bettybrew

We are with GJW. When we first bought the boat and took out insurance they asked how much experience we had, which was none. They said they would put a clause in the insurance that we were unable to drive(?) the boat unless someone experienced was with us, but if we did a helmsman course this clause would be removed. We had a fabulous two days doing the RYA helmsman course with Cheshire Cats and did not regret the expense at all. It made us much more confident about everything from mooring, locks, passing moored boats and driving in the wind and rain. Yes, it was additional expense, but it was one we were happy to accept.

Here is what RSPB have to say on the subject of cats and wildlife: "It is likely that most of the birds killed by cats would have died anyway from other causes before the next breeding season, so cats are unlikely to have a major impact on populations. If their predation was additional to these other causes of mortality, this might have a serious impact on bird populations. Those bird species which have undergone the most serious population declines in the UK (such as skylarks, tree sparrows and corn buntings) rarely encounter cats, so cats cannot be causing their declines. Research shows that these declines are usually caused by habitat change or loss, particularly on farmland." Our cat currently doesn't go out as she is too young and stupid (would definitely end up going for a dip), we have tried to put a collar on her but it doesn't stay on for more than a day so no chance of her wearing one when she eventually goes wandering. She is a cat, cats hunt, I'm fine with that. Humans on the other hand are far more cruel in my opinion.

When I took out insurance for my boat I was a new boater, the insurance company put a clause on the policy that I was unable to move the boat without an experienced person. This clause was taken off once I'd done my helmsman course and got a RYA certificate for inland waters (best thing I ever did for my own confidence in boat handling).

Ecover is available in most supermarkets, they usually have washing up liquid, washing detergent and softener, & toilet cleaner too. Method or bioD are decent brands that some supermarkets stock, if they dont there is normally a Holland & Barrett about that has eco alternatives. Its worth looking at hand soap & shower stuff as this ends up in waterways. I stock up on bars when we go to local markets where folks make natural products (they dont take up much room & have barely any packaging to dispose of, plus an added bonus is the smell that radiates from them!). My skin has been loads better after not stripping it with harsh chemicals in conventional products.

We got a Gtech K9 handheld which has been fantastic. It is cordless, takes up very little space & has dealt with cat fur, crisp crumbs & coal dust no problem. It is probably a similar price to the Dyson, but I'd definitely recommend it. If you buy online the delivery is super fast from them directly too.