I'M EVICTED FROM THE CHATEAU!

[@volleter]

Hi Stéphanie, I'm French. What I understand from the document you have is that it is not written "néanmoins différents objets qui tiennent plus à la décoration qu'à la défense sont *PROSCRITS* par la loi (=illegal)" but "néanmoins différents objets qui tiennent plus à la décoration qu'à la défense sont *PRESCRITS* par la loi (=recommended by law)"... It is the perfect opposite. I think that some work on the Chateau was prescribed by law. That traduction, explains why right after this sentence the author explains how these modifications can be made without "damaging the castle". EDIT : I now have the answer ! During the French Revolution (1792), a decree of the National Convention, ordered the destruction of the fortified castles and fortresses of the interior to preserve public peace. It excluded from this destruction the castles which no longer carried "means of resistance". So they imposed structural modifications which led, at Chateau de La Lande, to tear down the drawbridge and fill in the gaps (also called "chemins couverts"). The document you have is a report from a military engineer who prescribes to the local directoire the modifications to be made to La Lande so that it is no longer a fortress. EDIT - EDIT : Hey it's me again ! (lol) After a night of reflection, my opinion is that it is probably written "proscrits par la loi" (=illegal) but the author (the military engineer) admits that these fortifications were certainly more aesthetic (to give La Lande the appearance of a fortified castle) than operational. However, their destruction were still necessary to comply with the decision of the National Convention for the preservation of public peace : a drawbridge that is not or cannot be used remains a drawbridge in the eyes of law, the same for covertways.

[@nicoleanouar]

Well done! This is fascinating! Thanks for sharing :)

[@toddekstrom7963]

Well done. That makes sense to me.

[@dianetaylor4256]

Wow great research. So interesting! Thanks for sharing.

[@giteducalme]

How interesting 👍

[@jf1a8x1]

Wow! That was quick work! And fascinating!

[@ledesignco]

I love the way your architect thinks. A moat of blue flowers sounds magical.

[@christinal.suarez1838]

Nigella!

[@suzannetownsend1757]

I've seen it done in a Japanese garden it looks amazing x

[@flyndas]

Imagine having all 3. Water features mirrors and flower beds

[@PalmBeachPrincess1]

I googled moats and sometimes they were just a dry ditch meant to slow down attacks, not water filled unless there was a water source nearby. I'm curious if a water moat would attract bugs or be a danger to small animals that could possibly get stuck in it. On the other hand, sometimes they were stocked with fish for eating. And the fun idea would be to have gondola rides in the moat.

[@raffaellavitiello1762]

Blue bells and iris

[@tiffytattoo2450]

I don't like the mirror idea. It can distract birds or, worse, might burn something with the light in an unfortunate angle. I really like the idea of blue flowers!

[@christinevr7698]

I feel the same way.

[@ericjohnson4825]

Distract birds? From what?

[@eledatowle7128]

Not to mention they could shatter, causing harm to unsuspecting animals or human guests. Mirrors outside sounds like a terrible idea! If she meant metal ones (that couldn't shatter), they'd get very hot in summer and could damage the flora around them, as well as burn anyone that touches them. Flowers - Please, flowers. Or the small decorative ponds that someone mentioned (although I think keeping them clean and filled would be a chore).

[@carolwest6095]

@@ericjohnson4825 I've seen territorial birds attack their reflection and hurt themselves

[@tiffytattoo2450]

@@ericjohnson4825 ever had a cute little bird crash on your window? Don't know if it's possible with mirrors, but I wouldnt risk it...

