock, an electric one. I couldn’t wait to get away and back to the boat for safety…. well, safety and my breakfast. it wasn’t that much of a shock! Another lesson in life, but after a bit of a cuddle I soon forgot about it and wasn’t bothered in the slightest when we walked that way again later. Jane is even more impressed with me now.

After breakfast Jane and Alison set off in the car to pick up Walton from Dordrecht. Walton is Jane’s husband and has flown in for the weekend on the boat. I hope it doesn’t mean she has less time for me as I’m sure there is more training to do.

We are staying in Willemstad another night so Walton can have a look round a pretty dutch village. So after a lazy lunch we set off round the old ramparts…. but before that I went for a quick swim and ball chase. It wasn’t for long though and actually I didn’t mind as it was very windy. We might not be in seawater anymore but it can still get rough. I’m very glad we aren’t moving today.

Later on Chris, a friend of Brian & Alison’s, came to see us. I haven’t met Chris and Mieke before but Chris was a big fan of Mr Benson, as he calls him. He seems very nice so I hope I meet him again sometime.

In the evening they all went out for dinner to a very smart restaurant on the river. Too smart for me so I wasn’t invited…. and they were out for ages and ages… The restaurant was called Vista and I believe it has a Michelin star. If you happen to be in Willemstad and have something to celebrate (it was Chris and Mieke’s last night of their holiday) they recommend it. I wouldn’t know of course as they didn’t even bring me back a doggy bag. That was 5 courses and no doggy bag! Jane, you let me down.

1st August 2019 – Oude Tonge to Willemstad

Ok, before I continue with the travelogue I have to tell you something very important – and I mean very important! As you know Jane is on board and the other day she decided that she would set herself the task of training me…. in getting down the steps to the saloon on my own. This is something I have never done as I don’t like the lip at the top of the steps, so I have always been carried down. Well, not any more! Jane called it incremental training. First one step, onto the ramp, across to the table and down, then two steps etc until I was happily going up and down on my own. Result!!!! There was a lots of bribery going on and I’m not sure I’ve ever eaten so much bread, but I really like Jane and I wanted to please her. I am so proud of myself and now wonder what all the fuss was about. Jane thinks I’m a very clever dog.

Back to the travelogue… We left Oude Tonge in the morning to make sure we got to Willemstad in time to get a good mooring – and we certainly did. We moored just at the entrance of the old harbour alongside a pontoon, so no ramp needed to get to the shore. Perfect for me. I like Willemstad, but last time we were here I marked it down in the K9 rating because of the access. Not any more. Add a mark to the previous score!

After lunch Alison and Jane set off the catch the bus and train back to Middelburg to pick up the car. I wanted to go too but they left me behind. This was supposed to be a girly week so it wasn’t fair. I’m now an experienced traveller on both bus and train and could easily have gone with them if they’d let me. It was OK though as Brian and I went for a lovely walk – so I forgave them when they came back.

31st July 2019 – Port Zelande to Oude Tonge

The engineer came on board first thing in the morning armed with lots of barrels and the intention of draining the fuel tank….. but when he checked the bottom of the tank there was no dirt or residue of any kind, so decided there was no point in draining it. This doesn’t explain what happened at sea, but Brian was happy as it will certainly have saved a lot of money!

Brian was also happy with his present from Jas and Jo. We knew there was something waiting for us in Port Zelande but had guessed it was a fuel filter…. but it wasn’t. All wrapped up was a shiny new black fender, to replace the one lost at sea between Lowestoft and Aldeburgh. Thank you Jas and Jo and thank you for the lovely card too. I would have been happy to accept another toy to chew as well – as I didn’t actually get a present for “youngest dog” award!

Annapanna came out of the water a bit later and the anodes changed back to fresh water ones… then we were off. Back down Grevelingenmeer, through two locks, out of salt water into the Volkerak, then down the canal to the pretty little mooring of Oude Tonge.

30th July 2019 – Zierikzee to Port Zelande

We went for a lovely walk through the park surrounding the town before heading onto the market for a wander round. Then it was back via Visstraat and the doggy bar. Yes, a doggy bar. Only in the Netherlands! There was water of course, but next to it were chews… so I could have a snack with my drink. Perfect! Make sure you look out for it.

Then we said goodbye – again – to Fiddlers Green and headed towards Port Zelande where the anodes were being changed back to freshwater ones and the dirty fuel that had caused the dramatic channel breakdown could be drained and cleaned.

As we were leaving the channel running down to Zierikzee who should we see but Bleau. There were lots of waves then we all went our separate ways again.

We arrived in a very windy Port Zelande later on that day and a short walk reminded me about all the crabs legs and mussel shells lying around just waiting to be eaten…..

29th July 2019 – Middelburg to Zierikzee

Zierikzee K9 rating: 2/5. I’m not sure I’m doing this pretty town justice, but there was no swimming and no off lead areas. There was though, a lovely park around the canal and lots of action on the quay. Perhaps 2.5 is fairer?

I was feeling much more like my old self this morning so we all went off to the abbey and then a walk around the town. I missed the abbey last time as the ring riding was on, but this time I was allowed in. Very interesting… for about a minute… then I got bored and started misbehaving. Alison was on the phone forever and I just wanted to move on….

We then left for Zierikzee in the Oosterschelde on another hot and sunny day. Although we aren’t at sea anymore we are still in tidal salt water and it can get bumpy when it’s windy. I was much braver though and as Jane and Alison were sun bathing at the bow I went and joined them. At least I could pretend to be brave whilst cuddling up to them.

Just when we thought we had said goodbye to everyone…. who should be in Zierikzee but Eelco and Marga on Fiddlers Green. They were there meeting Marga’s Brother who had just lost his guide dog and companion of many years. Very sad, I hope it wasn’t too difficult having a Labrador next door on their visit.

28th July 2019 – Middelburg

Changeover day. We said goodbye to Jas, Jo and Ron in the morning as they boarded their train to London via Antwerp. I will really miss them, especially Ron who was so kind to me and even massaged my aching limbs. I think the big trip has been very successful and it seems as if everyone has thoroughly enjoyed it. A trip of a lifetime? I hope so, as it might mean I don’t need to do sea again!

After they had left it was wash and scrub up day as Jane was arriving in the evening. Alison also moved the car to Middelburg from Goes so it was a bit more convenient for the next move.

Then Jane arrived and I am one very happy dog. She is now one of my best friends and talks to me all the time. We’re going to have a girly week and I’m so looking forward to it.

27th July 2019 – Veere to Middelburg

Oh dear, I think I overdid it. Two days of manic swimming, stumbling and racing over rocks took their toll on even my young, fit body. I was so stiff when I woke up this morning I struggled to get up the steps out of the saloon. It wore off a bit as I was walking but I felt and looked like an old dog. Sabine was very worried about me so gave me some herbal tablets to take. She also gave me a toy chicken as a leaving present. Thank you Sabine. I hope you, Sven and Lotta have a good holiday in the Island with your banana.

After more goodbyes, we set off back to Middelburg where tomorrow we have a change of crew/guests. The hot weather has been replaced by rain, which was such a shame as there was a Mussel fest on in town

I have to rest today so my walking is restricted to the necessary, so I was left on board as they all went off; Brian & Alison to shop, just for a change, and Jas, Jo and Ron to explore the town and the delights of the mussel fest.

It looks like plenty of beer was drunk at the Mussel fest. Alison joined them later and took this picture of Jas and Ron with the dutch barmaid!

26th July 2019 – Veere

So today brought us to the end of the tour and during the morning people started to leave. Lots of goodbyes later there was just Annapanna and Arche (Lotta’s boat) left. They were also staying until tomorrow which was good news as it meant we could go for a final swim together.

We walked down to the beach where we were joined by a couple of other dogs which meant a lot of playing. I had to swim even faster to make sure I got to the stick first. I know I should let Lotta get sometimes, but its hard. She did have her turn though, but I don’t think it was any thanks to me.

I was left home alone again that night as they all went out for a Fruit de Mer. That’s shellfish to you and me. I don’t know why they bother paying for it when there are crabs legs and mussels lying around all over the place. I have quite a taste for crabs legs even though they are a bit crunchy.

25th July 2019 – Blankenberge to Veere

Another interruption of my beauty sleep as it was another early start. At 6.30am on a beautiful morning we set sail to Veere and the final destination of the tour. It was forecast to be 36 degrees today so moving on the water was the best place to be. When we did arrive in Veere the harbour was like a furnace and we all needed to swim, so down went Little Dick and we motored over to the beach for a lot of stick chasing and swimming from the pier. I think I’m supposed to swim with them, but all I’m interested in is flat out swimming to whatever they throw for me. I think Brian was a bit disappointed but I can’t help it, I’m sorry.

Then it was the final evening dinner and thankfully Lotta and I were excused the party. It was too hot do do anything other than sleep and I believe the yacht club did not have air conditioning.

On the way to Veere we all stopped off in Middelburg to fill up with fuel and return any rented life rafts. Whilst Brian was waiting his turn and sorting things out Jas, Jo and Ron set off into Middelburg for a spot of shopping. Jas loves making speeches and he had decided that there should be a prize giving ceremony after the dinner, so they went off to buy some prizes. It was all top secret from us, so we just to wait to see who won what.

