Internet connection has resumed. Life can return to normal. Thank fug for that.
As I briefly mentioned, Mat and I have moved into my flat. The ‘my’ in this context means that this is a flat that I actually own (apart from the small matter of a mortgage, but let’s not get too pedantic). I bought it a couple of years ago when I had a lump of money sitting in my bank account (how did that happen?), and since that time I have been renting it out. So, when we moved in here a couple of weeks ago, it was the first time I’ve ever actually lived in a space that I’m not renting from someone else. It’s a grownup feeling, let me tell you. Even if it is a long, long way from being my dream home – and I say that both literally and metaphorically. I have a recycling plant on my doorstep now, rather than glimpses of the Pacific Ocean. Still, let’s be positive here. The glorious Thames is only a 10 minute bike-ride away. A water feature is a water feature, right?
This little flat is my hope for getting back to Australia. Next year, if I can sell it, it should give me enough money to get back to Oz comfortably, rather than having to slink in pleading and penniless. Of course, with all the mumblings and rumblings about a recession and crashing house market, well…my plan may come slightly unstuck. In the meanwhile, I need to do whatever I can to get this place updated. It’s pretty crappy right now, and so this year I will put on a new cap and reinvent myself as Lil’ Miss DIY. Be prepared for boring stories of revamping the kitchen, and the relative merits of bath vs shower in a London-sized bathroom.
In fact, it has begun. Yesterday, I bought a new toilet seat. I even worked out how to attach it to the toilet. All by myself. It took me a very long time to unravel the logic of how to achieve this, but I did prevail. If anyone out there needs a toilet seat attaching to the throne of their abode, I am the woman for the job. I am now an experienced toilet seat fitter. Although, I probably should mention that the seat doesn’t quite fit the bowl properly. Apparently, they come in different sizes. Did you know that? I didn’t know that. I doubt the shop’s return policy includes toilet seats though, so the slightly small seat is going to stay.
There you go. DIY story number one. Be sure to stay tuned.
Oh, my travelling me, it’s a big change from riding around on the backs of camels, and haggling furiously over 50p scarves. I think I miss India.
so did you go for plain white? plushy? maybe something with some pastel flowers painted on top? i think toilet seats like that exist.
I opted for the neutral tones of varnished beech. And THAT decision took me 2 trips to the shop and 15 minutes in front of the toilet seat section. I take my responsibilities very seriously.