Preparing for take off

"So, V****** exactly why do we need reproduction hydraulic windows at £1500 apiece in a corridor opposite a kitchen?" asked D***** during discussions of finishings and fittings. The episode seemed to epitomise the difference between them and made us glad that we have D***** working for us. They were both here yesterday, D***** the project manager who separates the feasible from the desirable and V***** the architect who... doesn't.

The kitchen in question is currently an empty room with a mediaeval hoist device in the corner. The more I look at this thing, the more I want it replaced. It's ancient, unhygienic and leaves your fingers full of hemp rope splinters when you operate it. D**** is costing a replacement. The fact that we're re-using a lot of kit (fryers, cooker, dishwasher etc) will save a bit off the budget and might leave enough for a small electric hoist. The windows discussed above are in the corridor opposite the kitchen. They are single glazed and painted up, but reasonably sound. They're old style sash windows without ropes or weights - you just lift the sash up and a wee metal arm holds it open.

Bedroom layout's being finalised. The new breakfast/dining room is being discussed and the function room wall...

Well, we nearly have a price for that. Steel price is the sticking point - all China's fault due to their using lots of steel and shoving the price up. We should have a quote by Friday though.

Eight hungry road workers staying with us this week in addition to the Luddon crew who have been with us since October. I have eight full breakfasts to do at 7.30 am tomorrow, so I'd better get some shut-eye. Goodnight!