Major upheaval, good result.

A chance remark to my husband has resulted in many weeks of dust, noise and general chaos. This little stone birdbath outside our study window attracts all kinds of birds and its fun to watch them splashing and bathing, especially in warm weather (I wish). Last April, in a mad enthusiastic moment, I said to my husband "Wouldn't it be lovely to have a new French window in the study that would give us a better view of the garden".

When it comes to the possibility of DIY I can rely on my splendid spouse to make an immediate beeline for his toolbox and begin exploring all kinds of possibilities, especially if the idea requires demolition work and a new window certainly would. Along with the old window, large parts of the outside wall would need removing. The walls are solid stone and 2ft thick so the job would require plenty of stamina and staying power.

And so the idea began to take shape and a new oak French window was made by our clever local joiner. Cupboards, fireplace, radiator, wall sockets (and keyholes) were all sealed behind a protective layer of plastic and in August work started. Over the weeks dust has managed to find its way into every available orifice and now several weeks down the line it has invaded the entire house.
     


But thankfully we are on the home straight and the original oak floor, until now hidden by carpet. is being polished.

The walls have been painted and the new window frame has been varnished.

And after all the upheaval and expense I'm happy to say we love the result and do get a much better view of the garden. The birdbath, as you can see, sits centre stage. So now I'm looking forward to being able to sit down with a nice cup of tea and good book and watch the playful birds enjoying the birdbath as I first imagined all those months ago. I will invite you back when its finally finished.

Comments

[Martha]

Your garden is beautiful...What a perfect view you have now. Definitely worth the dust!
:o)

[carolyn]

As well as having such a great view of the birds you are just going to love flinging those doors open in the summer.

[Michele]

What a splendid job done Eli!
Oh to have a man who love D.I.Y. My darling beloved thinks this stands for 'Don't involve yourself' and instantly disappears if I mention anything to do with drills or nails!
It will be a wonderful place to sit and watch the season change.. Enjoy!

Michele x

[Paula]

Dear Eli,

You have such a beautiful garden and I love that stone birdbath! The windows are gorgeous and afford you with a perfect view! Your husband is very talented!

Have a lovely day!
Paula

[Redwood House]

Hi Eli
well what a delight, that fabulous garden full of autumn colour and that bird bath is a winner.
We get so much pleasure from the birds in our garden as I am sure you do. Your Mr. is a very clever bloke I am very fortunate to have one that enjoys! similar projects although on our old property the jobs can pile up a bit sometimes.
Certainly worth every speck of dust.
Jan

[Suzanne]

Just lovely! What a lovely view indeed. May I pop in for tea:-)

[Selia]

Dear Eli,

What a beautiful view to sit and dream by...You two did a wonderful job! I love the birdbath with the moss growing on it. So pretty.

Blessings,
Selia