Wee Jasper

Some people may recognise this name on a sign post that you pass as you drive towards the ski fields. If you don't remember seeing it, look out for it the next time you are travelling near Canberra. Well, this name is no longer just a sign to a small country town... it is now more affectionately known as the inspiration for the newest addition to the Carruthers family, Jasper.


I had an enjoyable Sunday with the Carruthers clan, including Deb, Tris, Lynne, John & weeee Jasper. After the morning service at their local Anglical church, we were treated to a home-cooked roast, complete with yorkshire puddings... a roast is just not a roast without these delights - thanks Lynne! Unfortunately I wasn't able to lend a hand in the kitchen as I had they were otherwise occupied. :)

In the afternoon, we had an afternoon stroll in the nearby Cassiobury Park. Canals are a way of life for many in the UK and travelling along these waterways can be hard work. After talking through the mechanics just a few minutes beforehand, we had the opportunity of watching a few people navigate their way through one of the many locks which separates the varying levels of water along the canals.

Here's a step by step guide on how to conquer a lock...
Step 1. Make sure you have some strong muscles on board - very important in any situation! :)
Step 2. Open the first gate and pull your boat into the lock.
Step 3. Once inside, close the first gate & open the paddles on the second gate to let the water drain downstream.
Step 4. Once the water levels in the lock are level with downstream, open the second gate and exit.
(OK... so this is not rocket science, but it was good to watch in any case!)