It's the summer of 2008. Three couples are on their way to England for seven weeks to navigate a narrow boat on the Avon Ring for two weeks, (110 miles and 130 plus locks), and to hike the entire length of the Thames River Path for five weeks, (184 miles). The planning is complete, reservations made, moneys paid and we're on our way to an adventure of a lifetime. With this in mind here is an introduction to the story coupled with a little history...