The Chateau Diaries: CHAINSAWS AND PORCELAIN!

The chateau is abuzz with excitement as exciting new additions arrive! Selmar receives a chainsaw and a table saw to start a new carpentry workshop to make Lalande self sufficient. We will now be able to repair the chateau using wood from our own forest! And Spode sends a magnificent gift as a thank you for my vlog on the history of their company. We all celebrate with delicious food and dance!
The Chateau Diaries Episode 156 ✨🏰✨
Escape to the chateau with ’The Chateau Diaries’ 🏰
This channel follows the adventures of chatelaine Stephanie in her French 16th century home, the Chateau de Lalande, in the heart of rural France ❤️
We show you what life is like in an ancient chateau in the heart of the French countryside, and the diy, renovations, crafts, cooking and gardening that are needed to bring a home like this to life!
A very special thank you to all of you who have become Patrons of the Chateau de Lalande. You have made The Chateau Diaries one of the top 500 Patreon accounts in the world, and have transformed not only out lives here, but the future of this beautiful chateau! I’m overwhelmed by your kindness and generosity. On behalf of this beautiful chateau that will continue to survive and flourish because of you, thank you!!!
If you're interested in become a Patron of The Chateau Diaries, click here: / thechateaudiaries

[@user-ll8gk7uu5i]

PERCY! PERCY! PERCY! WE MUST GET HIM HOME TO HIS PRECIOUS ISABELLE.!

[@teresacarle294]

🎩Sir Percy is adorable! His positivity, humor & creativity is needed in ⚜France! 👒Lady Isabel needs her sweet Knight!

[@barbibutton9619]

Yes, it's just horrid he can't travel if he agrees to quarantine after arrival.

[@carolweaver3269]

Yes, he is ready and do not need him flying over to the Chateau from Africa in a balloon! They both miss each other so very much! It has been way too long!

[@cortesmusician5743]

isabelle...for the ironer..spritz water as it is fed. het a spray bottle and keep the fabric just barely spritzed. put lavender or your favorite essential ..sleep time will be heavenly x

[@traceyitta3281]

Barbi Button There are very few flights in and out of South Africa, you have to get special approval to get a place on one of them. If you are lucky enough you still have to quarantine. Only if Percy has a residence permit for France will he stand a chance of getting “home”

[@meankitty1333]

Ok Selmar must never leave ! He is such a joy

[@camillaalmeida2647]

So true!

[@trackqueen42]

He is a part of Lalande and a valuable wood craftsman and dance instructor!

[@Me46785]

It will be a sad day if he does!

[@lisabrijeski3425]

I think they need a permanent carpenter and all around handyman! I vote for Selmar to stay!

[@carolweaver3269]

His famous Apple pie is the dream of all! So is he, and he is a lifer where he is I think!?

[@annamariaselvaggi6725]

Selmar is so happy! The man has so many beautiful amazing talents. Who can resist his charm? 🥰🥰🥰

[@chantalpinsonneault1299]

I think Selmar should be paid like Nattie. He is too precious. Things are really turning around with him.

[@annaibarra3447]

Chantal, I believe on the FB page Brenda Gibbons mentioned that he does get paid/salary. I could be wrong, but remember reading it. Feel free to correct me anyone.

[@barbarawatson1667]

Is Selma staying on at the Chateaux? I hope so because he is an amazing person and does so much.

[@dagz6831]

@@barbarawatson1667 Yes, I think so.

[@carolweaver3269]

He is able to do so many different things! From dancing, ( which he can do many different types of dance it seems) and carpentry and gardening and it goes on and on and on, Most are very talented in so many ways. Such fun people too. But guess we see something special in him that does make him seem someone who should be living there 'forever' if he pleases? He is a natural.

[@rosalindhambleton9012]

I so agree, Selmar, if he wishes to, should be staying and get paid for all the work he does. He is a big part of all the nice things that is happening at the Chateau. He also bring joy, many aspect of his numerous talents as well. Château need Selmar and Diesel.

[@alexandracastro9619]

Hi Stephanie! Ironing machine tip: Everything must be still a little damp! Or spray it with some water. It works like magic 👌✨

[@primrosedahlia9466]

I've always "rolled" my bed linens and table cloths straight from the washing machine. Then it's perfect! I don't have an electrical roller right now, and I miss it so much. I hate ironing!

