I cannot believe we’ve already been on board for 3 months!  How quickly has that passed!

As a human being I reserve the right to change my mind and am doing so in respect of my curtain maker.  I appreciate that I said no mention or links were appropriate due to the service I’d received but on her return visit to hang the final windows she surprised me with some cushions free of charge for being so patient.

Whilst I penultimately reserve the right to review service I’ve received, in a fair and honest way, I ultimately reserve the right to change my mind.

Her work is of a very high standard.  The late arrival of my order was down to a lack of staff due to illness.  Above all that she was a very pleasant lady and I liked her.  My free cushions weren’t just thrown together, they were beautiful and with feather pads no less!

You’ve redeemed yourself Bay Tree Interiors

If I used this company again I’d be sure to draw up a contractual  time-scale with caveats if not adhered to.  However, I’m small fry, a single patron.  And bottom line is that I’m more than happy with my provision.

I’ve made friends in the Marina and am pleased.  Everyone I’ve met so far has been lovely, helpful and sincere.  My fire-making is unquestionably conquered!   Tonight I’m sat here in my knickers with the bow doors open and two windows wide open too.  Not having a heat control knob is the only irritation.  Something one can live with.

I know next year what fuel I’ll be burning though, and it wont be COAL!  Honestly!  What a mess.  Black dust everywhere!  I shall be converting to wood briquettes

I’ve sourced a Northern supplier and will buy in bulk to gain the best price.  I may well gather others to see if they want in to reduce our costs.  After all, wood is the new coal!  Long, clean and greener burning.

Apart from Phylis still trying to rattle my cage everything is peachy.  Whatever it is that’s making her angry she needs to get it sorted; it’s eating her up!

Until the next time, rock gently, speak honestly and above all, be happy

Finally, 2-3 weeks late, my new curtains arrived!

Aren’t they lovely!  They’re quite iridescent so take on different colours in different light.  The photograph makes it all look quite bright but in reality, without the glare of a camera flash, they’re dark, opulent and cosy looking.

Because they’re late and came in dribs and drabs the maker offered me some free matching cushions.  Would have been rude to say no, so I said yes

The interior designer wont receive a link or mention though as I feel the service hasn’t been good so I don’t want to recommend them.  The internet is a powerful tool isn’t it!

My Sister and her Husband paid me a visit yesterday too.  We spent a lovely afternoon in the local having a natter and came back to the boat for more chatter. Here they are on the front of the boat. Sarah was scared she’d fall in!

I’ve spoken previously about having storage built into my cratch.  Well here is the finished splendour!

Again, it was thanks to Bryan of Myram Carpentry (07830 627578) but it was tinged with a little melancholy due to this being his finale in terms of my boat.  It’s been around a 4 month commission and I couldn’t have chosen a nicer, skilled tradesman If I’d tried.  10/10!

The storage doubles up as seating so I’m off to look for some nice cushions to sit on now but meanwhile I’ve ordered a nice fold-down table that will fit beautifully in the small area allowing Lottie and I to sit there and eat in warmer months.

The same day found the man from Wilsons of Kinver arrive to fit my new cratch and helm covers.  Right from my first conversation with the Boss man to my repeated conversations with Vicky who saw to the smooth process of ordering through to fitting down to the lovely young men that saw the job through.  Timely, great value for money, and no additional charges for travelling that one company wanted.  Moreover, they look fantastic!

So that’s it!  All my work is now complete and I’m very much looking forward to actually moving Towpath Townie for trips in the near future

Prior to my maiden voyage I really need to secure employment.  Wish me luck with the jobs I’m applying for