Busy ....but all good

These are cottage centric days for us. D is at his dad's cottage this weekend. He is meeting one of the soon to be ex-owners this morning for a final walk through. Questions on list 1) How are propane fridges ventilated? 2) How is water from water tank purified? 3)Where is the water pump located in the lake? 4)Where do they hide liquor in winter? D took with him one suitcase filled with solar lamps from Ikea and another suitcase filled with bedding. I was planning to just stock up on bedding when we get there but D is quite fussy about bedding..I must say he can be quite gay about it..sheets must at least be 600 thread count and duvets must be down. I am more style over substance...so you can appreciate why bedding decisions must be made jointly and carefully. We also threw in a train set for Dylan and I am getting books and toys shipped to my sister in law's place. She has kindly offered to take anything we send to her to the lake.

I am finding stocking up a second home that is so far away and so remote to be a bit of a challenge. First, the fact that anything purchased here has to either be shipped to family or brought over when D flies there or when we all fly out in July is a serious consideration. Second, anything brought onto the island can only be disposed off at a cost. So for example, the packaging of the bedding was a serious consideration as they had to fit into a suitcase. I also had to get rid of any superfluous packaging as any trash from our cottage would need to be taken by boat to the marina (cost of time and gas) and a fee paid for the disposal of each bag of trash. Made me realise how overly packaged some items are..such a waste. Because of this disposal cost, every purchase has to be thought off in long term. So the duvet covers we had to absolutely love as they will be there for many many years. Cost was also an issue..as usual..but it is surprising how bedding for 4 beds (2 Doubles and 2 twins) can seriously add up. We also have to think about the impending necessary capital expenditures..electricity, boat, and dock ..so my thoughts on decor style over the next few years..very very cheap and chic. Think repainting old furniture with a mix of Scandi chic (Ikea-fy the sucker of a shack). So of course I head to the book store to get inspiration..why are books on cheap and chic decor so expensive??!! Seriously...