[@dawngough1133]

Selmar's Carpentry Studio! Cause for massive celebration. Exciting times. So happy for him!🍷🎆

[@WillowTreePottery]

As my mother always quipped, "Use the good dishes." The Spode is lovely.

[@brianteeling8382]

Fantastic that Selmar has new equipment...... Means he'll be staying around✅✅✅✅✅✅✅✅✅ Adore the SPODE and everything about the chateau. 🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸

[@Jayrose59]

He has said before that he is staying for a long time

[@carolweaver3269]

It is honorable that he does truly take all his work this seriously and would be willing to shop for and pay for this instead of just other items for leisure. He is trying and enjoying seeing this castle look spectacular! Isabella was wonderful to go with him and work with him as he shopped.. Realy nice they had that time together too.

[@elizabethmunroe3676]

I love Percy's video. What a romantic he is!

[@yvonnesullivan4388]

Give Selmar anything he wants😍🇺🇸

[@tamaliaalisjahbana9354]

YES! ANYTHING!!

[@IamNOTyourconscious]

When Selmar is tired of living in France I have a family farm in Tennesse that could use his expertise and his love of animals❤️

[@kgardennerd]

And here in California too!

[@choochalah]

and her in Toronto canada....

[@jot4336]

And Michigan lol

[@ladyjane8855]

And Florida! But I fear Diesel is too old for the journey :(

[@badapple65]

Isn’t there a Selmar, TN ? Or is it Selmer? I’ve been there on far West side of TN.

[@valariebresee4450]

Oh cant someone bring PERCY HOME TO ISABEL?

[@midnightdreemz1509]

Here it is end of July 2024 and I'm loving seeing Selmar. He brought so much sunshine and joy. He loved working for you at Lalande.

[@ballybliss4844]

Selma; We are seeing more and more personality. You are a gem and a star!

[@monicabranson2780]

I love Selmar's reaction to the pink plates....

[@teresacarle294]

🤗Yes! It was good!🤗 Totally in tune w/the excitement of the room! What a 💪man! ~~~~~~~~~ Pink vs Cranberry... A🌹(or Spode dish) by any other name is still every bit as sweet💟.

[@stellamex1]

I was thinking the cranberry spode would be perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas!

[@ladyjane8855]

And Valentine's Day!

[@teresacarle294]

🎄Christmas, 🐰Easter and romantic 💘Valentine's Day for sure! 🦃Thanksgiving is more an American tradition, but the inhabitants of ⚜Lalande do like an excuse to 🎊celebrate🎊!

[@linedallaire9631]

I thought of Christmas myself xxx

[@jmk1962]

I played the whiskey bottle game picking up my empty bottle and reading ..... "I like my men like I like my whiskey - Cool, creamy, and bursting with exotic mango" It was a bottle of Mango Lassi LOL😁

[@terriepowell2935]

Haaahaa!! Priceless!!!

[@banitesscruz9771]

Hahaha! Ok, I'll play! "I like my whiskey like I like my ladies: soft and fruity, that will captivate, and delight". From a bottle of Frescobaldi Remole Toscana Rosso 2018 😀🍷

[@AslansAngel1]

It even works with a bottle of Johnson's Baby Shampoo (which happened to be the closest bottle to me) --- "As gentle to the eyes as pure water." Wow!

[@cornishcoves9399]

so many wonderful items today; I can't begin to comment....not the least of which is Selmar's new workshop.Bravo All! ♥I did not think anyone could be outdone today but PERCY !!! YOU HAVE turned on the lights...we want nothing more than to see you and dear Isabelle re-united....SOOOON!♥♥♥

[@thatswhatilike_]

This vlog was pure joy!! The "i like my men like i like my whisky" had me cracking up!! 😂😂 loving these legends and the pure joy you all bring. Selmar please never leave La Londe you are such a clever, funny soul and an asset to the chateau. We all love you! Xx

[@teresacarle294]

🍾Hilarious party game! 🏆All good sports who participated...esp. who soulfully exaggerated their specific edits to suit their ideal partner. 😮Selmar was even more saucy as he went off script. Naughty! 😻Cat is delicious! Seems like an ideal🍺"Chum on Tap" no matter where she might travel in life. 💝 Love her 🎉vivacity & zest🎉 for life. She does a lively Latin dance too. Ole!