I wasn’t even there to pick up my prize, which was for youngest dog. A bit pathetic if you ask me. I agree that Lotta should have got the best behaved dog, but surely they could have come up with something better than youngest! How about most energetic, best swimmer, fastest eater or even prettiest (although I don’t agree with beauty contests as I am working dog stock). Thanks Jas, something else to get back at you about.

There were prizes for all the boats and of course a cup for our own Superman, Alexander. Mart and Tim also gave him a a Superman cow, such a brilliant present! Annapanna got the wooden spoon of course as we broke down and weren’t carrying a spare fuel filter. Never mind Brian, I am happy to chew up the spoon whenever you feel like giving it to me.

24th July 2019 – Nieuwpoort to Blankenberge

Blankenberge K9 rating: 1/5. This might be a holiday resort but it definitely isn’t one for dogs. There is no park worth taking about and we aren’t allowed on the beach. I won’t be rushing back here in a hurry.

After all the efforts, trials and tribulations of yesterday everyone was allowed a lie in today, so I had plenty of time for a lazy walk and then an energetic swim from the slipway before we set off for another day on the ocean waves. It was back to sea for me after two days off and I can’t say I was really looking forward to it. I have learnt that if I keep completely still and cuddle up to someone then it’s not too bad. It’s all a bit disappointing though, as I’m not quite the salty dog I thought I was.u

Ron is my new friend so I like cuddling up to him. Jas is very nice but I don’t think he’s really into dogs so he ignores me most of the time. He’s also a bit accident prone so I don’t want to be responsible for him tripping over me or get boiling coffee split over my coat….. I think Jo understands.. the

We arrived in Blankenberge in time for a walk with Lotta but it wasn’t very interesting as there wasn’t really anywhere to go. We made up for it though as Alexander said they should take me for dinner! What a treat, I thought. They were laughing though as we went to a Chinese and everyone said the Chinese eat dogs! Jas said I had to go straight to the kitchen. Not funny. Don’t worry Jas, I’ll find a way of getting back at you.

23rd July 2019 – Dover to Nieuwpoort

Nieuwpoort K9 rating: 2/5. We only had the morning here but I did manage a swim from the slipway and a wander around the large marina. There might have been more places to walk , but as we didn’t have much time to investigate so I have to rate as I saw it.

It was a beautiful day in Dover and so we went to the beach for a walk and a swim. Dogs are allowed on the beach before 9am so I made the most of it. There were plenty of other dogs around to play with so I was definitely ready for my breakfast when we got back.

Then we were off. Brian, Jas and Ron sailed off into Channel whilst Jo, Alison and I set off by car for our own adventure. No trains today but no ferries either… hurrah!

Our journey was very straightforward as a 10 minute car ride took us to the Channel Tunnel. So we were going under the Channel as they were sailing above us. We were traveling flexi plus, as they call it, and this meant we were fast tracked through all the checks to a lovely air conditioned lounge (it was very hot) where even I was welcome. In fact I was more than welcome, I got a doggy bag with a toy and treats and even some doggy ice lollies. For you canines out there… if you are offered a cheap upgrade, as we were, urge your owners to take it!

From Calais we drove onto Goes in the Netherlands where we left the car. Alexander had arranged for his friend David to pick us up and take us back to Nieuwpoort in Belgium where the boats were due in later that evening. Apart from having difficulty finding anywhere to park the car, everything went to plan and we arrived in Nieuwpoort about 8pm.

As we were happily driving through Europe things were not going quite as smoothly out at sea. Annapanna, one of the few boats on the trip with a single engine, broke down. An investigation in the engine room revealed a blocked fuel filter, but there was no spare on board. Panic!!? Well actually no one did, even though the boat was being tossed around in the waves. Thank goodness I wasn’t on board as this is my idea of a nightmare!

The brilliant team that made up this flotilla came together and Alexander, in the role of Superman, or perhaps just madman, leapt across from his boat to Annapanna to help out. All communication on this tour has been by WhatsApp – hundreds of them – and this time it was invaluable as pictures of the replacement filter required were beamed to the team. Soon Albert & Els on Charlotte came to the rescue and using a pole to transfer the filter, saved the day and possibly Annapanna and her team as well. They then towed her whilst Brian and Alexander replaced the filter and restarted the engine. Albert, Els and Alexander, thank you so much.

Our job, as the land team, was to provide sustenance to the very late arriving crew. Orders were sent via whatsApp for strange sounding food from a Frituur (basically the equivalent of an English chippy). The problem was, by the time we got the call to say they were arriving, all the Frituurs had closed! Improvisation was the word and the Turkish takeaway came up trumps. Thank you David for helping with this order, we would not have managed without you. Another superman? Perhaps not quite the same as Alexander’s, but definitely Robin to his Batman.

We got the food to the harbour and everyone came with drinks and took what they wanted, which was definitely not what they ordered! All were happy though and it was a jolly gathering on the quay, particularly me, as they gave me the leftovers!!

22nd July 2019 – Burnham-on-Crouch to Dover

Dover K9 rating: 3/5. Not much green nearby but I know Lotta walked up a hill opposite the harbour car park so it might be better than my first impression. Best thing though is the beach. Dogs are allowed before 9am and in the evening so my morning walk was perfect and very sociable.

Another rude awakening from my beauty sleep as we were setting off at 6.30 to catch the tide and ensure we were in Ramsgate in good time. The trip was going to take about 8 hours and I was a bit apprehensive, to say the least. Then, a miracle seem to happen. I got off the boat with Jo and Alison and waved goodbye to Brian and Jas. We were moving the car. Yes..!!!

Our train wasn’t due until 08.20 so we headed into town to have a look round before wandering up to the train station for the start of our journey back to Woolverstone. Of course I have been on a train before, in Minehead when we were staying with Richard and Nora, but this was a real journey and we had to change trains 3 times. I took it all in my stride though and was very quiet and well behaved. Trains are definitely more comfortable than Annapanna at sea.

We finally arrived at Ipswich station where we were expecting to wait for Alison to go and pick up the car by taxi. Dogs aren’t normally welcome in taxis but here they all wanted to take me! They must have heard how well behaved I am. So, we climbed into the cab – me in the front seat well – and headed off to Woolverstone marina to collect the car.

Just after leaving Woolverstone they saw the signs to Jimmy’s Farm and decided to make an unplanned stop for coffee. I believe Jimmy is on the television and his farm is quite famous, so they wanted to have a look. The farm was very smart and apparently has exotic animals like meerkats and camels (although I wasn’t allowed to see them) as well as the rare breed pigs Jimmy is well know for.

We then drove onto Fingrinhoe Wick, a nature reserve in the middle of the Essex countryside and the place where Jo’s parents lived just after they were married. Jo’s family donated a bench to the reserve after her mother died and she wanted to see if it was still there. I would like to have helped her find it, but no dogs were allowed so I had to go off on the “dog walk” instead.

Jo didn’t find her bench but she did get a number to ring to find out what had happened to the plaque that was on it. I hope she finds it.

The next stop was the Tiptree jam factory for lunch. Now, as you are all aware I have a sweet tooth, so the very thought of a jam factory had me drooling. There was a very nice outdoor terrace, perfect for dogs, so it all looked promising …… but would you believe we weren’t allowed! Not impressed, this wouldn’t happen in the Netherlands. The very nice boy who served us was so apologetic and found us a table at the side of the car park. He then made sure Jo was whisked to the front of the queue so it all worked out well in the end. Even better, when another dog came along they shared our table and his very nice owners gave me their clotted cream pot to lick. Ummm.

Then we were off again, but not to Ramsgate as there had been a change of plan. Apparently the harbour in Ramsgate could not accommodate them so the fleet sailed on to Dover instead. As I had no idea what Ramsgate was like I wasn’t bothered either way.

We eventually arrived in Dover and met up with Brian and Jas on Annapanna. They had had a bit of a bouncy trip so I was very glad I had taken the land route, we had had a lovely day!

It was Bjorn’s (Grand Bleu) birthday today so they all went off to a drinks party on board his boat. That’s is 22 people on board one boat so there wasn’t room for Lotta and Me. It was a shame as Beat and Miriam are our friends. Beat played with me for ages at the barbecue.

After the drinks party Brian went off to pick up our new crew member from the station. Ron is a friend of Jas’s and a keen sailor. He is going to make the return trip to Belgium tomorrow with Brian and Jas whilst Jo, Alison and I go by car.

21st July 2019 – Tollesbury Marina to Burnham-on Crouch

Burnham-on-Crouch K9 rating: 3/5. Wonderful grassy area behind the marina makes this a great place for dogs. There is also a lovely coastal footpath into town. No swimming though.

High tide wasn’t until 2.30pm so we had plenty of time for a walk, some ball chasing and a trip into the village for coffee at The Loft. I thought my luck was going to be in and we were to have a rest day, but sadly not.

Once some of the mud had disappeared and Annapanna was actually floating again we set off towards Burnham-on-Crouch. Again it wasn’t too rough, so as long as I didn’t move and stayed calm it wasn’t too bad. We arrived in Burnham-on-Crouch quite late, but early enough for a play in the wonderful grassy commons just behind the marina. The area is doggy heaven and there were lots of them to play with.

