What can I do to make this RENOVATION easier | Italy Renovation VLOG #14

[@lynmasterton]

Button on a shower ! Genius ! I look forward to my 20 minutes in La Marche every week, love your work

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @lynmasterton . What an invention!😂 I am trying to make the videos a little longer with the odd one hour special so be careful what you wish for!😁

[@lynmasterton]

@@threeacresofmarche oh yes to a one hour special ! Your film making gets better with every new episode. You're perfecting the great combination of gobsmackingly beautiful location, great editing, charismatic host 😊and we all love the beautifully recorded glorious sounds of nature, oh yeah and your funny!! Its great entertainment, so thank you

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks for the kind words and encouragement @lynmasterton😊

[@stevesilvati1634]

Totally love your videos! I’ve watched them all living my dream of possibly retiring from full time employment in the USA and moving to Italy. Really appreciate your efforts trials and tribulations while managing your expectations (and emotions) as you navigate through the local Italian government rate of speed (LOL) . Please keep your chin up. Can’t wait for your next video. If I were ten years younger I’d pitch the rat race and come give you a hand! God bless you and yours, Steve

[@alexs3119]

You know what?! You cannot imagine how much I enjoy watching your episodes and all hurdles you've been facing (well,,,,,,let's be honest......life is not meant to be easy, isn't it?). I would like to be in your shoes. Next time you enjoy your sunset with a glass of vine, remember me.......just another guy from the other part of the world. Wishing you all the best.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @alexs3119 . This YT thing has made me appreciate so much more in so many different ways. The comments do inspire me and I really do respect how lucky I have been to be able to try this and hopefully turn it into a dream family home. Thank you and good luck to you.

[@julieaustin4684]

Me too !

[@victoriabodenham6736]

Your joy and wonder as well as your ramblings are so wonderfully infectious and smile inducing, thank you . 😊

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @victoriabodenham6736 .😄

[@TammyBrownBooks]

That piece of wood would make a beautiful mantle OR a shelf in your kitchen that you hang pots off of underneath

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @TammyBrownBooks . The mantle is a popular option and I can see it being used in the kitchen also. Lots of great options coming in. It would be nice to get a few things out of such a large piece.👍

[@kookietherapy9398]

​@@threeacresofmarcheYeah, but take your time and think things out.

[@gabrielar.6936]

I enjoy your posts and every time they seem far too short to me. 😀I like it when you laugh, even at yourself, and have fun with what you do. Yes, sometimes it is tiring and complicated but thank God not all the time. - I would clean the piece of wood, leave it as is, bring it into the house and lean it against the wall as an “object”. When everything is finished inside, this simple piece of wood is a beautiful reminiscence of the house's past.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thank you @gabrielar.6936 I will try get to 30 mins of good stuff with the odd 1 hour special. I think now that it is finding its audience there are a few of you saying the same.👍 As for the simpicity of making it into a piece of art - I love that idea. Thank you.

[@KymHammond]

I like where you’re heading with the sound. That crunching white stone noise as you walk is such a signature for your videos. You can’t go wrong with a whole library of folly atmosphere sound. That’s best captured as morning or sunset stillness - cardioid mic left on a table in the centre of the yard capturing its ambiance. A shotgun or directional mic is better for the specific bird sounds - I think you put one on your camera. With a set of headphones to monitor what you are pointing the mic at you can’t go wrong. I like how you begin by letting us observe you in a wide shot, usually by starting with you entering the frame from the side and walking to the Center where the action takes place. Your story pacing is very Studio Ghibli. Nice work.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @KymHammond . I think your run down of the sound options shows how much I have to learn on the entire subject. Storytelling without overdoing it is quite tough to do, I am getting better at remembering to capture some broll to tell the story that I rambling about! 😂 Thanks for the pointers. I really appreciate them all.

[@brandaotania]

Here we have LeRoy Merlin also… I was there many times just to the big works I did in my house.

[@aninditasinha7435]

Hi, it’s amazing hearing those birds chirping and the green surround is just so beautiful so serene..have good days ahead & looking forward to more..thank you for sharing

[@KellyDuckworth-sx9ci]

That piece of oak is magic. I think you should make a gorgeous shelf on a wall in your kitchen but not too high so you don’t loose the beauty of it. Find some beautiful ornate black brackets to mount it. Or use it to make a gorgeous low coffee table to use in your living room- you can enjoy looking at it. What an awesome find!! I will send you some pics. I have an interior and styling background.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @KellyDuckworth-sx9ci . Great ideas. It will be worked into good use for something.👍

[@contradavibes]

I am finally (almost) ready to start my channel about my countryside home in Southern Italy (there is just a "shorts" showing the outside for now). You have been one of those inspiring me to start this journey! 🚀

[@Stoobers]

Subbed :)

[@contradavibes]

Thanks!

