August was a huge month for us as it was the month we moved into our new home. We had a few weeks of extremely hot weather which was nice in a way, but also too much when it came to trying to sleep. Although we certainly noticed the slightly cooler temperatures just moving a tiny bit further north. It’s mind-blowing that it’s September now as it means Christmas is just around the corner. And anyone who knows me will know how much I love to plan for Christmas.
Things got a bit more ‘back to normal’ in August as I actually went out and saw people. I saw some of the girls from my school friendship group who I hadn’t seen since the start of the year (longer for some!) We had a picnic in the park on one of the hot evenings and it was lovely to catch up and see them all. I managed to have brunch with another friend on a trip back to Watford which was nice as I’ve missed brunch.
I made two trips to London this month and experienced the trains for the very first time. Masks aren’t going to go away anytime soon so it was good to just get the first time over and done with. Plus I got to go to London from our new house which was a whole new route. I managed to finally meet my new work colleagues after working for 4 months together virtually. Then the following day I headed back in for dinner with two friends who I hadn’t seen since before Christmas which was crazy.
While I’m happier to have a slightly slower pace of life it’s made me realise how much I missed real social contact.
With the ‘Eat Out To Help Out’ scheme in August me and Luke did head out for dinner a few times. In most places, the experience was really good and I felt properly distanced. But one place we did head too I felt way too close to other people so I don’t think I’ll be heading back there again. Places have felt pretty busy as there’s less capacity but it feels more like ‘normal’ going out to eat now.
A week or so after we moved into our house I made a walk into town on one of my days off work. It was mainly to see what shops were about and to grab brunch but it was nice to see what was around. Masks just feel like the norm now so it doesn’t feel strange to have them on. Although I’ve walked out and forgot mine once before.
I pushed out my final home renovation diary a few weeks ago where you can see the latest things we’ve been up to. This month we got our kitchen worktops fitted which was amazing. And our hot water and boiler is on so I don’t have to drape a blanket over me when I’m working. The rest of the time it’s mainly been finishing touches; waiting for some furniture bits, building the furniture, putting things up, unpacking boxes, etc. But I’m so happy with where we’re at.
We hosted both of our parents near the end of the month so they could see the house. Then I also brought my nan and auntie round to the house as they’ve never seen it due to us getting the keys when lockdown happened. And we also had Luke’s sister over. It’s so nice that most of the family have now seen the house and we can host/ have people around.

It sounds like you have been buy through out August. I can’t imagine what it is like to travel on public transport at the moment. I’m glad you to show a lot of your family your new home.
Looks like the month of August has been super busy for you. Glad you got some free time to catch up with family and friends. Can’t wait to see more photos of your house and kitchen too as it gets completed.
It has actually been quite busy considering how quiet the rest of the year has been x
What a busy August! We had quite a chilled August for once – glad you got to catch up with some friends.
I must admit, I too forgot how much I loved socializing until it wasnt an option any more. Your home looks really lovely.
Yeah I thought I’d love just my own company, but I’ve realised I need a nice balance between the two x
August flew by for us, i didnt really get to do the eat out due to being busy at work on thos days and tight with money,we did it once and didnt have a great experience, we are yet to brave london, it seemed like we were there every other month but have deliberately stayed away a bit, house is looking good though, but the picture of churros distracted my thought process on the rest.
It’s great o finally be able to see family an dfriends isn’t it. I think we take it all for granted until something like this happens. We found some restaurants crammed people in to cash in rather than consider safety which was a shame.
Yeah I found restaurants mixed, some places crammed people to cash in, but others did it well x
I know exactly what you mean, the slower pace is good, but the lack of socialising is very hard x
I went into London for the first time since March this weekend and I experienced the trains. I was surprised, especially that 99% of the people were respecting the distancing rules and had masks. Yes, there was that 1% who didn’t care…. but overall, it was a good experience.
My experience was pretty much the same. I was quite impressed with the majority of people x
You’ve done so well! I have to go to London for work soon and I’m intrigued to see what the trains are like. I can’t say I’m looking forward to it!
Wow ! You have been so super busy this past month! Bet it was a blessing really , a distraction from what is going on in the world
I really miss going into London but I just can’t face taking my kids on the trains at the moment.
I went to London for the first time since all of this as well – the ride up was a bit stressful as Greater Anglia isn’t taking the steps they should be to make sure it is safe, but London itself was good and it was nice to visit our friend socially distanced style! Hope September is good to you x
It’s felt great to be able to go out and about more, but I’m still a bit worried about the risk of a second wave if I’m honest, and locally to me there’s been a lot of flouting the rules noted.
Yeah I think we’re all a bit worried about a second wave which seems to be starting already but we’ve got to do what feels right and safe for us x
how exiting and such a busy period for you! i’ve started redecorating and it’s been hectic!