20th July 2019 – Brightlingsea to Tollesbury Marina

Tollesbury Marina K9 rating: 3/5. This could easily have been a 4 or even a 5 if only they allowed dogs into the salt swimming pool next door. There were great walks through the nature reserve and a play area even nearer.

Today was the start of the Brightlingsea regatta so we spent the morning wandering round the town looking at the many stalls selling what I’m sure were tasty things. I can’t confirm this though as I wasn’t offered any. I did get a bit of bacon butty so I suppose I have to be grateful – although a whole one would have been so much better.

All this toing and froing into town was via the little ferry boat and I rather liked it, so by the time we left I was happily jumping in and out. I wish we could swap the rubber dinghy for the ferry boat, it is so much nicer.

More seas, more wind, more crashing waves. I think I must be getting used to it though as I stayed on deck. I didn’t move much, but I didn’t hide my head either. It was our turn to host Alexander so I thought I better be on my best behavior and show him what a sensible salty dog I can be when I try. I think he was impressed, at least I hope so.

Tollesbury Marina is only assessable at high tide so timing was very important and as it was only a short two hour trip from Bringlingsea we arrived in plenty of time for a good walk through the nature reserve. Sadly, I’m still not to be trusted where mud is around so I had to stay on a long lead.

I was left home alone at night as there was another joint meal at the harbour restaurant. I felt a bit aggrieved about this as I was promised a barbecue. Never mind, maybe tomorrow night?

19th July 2019 – Titchmarsh Marina to Brightlingsea

Brightlingsea k9 rating: 2/5. This can only get 2/5 as we are moored on an outer pontoon and have to catch a little ferry to the land. I actually like the ferry but no instant land access has to marked accordingly.

More sea sailing today as we continued south before heading up the River Blackwater to Brightlingsea Marina and the night’s mooring. Our mooring was on an outer pontoon only accessible by boat and we moored alongside Cote, one of the other boats in our group.

It was so wet and windy when we arrived no one wanted to catch the water taxi to the town so I had a quick walk down the jetty then it was back on board. The weather improved eventually though so then we set off for an explore. These aren’t really places for sightseeing thankfully, so it was a quick walk round town, shopping (would you believe) and back to the pub.

18th July 2019 – Woolverstone to Titchmarsh Marina, Walton Backwaters

Titchmarsh Marina K9 rating: 3/5. The great thing about this place is that there are lots of play spaces. No swimming though but plenty of mud when the tide is out. Somehow I don’t think I’ll get another opportunity to play in the mud after Woolverstone!

Another move and thankfully another short trip. The weather changed this morning so we set off in the rain and mist back up the river Orwell and out to sea. Not for long though, which was just as well as it was a bit rough for me. We soon turned off and down the Walton backwaters to Titchmarsh Marina at Walton on the Naze and our home for the night.

I wasn’t too impressed when we first arrived. Our mooring is on the outer pontoons and it all looked a bit tatty. Once ashore though it was a different story and a walk along the grassy back took us to heaven, not just one massive field, but lots of grassy lawns all around the marina. No swimming, but this more than made up for it.

In the evening we had another joint meal, this time a barbecue and Lotta and I could go along too. The barbecue was right next to that lovely big field – food, people and somewhere to run. What’s not to love.

So I did run… and run and run… chasing sticks, running around with Sabine and Lotta or even just on my own. It was perfect.. but I got very hot, too hot and needed water, lots of it, to cool down. I now know that too much water is not a good thing and I paid the price for it later. It is so embarrassing to tell you this, but I really wasn’t well and had two big wees on board. I couldn’t help it, I just wasn’t myself. I went for another walk, had some more wees then started to feel better, so eventually settled down for the night. Alison slept with me to make sure I was OK, but luckily I was and now I am now back to normal. But remember this all you overactive canines out there and be careful!

17th July 2019 – Woolverstone

We are spending two nights here so today was a rest day. At lease it was for some. Brian went off with Alexander to Oundle and a visit to Fairline, a boat building company making very fast boats. Not ones I’m interested in, let me assure you, I certainly hope he isn’t either.

Whilst Brian was driving around Oundle reminiscing about his school days Jas, Jo, Alison and I set off on a walk to visit Penelope, Jas’s 91 year old second cousin. She lives in a village called Stutton, a pretty village about 10 kilometres away and we had a lovely walk there through the cornfields on a very warm day.

It didn’t bode well when we arrived though as the first thing she said was that dogs were not welcome. Huh, she didn’t even know me! Apparently she has a cat and I might frighten it, which is funny as they are the ones that usually spit at me when I’m just minding my own business. I kept out of the way though to make sure catty and my paths did not meet and then we all went to the pub where it didn’t matter. Penelope even said I was very well behaved and gave me a pat, so I like to think we were friends in the end. I hope so as I really liked her and she made them all laugh.

After lunch we said goodbye to Penelope and caught the bus to Freston where Brian picked us up and took us back to the boat. I was exhausted and more than happy to let them go out on their own in the evening, although Jo did stay behind and kept me company. They went to the pub in Pin Mill for a team meal – no dogs allowed apparently, so both Lotta and I missed out on the opportunity to do a bit of bonding.

16th July 2019 – Aldeburgh to Woolverstone

Woolverstone k9 rating: 3/5. Lots of places to walk and plenty of people around but swimming not great as it’s very muddy

I had to get off in the morning for my walk and constitution but I went with Lotta in her dinghy so it wasn’t too bad. Lotta makes it look so easy, but I’m still not happy about jumping into the dingy – but perhaps when I’ve had her experience I’ll be a bit better. It was worth the trip though as we played in the sea and I loved the big waves!

Then we were off again, to Woolverstone, where we had left the car. I had already spied the mooring and knew we were on a pontoon, so no more dinghy transfers today! The weather was hot and sunny, there was no wind and only a little bit of time at sea, so I was a much happier dog.

Later on Brian, Jas and I went for a walk in the woods. Our plan was to go to Pin Mill but I believe I scuppered that plan by running off into the mud… lovely mud.. they had to take me straight back and wash me off. I don’t think I was in their good books

In the evening Brian and Ruth came for dinner, sadly without Twig, but it was still nice to see them. They brought crabs with them and I have a liking for crabs after eating all those legs I found lying around in Zeeland, but I wasn’t offered any. Just boring dried food … again.

15th July 2019 – Lowestoft to Aldeburgh

Aldeburgh K9 rating: 3/5. Lots of places to walk and it could have been amazing but I wasn’t allowed off the lead most of the time as they thought I would run into the mud… well, they were probably right. The morning swim was great though. Of course mooring off is not good for me, but I have to admit it’s very peaceful.

Another early start, but at least it was light this time. Apparently we have to plan with the tides, and to make sure we arrive in Aldeburgh on high tide we needed to leave at 6.30am.

They tell me the sea was calm but I’m not sure I would use that description! I was bumped around far too much for my liking so the easiest thing to do was cuddle up and hide my head.

Today was another new experience – they are coming thick and fast at the moment – as tonight we are mooring off, which means in the middle of the river. This means using the little dinghy and somehow getting me onto it!

None of it mattered to start with though as I was dropped off at the quay with Alison to find Brian, Ruth and Twig waiting for me. Another playmate, I can’t believe it!

We had a lovely walk into town then lunch at Twig’s cottage before spending hours moving cars with Alison and Brian Hazleman . I was even left with Twig whilst they all went out for dinner.

Inevitably the time came when we had to go back to the boat and I was shoved into the dinghy to make the trip out to Annapanna. But guess what? We were moored next to Lotta’s boat and that meant it was an easy hop onto their boat then across onto mine. What a relief!

14th July 2019 – Kentford to Lowestoft

Lowestoft k9 rating: 1/5. Not sure this has much going for it canine wise. There is a bit of green around and as all the Linssen are here, lots of activity, but that’s it.

They all went out and left me last night… and in a strange house, which I thought very unfair. I made up for it this morning though by having a snooze on Mags air bed… very comfy.

A bit later Robert turned up from Lowestoft, full of tales of the sea. It all sounded very rough and I know I would have hated every minute. Give me the tunnel anytime!

After breakfast we were off – to join up with Annapanna in Lowestoft and begin our cruise of the east coast. The good news is that soon I will meet up with Lotta again.

Later on Jo arrived and our new crew was complete. I spent most of the afternoon on deck as tennis was on for hours and hours and I really don’t like any sport on TV, it just makes them sigh and shout. I can’t understand why, what’s so exciting about a ball being hit back and forth over a net with something that looks like a snowshoe? Balls are for chasing or even chewing, not for just watching!

13th July 2019 – Roompot to Kentford

Four am and I was rudely awakened from my beauty sleep without even a promise of an early breakfast. It was still dark outside for heavens sake! But today was the day the adventure started and I was assured I wasn’t going to have to cross the North Sea with Annapanna.

Sheila, Mags, Alison and I were kicked off the boat and Brian, Jas and Robert sailed away into the darkness and the great unknown. They all have roles of course, Brian is Captain Pugwash, Jas, the Nerdy Navigator and Robert, Mr Practical, the trusty deckhand. We waved 8 boats off towards the lock and out to sea, then set off on our own journey and the much more comfortable crossing via the Channel Tunnel.

