🎄 Happy Christmas from Sicily! 🎄 Thank you so much for watching this week’s video! Your support means the world to me, and I hope you’ve enjoyed seeing all the progress on the villa renovation. Don't forget, new videos go live every Sunday so make sure to hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications! 🔔 📸 Follow me on Instagram for exclusive behind-the-scenes content and daily updates: 👉 @Operation.Sicily 🎥 Check out my TikTok for quick renovation snippets and fun moments: 👉 @OperationSicily ☕ Support the journey and buy me a coffee! Every contribution helps keep this project moving forward: 👉 Buy Me A Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/operationsicily Thank you all for being such an amazing part of this journey. Wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 🎅🎁 Let me know in the comments what you think of this week’s progress - I’d love to hear from you! 😊 Stay tuned, and see you next Sunday! 🏡✨
When moving trees , think water and feed. Dig or auger a number of plastic down pipes ,half to one metre long, drill holes all over pipes , put them in the ground around the trees you plant or move. It makes watering easy, the water soaks in deep, simply fill the pipes with water and liquid feed regularly with a hose. Stops waste of water and avoids run off. 🇮🇪☘️ Good luck.
Thanks so much for this excellent advice! 🌱 The pipe method is such a clever idea, and I can absolutely see how it would save water while ensuring the roots get exactly what they need. I’ll definitely remember this when planting or moving more trees-it sounds like a game changer! Wishing you all the best from Sicily, and thank you for the thoughtful tip! 🇮🇪☘️😊
BACKUP is key. But a correct BACKUP is on different drives! So not just ONE hard drive, but 2 or 3 hard drives with the same content. It takes time but you get security. Also, keep backup in different places if you can. I keep my data and footage on different hard drives and sometimes on different media!
You’re absolutely right-backup is key! I’ve definitely learned my lesson the hard way. I now have multiple backups on different hard drives, and I’m being much more mindful about the quality of the drives I use. Previously, I went for cost over quality, and that ended up being half the problem at the recovery lab. The damaged hard drive was cheap and ridiculously difficult to recover. Lesson learned, and it certainly won’t be happening again! Whereabouts are you based? Hope you’ve had a lovely Christmas and enjoyed the recap video-it’s been a big 6 months, and there’s so much more to come next year! Thanks for the advice and support! 🎥💾🎄
Awwww, dont worry now about all the lost footage, you showed the work you've been doing and it's brought us up to date. Looks great, and I'm so enjoying the vast changes. Have a good week
Thank you, Sonia! 😊 I’m so glad you’re enjoying seeing the changes-it’s been a long journey, but so rewarding to share it. The lost footage was definitely a tough one, but you’re right, it’s all about keeping the momentum going. Wishing you a great week too!
Hello Jonathan, Greetings from France where its horrible and cold. I have to agree on another comment. Hard drives are unreliable so send everything to the cloud instead. Footage is gone, its a shame but there is something more coming that we will also enjoy. Re the garden you now have its coming along nicely. Ask the local sheep herder or goat man to see if they would like to put there flock in the yard for a day, but be careful goats eat everything. Trees are coming along nicely but they will need mulching. Coming from Melbourne where everything is deeply fine mulched because of the hot weather to France where I have not been able to find any great mulch, instead think about mulching with the shavings that you can buy in bales for horses bedding and put that around your trees and give a good soaking. Also another comment you got about the pipe in the ground and filling with water is an excellent idea. I planted a whole fruit orchard using an auger and the pipe method. Had the best fruit trees around and watering them was a breeze. Re feeding them. The little and often liquid feed, I find is best. You want recovery, and fruit. Fruit trees are incestuous things they do need pollinators and if you look on line you can find which ones will mate with which but have a look around the neighbourhood close by you might find the mate you need just over the fence. With your citrus if you can't find any fertilizer to feed them, then morning human male urine on them (its the strongest Urea) is also good if needs must. Regarding your snake. 🪱Left the snakes behind in Australia only find find green vipers in my yard here in France. Working on the usual rule of thumb unless you bother them or they are in the house then you won't have to worry. He or she will now be wintering over but be careful in the spring when lifting up stuff in the yard, you might find one curled up. Seasons Greetings to you and yours, Merry Christmas.😊🌲
Hello from Sicily, Kim! 😊 Greetings to France, where it sounds like you’ve traded Melbourne heat for a chillier challenge! ❄️ Thank you for all the fantastic advice-it’s like a masterclass in gardening and tree care. 🌳 I’ve actually saved all the branches from the two large pine trees I removed, and I plan to mulch them down and spread the mulch all over the planter beds that house the fruit trees. Your suggestion about using horse bedding shavings is another great idea-I’ll keep that in mind if needed. The pipe watering method sounds absolutely amazing, and I’ll definitely remember it when I come to planting more trees in the future. As for feeding them, well... I’ll keep your urea suggestion in reserve for desperate times! 😂 Great tip about pollinators as well. I’ve noticed a few fruiting trees around the neighborhood, so hopefully, they’re doing their matchmaking job. And about the snake-your rule of thumb makes perfect sense. I’ll be extra cautious come spring when moving anything around the yard! 🐍 Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and all the best for the New Year! 🎄✨ Thanks for all the amazing tips and support! 😊
That’s such a clever tip, Judy! 🌼 I love the idea of getting more plants from one pot-it’s a great way to stretch the budget and fill out the garden. I’ll definitely keep this in mind for future planting! 🌱💡
Hi, Jonathan (again!). Consider placing a trail cam in your garden somewhere low to the ground and you'll see what critters you share your space with. They aren't very expensive and your kids will love looking at the footage. You can turn it into a game trying to identify what you see.