[@JustSaralius]

A tip from someone with chronic fatigue to anyone who needs it - Start trying to identify the things in your life that give you energy as well as the things that drain you. It can be anything - big or small; an activity, a person, a pet, a place or hobby etc. Reflect on how you spend your energy and what you get in return. You can even make a spreadsheet or write a diary and divide things into plus and minus (or gain vs. drain). If you find yourself doing things that drain your energy faster than you can replenish it (or if you suffer from an illness or disability which affects your energy reserves) it's important to cut down on those things and replace some of them with things that give you some power back. Remember that you are enough and that your worth is "not" related to you productivity level! You are allowed to just *be* and there is value in that too. It takes time and things may change a lot depending on different circumstances, but knowing yourself and your limits is always valuable! Energy balance can help prevent burn-out and help with many kinds of recovery as well. Don't forget: Self-care and self-love is not selfish. If you are not well, it affects your loved ones as well as you. And actually, there's nothing wrong with being a bit selfish - you can't live life solely for other people. As Oscar Wilde said: 'Everything in moderation, including moderation.' Nobody has a perfectly balanced life and that is perfectly human. Be kind to yourself - you don't always have to try your very best.

[@wendyhart8968]

Well said.

[@chasethecat3839]

TY. A NICE GUFT for those who hear it. I needed to HEAR it. I hope a certain other person hears too..hint hint...

[@chasethecat3839]

You too Nattie

[@uribheidi]

Is that what Stephanie is recovering from?

[@pdq5465]

That is such excellent, well explained advice. Nice of you to share it. Very kind.

[@trevorward9680]

Hey Stephanie what about reflective solar panels for the moat.....fuel the home while creating a moat illusion.

[@wwpajerocat7292]

This is a great idea!

[@jeanninef2110]

Great idea!! Oh! Except maybe in winter months.

[@whynotguessit]

exactly what my first thought was when they were talking about "something reflective" for the moat.

[@kateportillo5767]

My thoughts as well

[@bevbond6152]

Genius idea. Absolutely must do, could do low blue flowers as well.

[@xaxmac1948]

Thinking of the flower moat, there is a private garden near Brive la Gaillard that has Verbena Bonariensis, lavenders, ceanothus, Vitex and caryopteris. The wonderful movement and heights look just like water from a distance. Most importantly the bees love it! All the ‘blues’ are slightly different and just look stunning. Plus they dont present a ‘damp’ problem next to the house. So clever!

[@carolwest6095]

Wow beautiful

[@bredakeville7337]

Great idea for the bees too. The mirrors could get damaged outside with rain? Wild blue flowers/native french flowers would be amazing.

[@stevenkeller3047]

The flower moat is a good idea for now. Cheaper, and improves the environment. I'd take this route until you can restore the real, water moat.

[@kathleenhuguenin7791]

Definite lovely way for an Illusionist to display art! Beautiful scenery never fades to artistic valor!

[@butterflyairways3156]

Les Jardins de Colette?

[@cindypope4952]

What Charlie said. Take of yourself-you are the real treasure of Chateau.

[@AvaT42]

Well said Cindy. Stephanie is the real treasure❣️

[@chasethecat3839]

Beautiful comment..almost made me cry.

[@ourfloridagarden4191]

Some years ago, I had a forced rest after being crushed by a car. It was very hard for a “do it all” person myself. Once my body had recovered enough to walk again, I found myself doing to much once more, to the point of exhaustion. That was when a friend told me that “ A tree does not grow strong without being content to stay in one place. It reflects on the sounds and sights around it. It weathers the storms and heals it’s broken branches by taking in water, sun and earth’s nutrients. It never feels that time is wasted by just being still.” Rest well Stephanie.

[@carolweaver3269]

Beautiful saying!. It is so very true!

[@suetracy8760]

Lovely words to live by✨

[@eledatowle7128]

Beautifully said. I hope you are solidly recovered and healthy now. Much love.

[@pdq5465]

That’s lovely. Thanks for sharing that. Please take care of yourself and rest when you need to. We all need time to recharge and it takes more time as we age. Bewell.

[@laurieanne9712]

Oh, I just loved the idea of a moat of blue wildflowers!!

[@tiffytattoo2450]

Dear Stephanie, would you please, please take some time off and really rest and relax? We don't know what happened prior to the hospital stay, but please take your time. Even if that means no videos for 1 or 2 weeks. It must be really hard with a huge chateau to stop working, but the world needs you as healthy as possible. We do care for you very much!