We got to Calais in time for breakfast and after a couple of walks and a visit to the pet check in, we loaded onto an earlier train and headed to England. Then it was on and up to Fiona and Ian’s at Kentford where tomorrow we say goodbye to Sheila and Mags, who after being joined by Robert fresh from his sea adventure, head back north to Lancashire.

Fiona and Ian have a lovely garden so I spent several happy hours chasing balls and ignoring the chickens whilst they talked… and talked…

Poor Sheila had a fall yesterday. A big one down lots of steps on board and is very bruised and battered today. They say she was very lucky and it certainly looked like it to me. She’s amazing really, which is just as well as she has Michael, Amy and Mattie to look after when she gets home – and it’s very important that my best friend Mattie is looked after, especially when I’m not around to check on him.

12th July 2019 – Roompot

It was a very busy day today as we are having a change of crew. Sheila, Mags and Robert are going (although via different routes) and Jas is coming aboard (followed by Jo on Sunday). It is the day before D day and there was lots of preparation. It all looked very hard work to me from my position on deck, but I had to conserve my energy for my play date later in the day with Lotta.

Brian drove off back to Middelburg to pick up Jas and a new gas cylinder for his life jacket (to replace the one confiscated at the airport) and I set off to the beach with Sven, Sabina and Lotta. Lotta is my new friend and as there is no Teddy this year I am so happy to have someone to play with. Lotta is 5 years old and so puts up with me a bit longer than Teddy did, but even so she’ll put me in my place if I get too lively and bother her too much.

We played in the sea for ages chasing wooden batons left lying around on the beach. I haven’t seen waves before and loved it when they washed over me. I didn’t mind seawater either as I love licking salty skin, although I think I might have swallowed a bit too much of it!!

11th July 2019 – Middelburg to Roompot

Roompot K9 rating: 4/5. Almost perfect. Lots of activity on the pontoon, a lovely big sandy beach with no signs banning dogs and even a grassy bank where I can go off lead.

Before we left Middelburg Brian, Alison and Sheila left the rest of us on board as they headed off to watch the ring riding at the Folklore event at the Abbey. I wasn’t allowed to go as they thought I might bark at the horses. Not sure why that should be a problem though as they are bigger and stronger than me, but apparently it was.

Ring riding is a folklore tradition where the rider gallops towards a scaffold and puts a lance through a ring. They collect as many rings as possible and the winner is the rider with the most rings. There are two types of competition, one on horseback and the other with horse and carriage and all the competitors dress in folklore costume. I saw some of the flower bedecked horse and carts whilst I was out on my walk this morning and wondered what they were doing…. now I know.

When they got back from the ring riding we set off towards our final Dutch destination, Roompot, in the Oosterschelde, where 8 of the 9 boats on the English expedition were meeting up. Imagine my delight in arriving to find another boat with a fellow canine on board. Lotta is a 5 year old black labrador and tomorrow we are going to have a play on the beach together… I can’t wait!

10th July 2019 – Veere to Middelburg

Middelburg k9 rating: 2/5. A big town and a central mooring doesn’t usually mean a high k9 score apart from on the human interest front. There was plenty of that though and this was yet another place with a park around the old walls, so it wasn’t too bad.

After a walk around the ramparts and a quick play on the beach we left Veere to head for Middelburg where we were picking up a life raft – another part of the preparation for the “big trip”. Life raft duly stowed we set off to find the vets as we are all off back to the UK in a few days. I’m not sure how I’m getting there yet, but I sincerely hope it isn’t aboard Annapanna. It’s not that I don’t like being aboard, it’s just that the journey will take more that 12 hours and I don’t like being bounced around for 12 seconds never mind 12 hours. Plus, well, what is a girl supposed to do without a wee stop for 12 hours!

Checked over and passport stamped we headed for the Markt to meet up with Mags, Sheila and Alison. Then home for a lot of stroking from the German/English family we met at the last lock. At 3 and 5 years old they are totally bilingual. Puts us to shame doesn’t it.

9th July 2019 – Stampersplaan to Veere

Veere K9 rating: 3/5. This is probably mean as there are plenty of walks, a beach and lots of traffic,but yet again we were moored off and this time it was two boats! Our neighbors were lovely but their boat was much higher than ours and it wasn’t easy. I think we are going to return here in a few weeks so I might review my rating then.

Veere is one of their favorite places in the Netherlands and it really does have a lot going for it. The problem is, everyone else thinks so too, so and mooring is limited and rafting off other boats is more or less inevitable. After last night’s problems another trek over boats (this time two) to get to land was the last thing I needed!

I managed though, as I always do, and off we went for a tour of the town and an ice cream. Robert had been desperate for an ice cream for ages and Mags had been dreaming of a pistachio one since she arrived. The place was bussing as there was a market on. Lots of people means lots of dogs here in the Netherlands, so I was a happy girl.

8th July 2019 – Port Zelande to Stampersplaan (island in Grevielingmeer

Stampersplaan K9 rating: 2/5. I can only give it 2/5 because of the difficulty in getting off the boat which severely limited my access to the land. The walks were great though but I had to stay on the lead because of the wild ponies. As if I’m interested in chasing wild ponies!

They had been to Stampersplaan before and knew it had a lovely sheltered mooring with access to lots of walks, so it all seemed ideal to me. The problem was, that by the time Annapanna was back in the water and we had left Port Zelande it was quite late, so when we got to the mooring it was already full. We managed to moor off another boat, but this did not make my life easy and the big gap between boats was frightening (specially after my mishap in June). I managed though, as I am sure you would expect, and on our walks round the island we came across a herd of wild ponies, a deer and lots and lots of lovely crab shells. Umm… well they were until they made me sick!

7th July 2019 – Willemstad to Port Zelande

Port Zelande K9 rating: 3/5. A big harbour with a lead free walk along a nice green track just behind us gives this place plenty of marks. The water in the harbour is beautifully clear too and there is a very handy slipway, but we are now in salt water so I am being discouraged…. There are beaches nearby…

Along the Volkerak and into Grevelingenmeer on our way to Port Zelande where, as part of the preparation for the big sea journey, the anodes were being changed. What are anodes you might ask, as I did? Well, they are very important bits of metal that are fixed to the hull, or underside, of the boat to protect it from corrosion. You need different ones for seawater and freshwater and as we will be in salt for some time now, they had to change.

We could have dived down and changed them underwater (I think I’d like to try diving) but they tell me its easier to lift Annapanna out of the water. So that’s what we did and whilst she was up on the slings Mags, Sheila and I went for coffee in the Linssen showroom and met Alexander, who I think I might be going to get to know better…

Then Brian, Alison and Mags went off in Alexander’s car to pick up our car and move it to Roompot, our destination for Thursday, whilst I stayed behind to look after Robert and Sheila. Robert and I went for a nice long walk and Sheila decided I needed a lesson in discipline! I’m glad they weren’t away too long…

6th July 2019 – Dordrecht to Willemstad

Willemstad K9 rating: 3/5. Ok, so Willemstad has it all. Lots of walks round the ramparts and through the woods, places to swim nearby and so much people watching….. but there is a downside, even for me, Miss Agility 2019, which unfortunately marks it down. If we had moored outside the old harbour then the score might have increased, but as it was we had to use the ramp to get ashore.…

We left Dordrecht in the morning heading for the Hollandsch diep and Willemstad, a firm favorite with captain and crew. First visit for me and Sheila though, so this was exploring for us.

Willemstad is so pretty and we got the last mooring on the quay in the old harbour. Perfect for people watching and very handy for Sheila, but there was a big gap between the boat and the shore so the old ramp had to come out. For those of you familiar with my blog you will remember how regularly we had to use it last year. I quite simply could not have managed without it, but this year it was the first outing.

Now I am an expert ramp walker, but I didn’t like it here. We couldn’t stop it moving and if you weren’t careful it would act like a seesaw and flip you up (and I am not experienced at seesaws as dogs are usually banned in children’s play areas). Of course I managed because I’m cool, but please can we moor somewhere different when we go next time?

The trip here was a bit rough and minus Alison who had gone to pick Mags up at Amsterdam airport. The advantage of this was having more space to stretch out on the cushions, which are going to be even more crowded with Mags on board.

Mags and Alison arrived later in the afternoon and off we went to wander round the town and buy an ice cream. Always OK with me. Then it was English fizz on board (curtesy of Matt and Jess Wilson) and out for dinner…. without me on both counts…. what does fizz taste like, I wonder?

5th July 2019 – Schoonhoven to Dordrecht

Dordrecht K9 rating: 1/5. For us canines this is not a good place although it is a very pretty town and excellent mooring. As with all town moorings there is plenty of human and canine activity…. but that’s all. No grass, no park, no swimming (although I did see humans swimming in the harbour pulling balloons. Perhaps they were off to a party?)

Another swim in the morning then it was off to the town. Umm… On the whole I can take or leave towns. They usually mean no swimming and virtually always include sightseeing…. and Dordrecht was no exception.

The mooring was right in the middle of the old town though so an easy stroll for lunch. Good news for me is having Sheila on board as she doesn’t want to walk too far so it limits the sightseeing. Stay as long as you like Sheila, (But bring Mattie next time).

