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<p>It has become a regular feature of Autumn and Winter - the garden alongside the drive becomes water-logged. The water table is close to the surface and after weeks of heavy rain the pond turns into lake.</p>
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<p>The Ash tree, seen here on the right, should have been removed by now but the tree fellers cannot get near enough to the trunk without ruining the lawn.</p>
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<p>All I can do is wait for it to subside.</p>
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<p>The house will be ten years old in April next year. The paintwork in the living space was overdue a refresh. I tried contacting several decorators before finding Jess. She started on Monday and finished Friday and did a really good job. She was reasonably priced and I will definitely use her again.</p>
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<p>While the work was being done I spent my time during the day in the study. Although I coped practically it made me feel claustrophobic. Getting the space back into order wasn't straightforward. The blinds in particular were a bit of a mess but I sorted them out in the end. I'm also need to review the paintings on the wall.</p>
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<p>Even when it's raining I can get out into the workshop and get on with jobs. In the past week I've spent time splitting old wood ready for kindling.</p>
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<p>I think this box load should last until the New Year and I will have to start again. You can never have enough kindling.</p>
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