Out in the AZU

We went out in the AZU, over to a village the other side of Figeac, to see a couple with a similar van - more original, but needing more work - and also an Austin 7.

It was an easy drive over, and a beautiful warm sunny day. Bob and Karen made us really welcome, shared their lunch with us, and generally let us waste their time. Bob kindly let me drive both the van and the car, and afterwards Caro and I both felt it might be worth bringing our Lichfield over here to join the AZU: Bob assured me that it's not too difficult to import a really old vehicle.

His AZU, though CT-ed and totally legal, still needs a bit of work on the front wings, and bonnet to finish it: the bits that Bob has done - most of the van! - look as if they'll last another 50 years (his is a 1961 model, with suicide doors).

We were most impressed by the barn conversion Bob and Karen had done, all their own work but looking very professional (they'd even done the roof tiles themselves), and as a result I'm newly incentivized to try reusing some of the old oak floor-boards, spoilt though they are. B & K had done a really good job with old chestnut planking. Though I have to say I am rather jealous of Bob's well-equipped shed. Another resolution for Lessal. They also told us about French conversation evenings at Figeac and we've decided we'll give that a try too.

We were back here in time to enjoy a cup of tea by the new concrete, and plan the next mixing day (Friday?). Still cold once the sun has set though, so the fire is now lit and roaring away.