A month of jobs, not so much to report, therefore it's two months' news. Some good painting weather and the forthcoming winter certainly focuses the mind on getting outside work completed. For Chris, the new ship is coming on well and mid October is the target.  We unexpectedly found we needed new batteries - installation went quite smoothly even if the expense was rather painful. In the little spare time left to him Chris found time to design and install a new deck wash system; also he fitted a small pump to enable safe and easy transfer of diesel from one tank to another.

 
New batteries                      Welding a bracket for the pump 

Finally, getting short of  space, we reviewed all our storage and got rid of an old hydraulic pump we have been carrying round for nearly four years. We'll never use it, so we palmed it off on the local "dump store" - someone will be happy with it. Diana loves a chuck-out, consequently Chris hesitates to go out on dustbin day. Good weather and a determined attitude on Diana's part has resulted in the ship looking very smart, so next spring we'll relax a bit and enjoy the cruising.
 
 
Paintwork                                     Elma Nel and Krijn's visit

Our Dutch friends, Elma, Nel and Krijn came all the way from Rotterdam to spend a day with us - it was lovely to see them again and to take a cruise around the area. During our time in the ship yard we also made sure weekends were set aside for time together and we again enjoyed more cycling expeditions and picnics; good to get away from the ship occasionally.

 
Autumn trees                                  Maastricht 

In October we spent a wonderful time in England with our family there touring round and visiting several friends, too. Returning to the Netherlands and back on board we had just a day to quickly pack up to leave Maasbracht. Saying goodbye to friends felt sad after eleven weeks there and soon we were casting off and en route to Belgium in beautiful autumn weather.

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Liege                                         Namur

 
Louisa and David                              Profondeville

In Namur we were joined by Louisa and David who had come all the way from Cornwall.  A cruise with them up the Meuse valley was a wonderful way to extend our season and in spite of hurricane warnings which didn't amount to much we have enjoyed some warm sunny days. However, winter must be coming soon, the clocks have changed, the darker evenings are here and we shall be in our winter berth in a week or two.  More news after Christmas.