Seeking a second home, Bob & Abi found a dilapidated old country house with 6 acres in a tiny hamlet surrounded by mountains deep in the Hautes Corbieres; a region where ruined Cathar fortresses rise starkly against the skyline and place names are in both French & Occitan. Set in magnificent scenery within a protected forestry area that is a haven for wildlife and with a climate varying from snowy winters to summer Canicules, the location has a timeless atmosphere. A selection from several years of humorous & informative e-mails accompanied by over 60 B/W photos chronicles their purchase & renovation and how they became part of a close knit community whilst overcoming numerous logistical & technical problems to realize their ideal.