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...

This was the delightful, typical-looking loft in cottage #1, where we now live. As is the French tradition, we emptied it, as it wasn't quite to our taste... That same space now houses our bathroom and the guest bedroom, which, in these photos, has been set up for a visit from the grandchildren! Much more comfortable, wouldn't you say?

August. Family members from the UK arrive, excited to be enjoying some sunshine and a splash about in the pool. You're guaranteed good weather in the South West of France, of course...  No. Clouds prevailed, the small pool was ice-cold. What to do? At times like these, Kevin reaches for his pencil and notebook and sketches a solution. And here it is... Et voila!  AUTUMN WATCH INTERLUDE Praying mantis  After spending hours every week since April trying to keep the seven acres mown, suddenly, it just stopped growing. The dandelion pretender, Cat's Ear, however, hasn't! Finally mowed it down yesterday after a three week respite... Hey! Where are you going with that walnut? There's very little renovation work to share with you... It's been a time of holidaying with family and friends! Upstairs, a landing is starting to emerge... And the master bedroom has received a little bit of attention s...