[@nancylaponzina8272]

Haha ... "chums on tap!"

[@TatyanaValdaBelindaHill]

Oh, I hope Percy can come soon. His editing makes me laugh. 😂

[@NicolaMalc]

Percy's video was absolutely brilliant lol

[@carolweaver3269]

Just like a Star from Hollywood! lol Percy and Isabella will be so excited once together again. Am sure it will be soon.

[@katherinebopp2021]

Your wonderful vlogs make me feel like I have been invited to a wonderful party every day. Thank you very ,very much.

[@LeannsAdventures]

Someone go rescue Percy! 😭

[@Sunny-kl9jq]

Indeed, lovely Percy , everyone to the rescue hahahaha

[@sarahfinkelstein3507]

South Africa is still in lock down with the borders closed (you can't even renew your passport!)

[@barbibutton9619]

@@sarahfinkelstein3507 someone said above that there are flights out of Johannasburg ?!?!

[@tinafrohlich377]

@@sarahfinkelstein3507 How sad! How old is Percy? He should stay with his wife ❤.

[@noellaq8056]

You are most welcome, Selmar. It is good to see you so excited about your new tools .... Lalande is fortunate to have you. Looking forward to everything that will happen at the Chateau. Stephanie has been blessed with so many good people who want to be part of her Team. That little “whisky game” was fun!! Dinner was so lovely, great food .... beautiful flowers by Marie, new plates, apple pie baked by Selmar, music and dancing in the kitchen. So much Fun! Oh my Goodness! The Quote of the evening: “You can move everything ...”. 😀😀😀. You are such a wonderful group ... and Family. Percy was great, too. Please hang in there ...

[@janetthomas8244]

Yes, Selmar and Percy are the stars today. And the new Spode.

[@LIfeonaSunnyside]

Selmar is a gem! Such a humble man, so handy and he is cooking! OMG! Ladies! What are you waiting for???😄

[@kgardennerd]

I am laughing so hard I’m crying watching Percy! What a fantastic character.

[@carreyn9808]

poor Deisel he thought his daddy left him

[@karinbergman1646]

💗❤️⚜️💜⚜️❤️💗

[@dagz6831]

As one ages, time goes by faster and faster and when you think about the dog years thing, a couple of hours must seem like an eternity to him! But what a loyal boy, calling out to poor lost Selmar for as long as it takes to help him find his way back home again!

[@karinbergman1646]

@@dagz6831 💗🐕💗

[@karinbergman1646]

@Deborah Shaw 💗🐕💗

[@elainedavies8485]

Thank you so much Stephanie for bringing so much happiness to a dull world . Its such a tonic to see how you and your Mum and all the lovely people you share your home with live your life to the full ! It makes my day to see your videos and I can't wait to see what your next adventure will be ! bless you !

[@avanzarconladislexiaavanza2789]

Elaine Davies Hear, hear! Well said! Her joy and the charm of La Lande make my blue days suddenly golden ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@wagnervoss9994]

So happy for Selmar’s new equipments. 🥰

[@adldy8618]

Percy making crazy plans ,best of Lalande 😀

[@valerielow6684]

I love, love, love Selmar’s laugh. He is a real treasure.

[@sarahhudleston832]

Ethiopian airlines is flying to Europe from Johannesburg! Percy needs to get to you!

[@barbibutton9619]

How can u let Stephanie know? Do u know how far is Johannasburg from Percy's home?

[@radicalmama135]

tell her via the chateau reservations!!

[@pamjudge9691]

@Susan Evans Agreed, plus Ethiopian Airlines doesn't have a great reputation for safety!

[@pamjudge9691]

@Susan Evans Anyone can change wiki entries - it's had a lot of incidents - I wouldn't fly with them,.

