Today began with me waking with a start. I slept well, mainly due to my working on the ceiling panels which absolutely knocked me out. It made me realise that I’m not as fit as I should be!

I never set my alarm at the weekend. I believe that I should wake up naturally so that my body can recharge itself. I woke with a start though, because I didn’t want to over sleep and be late for the coffee with my friend. I needed to work first and I didn’t want to have to rush. As it turned out my waking naturally gave me plenty of time and my coffee and chat were lovely. The weather has been glorious the last few days. October can be a beautiful month if the weather is good like this. I was worried that winter had come early, since September was cold and gloomy, but I’ve been delighted by the return of the warmth. We were able to sit outside and enjoy the heat of the sun.

After lunch I got back to work with the ceiling panels. I hoped that I’d be able to get on quickly as I felt slightly disappointed yesterday with my slow progress, especially when my electric saw ran out of charge.

I don’t have the promised after photo but there is a start of today’s work photo.

As you can see, the panels are going onto an old wooden ceiling. They don’t fit exactly as they are too deep, 8 cm, but they were free so I’m not complaining. It’s a bit of a faff but I’ve only had to glue one on so far. I’m talking now, after putting up several more since this photo was taken. I have managed to wedge the rest in. As there is going to be plasterboard pul over the panels to make a smooth finish I have been advised by those in the know, that glue isn’t essential if they’re placed firmly!

The ceiling is old and draughty. Winter is not easily bearable as we don’t have central heating and we can get temperatures as low as -11 degrees centigrade. I’m really hoping that this will work. Also in summer, it’s stifling so, again, the panels should keep out any excessive heat. I will give the whole room a coat of paint when it’s finished so it should have a lighter, airier feel.

I will be doing my bedroom ceiling after this one. I love my ceiling, I have ancient cotto tiles. None of them match. I’ll miss them but I should be warm, so for me it’s a no brainer.

I didn’t work on the ceiling all night, I finished when I’d exhausted the pack of panels I had to hand. I didn’t want to get another pack from the cellar and it turned out to be a good time to stop. I reckon I’ll sleep very well tonight.