We're out!

Aston Marina to Stone visitor moorings: 2 miles, 2 locks
To date : 963 miles, 680 locks  

We were up early this morning in keen anticipation.  We weren't going far but we were leaving the marina for the last time.  Preparations went like a well oiled machine.  There was no messing about.  It was earlyish and we know a lot of our fellow moorers sleep later so we didn't wake them  I only knocked on a couple of doors where I thought at least one occupant might be up and about.

As we pulled away from our berth we spied Tony and Breeze on their way along the path for their regular bistro coffee.  Clare, Roy and Wish were peering out the hatch of nb Foxglove.  I didn't take a photo of Clare in her dressing gown, I didn't think she'd appreciate it!  Gil, Malcolm and Mace came out to wave us off too and then from the other direction was Roly.  I wasn't quick enough with the camera.  As we cruised out of the marina exit for the last time, even one of the swans came along to see us off.

Shame we missed saying goodbye to a few folk.  It was nice meeting you all and we wish you well on your cruising.

When we finished with the lock, Tony and Breeze were on their return walk and came down onto the towpath to follow us along to the next bridge.  It's the last time we'll see Breeze dragging Tony along to say hello to us.  We've so much enjoyed seeing her wagging tail and who wouldn't love a pooch straining on her lead to reach you in her enthusiasm.  We have enjoyed chatting to Tony, and his wife Hazel, too.

We were thrilled to find our favourite mooring free in Stone and we're now tucked up for a couple of days enjoying town amenities.  Martin from nb Moriarty came by on his way to meet Cathy and their friend at the Star for lunch.  We went down for one drink with them as we may not see them again.... unless of course their plans for a visit to Oz come about!