March 2026
This month begins with the realization that one should never open a wall that one did not build oneself. It is truly remarkable what we are discovering—and the extent to which human creativity can manifest itself!
We actually only wanted to remodel the bathroom a little – but now we can look forward to a major construction site in the areas of plumbing, electrical, and heating. This part of the house was only built in 2008-2013 – but it has some really funny installations: drains that are higher than the floor, or underfloor heating that isn't even connected, are the smallest of the construction sites. In short, this will now be our first insurance claim.
Fortunately, we have been able to find some really first-class tradespeople. And I have handed over the construction management to a tradesperson who speaks very good English. That was the best decision, because now we can move forward, even if i'm not in the house.
Guido, March 5, 2026
Summary
Another month has flown by—and, given the countless tasks, it went by very quickly. The first floor is now finished except for the small bathroom, and the lower floor is almost done. The bathroom has been gutted down to the subfloor so we can completely rebuild it from scratch. That was also a very good (and expensive) decision, since the previous owner had taken a very creative approach to the work in this case as well. Doing everything yourself isn’t always the best choice. Lilo’s “witch’s kitchen” is ready to use (except for the cabinet fronts), complete with a new freezer, refrigerator, and oven.
Not only did I manage to fill the garage to the brim with rubbish five times and get it cleared away – which was a bit tricky, as I don’t have a Danish number plate yet – but I was always dependent on help (some of which I paid for).
I went to town in the garden and drove six estate car loads of 60-litre bin bags filled with leaves and ivy to Farsø. Luckily, anyone can drive there and drop things off. It’s also great that you can take compost away for free – my garden was delighted. Now Lilo can start designing the garden. I’m sure I’ll be making another ten trips to Farsø. And for the big boys among us: I finally got to really get stuck in with the chainsaw, put the shredder and the secateurs through their paces – Yesssssss.... Nightmare on Mallevej. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find the right mask. I used to think you didn’t need something like that. Now I know: yes, you do, when you’ve got 2000 square metres of land.
Unfortunately, the flat renovation has been a bit neglected; the electrical work is done, the lights are working, the bathroom and toilet are up and running – but the kitchen is still missing. I’m still discussing this with my carpenter. I’m on it.
A very important side note: it’s storming like mad here, which makes sense, given that a country house is in the open countryside. The problem is that the place is practically at the highest point, so the wind really whistles right over it. Winds of 60–80 km/h with storm-force peaks of 95–105 km/h are possible. Long story short: I’ve planned a new project: a storm-proof greenhouse with walls and double glazing. I find it pointless having to buy 2–4 new panes after every storm because the wind has shattered them. Literally: safety glass is scattered all over the garden because the wind blows the shards about. My life’s purpose definitely consists of other tasks than chasing after shards.
In summary, an exciting project which confirms once again:
The journey is the destination.
Guido, 29 March 2026
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Seaside-break:
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The house:
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Childhood memory:
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This is so delicious: Rugfras with strawberry compote and vanilla sauce