Well, we've done it! We went all of 1.5 miles along the Oxford canal from Braunston towards Banbury, and turned round in the winding hole known as Robin's Turn. Trev steered most of the way, I acted as look out, fender off of objects which came too close--such as the bank--and general coffee girl. I did do some steering when it was totally straight and no other boat was in sight.

Trev was sensational! No panic, you'd have thought he was born on a barge. He turned the boat like a natural and got us in to our mooring with ease. I've a nasty feeling it's going to be my turn next. We moved on to our permanent mooring at Braunston yesterday. We spent the first nine nights right outside the boatfitters, as they were working around us. Even now, there are things to be finished off, there is someone working on the boat as I write. There are only small things left to be done now, except for the commissioning of the Whispergen. This is the generator which will provide all of our power. Unfortunately, no one can come from the generator's retailers until April 28th! At the moment we're using the engine and the engine generator to provide power. Don't ask me to explain--I don't understand how it works! We're very cosy on board, even though the central heating won't be working until the Whispergen is up and running. The solid fuel stove throws out plenty of heat, and the oven and hob are run by gas. We hope to go out for a longer cruise within the next few days, as soon as they've finished the last few jobs, so watch this space.

Thank you to everyone for your good wishes, interest and support. It's been a great help to have so many good friends interested in our adventure.