Oak Furniture

I was taking my borrowed doggy pal for walkies recently when we had to stop by a nearby house to collect something.  We were invited in with hearty enthusiasm.  It’s funny how friendly evryone is when you’re being tugged along by a small Irish Wolfhound.   I was a tad anxious about the dog being allowed … Read more

At the start of spring, when the more awful of the winter weather has finally swanned off elsewhere, it can be very tempting to whizz out and buy up any old patio set for the garden.  There are so many mismatched suites gumming up the space that should be as neat and elegant as the … Read more

When we talk about home interiors it is usually the design, colour scheme or the furnishing ensemble that takes much of our interet.  We are bombarded by television and magazine advertising campaigns to visit this store or that and to have these windows or that furniture.  There are millions and millions of pounds spent every … Read more

There are many things about modern living that differ greatly from when I was growing up.  In those days   we were expected to eek out Dad’s income by growing all our own fruit and vegestables.  This was quite normal for many families anyway – there being far less shops available, we would have gone pretty … Read more

When you open your garden for local village neighbours to visit for a fund raiser, it is critical to include somewhere for your patrons to sit and while away the odd few minutes with that all essential cup of tea and selection of home made cakes.   Having toured a set of gardens recently, I was … Read more

I know of a dear old lady up the road who has sadly lost her hubby this summer.  She’s trying hard to be cheerful and not get mournful but it is seriously difficult.   There were so many things they used to do together, the list seems to be endless and travelling was high on it.  … Read more

When I was recent travels I had the chance to look round the nearly completed villa of an English couple near Paphos.   They bought the plot fifteen years ago and have gradually got the palace of their dreams.  Or not as it turns out.  In reality it has taken on nightmare qualitities, not only for … Read more

I was visiting a fairly new acquaintance – during the first easings of the national lockdown.  Whilst socially distancing I was very keen to see their garden, which I’d heard a lot about from other folk who’d experienced this well lit and landscaped joy.   To be able to visit an ordinary family home with a … Read more

It can be difficult to get the right amount of lighting at home, both in the house and more especially, in the garden.  At least indoors  you can employ a table or side lamp, perhaps an angle poise on a springy arm – bringing flexible lighting temporarily just where it’s needed.  This isn’t quite as … Read more