[@chantaln6843]

Selma is an absolutely lovely, kind, creative & hilarious person. I love him to bits. 💕

[@claireevans2336]

Love watching Selmar, such a talented guy

[@seashells5181]

Selmar is a really classy man. I love all of the tapestries he has in his apartment. His bed chambers is truly grand. WOW

[@PleasantPrickles]

I’m so happy that Selmar got his wish! He contributes so much there, between his joie de vive and his carpentry skills. 🔨 Lovely dishes from Spode! So amazing that they sent those. Enjoy. I hope Percy makes it there soon in his Fortuny balloon! 😀

[@andreah7223]

I think your new plates would look amazing on a table decorated for Christmas dinner.

[@mariaabraham311]

Selmar is so deserving of all his man toys!!! Can’t wait to see what he builds next, he did such a great job with the mirror frame & the decorative frame over the shower he is a such a gem 💎!!!❤️🇨🇦

[@jenniferkessener1111]

So good to hear Selmar's delight, and see his face light up. Love the new Spode.

[@deborrastrom8559]

Bravo Selmar! Selmar deserves it all! Soo happy for him. Then all of you owners who recognizes his value soo well.

[@carnation6827]

Selmar Bravo! You are quite the craftsman!

[@janicebrowningaquino792]

I am DELIGHTED TOO! He is SO talented!!! Thank you to the Patrons who voted to make this possible for him!!!

[@teedee3834]

Poor pup missed his daddy when Selmar was gone.Congratulations Selmar on your new workshop tools and such!!!

[@merrittbaxley6032]

Selmar is such an amazing delight! And I watch how Diesel watches Selmar in all of the vlogs. DIESEL, is a fur baby totally enambered with his person, as we all are.

[@cornishcoves9399]

Bon Chance Emily; sad to see her go she is lovely member of the crew; wow Selmar the mirror looks fabulous; Mummy looking glamorous as she does the pressing of the laundry WOW♥Okay...Selmar(in the kitchen!) in an apron just as charming as in his tango shoes or in the workshop commanding his artistic genious& fun in the laundry room as ever ♥

[@debralpateart8862]

Hi Stephanie! I inherited a set of cranberry on white dishes by Johnson Bros. England that from a distance look just like yours. They were my Aunt Lila's, she was a secretary and a spinster her whole life but shared our love for beautiful tableware. Enjoy your Spode!!

[@kimadamson67]

Those cranberry colored plates would be perfect for Christmas and Valentine’s Day as well! I have a set of cranberry Spode in the same pattern and bring them out for Valentines each year.

[@letitiahansford307]

Oh, so nice for the holidays, with greenery and sparkle bits...

[@monikastuckey8737]

So happy for Selmar! Lovely Spode dinnerware!

[@user-ll8gk7uu5i]

my life just slayed my poor head today...i went up to my room and watched my lovely La Londe. headache gone

[@charleswalker1185]

The vision of Percy landing in a balloon...very french!!

[@margaretmold63]

I think of Percy as a gallant knight riding on his horse for his damsel to be united.

[@CreatedForHim1]

Selmar should be put on staff.He does such incredible work.

[@michelerandall123]

THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROUSITY SPODE!!! You make beautiful dishes which enhance the beauty of the meal.

[@friscoredm.3024]

So glad for Selmar, wonderful he got saw and work table. awesome spode too!

[@zant.4852]

The cranberry Spode will go beautifully in the dining room

[@denonde1313]

Cat and Hanne are hilarious.

[@lilkirsche]

Thank you so much for this wonderful vlog Stephanie, such a light during my evenings ☺️❤️ aaah and Selmar I'm so happy for you. You looked so excited, so lovely. Now you can proceed doing magic with your new "toys". And what you did with the bathroom is absolutely amazing work. 😍👌🏻

[@lorrainemotter1903]

Beautiful gift from Spode!

[@Marykguise]

Selmar stole the show today!! SO happy for all his new “toys”!! And the dancing at the end!! So fun!!

[@ripvanwinkle7044]

We need to have a château de laland cooking show.

[@radicalmama135]

and cookbook!

[@barbibutton9619]

Another vlog; the guests will be neglected lol

[@dagz6831]

Dan the gardener is a professional chef too, he could teach it!

[@AmandaJ__]

@@dagz6831 oh wow I had no idea!! multitalented!

[@Dr.CorneliaKratzer]

Please come out with a cookbook of "The Best of Lalande" with all the recipes featured in the Chateau Diaries!

