December 2009

Dear Friends,
what a month it has been!
It started with the final gasps of clearing the 3 acres of gorse thanks to the assistance of Gonzague from France.
Kate unfortunately took ill and had to return to Melbourne for specialist medical treatment. I was left to my own devices and decided to undertake one of the projects that had been on the " too do" list for over 2 years- the cleaning and staining of the extensive decking and the spa.
What a challenge unfolded! The first section was stained with a paint brush- it was only after visiting the St. Helen's Hardware Store that I realized that you can actually use a lambswool applicator on the end of a stick. The job became far quicker and easier overnight!
Sadly I was forced to take the 2 puppies down to the RSPCA in Launceston to help find them a new home. They had started to escape from their pen whilst I was away from the property and the thought of having to tie them up was not an option. We must all be free! Sadly living in a rural area with livestock all around us the responsability of dog owners is to keep them secured within the property otherwise" Rule 303" applies.
I felt that the best and kindest option was to find them a safe enviroment in a suburban area with secure fencing and a loving home- C'est La Vie" as the French say.
Tomorrow see's Tomas from Spain arriving for a 2 week stay . At least yours truelly will have some company for Xmas and I am sure many new projects will be attended to.
We are fully booked with Helpers now till March 2010 so the property will continue to improve and take shape.
Life is difficult for a perfectionist!
Look forwards to keeping you all posted of developments,
Love and Life,
Andre