Craig continued with his security work - fitting sensor lights, building doors for the workshop etc. He was determined that we wouldn't be caught out again. We discovered that we weren't the first people to be burgled around this area, and some friends called a meeting of similarly concerned people to discuss the problems. It was decided that the Mairie would be approached as it was felt that the Police were maybe not connecting all the information as the victims were in different communes, so different Police Stations were involved.
The Mairie was in fact very sympathetic and helpful, and agreed to have a chat with the necessary authorities - nothing came of this 'chat' though sadly, and we have recovered nothing, but has made us pull our socks up, and stop being so complacent and quite as trusting - how sad !
Craig had a significant birthday, and although I wanted to surprise him with a trip back to the UK to see the children and grandchildren to celebrate, I couldn't actually spring it on him in the end, as we had to prepare to leave the house and animals. It is not an easy task, as those of you in a similar situation will know - we have to arrange for someone to come here to feed and water the chickens and rabbits, and then find a 'home' for Arthur too. We could take him with us as he has the necessary paperwork, and he loves going in the car, but it would disturb his routine, and our friends love having him on a short term basis (well, they say they do !).
Anyway, we had a lovely few days. It is always fun, and hectic, seeing everyone and catching up, but sadly, it is not possible to visit everyone, and needless to say, someone gets left out....but of course, not forgotten. The journey home is always a little sad, but then you have the promise of returning home, and the new found energy to start again and push on.
We had our first snow too !! It was very cold, but very beautiful in the lanes and hedgerows - however, it lasted just a few hours. We had received photos from the Winter of 2010/2011 from our neighbours, when the roads were impassable due to the snow, but as of yet (as I write, we are coming to the end of our 3rd Winter here) we have had nothing like that. We are always prepared - we keep a Weather Forecast app on the computer, and any signs of snow/ frost etc in the next few days, has us checking the fuel for the fires, animal feed, and our own supplies 'just in case'. It never hurts to be prepared - can't you just tell I was a Girl Guide !
While we were away, we made the decision to have the ceilings plastered in the bedroom, snug, landing, bedroom and bathroom. It is one of the only jobs that Craig doesn't feel confident to attempt. Because it is a 'visible' job - one that everyone will see, we decided that we would 'get a man in'. In fact, it was two men ! But the mess and disruption was horrible - well worth it afterwards, but not good at the time ! It took three days in all, from start to finish, when we could get back to normal, and clear up again. However, once again, it made another huge difference, and gave us another boost.
The study was plaster boarded, and the bedroom was prepared for decorating. Craig came up with this ingenious idea of bedside lighting to avoid having lamps, and the accompanying trailing wires. I was very impressed, as I hate the clutter, and it makes it a clearer surface - what do you think eh ? I'm not sure the pictures do them justice, but you get the idea !
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