Great response All - thank you, and very much appreciated - If Im honest Im very passionate about the way of life, I have a Freeman 23 and started off with a Shetland 535, many a mile away from what I want to get into now, and a great big step, from house, to boat.
Emptying poo out on cold and frosty days, traipsing along muddy towpaths really wouldnt bother me, just need to get all this into perspective - i.e kids education, getting them to school, me getting to work - upkeep of boat, and cost, generally trying to make it all work, not just to fore fill my passion but give my family a way of life they all deserve too.
The Mrs would follow me into hells fire and back - and kids see it all as a new adventure, suppose i also need to think about a back up plan too if all else fails (back to rat race).
I have spoken to boaters on the canals even knocking on their doors to ask questions " how bloody rude" - but such nice people and all willing to give their opinion and help (rather than launch me in the canal).
Thus finding this Forum through some advice from 2 guys on a Narrow Boat Near Jinny Ring / Hanbury Canal - cheers guys.
Really would love to hear from all live aboards with Families especially, pros and cons - Dean some great wise words, as others above.
How did the kids find it Dean ? anything i need to prepare myself for ??
Thanks all again for your kind help.