[@stefaniesombaty8980]

The moat at Angers which was once wet is now planted with the most beautiful beds. Could you imagine yours planted with bluebells, hyacinth, lythodora and creeping phlox? I'm getting my gardening gloves and driving to the airport.

[@chasethecat3839]

Meet ya there - Dulles??

[@susannevk8507]

Wonderful idea,may I join? Can hop on a train from Frankfurt.

[@isabellejarvis7805]

Please do. Will meet you there!!!!!!!

[@stefaniesombaty8980]

It would be an honor to garden along side you Madame. Although, I don't know how much I would get done as you make me laugh so much with your wonderful sense of humor!

[@myownlittlehouse471]

I wonder about shallow rectangular pools - like reflecting pools -- of water, as a replacement for the moats. They could be quite shallow, but would still be water. And you could paint the bottoms of the pools in such a way that they appear deep. This is so exciting!!

[@marthaizaguirre6363]

Great idea and less impact on the walls.

[@jennymay4720]

Perhaps a natural swimming pool surrounded with hydrangeas and beautiful plants?

[@susanduff-silsby2695]

Shallow pools or arcades of water. Along the lines of the Moorish water ways that are in the Alhambra in Spain. Blue tiled water ways. Gorgeous!

[@fierywomanpacnw7004]

Yes! reflecting pools surrounded by those blue flowers (and painted blue inside.)

[@dianafield6577]

Yes! Mirror pools, I agree.

[@dianehill6126]

Thanks for sharing your journey.

[@oliviasusan909]

Please take care of yourself (this is for the whole team!). I believe live TV production companies take planned “off air” breaks. Perhaps you could also make sure to schedule a week or two-week long break from filming each quarter to give you all some time off / lessen your load. And certainly no filming / editing over weekends / week nights! We are here for the long haul and really I hope you can find some balance. Sending warm wishes 💕

[@oliviasusan909]

And by saying this I am implying we may have less content each week or few weeks “off” every couple of months. I am sure your community would support you to find the balance that works for you.

[@susanmace8183]

@@oliviasusan909 What a sensible suggestion. I know you like working Stephanie but you don’t have to film and edit 7 days a week, 52 weeks of the year. I know you are proud of your adopted country and your home and we enjoy seeing it all but STOP and take a break. Can Philip do more editing for you? Share the task.

[@karinbergman1646]

Yes, we are here "for the long haul!" And we want there to be a long haul. So please, rest💗

[@chasethecat3839]

@@susanmace8183 I think a complete 2 week vacation for all with maybe 1 video a week for the patreon members?

[@NicolaMalc]

That’s a great idea Lavaux Livia

[@seashells5181]

You are so personal and personable. I lost my husband a long time ago, my kids are all grown and with their families, which is good, but, I do get lonely sometimes, and I get hooked in with your blog cause you talk into the video as though you are taking to me or at least including me in your plans. I love your interior design, your sewing skills, your beautiful bedrooms, and your baths. all of your decorations, you always chose what I would have chosen. You are very unique in your presentation and I love your blog. Thank you for being so wonderful, but, please take care of your health.

[@juliakneecegregg2355]

I love all of your vlogs and please take care of yourself as you are as important as much as the chateaus of France and so many people love you Julia

[@oldheadcook]

So interesting, you talked about old French.....when I was in high school I took French and did not do well, so my Grandmere helped me and I did worse❗️ Grandmere was very upset and went to meet with the teacher, after the meeting the teacher had a talk with me , she understood the problem, Grandmere was speaking old French or a different kind of French and we were being taught the new French.....I passed because the teacher thought Grandmere was so sweet❣️

[@sigurlaugbjornsdottir9582]

Such a sweet story ⚘

[@oldheadcook]

@@iwilitu6591 I say “old French.”.......she was born in 1900 , so the “slang” words were different and different phrasing was used in 1965 ❣️

[@chasethecat3839]

Awww..what a lovely story. TY. I didn't do well with my French class but darn, I have no Grandmere to absorb my embarassment of not mastering the language

[@tillypops3997]

This also happened to me. I struggled with French at school so my father, who is French helped me with my homework. According to my teacher it was all wrong. My father said ‘no wonder, they are teaching you book French!’🤷‍♀️

[@marycarlstrom6426]

Stephanie do take care - I love the vlogs, they are so appreciated but take care!!!!

