Back in Koukouleika

Ripples

We are once again living in our Koukouleika house as of July 9th—ten months after the flood. It is the same footprint, with the same roof, but has new roof shingles, insulation, exterior/interior plaster, new floors, bathroom/kitchen, exposed ceiling, more light—almost brand new, but still quirky. An updated olive harvesting hut.

The process of remodeling has had many ups and downs, and twist and turns. Overall it was extremely positive and everyday I learned something new. My biggest lessons are to ask more questions, slow down when making decisions, and not to always pay in cash. Unfortunately, the window guy turned out to be a schmuck—the only one. Now we are living in the house with only screens. Windows/doors have been ordered from a new distributor, but since the factory closes in August for vacation time, we won’t have windows until September.

Moving back has made me realize that I am no longer the same person I was ten months ago, who fled the rising water. There’s a different ripple that runs beneath my skin.

The cot is back! The perfect place to enjoy a cut of coffee.

Back porch. Still a work in progress.

The heat pump/air conditioner works, but not without windows/doors.

A couple cabinets need doors and there’s a spot for a dishwasher.