[@AslansAngel1]

Echoing your request.

[@rolo4945]

Spray linen lightly with water and lavender essential oil after ironing once it’s placed, it works on bed linen for the light crinkle

[@wendywobbles1]

I was thinking the same thing

[@FrugalOverFifty]

I can't believe it. I've been watching my way through this whole playlist from number 1 to now, and I'm caught up. I have no idea what I'm supposed to do with myself now. I love this channel so much!

[@lydiarowe491]

When Selma produced his new carpentry equipment he was so excited..like going on a date with his latest found love..joy to you Selma. And dearest Isabelle's video of Percy was so creative..too long to be apart..hope they resolve this lost love situ..they miss each other terribly..♥ And finally Spode must have been very grateful to you and impressed by your blog..not something that would be gifted too often I say..again your magic moments create more magic Stephanie..⭐

[@tatianachristiansen2950]

I could see velvety cream of mushroom soup with a floating crouton sprinkled with Italian parsley in the new Spode soup bowls. Funny that I ordered two small Spode vases because of your love of the blue and white Stephanie❣️

[@dagz6831]

Thank you, now i MUST go eat something very dull in my kitchen when what you suggest sounds soooooo good and has made me hungry...well, and all of that great food in this vlog too. lol

[@Woodland1234]

Selmar cooking is just adorable...he is one handy man to have around😉😊😊😊

[@annaibarra3447]

Yeah! So happy to see that Selmar will be doing more new creations soon. Fancy and safe tools means, better work & safe place. Wow! Selmar can really move to Latin music. Woah! Love it Selmar! What a great ending! I loved it. Amen to Spode for the beautiful thank you gift. How kind.

[@debbiemorris8422]

Oh what fun they all have , I do hope percy and mummy get back together soon

[@lovemyhomelife2152]

Bravo, Selmar! It's all superb! Can't wait to see what beautiful things you will create for the chateau!! Well deserved! 💯 🙌 💪

[@teresacarle294]

Yes, I agree Selmar! Stunning work in the guest suite w/the silver mirror & the panel above the shower door. You truly elevated that space. If the ladies featured in that space weren't modestly averting their glances, they would be impressed too. Old-world detail & craftmanship. 👏 🎊So thrilled for you & your new tools! The portable table saw, chainsaw & safety drawers! Been around woodworking & carpentry all my life. Love it, but don't have the need to dabble. Having the right equipment (inclu. miter saws, jigsaws, sanders, routers, jigs, clamps, etc.) makes it all such a dream. Enjoy watching you create your magic!!! 🤗

[@ellend9739]

Love Selmars enthusiasm ! How happy he is with his new equipment ! I am sure he can’t wait to use it all ! Poor Diesel , he was left alone for a while and missed him ! Just like my dog !

[@aleta5873]

Nicki is so creative and prolific in the kitchen...the food looks delicious and healthy and most of all tasty...Yay Nicki !! So happy for all of Selmar's gifts...Yay! And bless patient Percy..xo . Sending Love from LA >>>> Such a fun video..Yay!!

[@jacquekirsh7482]

Selmar brings so much to the Chateau be it baking, dancing, driving, woodworking. Such a renaissance man😊

[@courtneyhume7918]

I love these vlogs. How lovely it would be to spend one’s life among such a wonderful family of people. Blessings to all at LaLande! 💜✨💜

[@judychurchill294]

A wonderful vlog. I was laughing all the way. Selmar is a dream, so talented, and poor Percy resorting to talking to himself! Hope he is reunited with Isobell soon. The food that is dished up is amazing and always makes me hungry, and the dancing...... You are so lucky to be surrounded by so many talented people. You really make my day 💕

[@cecileannpayn7320]

At the end of your program I find I have a big smile on my face, thank you for the lightness you bring to my world

[@risalangdon9883]

I'm sure the beautiful new spode plates made Selma's pie taste even better if possible!

[@adriennekovic6827]

The food looked so good ! Flowers and plates looked beautiful 🦚Percy is adorable 🌈

[@kimberlynewsom9876]

I am so incredibly happy for Selmar and his carpentry studio!!! I love that he's all about safety first! He's such a good man. Thank you for another lovely video.