[@LizelleGrobler]

The horse names above hayfeeders are adorable. 🐎🐎

[@keerak]

How exciting to put the moat back in! All good ideas. The problem with mirrors would be having to constantly clean them, and replace them when they break.

[@Mrrenanchannel]

When the architecte talked about mirror. Wasn't a water mirror? I´m sorry, I can't understand french.

[@papagaaiable]

...and water fowl trying to land on it.

[@robertlyons2028]

how lovely are you , I wish you all the luck in the world

[@IngeLyck]

Dear you. Please take good care 🌹🌹🌹

[@judy4123]

I like Ian's idea of an angled wall. Like a mansard roof inside. Also bringing the moat back--awesome idea, even if it's with blue flowers.

[@SJFoss]

LOVE that Nattie will be having her own space!

[@-sstevens5444]

A shallow reflective pool would be a good replacement for an extended moat. Cheaper and duck friendly. ❤❤❤

[@robwestley7370]

Sandra WESTLEY Umm shallow water in the heat they get in the summer, it would all turn green like the fountain, and water is always hard work throughout the year, the flowers would be much better.

[@magyar231]

Ian is such a jovial chap. I really do enjoy seeing him on the channel.

[@aleta5873]

All the men and women of Lalande work so hard. Ian does work I can't begin to understand what he see's when designing and creating all that he does...from plumbing going through he walls to insulating ancient ceilings. He's so experienced and so valued . And he doesn't take ages to finish .

[@dawngough1133]

Could just imagine bluebells or muscari in the moat!

[@mystrength5640]

Stephanie, Ian is a very generous person, he often buys you folks breakfast chocolate Croissants. So I’m a few Jaffa cakes won’t go amiss! 🤣

[@debshaw680]

She’s teasing him.

[@lisaburns1660]

Take good care of yourself!

[@helenlesley5456]

chocolate croissants and Jaffa cakes...pass the sick bag!...thank goodness we don't have the same food tastes...and we won't get started on the Chinese...

[@juliehinkel608]

I love seeing the hum of activities and everything waking up in the Spring, but you need to rest and be away from the dust and noise. Your team may actually be better able to focus if they aren’t trying to keep you in your rooms resting. A change of scenery might be just the thing to inspire a spark of new inspiration. Not that you need new projects, but sometimes stepping away can suddenly crystallize exactly how a thing can be best accomplished. Relax, Enjoy and let the universe work its magic.

[@aleta5873]

Julie Hinkel, I'd like to see Stephanie be able to relax, enjoy , trust the process, let the universe work it's magic....I wonder if she's able to meditate...? Do some yoga...I know she hates exercise but it would certainly help.

[@jenniferhill8233]

Oh yes, I think that the blue flowers to give the illusion of the moat is a great idea! Think of the bees! :)

[@juliakneecegregg2355]

Love all the vilogs the chateau is looking beautiful please take care of your self as you are as much a treasure as all the chateau in France and more muchloveJulia

[@dharper9332]

Good that you are making Nati a space for herself. And so much to think about for future. Take care of yourself dear.

[@FrugalOverFifty]

When Phillip leaned out the window I found myself leaning waaay back from my computer as if to pull him back in. 😂 Also, I just realized that it was about this time last year that I discovered The Chateau Diaries, and I started watching them all from the beginning, in order. Thank you SO MUCH for making my year bearable, and for giving hope to me and to so many others. Good health and much love and light to Stephanie and to everyone at the chateau. ❤️

[@debydavis5397]

20:28 Phillip your little squeak and snort are so funny- I kept playing them back :)

[@aleta5873]

LOL

[@moiragoldsmith7052]

Bliss.... a moat of blue flowers! Enjoy your few days away... rest well. xx

[@jasondubey8251]

Loved the bathrobe scene with no makeup! My mother walks around our Inn in her bathrobe with no make up and we were watching and had a laugh together, which we really needed. Thank you.

