Easter Holiday Canoeing at Papermill Lock

What an amazing Easter weekend we have had from a weather perspective with the spring temperatures reaching 24-25 degrees. If this is the effect of global warming and climate change then best I get rid of the eco friendly electric car as I am loving the hot weather. Anyway to make the most of the glorious sunshine we dusted off the canoes for the first time in 2019 and headed off to Papermill Lock.

This could be one of the last chances I get to go canoeing with all 3 kiddies as Joshua and Brandon are getting desperate to sell their canoes and upgrade to a SUP (Stand Up Paddle board) which they learnt to use at the Stubbers Smash Camp. We had a lovely canoe from Boreham down to Papermil Lock and then enjoyed a nice picnic followed by the Tea Shop's speciality cakes. After lunch we explored the other side of the lock where there is all the white water from the waterfalls.

In all the years we have been canoeing I don't think I have ever seen so many boats on the water as there was this weekend and so many people jumping in the river to simply cool off/

Off we set on our first voyage of 2019.

Brandon wore his Fitbit which was counting rows as steps, he was very lucky though as he dropped it in the river and amazingly Joshua found it, even more amazing was the fact that it still worked.

Joshua starting to look big for his Challenger K1. Maybe it is time for a SUP.

Joshua and Brandon practicing some limbo under a low bridge.

Holly wasn't helping me row much, but did enjoy leaning over and splashing me.

Brandon wanted lots of pictures to post on his Instagram and Facebook pages.

Joshua chilling with his feet up.

So tranquil as we head down the river to Papermill Lock.

Picnic time looking out over the Lock.

Brandon getting some extra time in the water after a bite to eat.

It would be rude to not visit the tea rooms at Papermill Lock and enjoy some of their cakes.

Brandon contemplating how close he can get to the waterfalls.

Holly about to get a little splashing.

Brandon getting adventurous with some white water.

Joshua looking like a pro.

I think given the choice the boys would like to canoe down this waterfall slope.

Such beautiful scenery. Essex has some amazing places.

Another picture of Joshua at the Lock.

Holly loved our day out canoeing yesterday and wanted to go back again today.

A few seconds later and Brandon would be pushing Joshua in to the river.

Just one Cornetto, give it to Holly, all around her mouth............

Joshua the nut case spent as much time in the water as he did in his canoe. I dread to think what he will be like with a SUP.