First Day open again!

It was a cold start today  9 degrees C, not looking too good, as the days before were hot.


Elaine was at the Easter Craft fair in Castlewellan Forest park (our 24th Year!) and today we were open for the first time in Benraw.


we've spent many hours at work preparing the place, it's like the closer you get the further away the goal becomes. 


A stone wall in a piggery may look OK, and pretty sound. But when it comes to making it real internal space suitable for living and working, then the true extent of the work becomes apparent.


But at last we are now at the moment where we have a new workspace.(There's still more to do, but we are now inhabiting the space)


And it is fantastic! We have tried to keep the best of the old work, the stone walls, floor and, most important, the beautiful granite quoins and lintels.


Thanks to all who came to visit us today, and inaugurate our new home!

inside; old roof , new stove ; furniture modified to fit it's new home

 New double doors let in the southern light and give us unbroken views over the Mountains.

view from the sofa!

from the outside - see the reflection

Charlie in his element

 red kites showed up three times today - here's one soaring on a thermal.
this is the same tree as in the 'view from the sofa 'picture

old and new: the Acer planted in the picnic lawn contrasts with the May blossom by the river

At the  end of the day another 'gift'.

The bales of silage that have been our companion since August last year were taken away (without us noticing!) so clearing the upper courtyard.

This meant we could burn the last of the ivy cleared from the house.

an impromptu celebration fire
perfect!