Today there was glorious sunshine. I rushed work in order to escape to the water before the weather reverted to its usual English autumn gloom.
I love my kayak, it's my way of keeping sane. A little bit of exercise far from the madding crowd.
The days are getting so short now, you feel the need to cram everything in before nightfall.
Weekdays out on the canals are gloriously quiet. This time of year most of the recreational longboats are moored up until warmer days and the residential barges are huddled together for company, so I have long stretches of waterway to myself.
It's been a good year for rose hips and I collected loads ready to made into rose hip syrup later on.
After three or more miles of paddling it was time for a break. I can't get over how good this tiny titanium meths stove is. It packs away inside my mug and on a still day like today will bring water to boil in no time at all. A nice warming hot chocolate.
Refreshed, I was on my way. The water was like glass, the only ripples extended from the bow of the boat. It was lovely to be able to paddle looking downwards watching the reflection of the clouds and the illuminated traces of overhead jets.
Soon the light began to yellow. The sun sank low, silhouetting the trees. I turned for home. The curious horses in the canal side fields paced me to the extent of their enclosures offering pleasant companionship.
It was such a peaceful day, I didn't want to leave as I paddled through my own personal oil painting....