[@stevearnold8467]

A darling little digger. We get such charming phraseology from LaLande!

[@juliakneecegregg2355]

Love all of your vlogs please take care of yourself, You are as much a treasure as any of the chateaus in France and are loved by many HugsJulia

[@normamurray4450]

Oh my gosh, you are ME!!! I can't stop when I'm on a roll and excited about something happening that I'm involved in. I CRASHED years ago, total exhaustion and I was unable to do anything for 3 mos and even after that, it took almost a year to get back to close to normal. Although you want to keep going, because your mind won't shut off, PLEASE heed my warning....listen to those who are concerned about you and that's just not your household, but all your KZbin friends, family in England and South Africa and so on! I've walked this walk, it will get worse if you don't discipline yourself. You are so special to us all and we sure don't want you to become so ill that you'll have to shut everything down! PLEASE HEED THE WARNING LUV!!!!!

[@susandolan5497]

Did Stephanie collapse from exhaustion? Not sure what is happening Take care sweet Stephanie

[@charleswalker1185]

I was landscaper on a Seven acre early ranch, with a pond..there were water hyacinths...I used them for fertilizer...

[@bettygehm2436]

This Vlog was totally unexpected. I assumed it would be a few more days to see your face again. A very nice surprise. So glad Philip and all the La Landers are taking care of you. "Sometimes I feel I've got to.... Run away... I've got to ...Get away ..." A nod to the 1980's hit Tainted Love ... Take care Stephanie enjoy your lil Holiday.

[@cagnaefetchison8075]

All I can think is from "Bob the Builder"...."Raise the Portcullis"! How exciting to think of all that Lalande was and All Lalande is GOING to be!!!! Love!!

[@jaynegrunnill3705]

Great to hear French being spoken!The Moat,very exciting,always thought it looked as if it was once with water.

[@aleta5873]

I enjoyed listening to Stephanie speak French.

[@miatt8389]

Stephanie I am a counselor with more than 34 years of experience Since two months ago I had been a little concerned with your health Please follow the medical instructions Too much energy at a fast pace will not be good for you or anybody I know that from personal experience

[@samirataubmann]

Ohhh how wonderful would it be to put back the moat 😍 and please Stephanie, don‘t feel any obligation what so ever to produce new content, take as much time for yourself as you need! Hope you can get that much needed rest ❤️

[@jomo9862]

Stephanie STOP!!!!!! Yes I yelled, I'm sorry, so Please stop for just a few days, Lalande is nothing without you but, We love your spirit, your courage, You. So please from somewhere in the United States, take a breather, rest, smell flowers, do not go against mommies wishes. The Chateau will still be there when you return.

[@jodeneantonson985]

How fortunate you are to have friends who know your need for more rest than you've been getting. They have taken steps to ensure you get your rest by sending you away to relax! That's so wonderful!

[@gardenglam3451]

I love seeing the projects being discussed and taking shape petit a petit. I find it so inspiring. An appartement would be parfait for Natty! Please take good care of your health!

[@miatt8389]

Sometime I think that the people that helps you are really concerned with taking care of you Maybe you are so energetic and positive that are not aware but their faces look worried in occasions

[@twobluestripes]

I LOVE THIS ARCHITECT. She is so artistic. And clearly appreciates the old quality techniques and history. She reminds me of the kind of hippie-academic types in the Northern California area where i was raised.

[@theduchess9019]

Yes. That’s the problem with nowadays architects (because of the way they are being taught in art schools). They think they are some kind of artists and they can’t build anything decent or practical.

[@evahathaway4608]

How exciting !!!

[@AS-tx3bx]

I'm very glad your taking time for yourself. But I do feel that you taking anything that has to do with the Chateau is still work.