4th July 2019 – Maurik to Schoonhoven

Schoonhoven K9 rating: 4/5. Maybe I’m being mean not giving this place a 5/5 but it’s quite a long walk to get out of the harbour with your legs crossed in the morning. The beach though, is heaven. No rocks, just sand and very importantly NO signs saying NO DOGS!

And off we set on our travels. We were heading for a country mooring on the Merwede canal for a barbecue, but when we got to the first bridge they told us the railway bridge at Arkel was broken, so we had change plans, turn round and take a different route.

Hence we arrived here at Schoonhoven and aren’t I glad we did! This is a place to remember. There is a small campsite, a private beach, a nice little cafe and bar and most importantly of all, lots of swimming.

Robert and Alison went off for a cycle ride into town whilst I kept Sheila company on Annapanna. I was quite happy to let them go after all my swimming and it was lovely and sunny on deck.

3rd July 2019 – Rotterdam to Maurik

Off the ferry and to a new beach. There is a problem with algae in the water at the old one so we went off to find a cleaner lake. It was a bit rocky and I’m not totally sure I was allowed, but there was no one about, so who cares! After a night in a kennel I deserve a treat.

Then back to Maurik, a dip in the slipway, lunch at the pancake house and then a play with sticks in my favourite field. They forgot the ball… how could they!

2nd July 2019 – Whalley to Hull

And so we set off again. After 10 days at home we set off back to Hull and the dreaded ferry, with a full carload…. and not just the kitchen sink! There are 4 of us aboard, Brian and Alison of course, plus Sheila and Robert. Sheila, on her own without Mattie! Why no Mattie? The’ve got their friends so why can’t I? Amy could have stayed at home to keep Michael company. Oh well, perhaps he hasn’t got a passport. I wonder if I can sort that out for next time?

After arriving in Hull we went to our usual park and met up with Robert’s sister Liz, her husband Mark, daughter Freya and Freya’s children, who were perfect licking height. Then it was onto the ferry and the kennel. I didn’t want to get out of the car, but I was brave (or I had no choice) and it wasn’t too bad. The bed was comfy and at least I had some company.

Trip Two 2019

23rd June 2019 – Rotterdam to Whalley

It is SO boring in the kennel and last night I didn’t even have much company. A dog has to find something to do and all I had were these funny paper sheets things on the floor. Not sure what they were there for, but by the time I’d finished with them they weren’t much use for anything…. ha ha.! I don’t think they were too impressed when they picked me up!

After a play in the park and a late breakfast it was back to Whalley and my own bed by the cooker for a week or so. The blog will continue when we return on the 2nd July. Until then my friends, try not to miss me too much!

22nd June 2019 – Maurik to Rotterdam

Very boring day today as it was wash up and pack up day. Never mind though, it was warm and sunny so I managed plenty of sunbathing whilst they were all very busy. Serves them right for bringing so much stuff.

When eventually the car was packed and ready to go we set off for the beach before heading to the ferry and my dreaded kennel. Love the beach but hate the kennel. However, before going on board we had to go to the desks so I could get my passport checked….. and there I met the famous Geraldine. Geraldine was a great friend to Benson, my predecessor and I so wanted to meet her. She is very nice and gave me lots of cookies. It almost makes up for having to go in the kennel. Almost, but not quite!

21st June 2019 – Culemborg to Maurik

And so back to where we started at Maurik, but not before another walk, another swim and a visit to the vets (lots of cookies). Goodbye Culemborg, until next time.

It was my lucky day today. A walk and swim in Culemborg, then a play in the field in Maurik. Perfect. I was exhausted by the evening and very happy to have an early night.

20th June 2019 – Loenen to Culemborg

Culemborg k9 rating: 5/5. Well I have to give my favourite place full marks don’t I. I couldn’t possibly fault it.

Along the Vecht, a stop for coffee in Maarssen, then out onto the Amsterdam Rhine canal on our way to my favourite of all places, Culemborg. Everything worked well, even getting the roof down to go through the bridge onto the canal, so we arrived nice and early…. plenty of time for my walk! Then we were off, but there were 3 big Alsatian type dogs in MY playing area and one growled at me and pinched my ball. I wasn’t a happy dog! We got it back in the end and then left them behind as they walked (and I ran), to the end of the footpath. Heaven. Even better, we then walked into town for an ice cream!

19th June 2019 – Lelystad to Loenen

Loenen k9 rating: 3/5. The grassy area by the boat was an off lead walk area so there were dogs walking past the boat all the time. Plenty of barking, much to the annoyance of everyone, but I’m a guard dog, what am I supposed to to? No swimming sadly as I wouldn’t;t have been able to get out!

Today we crossed the Markenmeer to enter the River Vecht at Muiden. The forecast was not good but first thing was beautiful and calm so we set off early to try to beat the storm. We didn’t. Half way there the lightening started, then thunder and torrential rain. Luckily it wasn’t windy so I wasn’t really bothered. I’m not scared of thunder anymore…..

By the time we arrived in Muiden it was sunny again and stayed that way whilst we wandered round Weesp and then continued down the Vecht to Loenen. The Vecht is very beautiful with lots of lovely big mansions and summer houses overlooking the river. I could happily live in any of them. We saw lots of children swimming and I was desperate to join them. We could have stopped, just for a while, but we didn’t.

In Muiden, whilst we were waiting for the lock, a cheeky duck came on board. Given a chance I’d have sent it packing, but what happened? The fed it… bread I could have had! Then, just to add insult to injury, they fed all its friends. Huh! What about me!!

18th June 2019 – Vollenhove to Lelystad

Lelystad k9 rating: 3/5. There were two slipways to swim from in the big harbour and a large green area on the other side of the road – although it didn’t seem to be dog friendly and no one else was on it when we went for a walk. If only the beach and moorland like walking area were a bit nearer this would have been perfect. However, the harbour was great and the human and dog activity plentiful.

A lot of open water today as we headed into Ketelmeer, IJsselmeer and finally into Markenmeer before arriving at Bataviahaven in Lelystad. The harbour is enormous and we were delighted because all the moorings are side on. In yachty heaven that is quite unusual.

Leystad, as with the whole of this area, Flevoland, is new land. Formed by re-poldering, or reclaiming land from the Zeiderzee in 1967, it is very different from the traditional towns and villages we have been visiting. Very modern and with lots of information signs telling us how it was formed and what the current and future plans are, it is very interesting (if you like that sort of thing). Currently they are re-poldering to create an improved natural environment for marine and wildlife. Of interest to me is that some of the bigger islands will have mooring facilities and hopefully that means beaches and swimming!

Flevoland has commissioned several pieces of art to celebrate its culture and surroundings and one of these, situated on a sliver of polder off Lelystad, is called “Exposure” and is by UK artist Antony Gormley. Antony Gormley is well know for creating his sculptures from a cast of himself and “Exposure” is no exception. The statue, of a crouching man, is 85 foot tall and made up of 2000 girders and 5400 bolts and is supposed to signify contemplation. The problem is, that people say it looks like a man doing a number 2 and has been nicknamed by some as s….ing man. Funny eh? Hope Mr Gormley thinks so!

17th June 2019 – Blokzijl to Vollenhove

Vollenhove k9 rating: 4/5. I debated whether this place could be my first 5/5 but as a slipway swim is not the same as one in a lake or off a beach I felt I had to hold back a point. it was still good though; grass nearby and enough to chase balls on, no pontoon, so straight onto the grass and plenty of people traffic.

A short trip south today to Vollenhove and a small harbour next door to a place that builds super yachts. Just so you know, the definition of a superyacht is a “large professionally crewed motor or sailing yacht ranging from 24 metres to more 180 metres”. The Royal Huisman company is currently building the world’s largest sailing yacht at 81 metres. That is 67 metres longer than Annapanna! I would have plenty of space to run around if I was on one of those… and crew to wait on me paw and paw!

Of course we had to do a bit of sightseeing and shopping (which is a given) but none of this mattered as just over the grass was a slipway, and a slipway means swimming! Very important as it was a hot day! I even had grass to chase my ball, so this place gets my vote!

In the afternoon Roger and Alison went off for a bike ride leaving Brian, Gill and I enjoying the sunshine – and I do like the sunshine when its not too hot! Then we all met up at the eel smokehouse and restaurant for a beer (or water for me!).

16th June 2019 – Ossenzijl to Blokzijl

Blokzijl k9 rating; 3/5. The mooring is in the town but on a quite shaded street nearby a green park like area for my walks. No swimming but plenty going on.

Today we motored very slowly past lots of beautiful waterside homes on the Kalenberger Gracht and Wetering to the lovely town harbour of Blokzijl. This is one of their favourite places and although it isn’t a 5/5 for me, I admit it is very pretty.

We arrived quite early to make sure we got a place in the harbour, which is always very popular, so had plenty of time to wander round the town. As we had lunch and sauntered around we kept seeing a strange man dressed in a coat and deerstalker smoking a pipe, so of course they had to go and ask him what he was doing (embarrassingly for me). He said his name was Sherlock and he had come over from Baker Street in London to help solve a murder. Would you believe it, a murder in Blokzijl, I’d better be careful! Luckily he said his team were doing very well (strangely, in a Dutch accent) so hopefully the murderer would be off the streets by nightfall. Nobody seemed very bothered about it and certainly didn’t consider my safety as they left me home alone in the evening and went out for dinner.