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thank you @contradavibes and best wishes for your channel. I will take a look and sign subscribe. If it helps, a glass or two of wine was consumed as I plucked up the courage to speak to the camera in my first video! Go for it!!🙌

[@Stoobers]

@@threeacresofmarche Rich, you’ve totally nailed this. People don’t want high production and scripts, they want real life down to the ground personal experiences, and that’s what you’re delivering. More channels that do this will benefit from following the same. For me, I love seeing grass roots accounts of people renovating and discovering their place in the land. I just wish I could do the same. ❤️

[@contradavibes]

@@threeacresofmarche Thanks a lot!

[@varlavega7857]

Hi, I really like watching your videos. Delightful. One recommendation: A workbench would make your life a lot easier. You could work in a upright position which is better for your back. Maybe give it a thought?

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @varlavega7857 I bought one in the UK for some work I was doing on that place. I planned to take it down in the car with me on my last journey but forgot....I begrudge buying another one😂 I will be packed first on the next trip.👍

[@Reet64]

I concur with the flame thrower option. 😂 First time I saw a scorpion was in my father’s family home in the Marche. I couldn’t believe my eyes.

[@janeavery9346]

They are harmless unless of course you are allergic

[@threeacresofmarche]

I am seeing a lot of things here that I have never seen before - all good - especially the fire flies.😊

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @janeavery9346 . Mixed reviews in the comments on how harmless their stings can be...maybe hollywood has given us all something to be scared of. I know it is a different scale and fictional but I used to love Flash Gordon as a child and that scene when they put their arm in the tree stump is my flashback when I see one of these nasty looking little things.😂

[@kookietherapy9398]

Chickens eat scorpions.

[@susanchappell796]

i have one of those shelving units. really poorly thought out. Just started watchng you again. Love watching your progress. I would love to move to italy. In Texas at moment.

[@pollatso]

Love the bird sounds thank you 👍👍🙏🇬🇧

[@christinecoates2499]

Glad to see you're really enjoying the delights of Italy, from the decent weather to our delicious, locally produced fruit. Great to follow your progress.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Italy just gets better and better the more I explore and get into the lifestyle @christinecoates2499

[@jorisruys]

I might be too late with this, haven't seen your next videos yet. But that piece of oak would be a great bar in your kitchen. It would be very visible and useful. Design and practical.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Its not too late. I have not cut it or positioned it yet so still at the ideas stage.😂

[@neutonrenda2303]

It's amazing how small that huge shelving unit looks once you start using it. Another great video, thanks for sharing.👍

[@threeacresofmarche]

It was in the sale so I bougt two - good job!

[@davidlanders2853]

Your deck is a pin in the map that makes me smile.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Its days are numbered @davidlanders2853 . The landscaping will cover that area so I should plan where to relocate it and maybe camoflage it so that its not on Google Maps!😂

[@davidlanders2853]

@@threeacresofmarche I be watching for it.....:-)

[@kdclothes]

Enjoyable video. It the little things on your own that are enjoyable to do and to see. It begins and ends with beautiful Marche. And a human being enjoying life. Thanks for sharing with us again.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @kdclothes . Thank you. I think you are one of the regulars from the start. I am starting to remember some faces.😁

[@LoaK-ny5ro]

Hello there! Just a couple of ideas for the beautiful oak board: Put some sort of legs under it and make it a long bench where you can sit outside (against a nice wall) and enjoy your morning coffee or evening wine. Put it inside, standing up against a wall. Attach big hooks in twos and make it into a wine bottle holder. Or just make a side table in your hallway or living room, to place beautiful objects on. Good luck!

[@threeacresofmarche]

Great ideas, thank you @LoaK-ny5ro . I would like to get more than one thing out of it so these idea are helpful.🙌

[@davemitchell8756]

The audio adds a lot to the ambience of your videos, also snap shots of the wildlife and plants. We’re really enjoying your content, fellow lovers of Italy. Living in Mytholmroyd, West Yorkshire, the vids are our only source of sunshine at the moment 😎😆👍

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thank you @davemitchell8756

[@JB-mh7gn]

The might not have been the best shot of you fill the bucket with the hose 😅

[@LindaSiuzdak]

I was wondering when someone would have a comment on that. The camera angle and the body language all said otherwise.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hello you two... @JB-mh7gn @LindaSiuzdak . It seems that there are a few of you out there that see these sort of things. 😂 Some DM messaged me about it. I still see an innocent clip telling part of a story.😊

[@LindaSiuzdak]