[@michaelrutledge3750]

Ooo. I love the idea of a flower moat until you could put a real one in later. **Shiver of delight**

[@michelleknapp8686]

What a lovely idea for Nati to have her own place x

[@annbardue3473]

Ah the Dordogne! Im sure you will have a delightful time! I too agree-great chemistry with the architect and go with the floral ideas...blue bells??? Its all so exciting and must be painful to leave but more painful to go back to hospital! There will be plenty of time to be the boss. Spring is coming and Easter is a blink away!

[@kendallricker9633]

In the future, a moat, wow....maybe if you line it....you could do a swimming pond/moat and stock with some KOI. Just an idea, or you could stock with fish you could eat. Trout and the like. Years away I know. As for fortress or home, on another You tube channel, Chateau De Montmagner, the land owner in the 1800's was ordered by the King to destroy three of the defense towers so they would not be stronger militarily than the King. Something to think about. Wouldn't it be stunning to have a moat and draw bridge again. Thanks for the update and hope you get better.

[@wjgraham19]

Super excited for Nati's apartment :) and please take care of yourself Stephanie

[@fishtank6337]

A mirror shallow waterfall to reflection pools with blue flowers on either side to reflect the moat would be amazing, allow some water but keep it shallow.

[@pepper24able]

You are such a beautiful girl Stephanie. Always thinking of others and encouraging and being positive. You deserve the accolades given to you..

[@hectorbrown656]

That was nice to see that you are employing a French architect and speaking in French , get well soon .

[@deedeed6853]

I just need to mention once more that when doing the facade of the Chateau, please please please consider building a "FRONT DOOR" facade so the front is obvious when approaching.... I think the front door/vestibule is the "FIRST IMPRESSION" as it were, which we all know is important! It will make a huge difference to the LOOK of the building.... Now, once you're well of course....take care of yourself...YOU are what makes the Chateau & you tube work...Rest Well....x

[@ichaconf]

I completely agree DeeDee D

[@PNWShanaLee]

I was wondering where is considered the front door, her chateau def deserves a grand entry!

[@claireangier3322]

Hi Stephanie hope your taking it easy! I was thinking about your moat and I think blue corn flowers sown on mass would look absolutely stunning. Also as you know, the cornflower is the symbol of remembrance in France. xx🌷🌼

[@MsScuppers]

I am so glad that Nat and Mummy took things into their own hands and staged another intervention! A few days of rest and relaxation away from Lalande will do you a world of good! Much love to you from Cathy in Victoria, B.C. xoxoxoxoxox

[@rosestefonowich1163]

But she is out shopping not resting

[@MsScuppers]

@@rosestefonowich1163 To some people shopping is a type of relaxation! ;-)

[@georgiaa8896]

OMG...the Architect! so cool, so loved her ideas...love that she was thinking outside the box...such a creative thinker

[@everymountain]

Stephanie you look so pretty sitting in the chair in that beautiful country setting. Looking forward to seeing it all, but please take care and rest while you are there!!

[@JaninaKulhay]

I agree... a densely packed carpet of Bluebells or Crown Vetch would create the illusion of water, in a magical, fairytale way and from the sky/drone views it would be simply enchanting and colourful and a more cost effective solution than pools or mirrors that require regular upkeep and maintenance.

[@karentozer1871]

Please, please take care, with all these workers coming and going and very rarely masks are worn! It is very risky as these people aren’t in your ‘bubble’ or household. It was good to see Stephanie and the architect properly masked up though! Enjoy your break and try to relax x

[@judygillespie3242]

She needs to wear the mask 😷 for dust and dirt also. She is stubborn and doesn't follow common sense sometimes. So many people keep asking her to rest and stop videos for awhile but it falls to deaf ears. Stay safe dear Steph.

[@aleta5873]

@@judygillespie3242 I don't think she can help it...she's bursting with creative and business thoughts all the time. She's just compelled...to work and sort things out until she can't....

