In 2002 we, Amanda, Paul, three children and a dog made the decision to up sticks and move from our busy London lives to a rural and more peaceful existence here in France. I imagined sitting in the garden, wearing a floaty dress, holding a glass of wine and enjoying the beautiful view. I've never worn the dress and am usually found covered in hay in an odd assortment of llama and building-friendly clothes but the view has never failed to touch my heart, and when I put my spade down I quite often raise my hand with a glass of red.

Doing as many before us have, we gave up stressful professional jobs, bought a wreck and set about renovating. This was a foolish idea and is not to be recommended to anyone. We're still renovating, but after three years now have the luxury of a bath.

More through good luck than good planning, we are happily settled here and have learnt a lot in the process, providing an ongoing comedy of errors for our neighbours. Paul's first attempt with a rotavator is still talked about in tones of horror and sympathy for the poor machine by our fellow gardeners.

Over the years we have grown into a mini farm and have come to appreciate the simple things in life. We grow most of our own fruit and veg and I truly feel wealthy with a full basket of freshly picked food.If I could just persuade Paul that we really, really need a cow....................                                                                                                     Please feel free to add your support to the 'Amanda needs a cow campaign'  

Now, after much hard work, we are ready to welcome you to our own little bit of paradise.