@@threeacresofmarche Hello Richard Many of us do things without even realizing it. Seems like all guys stand the same way and look up while at the urinal. Same blank expression too. I would have fallen off my chair if you gave the hose a shake when done. It was amusing and having a good chuckle is healthy. Even the "Hello you two"... and "It seems"... getting a scolding was amusing. I am sure many of us re-watch your videos because we enjoy them sooo much. PS - even the professionals have slip ups in their multi million dollar movies. I watched a western movie with the classic dusty old bar scene - when the bartender poured a shot of whisky, you could see the barcode on the back of the bottle. In the movie Bullet- during the chase, the 1968 Dodge Charger losses 7 hub caps and both cars had dents that disappeared and reappeared throughout the movie. Plus it was impossible for that old guy to crawl into the back seat during a high speed chase and still hold a shot gun. Hollywood. I could never get tired of watching that car chase. Makes me miss my 1973 Dodge Challenger muscle car, the high octane fumes it pumped out were like Channel No. 5 for me. I always wanted a car like that - so I did a solo road trip across the US, it was a rush finally getting my car. Be yourself and do your own thing - your on the right path.

[@LindaSiuzdak]

Ooops - movie was Bullit with Steve McQueen.

[@threeacresofmarche]

This made me laugh @LindaSiuzdak . Thank you. A scolding!😂🙌

[@dono9879]

Hello Richard, you’re doing a good job on the videos and editing. You’re keeping things enjoyable to watch. I like your new attitude (No Rush, there is plenty of time), I guess you’re getting a little of the Italian in you. You have had to deal with the laid back life of the construction side of Italy everytime you wanted to get something done. If you can’t change it you mind as well join it. You will still accomplish your final goal and get to enjoy journey. Thanks for the video.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @dono9879 . I am getting used to it - I had the entire bank holiday long weekend planned and not one delivery turned up on time! 😂 It used to wind me up - now I find it funny.

[@FoyLo]

1. 3 pane video? You never cease to surprise me! Lol 70's The love boat vibes 2. That image of you sitting on the platform with that view is just amazing. Those fields turning so green is a spectacle. 3. Building the shelves : no swearing? Lol You are either more patient than me, or you left it out of the posted footage... 😅 Thanks again for sharing this journey. You are a zen moment in my busy life.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @FoyLo . That 70s flashback was because I recorded the footage when the camera was set to portrait by mistake....I had the Dallas titles flash into my mind so thought I would try it!😂

[@brandaotania]

Uau, great shower!!

[@tomtom786]

Hi Richard, stumbled on your channel, now hooked. I have caught up now from your starting point. Love the “warts and all” cinematography. Watching from Glasgow. Good luck and keep them coming 👍

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @tomtom786 . I really appreciate it.👍

[@lisaking7379]

Oak board- consider using it at the mantle. You current mantle is very small. I think the oak with the schmear on the bricks would be stunning! Maybe use any left over pieces as floating shelves in your office space next to it in the room.

[@lisaking7379]

Also- would you please go to the local antiques/thrift store and buy yourself and little chair and table for that deck out there?! Maybe something that collapses and can be easily stored underneath? Heheee :)

[@RebeccaHarrington-lf2kx]

Yes, I agree, the current mantle could do with an upgrade to this beautiful piece, not only size but texture. 😁

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @lisaking7379 . I do keep staring at that mantle wondering if it needs a change/lift. I have not tried to sand it back to see what a new stain could look like or if I need it bigger. I doubt anything would sit on it so maybe it will all settle in once that fireplace takes shape. Deliveries were late so next video or two will show how that plays out - the schmear looks great BTW.👍 I do have a table and chairs for the deck but as I am there alone most of the time I just grab any chair and put it away most nights. The wind can whip around the tree line. Deck / Terrace 2.0 will have proper furniture.😎

[@hellenfennell5818]

Been following your journey since the start as I love your humble beginnings in the KZbin journey as well as your beautiful home your making.Watching the evolution of your videos is great as well and watching more people follow you is great.Ive got the good ol flu right now with bad headache so I only can watch things that are quite or peaceful and don’t talk endlessly.You tick every box and I am a big fan from Australia.

[@threeacresofmarche]

HI @hellenfennell5818 thank you - hope you feel better soon.

[@hellenfennell5818]

@@threeacresofmarche thank you!Am feeling much better now and looking forward to all the changes you are making inside the property as well as outside.

