Still in the same spot from year to year

It has rained, fogged over, warmed up and still we are frozen in. Isn't it typical. When I bothered to get a winter license to cover us so that we could stay in the area I didn't expect that number one, we wouldn't actually be in our designated spot, two, that we would be frozen in thus not leaving the area and three, that it would cost so much. With the knowledge of being frozen in, unable to move, it makes me wonder if winter moorings are a fair deal.

The cost is per foot, we have 65 of them, so from December 1st to March 31st is £480-ish, equivalent to £120 per month. And what do we get for the damage? A site along the canal, just the same as when we pull up to moor (i.e no extras) with all the terms and conditions that BW wish to tumble down on us with. For wanting to do the right thing it appears to cost a pretty penny.

Interestingly, if one continuously cruises and happens to be frozen in the same spot there is no extra fee necessary. None-the-less we are in the area and I should hear regarding work next week so things should even themselves out.

As we see in the new year we are looking forward to a time of big plans. Number one - becoming our own boss. Number two - blacking the boat (any help during a week of painting the hull this spring would be much appreciated and you would of course be paid in beer). Number three - really enjoying summer after such a harsh winter. Number four - a trip to India. Number five - new creative projects both musically and poetic.

Number five has already begun, as Leigh works on a new electronic music project starting with a tape release this year and I have created Wort-Yard Publishing.


What is this? Well, a new blog space dedicated to prose both online and the release of short runs of hand-made publications. It will also figure moves in thinking and happenings regarding poetry and independent publishing. I am rather excited indeed.

Click here to go to Wort-Yard Publishing...