While I love genuine vintage signs that are food-related, I particularly find the latest single word signs of COOK EAT DREAM or LIVE tacky and very a juvenile way of decorating........ just saying......

@sasha.G, If possible I would move the plants in off the balcony but if that's out of the question, I'm afraid I would try to get a family member or a trustworthy neighbour to give the important plants a drink over that period. I wouldn't touch the succulents at all over that period of time, they can go for months without water as you already know, let alone a few weeks. Sometimes there are "house sitters" that can be paid to look after pets that otherwise would need to go to a boarding kennel, collect the mail, mow the lawns, water plants etc... Good luck. Cheers, Barbara

you are super-patient!!! :) :) thank you :) I'm so sorry but I do actually have a couple MORE thoughts!! argh! there are just so many different options.... and this is a bit of an all consuming puzzle to try to solve. here they are: 1) study could become main bathroom - leaving new Bed 4 as per plan since it is bigger & a better size for guests. in this option, some area could be stolen from the study to boost ensuite size - even if it just made the ensuite 1 full metre. Ideally not requiring study window to change. 2) WC could potentially be separate either within this space OR at the back of the old kitchen (allowing for the remaining, longish hall wall to be shorter again) oklouise you may think some of these ideas are not very workable & I'd be so glad for your feedback & comment (and anyone else's comments as well), it's really so incredibly helpful - unbelievably helpful - to have everyone's input. i'd love recommendations on which ideas & options might work best for that balance between function & budget

The very basic foundation of having a healthy and livable home is ensuring the atmosphere at home evokes peace, joy, and happiness. This doesn’t need expensive furniture or an overhaul – you just need to make sure the atmosphere at home resembles the most natural and cleanest state you can give it. This just needs four natural elements: air, earth, water, and light. 1. Let some air in. Have a breathable home. You can do this by ensuring that everything in your home has its own space and each space has its purpose. Declutter often. Have no room for anything that doesn’t give purpose or bring you joy. 2. Bring some greens in. Indoor plants don’t only look pleasing to the eye and improve the overall aesthetics in your home, they also help purify the atmosphere. Plants take in the carbon dioxide we expel in our bodies and convert it into oxygen, the clean air we breathe! 3. Have the presence of water (or the idea of it). You might have read this in several home improvement articles: the presence of flowing water at home is a sign of luck and prosperity and also helps create a relaxing and peaceful ambiance – just like in most spas. 4. Use natural light. Of all the tips we have mentioned, the element of natural light is the most important. Don’t you notice how bright and spacious a room automatically looks when the sun hits the windows during the mornings? How calm and peaceful and promising mornings are when sunlight peeks through various locations at your home?