[@MattTHoward]

A button on a shower. Genius. Has just made my day haha. You're right the simplest things are sometimes the best.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @MattTHoward - somebody said I should get out more for loving it so much ! (they were joking...and right) 😂

[@iancox9765]

Love your channel. Binge-watched over the last couple of days. Please keep sharing the good and the bad.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @iancox9765 - welcome to the channel!🙌

[@UsapangWalaLang2518]

Excellent video... capturing the calmness of the area ... with chirping of the birds

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thank you @UsapangWalaLang2518

[@marilynmeade2286]

Great video Richard You got a lot done in organizing your stuff You button on your shower is great Love how happy it made you Beautiful place you are living in Take care and see you in the next video ❤❤❤❤❤

[@threeacresofmarche]

HI @marilynmeade2286 . Thanks for watching.

[@marilynmeade2286]

@@threeacresofmarche thank you for the heart ❤️ Richard

[@diane7925]

Love your sense of humour. The shower is awesome 😂. What a beautiful location, La dolce vita

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @diane7925 . Good to hear that at least one person would be laughing at my terrible attempt at humour.😂🙌

[@hummadog]

Love the new titling. Very elegant. Love the channel.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @hummadog

[@sandiecavendish9722]

I always look forward to your videos and following your renovations. It's a lot of work for one person, so well done, you're doing a really good job.

[@threeacresofmarche]

HI @sandiecavendish9722 . Help is on offer and on the way. Planning the logistics and aligning it all is the new challenge!😂🤦‍♂️

[@rosemeenpoindexter9689]

I enjoy watching your videos. I do love the shower idea. My husband and I are planning to maybe buy a farm house there, looking at few places. Great tips you are giving us. Love to see how your place turns out.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @rosemeenpoindexter9689 . Best wishes for your search. Exploring to find the area is the fun part!😎

[@LindaSiuzdak]

Morning Richard Good to see all the smiles and chuckles. Taking us on another ride. Yes, the glory of spring time - most people don't notice that - wrapped up in day to day. How does life back in Manchester feel, after all the space/sky/ breathing room in Marche? What a bashful and amusing smile re the outdoor shower comments. C'mon - you loved it. The new toy, push button on/off - not that you asked on this one but I would have a full size Italian statue out there to hold the wand and then the towel. A bit of whimsy, you can shower with her - wonder what you'd name her? Re the tidy up - well worth it, you've amassed a lot of tool TAT. That outhouse is serving its purpose for now. I had all my garden tools hanging with nails on a 2x6 - nothing fancy but did the job - that way they weren't falling over or need to dig one out. Organization and sanity go hand in hand. As for that piece of wood. I do love the character of the rough side. Wonder were it was used before? I wouldn't want to cut it - leave it as the massive slab of wood it is. It tells a story. Picnic bench for the BBQ area? Might have to wait and see, once you've got your soft furnishings in and a good reading nook, what you'd do with that piece of wood. The Danish have a term - hygge - it applies to a feeling, style, materials, or food that gives comfort. This is your hygge getaway project. "There is no rush" - you're learning to breathe. Skaal PS - one doesn't need to be Danish to appreciate and rep these rewards

[@LindaSiuzdak]

I said a picnic bench but that could turn into a snooze bench after a good meal and some vino.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @LindaSiuzdak . I like the idea of not cutting it now that you've suggested it has a story. Interesting idea. Thank you. Somthing to think about. The statue name - Linda, of course!😁

[@LindaSiuzdak]

Morning Richard Thank you from us all for reading and your lovely comments on our ideas. As for that now famous board - as I said I wouldn't cut but maybe use it as - no pun intended but as a sideboard in your future el fresco dining area. Place it full length between the posts at a height for a dual purpose One for holding flowers, plates, glasses etc. Yes flowers on the table do look lovely but do get in the way. I see vases with lovely big bunches of sunflowers on that sideboard. Second as a standup bar area for those that would like to mingle or need a stretch after dinner. Plan for a very large el fresco dinning area as it is a very Italian thing - better go big than regret having it too small and cramped. Include an outdoor fireplace too as it will continue into the night. Maybe dual pizza/bread oven on top and fireplace on the bottom? lt isn't just a meal it is an experience/event full of many hours of laughs, stories, and memories. Many bottles of vino. As you said, "It is just as much about outside as it is the house". As for the statue, I do thank you, but Linda is Spanish meaning beautiful, so in Italian it would be bellisimo. So maybe name her Bella, Bella Donna, or simply Wanda. Thank you for sharing. That is a gift in itself.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @LindaSiuzdak these are great ideas and you paint a lovely picture of an evening shared with friends in a perfect outdoor set up.😊

[@BobLonghorn-ne7sk]

The bird at the 4 minute mark is a Nightingale

[@RebeccaHarrington-lf2kx]

Yes I’m sure it’s a Nightingale too. I used to hear them on early morning dog walks through the woods- a magical time of day ☺️

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @BobLonghorn-ne7sk . I will keep a lookout now that I know what to look for.👍

[@kookietherapy9398]

​@@threeacresofmarcheShakespeare, Romeo & Juliet

[@bonniewedekind6969]

I so enjoy your videos. My grandfather was born in Farindola and I would love to visit the area some day.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @bonniewedekind6969 . I have not visited that area but have been nearby. The landscape around there is spectacular so it would be worth the visit.

