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Experience

Life lived to the full

Liz R's contribution to our Stay Home collecting project
22/05/2020

My house was built in 1769, it has a builder's datestone on the front. It also had a sun insurance plaque.

I have lived here for 40 years and my sons all grew up here. It is a detached three storey property with a large garden.

Now I am on my own and rattle around far too much. We bought the house as a ruin and have restored everything in it. It is a bit like the Forth Road bridge, always needing something doing.

Take part in our Stay Home collecting project

Unfinished jigsaw on a table
The dining room with one of my jigsaws, I wouldn't normally do jigsaws but this is a lockdown peculiarity!

In what ways has the coronavirus pandemic changed the way you use your home?

Just being here all the time has been challenging as I'm usually away as much as possible. However I am very fortunate to have this amazing space with loads to do. Windows to clean, floors to walk, walks to paint and window frames to restore.

How do you feel about your home? How have these feelings changed?

I love this house as everything in it reminds me of my late husband. It is so full of happy memories and a life lived to the full.

Dog on rug in front of fire
The dog lying in front of the fire in the sitting room

How does staying at home affect your relationships?

I'm missing my grandchildren and they are missing being in my house. It is a great place for children with lots of hide holes and space to play.

What do you appreciate most about your home? What do you find frustrating?

The space around me and my neighbours are brilliant. The fact that there is always work to do is a bit frustrating as I find it difficult to do many of the jobs that need doing.

How has lockdown changed your habits or routines at home?

Just being here is different. I usually spend two or three days at a time here, then go away for a while.

How is your sense of home affected by your neighbours or those living nearby?

My neighbours are amazing. This is a typical English village with everyone looking out for each other.

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