Renovation Column: Trying to survive the school holidays with our sanity intact

We’re very much in the trenches with extension work going on outside and demolition of the internal walls set to take place during the first week of the school holidays.

Nothing says welcome to the summer holidays kids then 8am wake-up calls courtesy of an ensemble of sledgehammers, the dull whir of a pneumatic drill all set to the beat of a concrete mixer.

On the plus side our builders are a fantastic father and son team whom the girls love chatting to and helping to take drinks orders. I think properly introducing your children to the building team and selecting one that everyone feels comfortable with is key. They also tidy up after themselves which I've found to be a godsend and makes the process much more manageable.

Managing the girls' expectations for the summer however, is going to be a tad trickier but the key to survival. Grasping every opportunity to leave said building site for much-needed respite will also be essential (along with a fully stocked wine fridge to help mum and dad make it through).

Much to my surprise (and relief) the girls are actually very interested in the renovation process and keen to pitch in at every opportunity (a bit too keen sometimes). Having to explain to our four-year-old why she can’t knock down the walls herself was an interesting conversation—"but I’ve got my boss hardhat...”

Whilst summer holidays are normally filled with trips out, hosting playdates, and using every ounce of glitter and glue we can get our hands on this year we’re going to have to do things a bit differently.

We are having difficult conversations about how this summer's holidays might look. Including having to tell our nine-year-old that hosting a pamper afternoon with her friends would require dust masks instead of rejuvenating face masks. And that her pal’s parents may have to sign a waiver to ensure they can’t sue us for any building site injuries sustained whilst on a playdate.

Another tricky topic matter is the idea that expensive days out will be replaced with good old fashioned free fun – trips to the local park, walks and picnics in order to save money to transform our building site into a home.

The saving grace is the garden which will really come into its own this year and become a bit of a sanctuary. The garden is largely unaffected by the work so paddling pools and slip and slides along with picnics under the willow tree will be achievable (albeit it soundtracked to the building site hum)

As difficult as this summer may be I'm excited to see the progress and see if we make it to September with our sanity intact.

Keep up to date with all the progress by following @ohgodweboughtavicarage on Instagram.