[@miriammuskal5402]

Nice job in the tool room

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @miriammuskal5402 From very little tools to needing a large space to store them.🤦‍♂️

[@raymonde4272]

The oak will make a beautiful rustic coffee table or a couple of shelves to hold when ne glasses. Great episode Richard 👍🏻

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thank you @raymonde4272 . Great ideas coming in - I think I need to invest in some decent tools to get a few things out of the piece.

[@USItalian]

I won't retire for at least another 15 years but... you are going to be my blueprint for when I do! Keep the videos coming.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @USItalian its good to have a plan and I hope that retirement dream comes sooner for you.👍

[@aboromand9617]

Love the shots. The videos are getting better and better ❤

[@threeacresofmarche]

Good to hear - thank you @aboromand9617

[@markquinn9655]

Little sanding of the oak plank. Some lovely oil to revitalise the wood and finish with some beeswax. It has to be a floating shelf - preferably above a fireplace. Keep ‘em comin’

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @markquinn9655 . That fireplace idea is proving popular. 👍

[@lesleywood76]

Scorpion's ok dear, chickens will sort them out 😂😂 love your videos ❤❤

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @lesleywood76 . I never knew that about chickens but that seems to be a top tip coming in.👍

[@livingworkingoutsidebox]

Great use of sound. 👍 It sets your videos apart from all the other remodeling videos out there. 🎙 👂

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thank you @livingworkingoutsidebox . A lot to learn but thats the fun of it all.

[@kattengat2]

In your earlier episode I assumed you had the button on the shower. That makes it so much easier.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Shower v1.0 was a long hose on the original shower head. Shower 2.0 jumped out at me in a DIY store - I never thought of having a button on the shower head when the on off tap is usually so close.😂🤦‍♂️

[@debrajacka4775]

You made me laugh about the button on the shower 😊

[@threeacresofmarche]

It has changed my life - I used to have to sprint from turning the shower on to get outside as I did not want to waste all the hot water!😂

[@Dustindbest]

Thanks for the video you provide makes my day a happier one. My goal is to make it Italy and retire here soon… keep up the good work and enjoy life everyday!

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @Dustindbest . Best wishes for your plans.🤞

[@lisasbeautifuljourney]

As always, enjoyable video, great content! ❤

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @lisasbeautifuljourney

[@patriciapadgett4696]

Hi Richard from our mountain in Spain. Another great video, and yes, the simplest inventions are the best. Being so much older than you we found we've reverted back to the old ways. More so with living off grid for so long. A glass of Prosecco with the strawberries??? Love ❤️

[@threeacresofmarche]

HI @patriciapadgett4696 Its great that you found what is right for you and are keeping it simple. So many are planning the off grid lifestyle so kudos to you for doing it for so long.

[@violetlight8138]

Ideas for the old board: I'd refinish it or at least partially refinish as a coffee table. Which I would cut it into 2 pieces and glue the 2 sides together and if you want to do something really cool apoxy the top with clear apoxy to fill in all the crevices and then sand down all the top bits so its flat and let all the sunken parts be covered up with the apoxy so you can see it then put a top coat to finish the sanded wood. So in the end you have a coffee table top with parts that look like finished wood and the depressions will look like that old wood.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @violetlight8138 🙌I like your thinking and as I read it I could not help but think of a great channel I watch @Bourbonmoth. A coffee table cut as you say could be a winner but the apoxy piece has a bad rep on that channel. I may need to buy some more tools for this. 😂👍

[@violetlight8138]

@threeacresofmarche I've just realized I spelled epoxy wrong. Anyhow, the other thing I'd want to add is use clear epoxy because if you don't it will look cloudy and the other thing is to make sure all the bubbles are out otherwise you'll have bubbles all through it. Epoxy is very tricky. I've learned that the hard with while making a kayak.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Wow - making a kayak - that is a big project! Well done for even attempting that.

[@violetlight8138]

​@threeacresofmarche thanks. I'm really a DIY kind of girl. I've also restored a small fiberglass sailboat with a cuddy cabin, so the knowledge I learned building the Kayak really helped.

[@frankn4618]

Another great video, keep them coming. Flamethrower is overkill.... But the bottom of a work boot is not. ;)

[@JohnLever-ur6jc]

The slab of oak timber,… I’m currently looking at the cutting board that my sister made after breaking 2 cheap bamboo cutting boards. It’s about 50cm x 35cm x 4cm thick and really heavy - I think about 5 kg. Maybe something like that, with oak left over for other projects. Enjoying the journey with you!

