NOT SO NICE ICE

 

During our day of rest, we noticed ice crystals forming on the surface of the canal where we were moored. By morning, we were sitting in a sheet of ice. We managed to cut through the thin ice layer as we made our way to the chancellery for fuel, 5 more bags of coal and propane. Our lines were so frozen that tying up to get supplies was a challenge as David wrestled with a rigid rope. We made such a racket slicing through the ice that we had school children cheering us on as well as lots of other curious onlookers. Other boaters wished us luck and safe travels.

                                      Looking back at  our cleared path through the ice

We were able to make our way through the first 13 locks sometimes having to take our long pole and break up the ice so that gates could swing open. As we made our way to the next set of locks, the ice layer became thicker. I would estimate some of the broken off chucks as we cut through them were ½ inch thick in some isolated areas.

We decided to get through 5 of the next 11 locks and then tie up. We had traveled maybe two miles, and it took us 5 hours!  Part of the reason it took so long was that because conditions warranted caution, we only opened one paddle on each lock. The beam you needed to cross to get to the second paddle was covered in ice and snow. This crew member was not going to attempt a slippery balance beam act. 


                                                  Not going to walk that beam!


We had sunshine and blue sky with the temperature hovering around 33 degrees during the day and at night they were estimated to drop as low as 19 degrees. All we know is that this morning our boat was not rocking as we walked through the cabin. A sure sign that we were snug in ice.

We have been reading Canal Trust notices on line stating the closure of several water stations along the canals because of the big freeze. We are definitely watching our water usage. No showers or clothes washing. Good thing we like each other.

Warmer temperatures are expected this weekend along with rain. We were anxious about getting past a lock closure by the 19th but that no longer is a factor. Nice to know that we have time on our side and don't have to push ourselves.

 

                                      Safe and Sound waiting for the ice to clear

 

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