[@michelerandall123]

Poor Diesel was worried looking for best friend Selmar. Diesel is so happy and comforted that Selmar is back home again.

[@jimm8682]

Yes Selmar is wonderful, with his new carpenters table he will have his workshop ready for anything that the chateaux needs!!......

[@TheVintageGardenerNJ]

Stephanie, I have a question about the pants you are wearing while mangling the tablecloth. Is that a William Morris print? What a fabulous pair of pants!!!

[@TheBTG88]

She got it as a gift in one of the unwrapping episodes. I woman gave her the pants and a flower print suit - that amazingly - fit perfectly.

[@dagz6831]

@@TheBTG88 Oh yes, I remember her showing us how perfectly the suit fit after putting it on, but not those trousers, wow I love them too! A funny note Vintage Gardener NJ, ("pants" in England are "underwear" and trousers are what what one wears on top.) My husband is English and I am USA and he and all his mates would always laugh at me for talking about my pants rather than trousers. lol

[@shannonbailey8201]

Selmar needs to be put on as a permanent carpenter and dance instructor he’s much loved. The Spode ok my!!! I collect red love 💕 it so much.

[@tallulahmontegue8839]

Selmar is hilarious with a querky sense of humour and can dance too.

[@kellylaliberte548]

I'm very happy that Ruby is feeling better. Mummy and Selmar must have taken very good care of him.

[@LLLLLLLLLucas]

Really proud that british crockery is being showcased and appreciated for the world to see.

[@MarissaHolley]

We use our red dishes for Christmas!

[@amyhughes5135]

Please Stephanie...let's recreate that happy, happy, happy look on Selmar's face by buying him at least one new power tool per month!

[@jennyallwood2827]

What a fun group of people! I love how everyone brings something different to the environment! Nikki needs to come back often! She is amazing! She has a positive and calm vibe!

[@emmadavey3892]

Percy and his diabolical plan! 😂💓 so good! The sooner he is home the better for everyone.

[@JulianeGabriel]

Thank you for this wonderful vlog and the extra special performance of Percy, it sure cracked me up! Soo lovely.

[@843543574]

As always thank you Stephanie for another entertaining video that allows us to laugh and enjoy watching all the lovely people at Lalande ! For a short time we get to forget the difficulties and hardships of living through a pandemic. In a world that has to much sadness right now you are a joy!

[@ournewnormalnow8432]

How kind of Spode to send you those beautiful dishes! And Selmar...it makes my whole heart happy to see him so happy! He is such a valuable and wonderful member of the Lalonde family. And Mummy...Percy is losing his mind, without his love. I so desperately hope you can be reunited soon! Much Love, from Ontario, Canada 🇨🇦...Keli💖

[@angelapa9513]

So sad to see Emily leave

[@chucksuter6551]

Blue Spode and red Spode alternating for Bastile Day!!! I’d use it for the Fourth of July in the United States. It’s so patriotic!

[@MommyToMyBoys]

Excellent idea!!

[@milapavlenko7756]

Great episode. mmm...love starts flying in the air. Wouldn't it be great to see couples building up in Lalande? Stéphanie your talents are endless and your love for people is incredible. You do look happy and contente but in case you would like to have a man in your life I am sending all my wishes for this man to show up in Lalande...and for other singles in the château too. Hugs to all your lovely Lalande family. 😘😍🤩

[@josephinedavidson5968]

BIT a of sunshine arriving !

[@valbeech4423]

Happy happy people!

[@FolkFaninMA]

Selmar getting a carpentry studio is great news because that, I assume, means he’ll be hanging around for quite a while. 😀

[@kthom35]

But perhaps he can move into the house....?

[@iamzeffyandilove2scr]

Lovely vlogg once again Stephanie....it's my birthday on Saturday and I have also ordered a One Hundred Star gown and the blue Spode kimono...God willing I would love to come to Lelande next year with Hubby to celebrate there......waiting for Sunday...

[@TheHexedLibrary]

Sad to see Emily go, she is such a bright personality! Hope to see her again soon!! "A chainsaw and a pink plate, all in one day." Y'all have the most fun and I love watching! So happy to see Selmar getting the tools he needs to build/repair even more at the chateau!

[@juliadouglas872]

Selmar just makes me smile!