Kate, Ben and the land of funk

Our first visitors, Ben and Kate, came all the way from Australia. Enroute to Segur they were ill advised on where to change trains and so disembarked in the Dordogne. By the time we’d read the map and found out way to the station, they’d found a bar across the street and were enjoying some beers in the sunshine.

After a tour of the house Chris was quick to show Ben his drill, and fortuitously Ben was enthusiastic about forming a DIY partnership. They started simply, by Frenching up the house a bit, with hanging baskets. It seemed no job was too small. After much dinner table conversations filled with plumbing theories, due to the constant organic stench emanating from the bathroom, the boys got to work. Chris was sure the job would take bravery and the only way to start was to dismantle the entire shower. Sensible Ben, advised there is a fine line between bravery and stupidity and quickly became foreman of the “Fine Line” partnership. Although a wide diameter mouldy pipe was identified and contained, the shower is no longer structurally sound, the smell remains.

To thank Ben and Kate for all their DIY efforts we set off for a lakeside picnic and some swimming. Ben and Chris set themselves the task of establishing the depth of the lake. Kate and I basked in the sun. Ben and Kate also attended the opening of Segur’s newest (and only) nightspot “1 etage”, in our courtyard. The opening night began late afternoon, to take full advantage of the spectacular sunshine. Old school funk was played. Gin and tonic was served. Villagers, mostly over 80, watched from their windows. And according to village rumour, many were impressed by our fervor for dance!