15th June 2019 – Heerenveen to Ossenzijl

Ossenzijl k9 rating: 3/5. Ok, so they weren’t fields but the grassy stretch was long and I know if the mood had taken me, there was place I could have gone into the river for a swim. There were quite a few people around as well, so I had plenty to bark at.

Before we left town Alison insisted we went for coffee at a cafe on the main square. The Brownies and Downies Cafe in Heerenveen is one of many throughout the Netherlands and having already been to the one in Culemborg, she wanted to introduce Roger and Gill to the concept. The cafes serves brownies (of course) which I believe are excellent, although I have not been given any to try – not even to ensure my review in the blog is accurate. The brownies (and coffee and other food) are served by the downies, lovely friendly, smiley people who happen to have been born with Down’s syndrome. I don’t know too much about Down’s as I don’t think it exists in the dog world, but I’m told that sometimes it makes it hard for people to get jobs and be independent. So this concept aims to give them opportunities they might not otherwise have. Brilliant, isn’t it. If you see one, go and buy a brownie, I’m sure they are delicious!

After coffee we set off for Ossenzijl stopping on the way at one of the many marrekrite (free moorings in the country) for a walk and a wee stop. I got in trouble though. When we set off on our walk a dog kept barking at me from his garden. He wanted to play and I wanted to play, so on the way back I took the opportunity of being off lead to jump over the edge of the garden (something he wouldn’t do for some reason) and go and find him. Oops, not sure I was welcome and Alison had to drag me out!

In Ossenzijl we moored just outside the town on a lovely grassy stretch of land that was perfect for running round and chasing my ball. Of course it was never going to be long before the bikes came out, so sure enough after we were settled, off they went without me to “explore’ the town…. or the riverside restaurants for beer!

14th June 2019 – Broek to Heerenveen

Heerenveen k9 rating: 2/5. Nice place and plenty of action but no park nearby and definitely no swimming.

We left the noisy birds behind this morning and set off south to another town centre (or gemeete) mooring at the end of a long canal. We moored right outside a restaurant, so perfect for people watching, then wandered into town for some lunch. The important thing about Heerenveen is that it has a railway station, as in the evening we picked up Roger and Gill who are joining us until we go back to the UK in a week’s time.

I like Roger and Gill, so I was so excited when I saw them at the station. They came to stay on the boat last year as well and although they kept going off cycling and leaving me behind, we also had plenty of walks and playtime whilst they were on board. The only thing I have to watch is space on the deck cushions. I need to stretch out and four people on board can take too much space. It’s not normally a problem though, if I push hard enough with my back legs they usually shift along!

13th June 2019 – Workum to near Broek (Sneekermeer)

Very windy today so a bit of a rough ride. Our journey took us through several meers; Zandmeer, Grote Gaastmeer, Heegermeer and Langweerder before stopping just short of Sneekermeer on Noorder Oudeweg. This is definitely a country mooring, right on a cycle and walking path in the middle of nowhere. It should have been quiet but we were moored next to reed beds and those pesky birds were at it again!

12th June 2019 – Medemblik to Workum

Workum K9 rating: 3/5. Nice mooring next to a playing field but no swimming nearby and not much passing traffic. I could have cycled to the beach on the IJsselmeer but it was several kilometers away and anyway I can’t cycle. Perhaps that dog carrier at home might be useful.

It was hot and sunny at 8am so when Alison came back from her run they decided to set off early so we could cross the IJsselmeer before the wind and rains came. Of course they didn’t ask my opinion, but luckily I was all for a smoother passage even though it put paid to any chance of another swim.

We arrived in Workum just as the lock was closing for lunch, but luckily there were plenty of places to moor, so I could have a pre lunch walk around whilst we were waiting. Once through the lock the advantage of arriving early was obvious as we took one of the last places on the jetty in the middle of town. We were moored right next to a Teddy type boat, but sadly it wasn’t Teddy’s.

The advantage of the mooring was that it next to a playing field (so I managed some off lead play with another young lab), but the disadvantage was it was very noisy! I didn’t know birds could make so much noise! Reed Warblers they’re called and they we very busy.

11th June 2019 – Medemblik

Medemblik K9 rating: 4/5. What is not to like. We are moored at the end of a jetty with a lovely green grassy area at the end, a park across the bridge and then, a bit further on lots of space to run….. and swim. Heaven. If the beach had been a bit nearer this would have scored 5/5

We are having two nights here so we can explore the town as we arrived quite late last night. We had a good walk around the many havens and then along the dyke to the little steam railway station. Our timing was perfect as just after we arrived along came a beautifully polished steam train to pick up its passengers on this “moving museum”. Of course I am a steam train veteran after my trip to Somerset, so I wasn’t bothered that we weren’t going to travel on it. Been there done that, as Mags would say.

Then after a look around the castle and a wander into town we set off to the beach.. and swimming! I played ball in the water and chased around with other dogs. I had just the best time. I’d waited so long for that swim, but it was worth it.

10th June 2019 – Alkmaar to Medemblik

A long day today as we took the “scenic” route north, east and then south to reach the town of Medemblik on the IJsselmeer. I’m sure we could have done it in half the time but apparently we had to go this way to avoid low bridges. Fortunately for me there were a few locks where I could have a wee stop. I can pretty much wee to order now which is just as well for them – and me I suppose!

Medemblik is a yachtie town. If you remember from my blog last year I described these funny sailing boats with big poles sticking up and bits of material flapping around in the wind. I am told that sailing is a sport and as I am a seriously sporty dog I think I would like to have a go. Lying in the cockpit pulling on ropes sounds just up my street.

9th June 2019 – Amsterdam to Alkmaar

Alkmaar K9 rating: 3/5. Lots of interest at the mooring and a park just up the road. The park is normally an off lead area, which might have increased the score to 4/5 but there was a festival on so there were notices “advising” them to consider how we were walked i.e. stay on the lead!

It was still a bit windy this morning but the sun was out so it was time to move on. We are exploring new territory (for them, it’s all new for me) by heading up the Zaan river, back passed the windmills and on northwards to the little town of Alkmaar.

We moored on the river just outside the town next door to the people we had met in Amsterdam (who had actually recommended it to us). The town is very pretty with canals running through it and a large Kaas Markt in the centre. Best of all there is a park running most of the way round the outside. I like this place. There were lots of people and dogs around and we even had an ice cream!

8th June 2019 – Amsterdam

Still here. We were meant to move on today but the weather is dreadful. Pouring with rain and winds up to 56kph. Not pleasant. So it has turned out into a day of jobs for them and catching up on sleep for me. It might be a bit boring, but I don’t like rough water so staying put is just fine.

7th June 2019 – Amsterdam

Well I never was going to get away with it, was I? So today was sight seeing day. But although I wasn’t exactly looking forward to it, in the end it wasn’t at all bad. The day also included another first for me, a bus ride. Dogs are allowed on all public transport in the Netherlands so to get to Zaanse Schans in Zaandam just outside the city, we caught a bus from just behind the marina.

Zaanse Schans is a rebuilt 18th and 19th century living museum made up of houses, shops and lots of windmills along the Zaan river. I could take or leave the windmills and the houses, but there were lots of dogs to play with and people to make a fuss of me, then on the bus journey back I got so much attention I felt like a mini celebrity!

Home alone again at night whilst they tried another local restuarant. They were lucky I was so tired otherwise I could have created havoc as a protest.

6th June 2019 – Amsterdam

One of the reasons we have come to Amsterdam is so that Alison can go to the Rembrandt exhibition at the Rijksmuseum in the city. Fortunately for me the museum doesn’t take dogs, so Brian and I were left alone in the marina whilst Alison cycled off to the ferry. There was a threat of joining her later in Vongolpark but she was going off to a sculpture exhibition even further away and we were quite comfortable sitting in the sunshine at the harbour.

I was left home alone that night whilst they went to eat in the harbour restaurant. Apparently the steaks were good (am I interested?) but it was very noisy (definitely not for me).

5th June 2019 – Amersfoort to Amsterdam

Amsterdam K9 rating: 1/5. I don’t think cities are very good for dogs. There is a little bit of green on the edge of the car park and at least it isn’t far to go, but that’s about the only good thing about this mooring for me. It wouldn’t be too bad if there was plenty of passing traffic, but there are few people around at the moment so its all a bit boring

Back up the Eem, into Eemmeer, Gooimeer and Ijmeer on our way to the capital city. I haven’t been to a capital city before so this is a new experience. The downside is that I suspect there are lots of things to see in a capital city and that means lots of very boring sight seeing. Might be lucky though as they have been lots of times before!

We are moored in the Amsterdam Marina a ferry ride away from the city. It is very smart but I don’t see a lot of green and there is very little passing traffic to keep me occupied. Mind you, if I’m sight seeing then I’ll be so exhausted by the time I get back to the boat I wont feel like people and dog watching anyway!