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @JohnLever-ur6jc . I think it would be nice to get a few things out of it also. No rush as I want the kitchen to take shape before I look at cutting that beauty up. (I think I may need to invest in some decent tools also so that I do it justice).👍

[@JohnLever-ur6jc]

Thanks for your reply, it’s appreciated. Yes, I think you have a few projects to complete before you start making cutting boards! Cheers again!, John

[@thomasbrynwood8592]

Hi Richard, great job on the video. Looking forward to the next one. Thanks!

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @thomasbrynwood8592

[@savoringeverystep4410]

You've said that you work from home, I imagine that wood plank as a desktop - looks like it already has holes for cords and such.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @savoringeverystep4410 . The joinery to make it a good size for computer work would need a pro to do it. I don't have the skills to take in that level. Great idea though - it would look fantastic all cleaned up for that.👍

[@CONCEPTUALMAN]

if you are casting concrete in a form , you can tap the side of the form with a hammer to liquefy the concrete and the voids will bubble out much better .

[@WriterJenOnYT]

Scorpions 😱 I'm sorry you'll have to burn it all down and start over. 😉 I did read that lavender, peppermint, and cinnamon can be deterrents, though, if you want to try to be nice about it.

[@KittyMcGee1001]

A warning - any mint plant is highly invasive and will take over an area quickly. Best to plant it in containers. It’s supposed to deter mosquitoes and mice. I can see it working for scorpions as well.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @jennifernewell2530 . I will introduce these natural methods near or in the house as I go. Anything for junk mail in letterboxes?😂

[@WriterJenOnYT]

@@threeacresofmarche The only thing to do with junk mail is to swear at it every time you open the box. Complain about how it's wasteful and ruining the environment. In my experience, it doesn't make the junk mail stop, but it makes me feel better. 😁

[@dannyhampshire9077]

Your a lucky man and fair play to you Love you channel

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @dannyhampshire9077 . I do feel very lucky.👍

[@vincenash1358]

Love your videos , Has made think about when I retire where it may be , I am doing a lot of similar refurb work but in chilly England ! Man you need to buy yourself a good van or even better a pickup , you're going to wreck that nice Audi 😁

[@threeacresofmarche]

HI @vincenash1358 . i would love to buy a van but you need to be a resident in Italy to buy an vehicle. That Audi has over 120k on the clock these days!😂 Best wishes for your plans.👍

[@rkop737]

Love it!

[@donkeykong7777]

The timber would make a nice long, low coffee table in front of the couch, have you got a bath / water supply for the birds?

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @donkeykong7777 Good idea - I should put something out for the birds.👍

[@andie1769]

Don’t get too arty Richard! That piece of oak go on an outside bar of course! 😊

[@threeacresofmarche]

😂 Love it.🙌

[@seamusegan9956]

looks like a mantle to me!

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @seamusegan9956 . I should keep a tally but mantle is coming in as a popular option.👍

[@davidwilkinson333]

I don't know if they are still there but there used to be a resident population of scorpions at Orpington Station; hitchhikers on a produce train from southern Europe. Mantelpiece over the wood burner or halve it and make a coffee table 😊

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @davidwilkinson333 . These two seem to be the most common ideas shared.👍

[@lucywattridge1946]

Love the sawing horse🤣

[@threeacresofmarche]

Up cycled before it heads to be recycled 😁

[@paulbyrne2035]

Hi the oak plank would make a great low TV hifi shelf. Maybe a tray of drinks at one end supported on your scorpion bricks😁

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @paulbyrne2035 Scorpion bricks 😂 They should be rebranded! It would be nice to get a few things out of such a large piece.👍

[@JeanWhatman]

make a mantle over your fire with the piece of oak .

[@witchmellor]

That old piece of oak would be great if you sand blasted it first on the better side then as a lot of people said already use some clear epoxy and polish it up, it would make a cracking bar top nestled on a pile of rocks either end whether inside or out. Cheers

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @witchmellor

[@Raylan_323]

lol so chuffed about the shower :D

[@sherry9088]

What do you think about sealing those boards for your shelving unit so that they will not warp and last a bit more than they normally would. Plus easier to clean !!! Love your channel!

