We’ve built ourselves a summerhouse where we can finally sit in the shade during the day and admire the mountain views. In the evenings we just close the doors and—voilà—we still feel as if we’re outdoors, only without being eaten alive by the “wonderful” mosquitoes. A real win–win.

It took us ages to decide whether it would be worth it, but honestly, it’s just too hot to sit outside in the daytime. Last summer was basically a game of musical chairs with the sun—dragging chairs from one patch of shade to the next. Not exactly relaxing.

The actual structure went up last year, but this year was all about finishing touches. We had it tiled, Johan installed a WC and washbasin, and we still dream of a little kitchen area (that’s the next project). For now, a table and chairs do the trick—and it’s simply wonderful to sit there.

Of course, as always happens here, nature has its own ideas. Every year brings some new “guest” we hadn’t planned on. I’ve written before about the birds, the beehives, tortoises, the famous goat, lizards, crickets, and donkeys. And now? Moths.

Our summerhouse has a lovely wooden-beamed ceiling, which apparently doubles as a moth maternity ward. Who knew? (Well, probably anyone used to country living, but still…)

So at the moment I’m googling solutions while sweeping the beams on a daily basis. It feels a bit mean, but the alternative seems to be welcoming hundreds of tiny caterpillars as housemates. Tempting as that sounds… no thanks!