The end of an era
Over eighteen months have passed since I last posted on here. The first reason is that Villa Nettie proved to be incredibly successful as a romantic holiday getaway. From the moment she went online, right up today, she’s nearly fully booked even in the winter months partly due to the cosy log burner that Stephane installed (more of that later). I’ve been busy and just so delighted to share this little corner of paradise with visitors to our little town in the Cotentin.
The second reason is that just before my last post in February 2019, Stephane fell ill. I knew from the beginning something was seriously wrong. He wasn’t the kind of person to be sick, he was the most consistent person I know, in a world full of unreliable people. He knew just what to say when a friend of the family died. He turned up when he said he would, even when he must have been feeling dreadful. Installing the log burner was one of the last projects he completed at the house. He was a unique, charismatic figure and a central part of the life I’m building in France. Stephane died in July 2019, and his death was earth shattering for all who knew and loved him. So, you’ll understand why I haven’t felt like posting. His presence in my life during the course of this renovation and several others besides is intrinsically intertwined with my projects. He was a fantastically creative and hard-working person.
Lastly, Covid-19. Our lives and my burgeoning rentals business came screeching to a halt in March 2020. Barfleur became a ghost town. Policeman roamed the streets demanding to see a written attestation to go out every time you left the house. Neighbours suspected neighbours. In this seaside town that saw many deaths of resistance fighters during the war, it felt like a siege. But the community felt strong, and I made new friends and formed bonds with the small community who live here year-round that I know will endure.
I’d love to tell you that writing was a solace, but in fact I didn’t feel much like sharing. Too much of my life here was bound up with Stephane and the projects we planned together, including a possible new build in the south.
One of my first posts was called ‘new beginnings’ and I’m planning a new beginning. I’ll be leaving Barfleur (but not Villa Nettie) and planning a new life somewhere sunny. Still in France, but in the Mediterranean. I’m going to buy a plot, and build an eco home on it, just as Stephane and I discussed. And I’m planning to walk there with my dog. A pilgrimage if you like.
Not only did Stephane change my life for the better, but my little dog Youna has too. We’ve had many solo adventures since my last post, wild camping and roaming the many beautiful long distance walks in France. So, I dedicate this post to Stephane with love and thanks. And I’m toasting new beginnings. Please join me.
Photo credit Patrick Hendry on Unsplash
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