It’s just a material object that I can’t take with me but it has given me much more than a home… this adventure began back in 2009 and although I wouldn’t like to relive the experience again (never say never hey!) what I have gained has been priceless!

I know it sounds odd but I found myself through this renovation project. I have learnt dedication, visualization, determination, resilience, how to be a team with my hubby, new skills and that you can learn anything off a youtube video (well nearly anything)!! I truly believe if you put your mind to something you can achieve anything you desire!

I’ll always be thankful to the individuals who showed us true selflessness by giving their time to help us (a couple with their heads in the clouds who knew nothing about renovating, thank god for Dad 😉 ).

We’ve just celebrated our 5th Christmas here and still now this place I call home continues to remind me of the strength and determination I possess and for that I will be forever thankful, to our home, in a little village, in the middle of the French countryside. Wherever we go a piece of my heart will stay within these walls.

It’s so true, we often miss opportunity because it’s dressed in overalls and looks like work! I remember listening to the wonderful Jim Rohn one evening while decorating and he said – “Whether you stay six weeks, six months or six years, always leave it better than you found it.” This has now become my philosophy.

Through this project, I found out what I love to do. I also started my first library of books, tried my hand at gardening, landscaping, tiling, decorating, interior design, styling and much much more. We have had so many special times and made some wonderful memories as well as shed some tears (and gained a few grey hairs!!) but all the ups and downs have shaped me and I’m so glad our path brought us to this wonderful place!

When I look back at the before and after pictures (I’ll be sure to share some of these soon), one side makes me think “what the hell were you thinking” and the other “wow look where we are now!!”

I realised along the way that I am a work in progress just like this house, you can’t be perfect in an instant and you probably never will be, you’ll always have imperfections but as long as you keep progressing life will only get better!

So stay strong with whatever you are pursuing and in the moments when you would just rather give up remember how far you’ve come and know the finish line is much nearer than you think.

With love,
Christina x