Travels to France and the Charente
After
a rough few months we headed south for the sun to see our friends and enjoy the
benefits of the area.
Then its another game of cards, this time a board game called Sequence with Ivan and Carol.
Ivan has been really busy, finishing off lots of different aspects of the house. The wooden floors had been fitted, bathroom and shower room done. And real masterpiece, sleek modern and bright. The new windows, patio doors and shutters are a real asset. The electric roller blinds are so so sensible. You don't have to open the windows and let the cold in whilst you pull the wooden shutters closed.
Another night, another trip, this town to a French friend MARIE, in the deepest darkest forest. I just don't know how she manages to live by herself in such a place, but her B&B does really well. I am not surprised, its such an interesting place. Loads of intriguing bits of furniture punctuated with individual objects.
She is so inventive, using old windows on shelves to give the effect of a large glazed kitchen armoire.
She had invited some of our AECL friends, so it was great to catch up over an interesting dinner with good wines in a unique surround.
Trust me to get the job of opening up all the wine. A little over the top for just five of us!
OK, its another selfy. But it encompasses what used to be a special Saturday morning of our past, shared with friends. A reminder of days with our dear friend, Ruth, who is now enjoying her life in South Africa. And one shared with Barry and Val. A great opportunity to once again catch up on what has been happening this past eighteen months since our departure.
Unfortunately, l forgot to photograph the bedroom before we did all the hard work. But this is as l finish it off. The ceiling has been dropped down, plasterboard fitted, with the help of Brian, Judith and Tony. Plastered joints, rendered back and sides of the chimney, and insulation fitted to make the room more cosy and warm.
Then of course there were the film nights, with the accompanying suppers and popcorn. Hitchcock and a Mike special, Summer Stock, a Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer musical made in 1950. The film was directed by Charles Walters and stars Judy Garland and Gene Kelly and features Eddie Bracken, Gloria DeHaven, Marjorie Main, and Phil Silvers. A great return to comedy and music, and a sober Judy Garland.
More dinners, the odd lunch and a few get together's for a quick chat and a recap of events. A walk into the fresh air around Catherine and Brian's.
Lunch with Alan and Christian and a look at their new carport and atelie. In fact its amazing, more like an addition of a new visitor wing.
managed to get onto Face Time for the first time. Apples alternative to Skype, easier to use and no voice delay. Far better than paying for a telephone call.
Stayed with Jo and
Tony whilst we assisted in removing the large Charentaise fire place and lowering
the ceiling. Nevertheless, we managed to get out in the evenings and enjoy the usual hospitality.
Quarterly Dinner at the Tosh's with salted cold, glorious
As you can see we had a few photos of the event
Then cards, Canasta with Claudia and Roger. Well after a good chat, a few drinks and an excellent dinner.
Ivan has been really busy, finishing off lots of different aspects of the house. The wooden floors had been fitted, bathroom and shower room done. And real masterpiece, sleek modern and bright. The new windows, patio doors and shutters are a real asset. The electric roller blinds are so so sensible. You don't have to open the windows and let the cold in whilst you pull the wooden shutters closed.
Another night, another trip, this town to a French friend MARIE, in the deepest darkest forest. I just don't know how she manages to live by herself in such a place, but her B&B does really well. I am not surprised, its such an interesting place. Loads of intriguing bits of furniture punctuated with individual objects.
She is so inventive, using old windows on shelves to give the effect of a large glazed kitchen armoire.
She had invited some of our AECL friends, so it was great to catch up over an interesting dinner with good wines in a unique surround.
Trust me to get the job of opening up all the wine. A little over the top for just five of us!
OK, its another selfy. But it encompasses what used to be a special Saturday morning of our past, shared with friends. A reminder of days with our dear friend, Ruth, who is now enjoying her life in South Africa. And one shared with Barry and Val. A great opportunity to once again catch up on what has been happening this past eighteen months since our departure.
Unfortunately, l forgot to photograph the bedroom before we did all the hard work. But this is as l finish it off. The ceiling has been dropped down, plasterboard fitted, with the help of Brian, Judith and Tony. Plastered joints, rendered back and sides of the chimney, and insulation fitted to make the room more cosy and warm.
Then of course there were the film nights, with the accompanying suppers and popcorn. Hitchcock and a Mike special, Summer Stock, a Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer musical made in 1950. The film was directed by Charles Walters and stars Judy Garland and Gene Kelly and features Eddie Bracken, Gloria DeHaven, Marjorie Main, and Phil Silvers. A great return to comedy and music, and a sober Judy Garland.
More dinners, the odd lunch and a few get together's for a quick chat and a recap of events. A walk into the fresh air around Catherine and Brian's.
Lunch with Alan and Christian and a look at their new carport and atelie. In fact its amazing, more like an addition of a new visitor wing.
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| Judith caught on camera whilst tucked up in bed whilst playing on her ipad. |
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| Possibly our next French property. A summer hide away |
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