[@monikastuckey8737]

So many amazing things going on! Hope you completely recover soon! Though I don’t speak French, it was lovely to hear you consult with the architect!

[@aleta5873]

same

[@louisedemarillac777]

Absolutely beautiful

[@judithschatunowski6273]

Stephanie, I totally understand your excitement as there is so much going on at the Chateau, however, you never seem to stop despite being told to rest! I’m so glad you have gone to the beautiful Dordogne for some rest but I bet Philip has a hard job stopping you doing much! Take care of yourself please!

[@normamurray4450]

Hi Susan, not sure, but it sure sounds familiar. She did say she would fill us all in soon? Gosh, she is such a breath of fresh air and such a lovely person, we all need her in our lives! Thankyou for connecting!

[@francetellier7489]

I go with the flowers for the illusion of the moat

[@pdq5465]

I remember watching your vlog where you told us about your multiple channels, the amount of work it takes to produce your vlogs, and wondered how you manage to do everything. Plus, you’re still working on renovating, repairing & improving the chateau, planning parties for everyone who lives & works at the chateau. I’m so impressed that those around you ‘staged an intervention’. You do need & deserve to take care of yourself. Please take care of yourself and feel better.💞🇨🇦

[@kristyrash927]

Stephanie - I vote 2 weeks off vlogging! As much as I absolutely love the vlogs and I always look forward to watching them it would be more important that you get a proper rest. I’m sure it’s difficult but do it for yourself. We’ll be here when you come back. I mean you have to come back! 😃 By the way I just ordered the De Gourney book last night and I’m so excited to dive in.

[@ruthiepooh86]

Those beautiful weathered bricks with the shrub you’re sitting in front of is a beautiful backdrop. Rest well, Stephanie.

[@gisellenorbury2369]

Thank you Stephanie.

[@joancunningham1192]

Stephanie you are an amazing force for good in the world. The joy you bring to so many is your gift. I am praying for your recovery. I hope you revel in all the things that bring you joy!

[@sandrawarmbreath2013]

Stephanie and Philip, you may wish to consider having the old moat (dry moat & missing moat) areas surveyed as part of the lake survey about to start because of the trouble you had with authorities over the lake when you first purchased and were talked into draining it. That way you can talk about it as yor negotiations with the water authorities progress so if you decide to add the moats back later the foundation work is already done!

[@dinahmoore9610]

Yes the flowers in the moat will be beautiful !

[@EyseaSol]

As soon as she mentioned blue flowers for the moat, I automatically pictured blue/aqua iridescent glass and mirrors! Everything's coming along nicely. I hope your vacation is very refreshing.

[@christinevr7698]

Stephanie please take care of yourself - you are the heart of the Chateaux and all it’s inhabitants. I am actually hoping that some of the footage that you have been saving (from last years’ TV show improvements) could perhaps be shared now, so that you would still have wonderful content to share AND yet you will not negatively impact your health, working crazy hours putting together new content. It’s just an idea. But if that footage needs editing or cannot be shared yet- PLEASE just take a holiday and rest. We will still be here when you return refreshed and rejuvenated. ❤️from 🇨🇦... also I vote blue flowers for the moat. I think still water is just a breeding ground for mosquitoes, and mirrors sound out-of-step too contemporary for LaLande as well as potential problem for cleaning/animals getting injured. I hope lilacs will be part of any of your garden designs; the scent is heavenly.

[@Randy8923]

Wow amazing progress going on everywhere! It's all so exciting! The history of La Lande is extremely interesting. Now Stephanie get to bed!! We can't go on with out you. Love to all ❤

[@teylahummingbird5095]

I believe the illegal part is no one was allowed to have towers taller or fancier than the king. I am American so I don't know which king but I remember another chateau blog mentioned it. Hope this helps. Glad you're taking care of yourself!

