15th - 23rd July. Back to the Canal des Vosges, then the River Moselle to Toul, where our French friends from Mussey joined us. We continued on to the Canal de La Meuse to Commercy.

Having rejoined the Canal des Vosges, we locked down with two other craft, a yacht and a cruiser. It worked very well, with the faster yacht going ahead between locks, to set the next lock, then The Puzzler going in first each time.

Early morning reflections along the Vosges.

Once out on to the Moselle, we have to beware of commercial barges. Yes, that is all one huge boat!

This brown butterfly came to see me.

Our friends from Mussey joined us in Toul, and Blandine was immediately useful in the galley (La cuisine d'un bateau!)

Meanwhile, Bernard was steering The Puzzler.

Next it was Blandine's turn. She too steered very well.

Evelyne is making sure that she knows where to go.

We stopped at Pagny, alongside Barling, another narrowboat. Deux cigars Anglais!

Paul and Pia came over to France six weeks ago, and are enjoying their continental adventure.

Pétanque was our game for the weekend, with Andy and Blandine against Bernard, Evelyne and Sally.

Soon it was out with the champagne for an aperitif!

Time for le petit déjeuner.

We are here at the second lock going down towards the Meuse. Around this lock beside the cement factory all the stonework, as well as the grass, is quite white with cement dust!

Sally, Shannon and Evelyne are relaxing in the front. (merci à Bernard)

There was no room for us at the main mooring at Commercy, so we went back past Aldi to moor here. It was a good place for pétanque, and, sadly, Andy and Blandine won again! Nous sommes désolés!

Shannon did not know what to make of Evelyne's nightshirt and bonnet, never mind the pantalons!

We were sorry to say au revoir to our French friends, but hope to see them in England next year. It has been another good weekend!