The girls had their early May school break, and we had planned some time ago to go to France to relax, but also to make the house and garden ready for the summer. But with Mary's recent hernia operation everything was uncertain, as she was not allowed to sit up for a long time. A few days before we got the go-ahead from her doctor, and we turned the car into an ambulance again, by moving the chairs around and putting a mattress in the back. The disadvantage was that Piet had to drive by himself, but with plenty of breaks it turned out to be a smooth ride.
The house was in good shape and we quickly settled into our routines. Mary continued her rehabilitation by doing long walks in the flat valley, followed by stretching exercises and long rests on our garden bed. The weather was beautiful, and Mary managed to get a healthy colour. During the week her mobility greatly improved and she even did some painting during the last days.
The girls occupied themselves with the village horses Swallow and Image, who were allowed to eat the grass in our garden together for the first time... they were always kept separate. Paula and Dorien also hooked up with Cecile again, had riding lessons and helped with the horses. Cecile ("their French mum") is always looking forward to their arrival, as they like to stay on to play card and board games.
Piet occupied himself with the bikes, and the grass in the garden. This needed to be cut, to prevent an unmanageable job in the summer. And Mary's noisy tools had to stay in the shed... Piet also made some long rides on his bike, in preparation for two cycling tours later this spring. In short a good, relaxing break, with beautiful weather. After a long drive home it is time for our daily routine again, and for some mess in the house, as the long awaited renovation of the top floor has started.
Paula is training Image in our garden
Image and Swallow are enjoying the grass in our garden, together at last...
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