4th June 2019 – Amersfoort

They like this place so much they decided we needed to stay another night so we could participate in my favourite pastime – sight seeing! Anyway, the weather was good (although a storm was forecast for later) and the first part of the trip was a long walk around the park by the town walls, so I wasn’t complaining too much.

The old town is very attractive particularly the Markts and Muurhuizen, a circular street with houses built into the old town walls. It’s also not too big so it wasn’t a long day, but even though I’d had enough by the afternoon and was very glad when Alison decided to climb the 300 plus steps up the tower and let us go back to the boat.

There was a storm that night and the loud thunder frightened me. There was a plus side though – I slept in the cabin, all cosy and safe between them!

3rd June 2019 – Elburg to Amersfoort

Amersfoort: K9 rating 2/5. This might be a beautiful city but it is not a dog friendly one (apart from the harbour master). There is a green space very near the boat but there is a big sign saying no dogs. No dogs? Would someone mind telling us where we are supposed to go?

We left Elburg this morning after a run (Alison), a walk (me) and breakfast (all of us), heading for an unknown destination on the way to Amsterdam. By mid afternoon it was decided that we would go to Amersfoort, so turned left (or port in boat speak) down the Eems river and 18 km later arrived at Eemshaven, mooring right at the end with a perfect view of the port to the old city.

2nd June 2019 – Hattem to Elburg

Elburg: K9 rating 3/5. Our mooring was right in the town so great for people watching. It was a short walk to the rampart paths, which were lovely, but I was on the lead and the still water in the moat was not inviting. Access on and off the boat couldn’t have been easier.

It is Sunday, a bank holiday weekend and 31 degrees, so the whole world was out and about on their fast speed boats. I don’t mind speed boats, but I don’t like the wash they make, so I wasn’t a happy dog at times today.

Elburg is such a pretty place and our mooring in the old harbour was perfect. I got too hot though and would have given anything for a swim, which unfortunately was not available. I did have a bit of a play in the funny water spout fountains along with lots of children, so that helped a bit.

Out for dinner again in the evening (my luck is really in at the moment). We went to restaurant Achter de Poorte, which surprisingly enough was just inside the walls of the town next door to the city gate. They would definitely recommend it, so would I if I’d tasted anything!

1st June 2019 – Zutphen to Hattem

Hattem: K9 rating: 4/5. The only downside to this fantastic place was the big jump down to the pontoon and the long walk to the land (with my legs crossed in the morning)!

The day started with a little trauma… As usual, we went out for my morning constitutional and also as usual, I was keen to get back to the boat for breakfast. This time though, as the dock was the same height as the boat and so an easy hop on board, I was allowed to run down the steps and jump on. Except I didn’t… I’m not sure why, but for some reason I decided to get on in the wrong place ….. and disaster struck. I didn’t make it and fell down between the boat and the wall. It was a long way down, but hey, I can swim. In fact I’m an expert swimmer. I’m also cool in a crisis, so whilst all around me were in panic I calmly swam out to the bow of the boat then round to the bathing platform where I was rather unceremoniously dragged out. Thank goodness I had my harness on they said. I then got shoved up the steps to the deck but by this time I didn’t care as my little fall had seriously delayed my breakfast!

So all was well in the end. I do have grazes on one of my legs but that’s all. I am told I was very lucky and it could have been much worse. What’s worse? Even longer to wait for breakfast? Personally I can’t see what all the fuss was about, but I suspect it is the last time I’m allowed to jump on the boat by myself!

Anyway, after the trauma we moved onto Hattem, another Hanseatic League town and famous (to them anyway) for its frog orchestra. So after mooring up in another much enlarged marina followed by a swim and game of chase the bottle, we set off into town to find the frogs. I think the frogs were boring …. I mean they don’t even make a noise, so why are they called an orchestra – but we stopped for an ice cream on the way so that made up for it.

I have realised whilst writing this blog that I haven’t been giving enough information about how doggy friendly our moorings are, so, from now on I intend to rectify this and score all moorings dependent upon some very important criteria (to me). These are: Off lead play area, swimming, ease of access to these areas, pontoon height (I don’t like too big a drop down) and local interest from the stern deck (as I like people and dog watching). My scores (out of 5) will appear at the start of the appropriate section.

31st May 2019 – Doesburg to Zutphen

Zutphen: K9 rating: 3/5. No swimming or off lead playing but great for people watching and very easy assess on and off to grassy area (but don’t get too cocky like me).

We are on the Gelderse IJssel river which is quite fast flowing so can be a bit bumpy, especially when speed boats go past. I don’t like bumps too much but I suppose I’m going to have to get used to them if I’m going to sea in the UK in July. Today our destination was Zutphen, another very attractive walled town that was part of the Hanseatic League many years ago. The big attraction in Zutphen is apple cake, very famous apple cake I believe, so one of the first things we did was go along to the shop and buy one. Might I be able to try a little piece? Maybe, just maybe. If I do I’ll let you know how good it is!

Out for dinner tonight and I went too. I nearly got taken home though when I became a bit too lively and vocal! I don’t think the other diners minded and the waiter certainly didn’t as he has two labradors of his own at home! Anyway I did last the meal out so I must have been ok in the end.

30th May – Maurik to Doesburg

Today we left Maurik on our travels east (and north) and are spending the night in the lovely harbour of Doesburg. Apparently they came here 14 years ago but don’t really remember much about it. I believe its changed a lot anyway, the harbour has been extended and looks like the industrial section is being turned into some sort of museum. The whole thing is very attractive, there is lots of mooring and it is just outside the very pretty town, so definitely recommended.

29th May 2019 – Maurik

We are spending another day here and the weather is warm and sunny. I do like the sun, so an hour or two on the stern deck was a perfect form of recuperation after my major operation three weeks ago. I don’t know if you have been told or not, but I am not the dog I was as a few vital parts were removed by my now ex friend Ann, the vet.

The biggest problem with my operation was that it meant I had to be lead walked only for 2 weeks. A whole 2 weeks without chasing balls, playing with other dogs or charging round the garden. Thank goodness that’s now all over and my scar the only reminder of the traumas I’ve been through.

After my sunbathing session we took Little Dick out for a spin on the lake. I’m not sure about Little Dick, it can be very bouncy and there isn’t much room to lie down. I can be quite brave though so I went along with it, especially when they told me the trip would include a swim. And I did swim and chase sticks in the water until, unfortunately, it was time to get back in the boat and go back to Annapanna.

Later on we went for a nice long walk around the island before stopping for drinks in the sunshine at the little bar by the lake. I only ever get offered water though, which is so boring.

28th May 2019 – Rotterdam to Maurik

It can be very boring in the kennels overnight so with no one to talk to I looked around for something to do. Luckily, the paper pads they put on the floor of the kennel proved a good diversion but I’m not sure Brian and Alison were too impressed when they saw the mess I’d made. Especially compared to the pristine kennels left by my two kennel mates. It’s only paper, so I cant see what the problem is!

First stop was the beach for a play in the water, a walk and a late breakfast before driving to Maurik and Annapanna. Unloading took forever, as it would when you bring so much stuff, and I was left in the car the whole time. I wasn’t complaining though as it was chucking it down!

Then it was off to my favorite field for a play and run around before lunch and then….. guess what….. shopping. Here we go again… shopping, shopping and more shopping! Shopping forever..whatever.

27th May 2019 – Whalley to Rotterdam

And so back we go for the second trip of the summer. Hours of packing as per usual, but with only three of us in the car this time there was a bit more room to move about.

I’ve got an extra large kennel on the ferry this time which gives me plenty of room for my bed and a bit of a play area!

END OF TRIP ONE

5th May – Maurik to Rotterdam

And so back home and another night in the kennels on the ferry. We’ll be back at the end of May so until then, tot Ziens, that’s goodbye in Dutch. New country, new language!

4th May – Wijk bij Duurstede to Maurik

Before we left Wijk we went for a lovely walk to the old castle just outside the town and as it was open wandered over the drawbridge for a look round. A nice man came to talk to us and then played with me as Alison went to explore the castle itself. She was impressed. It is used as a wedding venue and looks lovely. She took some pictures to show us.

Today was remembrance day in the Netherlands so in the evening we drove to a famous military cemetery at Grebbeberg so they could watch the ceremony. I went too but had to stay in the car as I don’t think I was trusted to keep quiet during the 2 minute silence!

3rd May – Culemborg to Wijk bij Duurstede

Only one day in Culemborg unfortunately, so after a trip to the vets (cookies, so not a problem) and another walk and play in the water, we were off to Wijk bij Duurstede. We moored in the old harbour near a very big boat called Noah’s Ark! I believe it is a floating museum and full of animals, but its not for dogs so I can’t be sure.

Sadly, there was no swimming here this time, although I suppose I can’t complain too much after all the fun in Culemborg. We went for a wander round the town and a bit of shopping, but not even an ice cream. It’s too cold for them apparently, which I don’t understand. How can it ever be too cold for ice cream?!

In the evening I was left home alone – again – for the second night in succession. Not sure how impressed I am about this, but as my cage hasn’t made the journey with us I am obviously trusted enough to have the run of the boat! I didn’t make the most of it though as I was just too tired and my bed just too cosy.