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @sherry9088 I did not think of that. I figured they would not last very long as they are and would replace them but sealing them is a much cheaper option.👍

[@WireItalia]

Bentornato! Unfortunately, scorpions are common in the countryside. I live in a house that has eighteenth-century foundations and is full of holes. Every year it is hunting for scorpio! Anyway, the Italian one It is scarcely dangerous. Its sting is equivalent to the sting of of a wasp. Always use gloves! P.S. chickens are their natural enemies. Antonietta.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @WireItalia - thank you - it is great to hear from Italians with the tips. Glad they only give a little sting and that so far I have been lucky to not catch one!😁

[@WireItalia]

@@threeacresofmarche figurati! Sulfur powder also keeps scorpions away. I hope to take a step similar to yours. Moving from Northern Italy and living beyond the Po river (which is almost a symbolic boundary for us between two ways of living).

[@WelshVilliageDad]

Tidy My daughter is off to Perugia for 5 weeks on Sunday the 2 .

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @WelshVilliageDad - she should have a great time. that town and the surrounding area is a lovely part of Italy.

[@chekek]

your videos always make me want to quit my job immediately and go get some land in some beautiful landscape somewhere 😂😭 anyway will get there one day! the slow lifestyle is 👌 also shots from the deck are my favourite

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thank you @chekek . I know what you mean about the packing in the job part!🤞

[@smartdog9]

Look at you getting all arty... loving the videos :) were looking for a house now. off to sicily with the family in August. thanks for the inspiration

[@threeacresofmarche]

😂 Thanks @smartdog9 . Sicily looks amazing! Good luck and keep me posted if you do buy. It might be nice to have some chat on YT about how their journey goes.

[@greatgreenliving]

Thanks for sharing your adventure and your DIY skills 😊 Noticed you stacked the firewood outdoors... If it rains would it wet the wood and lengthen time to dry out before use? I'm completely ignorant about this subject and asking as I'm interested in moving to area where firewood is used ..

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @greatgreenliving - you are right, it does defeat the object. That was a temporary wood pile location while I built a proper one that can house more wood as it is chopped. Its another job for the list!😂

[@johnthorne1429]

Hi from Asheville, NC, USA. How did your septic system construction efforts turn out? Or is that work in an upcoming video? Love your videos.

[@threeacresofmarche]

HI @johnthorne1429 . It hit a curve ball so is back to the drawing board. I may need to reroute the water feed into the house and that could be where that runs. I will cover it in a video in the future but until then I am figuring out the water supply part. (vidoe 15 shows me opening that can of worms....)😂

[@greatgreenliving]

Love what I'm seeing of Le Marche... What do you think of the region's seismicity?

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hello @greatgreenliving . I was not overly concerned or put off by it to be honest. There are plenty of websites showing the activity in this part of Italy and how that compares region by region.

[@PennyHarding-yc7bl]

Haven’t watched to the end yet but don’t you think that beautiful piece of wood could be chestnut? So very common throughout Italy. Enjoying your vlog a lot!

[@threeacresofmarche]

HI @PennyHarding-yc7bl . This, like many subjects that I am getting into on this Italian adventure, is something I have no idea of. I will show it more in future videos and share what comes of it. I will bear in mind that it could be chestnut when reseaching how to work with it and protect it so thank you for taking the time.👍

[@PennyHarding-yc7bl]

@@threeacresofmarche I now live in Forli and in the process of furnishing my flat have learned that Italians love their chestnut!

[@lesleywood76]

That lovely peice of oak would make a lovely mantle peice 😊

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @lesleywood76 . Mantle is a very popular idea coming in. I will finish up the bits in progress and see how it all looks once the tiles arrive and are in. A new matle could make that whole thing really stand out.👍

[@lucaspolderman6622]

Nice video again. I think the piece of wood could also be chestnut.

[@threeacresofmarche]

HI @lucaspolderman6622 . I will check as a few have suggested that.👍

[@lagringa7518]

Bit by bit...... things progress. 🐝

[@juliec3965]

Once you get chickens, the scorpions will be a distant memory.

[@RebeccaHarrington-lf2kx]

I’ve been thinking that I might need to drive back and forwards to the U.K. with a dog (for security) and now after hearing about the scorpions I might be transporting chickens in my car too! 🙄😂 So many hurdles before I can jump into my dream life…

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @juliec3965 I am not there enough to keep any animals. I would love to - maybe in the future if I can work things to be there more.👍

[@threeacresofmarche]

You may need a bigger car / arc @RebeccaHarrington-lf2kx ....goats as a lawnmower was a popular suggestion in my early videos.😁

[@RebeccaHarrington-lf2kx]

@@threeacresofmarche 🤣🤣 Just what I was thinking, an ark might be best solution after all, I like to plan for every eventuality 😉 The list is currently dog, cat, chickens, goat and bees.. I’m sure if I think long enough the list will keep on growing…

[@marianneryder1661]

You could use the lovely old oak plank for a bench outside along the wall, perhaps in a spot where you intend to have some shade from a tree.

