The French Renovation

We're still here! Although we've been distracted by guests, dog-sitting, harvesting and strained backs, the renovation continues in earnest. Most of our energies are being focused in the master bedroom, but the apparent slow speed of progress seems to make us even slower due to the accompanying low morale. And we're also doing this with a very limited budget, so accidentally breaking a panel of plasterboard can be more upsetting than you might imagine. Heavy lifting and leaning out at height is what takes its toll on the lower back, and Kevin and I have both suffered in this respect recently. (Okay. It's possible that our regular golf interludes on the field are at least partially to blame.) Daddy, Mummy and Baby Steps The stake This pokey-out stake needs to remain where it awkwardly is, as it appears to be playing an important role in keeping the wall stable; it's exerting a lot of possibly important pressure on the upright beam. Kevin'll work out

What's going on in the hay loft? Is it an errant cloud? Is it on fire? Is it a ghostly form?  No, it's Kevin resurrecting the ancient tractor again. Playing with the tractor is a pleasure Kevin had forgotten about. He needs a little time for play in his life of renovating. I suppose I do have my ride-on mower to provide my thrills... He said that when we return to Britain, the tractor is going with him. Hmm...