My, my, how time flies.
It seems like only three months ago when we arrived back at our little bucolic Gallic hideaway. Now we are putting stuff away, packing our bags, tidying everything that needs to be tidied, and making sure that the garden is in a suitable state to face the Winter months.
We have closed-down the pool. This involved treating the water, covering everything with a strong tarpaulin, and making sure that all the mechanical stuff is mouse-proofed and frost-proofed. It's a depressing procedure, but one we've done many times before.
The cottage is very much a farm-house. The downstairs floor is always a bit messy with bits of grass cuttings, leaves, and dog hair, but we accept this as part of cottage life, and simply brush or mop when required. The big old fireplace is home to piles of messy logs, and cobwebs are just about everywhere. We are probably not as 'house-proud' as we ought to be; but there's little point. It's probably how the house has always been throughout its 300 year history. This now changes before we leave, and we make sure that everything is spotless before we lock the doors.
We always also make sure there are plenty of survival foods around when we leave; tins of paté, sardines, tuna, beans, and cassoulet, and plenty of wine/champagne. There are also plenty of logs for the fire.
We make sure that all the bedroom windows are securely closed, and we fix all the security devices. After our recent burglary we take no chances. I would like to have the place strung with 'trip-wires' attached to a shotgun trigger, but I'm told that's not allowed.
We're passing the baton to Kimbo (above) these days, he is more capable of looking after the place than we are; and he loves it here. Hopefully he, his siblings, and their children, will have many more years, or decades, of fun here.
This little old house is by far the friendliest I've ever owned; and it pains me to leave.
When The Magnons return to Blighty, the swallows are heading south. These are sure signs that summer is over. I hope you have a safe drive back.
ReplyDeleteWe always used to see the Cranes flying South, but I think we're a bit early for them. Yes, I too hope we have a peaceful journey.
DeleteSummer seems to have flown by. I hope you have a good journey home.
ReplyDeleteThank you Carol. Kimbo will be doing 99% of the driving, so we should be able to relax. It's about 8 hrs on the road.
DeleteSafe travels back. Good that you have a designated driver.
ReplyDeleteYes. I sit back, eat sweets, and snooze!
DeleteSounds pretty good to me, though I would read.
DeleteSo sorry it's all over for another year. Fingers crossed for 2027.
ReplyDeleteSo happy Kimbo has taken the wheel for the return trip. Sweets and snoozing sounds ideal for a long journey. Do you not have to be concerned with the tinned foods freezing over the winter, or are you far enough south? Wishing you all a very safe and easy journey Cro.
ReplyDeleteDream of next summer.
ReplyDeleteYou have the best of both worlds. Two homes in totally opposite settings. Pity the year cannot be divided more equally. Safe journey back.
ReplyDeleteI love the description of the inside of your home. Dog fur and bits of grass. It sounds lived in and comfortable. Ours is similar. Cobwebs everywhere. It's too hot to fret.
ReplyDeleteBut now you have to clean, shut up and leave. Your summer has really flown. Bitter sweet indeed. It's comforting to know you have Kimbo who loves your family estate and will keep it in good nick. And to help your transfer.
Did you build that stair railing?
Enjoy these last summer days. 9 months and you'll be back!!!
Serious question. Why don't you apply for a six months visitors visa? People from Canada and the US do it every year. Those six months would give you more freedom to come and leave as you please.
ReplyDeleteI think 6 months is a better idea but it's probably not easy to achieve. I feel sad for you having to leave. Kimbo is a lovely son.
ReplyDelete