[@darylpenner5763]

The planted moat os is an excellent idea. Something low maintenance and selfsowing. Thinking various lavenders would gover well. Someone mentioned Bonairiensis(sp) ripples of Alliums in the spring? Oliver could maybe make a color palette and plan. His artistic eye and all. You fo have a lot of work going on, for someone who is supposed to take care and rest! Sending you wonderful thoughts of Peacocks and Hedgehogs!!!

[@lulubelle7413]

A draft around the broken pipe!!! Perhaps your entrance to your underground tunnels!

[@isabellejarvis7805]

I wonder if it goes down to the condemned moat. It’s in the right spot.

[@anuhjarpe1812]

Get well soon, rest rest rest...💕🌹🌹🌹🇸🇪

[@alexw769]

Having an apartment for the manager within the chateau is a good thing, but it’s unhealthy and stressful to put an office in the same space as one’s apartment which should be their place of Zen and peace. Even Mrs. Hughes and Mr. Carson (Downton) had their own offices far from their bedrooms.😅😅

[@marymcandrew7667]

i was thinking the same thing

[@Ren-xc1cb]

Agreed. It needs to be separate for health. But I think even a simple dividing wall can create the separation. I guess it would depend on how Nati related to it?

[@alexw769]

A mere dividing wall won’t do. Running a hospitality business is not the same as having a storefront and a backroom. It appears that there are dozens of rooms in the Chateau that can be transformed into an administration/estate office, which would be healthier to have in the end.

[@SaSuEnglish]

Dividing the space is a good idea as it will create a comfy back apartment the front area could be used as a sitting room to have visitors or a library/study. Just not work related. I agree with the other comments that the space should not include a business work area. Else she will work her self to death.

[@anneforster510]

The Dordogne is a beautiful place for a little R&R . Exciting times at the Chateau that's for sure. Stephanie you have such a good caring team around you , you are one lucky lady and an inspiration for many.💖

[@nicholacarr8429]

Thank you so much for yet another beautiful video! Please remember to have a good rest - don’t forget to take good care of yourself! Take care with love from Woodbridge!

[@denisemarle4141]

Great to see you relaxing and good on Philip for whisking you away....you know everyone will take care of Lalande while you are both away.... struggling is over! Exciting times ahead..... I got lost reading all the wonderful comments! 🏰❤️

[@GRANDIPRGROUPTravel]

What a BRILLIANT architect 💜💜💜💜

[@mirandaandrea8215]

Really glad your taking a break! You mustn’t burn yourself out! X🌸🌺🌸🌺

[@cozzeema]

The idea of a real moat would be perfect for providing security, boating recreation, a supply of irrigation for the gardens and water for wildlife. If that’s not possible, then a lovely lake would be beautiful as well.

[@CharlieEire82]

Stephanie, I hope the eviction is to get you away from all the dust with the renovations going on right outside your bedroom door. Mind yourself and only vlog if for medicinal purposes 😁 It's important to balance work, rest and play because it's too easy to get burned out but much harder to recover from it.

[@ladylibertywdc8324]

Indeed! "Eviction" is in essence a four-letter word.

[@katherinep.8919]

Oh my GOD, yes put the moat back! I love it, it's stunning, it's a dream, you will have the castle back to its' true self! Aaaaahhhhh!!!

[@catsdiyhome5566]

I bought the de Gournay book. It arrived today and I love it. Thank you for the channel.

[@seanreynolds516]

Hope you will be fully recovered soon, you clearly relish being busy. The work going on at your chateau is more than restoration, you have created employment for people as well. A further revival of the economic function of chateaus. No small achievement, bravo Stefanie.

[@JoeChanTV]

amazing how passionate you are with your work/home/Chateau even when you aren't in the pink of health, I too feed on such joy of doing something enjoyable so I totally understand :)

[@mirandaash]

Squealing with delight seeing you sitting in Mum’s rocking chair and relaxing! Xxxx

[@heidim6468]

Still working, can’t stop working. It’s hard to let go of what you do day after day. But remember everyone needs a vacation and let the people you trust to take over. REST.

[@lorileenew9227]

Get rest our dear sweet Stephanie!