2nd May 2019 – Leerdam to Culemborg

And so back to Culemborg, my current favourite place. Not a great trip back as although we set off in sunshine the rain soon came…. and stayed. I was starting to get anxious that the weather might spoil my walks, but luckily it had cleared up by the time we had moored up and settled in. I just love this place so much, so here are a few pictures of me enjoying myself (or just posing).

1st May 2019 – Leerdam

Another night in Leerdam so Alison can go on a bike trip to Geldermaisen at the end of the Linge. After a wander round the town she set off leaving us behind. Shame but I think it was too far for me to run, especially with my newly mended leg.

Unfortunately we were just too late for the blossom the area is renowned for, so as beautiful as the ride was, it would have been spectacular two weeks ago. The harbour master in Geldermaisen told her that there is a blossom walk every year and this year 30,000 people took part. Can you imagine it? 30,000 people. I’d have so many dogs to play with along the way. Definitely one for the diary. I believe she cycled past kilometre after kilometre of fruit trees, visited a zoo, had lunch in a lovely orchard and checked out the harbour in Geldermaisen (which has a few places for boats our size). She showed me some pictures, just to rub salt into the wound.

30th April 2019 – Vianen to Leerdam

The coots from last night were just a taste of things to come. Today we have travelled to Leerdam on the Linge river and the trip is all about wildlife. I believe it’s the breeding season and the river is full of baby ducks, geese, moorhens and of course coots. We are moored right on the river next to the boat harbour on a stretch of land they have called Costa del Linge. This I believe is a joke of some sort, but I don’t get it.

The town is another walled one and they tell me vey attractive. We measure attractiveness differently, them and me. My criteria, in order of priority are: Swimming, fields for playing, lots of people and dogs walking past the boat. Theirs seems to be anything old (hence all these walls and cobbled streets), good shops and even better restaurants. In other words “interesting”, whatever that means.

The town is famous for its glass and there is a museum right next to the harbour. I believe there are glass blowing demonstrations but I wasn’t allowed in as my tail might have done some serious damage. As I’m not interested in glass I wasn’t really bothered anyway.

You will be pleased to hear that my leg is much better and I’m sure will soon be back to normal. It better be, before our return to Culemborg!

29th April 2019 – Maurik to Vianen

A few hours down the Nederhin and Lek, past my favourite place, Culemborg (without stopping), then through the lock into the Merwede canal. Our destination tonight was Vianen, a lovely little walled town they have visited many times before. We were surprised to find it busy, but then discovered the payment machine was broken, which explained a lot. Free mooring and electricity in the centre of town delighted Brian, who always likes a bargain!

Right across from the boat was a Coot nest with 3 tiny little babies and a very busy Dad simultaneously finding food and acting as fierce guardian. I wouldn’t like to cross him. He charged across to the boat just after we arrived and amazingly they gave him food. Food! They could have given it to me! Don’t they realise just how starving I am! At least he seemed very grateful and Mum was happy to feed it to the babies. I hope they remember me when they grow up.

26th – 28th April 2019 – Maurik

We left Culemborg in the morning for a short two hour trip to Eiland van Maurik and our base for the season. I was sorry to leave Culemborg, my new favourite place, but I’m happy here in Maurik for a few days. There is a slipway at the end of the jetty and the water is nice and clear for my swimming and then there is a big field by the campsite where I’m allowed to run and chase balls. Or I would be if…..

Something has happened to my leg. I was perfectly alright one minute then a little slip on the horrible steep stairs and I couldn’t put much weight on it. I can actually manage perfectly well on three legs and I haven’t cried once, but even so it means I’m confined to short, lead walks only.

On Sunday we went out in the car for a spot of sightseeing, first to an old castle at Amerongen (where I was not allowed) then Wijk bij Duurstede for a wander round and an ice cream. There were other dogs in Wijk and they had been swimming. I was desperate to swim and so excited I was literally shaking – but all to no avail. Swimming is off the agenda until my leg gets better. They clearly haven’t heard about hydrotherapy!!

25th April – Culemborg

We are here for two nights as today Mags and Alison went off to get the car from Maasbracht. Whilst they were gone Brian and I walked into town, did a bit of shopping and then caught up on jobs. Well Brian did, whilst I guarded the boat watching out for any passing traffic.

Then they came back and it was walk time – and oh what a find this place is! I was in heaven running in and out of the water all along the side of the river. It is brilliant and I’m so glad this will be one of our regular overnight spots.

Then it was out for dinner. A favourite restaurant in a new venue and best of all, I went along too. I believe the food was excellent, but I wouldn’t know as I didn’t get any. They just think they can give me a bowl of water and I’ll be happy. They clearly do not know me well.

24th April 2019 – Heusden to Culemborg

After a lazy morning having coffee in the sunshine we set off for another favourite place, Culemborg. This is somewhere I will get to know well as it is the home of the vet, and I have to see the vet every time I go home.

23rd April – Cuijk to Heusden

We left Cuijk this morning heading for one of their favourite towns, Heusden, on the Maas. Mooring in the lovely old harbour in the centre of town we were just seconds away from good walks around the ramparts. Ramparts, so I’m told, are part of the old fortification of the town and unfortunately for me this means they are high above the water. So no swimming today. Pretty the town might be, but the lack of swimming means it can never be part of my top 10 list.

22nd April 2019 – Cuijk

We are spending two nights at Cuijk so today was exercise day. A run (Alison), a bike ride (Mags & Alison) and a long walk and swim (me). We had ice cream AND I was allowed out to dinner in the tent. A perfect day!

21st April 2019 – Maasbracht to Cuijk

We left van de Laan in the morning heading for Cuijk, one of my favourite places from last year. It was a beautiful day and of course, Easter Sunday, so everyone was out in the sunshine enjoying themselves. Unfortunately, this meant racing around on waterskis, jet skis and fast plastic tubs, all of which created big waves and a bumpy ride. I know I’ve been out to sea but this was our first day and I hadn’t got my sea legs, so I was not a happy dog.

We did eventually make it to Jachthaven T’Loo on the lovely lake at Linden and I soon forgot about the bumpy trip as I remembered why I liked it so much. I can walk, swim in the lake or just laze on the grass outside the tented restaurant. There are lots of other dogs here too and although we can’t play on the beach after 1st April there are plenty of other places just around the corner.

20th April 2019 – Maasbracht

Last day at van de Laan before we set off towards our summer base in Maurik. So, guess what, a bit more shopping, just for a change. It was a bit different though as the shopping included things called anodes for Brian’s great sea trip in July. I said earlier that we are spending most of the summer in the Netherlands and this is true except for a two week trip to the UK and the East coast of England. You’ll be glad to know that I will not be going across the North Sea with Brian and Jas but will go with Alison, Mags and Sheila through the tunnel and meet them in Lowestoft. I will be going to sea though, although more as a coastal crawler rather than an oceaneer.

Got a swim in today even though Alison forgot to take a ball so I had to make do with a piece of wood to chase in the water. Then I talked to Mattie on the phone. He was a bit confused and ran out to the garden to try and find me…. so maybe, just maybe, he is missing me a bit?

19th April 2019 – Maasbracht

After a night in a hotel and dinner at Roosterhoeve (not invited) it was back again to Maasbracht and van de Laan Yachting for the launch. The weather is perfect so Mags and I sat in the sunshine watching my home for the summer being lowered into the water by the expert team of Harry and Dick (son of Harry). It’s all done by a remote controller Harry wears round his neck – brilliant. I would so love to have a go. Harry always wears red dungarees so he’s easy to spot, which is just as well as he not much bigger than me!

The rest of the day was spend doing yet more cleaning, lots of unpacking (mine, 1 minute, theirs, 1 hour) and then the inevitable shopping. I mentioned last year about the amount of stuff they pack into the car and the number of times we have to shop and I don’t suppose its going to change this year. I will never understand it. I eat the same food twice a day and have two harnesses, two leads one collar to last me all year. They, on the other hand eat different things all the time and feel the need to cover themselves in an array of strange outfits. Mind you, the don’t have a lithe, fit body like mine, so perhaps its just as well!

18th April 2019 – Maasbracht

Arrived in Rotterdam after a restless night in the kennels but got my reward with a visit to the beach and a swim in the water. Then it was off to Maasbracht and a day of cleaning and polishing Annapanna ready for her launch tomorrow. My job was to supervise the efforts and guard the car at the same time. Exhausting, but I managed it.

17th April 2019 – Whalley to Maasbracht

We left Mattie (and Amy) behind in Whalley this afternoon and headed towards Hull for the start of my first trip abroad of the season. I’m told that this year things are going to be a bit different. There will be much more travelling back and forth to the UK, which is bad news as far as I’m concerned, as it means more nights in the kennels on the ferry and we will be spending most of the time in the Netherlands. I have limited experience of the Netherlands as we were in France and Germany last year, but we did spend a few days there at the end of the season and everyone was very friendly, so the signs are good.

I am really going to miss Mattie as I think I have a bit of a girly crush on him (which sadly is not reciprocated), but at least I’ll get back to see him every few weeks. I hope we bump into my boating buddy Teddy as well, although again I’m not sure he will be quite as keen to see me. I don’t know, maybe I’m a bit full on. Perhaps I need to learn a bit more about the subtlety of flirting?