I was very excited on Saturday when I found some new 'Union Jack' bunting for the boat. I'm technically competent to remove the old and fit the new. That's about as far as my ability stretches.
So on Sunday morning I went to the boat to complete my task. But before I had the time to even get the scissors out, Martin arrived.
He was coming over for the very important removal-of-the-motor that I thought I'd better leave well in the hands of his superior competency and ability.
We - or rather, he - detached whatever bits and bobs were necessary to be detached - and we carefully lifted the 9.9hp motor over the top of the boat, across the gangplank, and into my van, ready for delivery to the Suzuki dealer for its first service.
The 12th April is now focused in my brain as the date I have to have everything ship-shape by. For that's when I will be receiving some very special guests from the boat-publication world so they can complete their special feature about my Boat For My Potplants.
The motor needs to be back in place, of course.
The windscreen could do with a repaint.
The radio studio should be functioning.
The new geraniums have to be planted.
And, to be sure, the British flag bunting will be majestically flapping in the breeze along the side of the potplanters.
Of course I also have to re-fit the motor after its service has been carried out.
