Excitement at Hilgar today! Restored claw foot bath has made it to the bathroom thanks to handyman husband.

Paul Kelly is going on tour to promote his new album Spring and Fall.  Supported by Urthboy, Ballarat is in for a treat as they're coming to town!  Sunday 11 August 2013 at the Regent Cinema . Contact the cinema direct for ticket sales...but not before I get mine!

Looking forward to October 2014, a town renowned for festivals and events, Ballarat will host the World Rowing Masters Regatta.  So apart from considering Hilgar as your accommodation solution, there's plenty of time for you to get your lakeside rowing outfits ready too!

What a treat to have a long weekend to spend working on Hilgar and enjoy the beautiful surrounding landscape. Despite the chilly temperatures outside, the sun did shine and inside the house was warm and cosy. 

Another treat was to arrive late Friday night to find the kitchen floor was (almost) complete so we were able to 'move in' and fully use the kitchen for the first time.  Only a week ago, when the floor restoration began, it was a task to cross the room without falling into a gapping hole.  Continue to be pleasantly surprised by the local tradespeople who come in and complete their designated 'jobs' even when we're not on site. 

And even though the bathroom was still basically out-of-action, apart from the newly installed toilet (relief!), it was so pleasant and easy being in the house and getting a feel for the different spaces. 

Big thanks to our lovely family and friends who popped in, giving a helping hand, feeding us and offering lovely praise.  All went a long way to inspire us to keep going and finish Hilgar ready for launch.  So looking forward to sharing it with you all.

Patience is a necessity during a renovation. Just when it felt like things had slowed to a snail's pace, lots of progress today: restored claw foot bath delivered, kitchen floorboards begun their restoration, bathroom & laundry tiles delivered and lighting details confirmed with the electrician. Oh and we discovered the lemon tree.