[@threeacresofmarche]

I also imagine it as a nice bench against the wall for sunset watching from. It is quite long so it would be nice to get more than one thing out of it.😊🤞

[@aarontaylor3768]

Hi Rich why dont you use the piece of oak over your fireplace or use it as a feature shelf in the house? great video again Cheers Aaron

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @aarontaylor3768 . Thank you. reading the ideas I am torn between cutting it into a few things or keeping it as one and using it as a bench or a focal piece. Too much choice!😂

[@aarontaylor3768]

Be a shame to cut it also it will be like a piece of iron 😁

[@nicolemarie6740]

When can I start applying as a live in companion? 😜😘

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @nicolemarie6740 - apply anytime. It is a little bit of a mess at the moment but once it settles then I may be looking for house sitters to help me out.😄

[@louiscecere5636]

You can make a plastering hawk by taking a thick wooden dowel for a handle and screwing on a 14 inch by 14 inch board.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @louiscecere5636 . My DIY skills are being pushed to the max already without making a hawk that will probably dent the smooth edge of my trowel...besides I don't have those parts to hand to use anyway.😂

[@brandaotania]

I don’t understand what works your house needs. I am wondering if I can move on Italy, but I dream with a house ready to live in. I am from Brasil.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @brandaotania I have shown what work is needed through a few of the videos in the series. video #18 shows an overview.👍

[@taniabrandao8285]

@@threeacresofmarche I just saw it. A lot of work - but only one bedroom and one bathroom?

[@alantodd7048]

Wine can breathe better, and quicker, in the glass than in the bottle. Just a thought.

[@threeacresofmarche]

HI @alantodd7048 . Good tip. I used to have a nice decanter but that took a hit during one of the many times I move things around. I will reinvest once the place is not such a building site.😂👍

[@Chrissyhappy]

There’s an app you can get that identifies the bird sounds.😊

[@threeacresofmarche]

HI @Chrissyhappy somebody sent me a link to Merlin Bird ID app. I am giving that a go..👍

[@frankh7303]

Fridge WorkMate .. Nice

[@threeacresofmarche]

Upcycling @frankh7303 🙌😂

[@patriciadewit]

Hard work, figuring things out, making it work, and avoiding scorpions. I know you will become more and more youtube famous but I honestly hope you won't stop responding to the comments here.

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @patriciadewit . I plan to reply to as many as I can but the downside of the growth is that it can take me 5 or 6 hours to reply to the comments, texts, and emails from a new video. I love it though so will do my best. I may have to use shorter replies to get through them all in time.😊

[@patriciadewit]

@@threeacresofmarche I totally understand.

[@Trying391]

Did you find your plastering hawk ? I’m living in Western Australia, heading out to Sicily next month

[@Trying391]

Yes I’m a hardwall plasterer 😉

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @Trying391 . No, not the style with the square board and round dowel handle in the middle but there are many different size tools that seem to be used to smooth the wall and that can be used as a hawk. I will show it...👍

[@miriammuskal5402]

You can smooth down the wood

[@davidmiller-br4bu]

That piece of wood could be a bench or a shelf for pots …get some basil and things growing for summer also scorpions 🦂 don’t like lavender 😊

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @davidmiller-br4bu . Lavender is a good tip. Bench is a popular idea also - thank you.👍

[@sarahbrown6297]

What about foreplace lintel? Ive also seen people make a light fitting from old wood like that-just sayin’ x

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @sarahbrown6297 the fireplace lintel is probably getting the most votes so far..👍

[@luiginocella2873]

A fine giugno, la campagna , sarà piena di girasoli 🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @luiginocella2873 Marche during these sun flower months is spectacular!😎

[@agnes692]

Hey, try Picture Bird. You can record the sounds of the birds and you'll know what kind of bird it is 🤣

[@threeacresofmarche]

Thanks @agnes692 a few have suggested some apps for me to try. I will try keep you updated.👍

[@One_Crazy_Dog_Mum]

My idea for the old manger board is a servery bar top outside the kitchen window for when your BBQ ing or incorporate into an outside bbq/kitchen space in the landscaping. 👌🤌

[@chrisLandwaard]

A beautiful pease of wood right for a table Use for the shower and tha washingmachine good shampoo so you can use it for the plants Hot summer is coming Regards Chris. Amsterdam holland

[@threeacresofmarche]

Hi @user-mn4be4pd5u . I like that idea but am not sure what you mean by good shampoo etc. I though that grey water was not good for the plants. If I can save that, I would try re route that water.👍

[@threeacresofmarche]

That is a @One_Crazy_Dog_Mum . A small server bar which uses hald or a third of it. Good idea!🙌