AILSA SAYS: Moving to the seaside 14 years ago for my husband Martin’s job was the start of an enormous change for us. He works for the RNLI, so has to be near the sea. We came from a 60s flat in London with concrete surfaces, but when we looked in Poole, Dorset, we realised we could afford a period house that needed some attention.
I was about to have our daughter Martha – we moved in the day she was born! Then Bill came along soon after, so it made sense to have a bigger property with a garden. Because we were on a budget, we had to think carefully about how and when we would renovate the house. The downstairs at the back was a mess, with a tiny galley kitchen and a conservatory, which hardly got used, plus a toilet next to the garden. So we had very little access to the outside.
Making plans
This story is from the September 07, 2021 edition of WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the September 07, 2021 edition of WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
GARDEN notes
Vibrant annuals and fruit and veg
Springtime IN VENICE
A weekend in this floating city is a feast for the senses
Your wellbeing
LATEST HEALTH SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR MIND AND BODY
Breathe EASY
Do you need an air purifier at home? We find out
Stress-free ENTERTAINING
Enjoy a seasonal prep-ahead spread with friends or family
Bonded FOR LIFE
As a new mother faced the most agonising of challenges, her best friend stepped in to hel
The easy way TO EXERCISE AND HEALTH
You don't need a gym to get fit, just mini bursts of activity throughout the day to get you in shape. Here's how
TESTED BY US!
Dry shampoo refreshes hair between washes - and lifts roots and boosts volume. Here are our favourites
'Coronation Street changed my life'
Actor Georgia Taylor on finding fun and lasting friendships on the cobbles
Your wellbeing
LATEST HEALTH SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR MIND AND BODY