It’s been a while I know, but here I am, back again reporting on life in the Spicer household.

Let me start by saying I am the proud possessor of a new kitchen, but not just a new kitchen you understand. The kitchen project snowballed in a slightly alarming but very satisfactory manner. I think house renovations are a bit like plastic surgery or tattoos, you start with a small tweak and suddenly it’s become addictive and in no time at all in addition to a new kitchen you have new windows and doors (internal and external), a new boiler and new radiators throughout the house (and let’s not mention the decorating and soft furnishings). Catering is still slightly stunned at the speed with which the renovation escalated from one room to a complete overhaul of almost the entire house. I think his need for me to have something other than him to focus on during Lockdown 3.0, resulted in him forgetting my ability to take an idea and run with it.  

It hasn’t been all plain sailing, but we are really nearly done, well at least for the time being (I told you it was addictive). My plans for the utility room and my office (OMG I forgot Catering is no longer a squatter in the boys’ playroom, but has a newly refurbished office) have been put temporarily on hold while we catch our breath and see whether we can still afford to eat.

There is still the small issue of the radiators (currently we don’t have any) but I am reliably informed the new ones have now arrived (that boat which blocked the Suez Canal has a lot to answer for) and will be fitted next week – or maybe the week after.

We are still speaking (though there have been a few tense moments) and the alterations to the house have completely changed the way we use the space. Phil & Kirsty, if you’re reading, I think you would be very proud.