I absolutely love this idea-it’s brilliant, and I’m definitely going to set up a trail cam in the garden! 🦊🐿️ It’ll be great fun for the kids to see all the little critters we’re sharing the space with, and I’m sure it’ll become a bit of a family game to identify them all. Thanks so much for the suggestion-it’s going on my to-do list! 👍✨
Thanks, Jacqui! It was a tough decision, but definitely the right one to protect the property and make space for future plans. 😊 I’m excited to share more progress soon-there’s still so much to come! 👍 Stay tuned and have a great day! 🌳💪
Your progress is amazing! I am especially impressed with your cleaning abilities, esp with no running water or electricity! I’m so sorry about the hard drive. Look forward to watching your continued progress.
Thank you so much, Valeri! 😊 The cleaning has definitely been a challenge without running water or electricity, but it’s all part of the journey! 💪 Losing the hard drive was tough, but I’m glad to have your support as I push forward. I really appreciate you following along-excited to share more progress with you soon! 🏡✨
That’s a great thought! 😊 If the goats could graze on the clover and help with some of the garden upkeep, that would be a win-win. I’ll definitely speak to the local with the goats and see if it’s an option. Thanks for the idea! 🐐🌱
Thank you, Jayne! Your support means the world to me, especially during moments like this. It’s all part of the journey, and I’m so grateful to have people like you here regardless! 😊 Hope you’ve had a lovely Christmas, and don’t miss the new video coming out this Sunday! 🎄✨
Ouch, that was a costly mistake. Keep going, you've got amazing planning skills that I really aspire to embrace by watching your progress. Merry Christmas to you and your family 😊
Thank you so much for your kind words! Ouch indeed, but setbacks like these are all part of the process, and they make the victories even sweeter. I’m so glad to hear you find the planning inspiring-it means a lot. Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a fantastic New Year! 🎄✨
Enjoying the video. As for the fig tree it looks fine to me. It will lose all it's leaves during the colder months. New shoots will come from last season's old wood and with this new fruit. You can prune back every winter. All other fruit trees look good. Keep at it and you will be rewarded 👍
Thanks for the reassurance about the fig tree! 🌳 I’ve been trying to stay patient as the colder months pass, and I’m glad to hear it looks normal to you. I’ll make sure to prune it back during the winter as you suggested. Really appreciate the encouragement-cheers! 🍈✂️
Awww so sorry you lost all that footage Jonathan 😢. Everything seems to be coming on leaps and bounds though now ❤. Merry Christmas to you and your family 🎄🇬🇧xxx
Thank you, Mandy-it’s been tough losing the footage, but the progress is definitely keeping me motivated. Merry Christmas to you and your family too! Sending love from Sicily! 🇬🇧🎄
In my opinion the curled leaves of the olive tree are water stress, perhaps it has received too little water ...in the meantime I wish you a very Merry Christmas
Thank you for the insight about the olive tree’s leaves-it’s definitely something I’m keeping an eye on. Water stress makes a lot of sense given all the changes the trees have been through recently. I’ll make sure they get the right balance of water to help them recover. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas as well, and thank you for following along with this journey-it means a lot! 🎄😊🌿
The trees you relocated from the back to the front garden really fill in the space nicely. I agree with all of your tips about landscaping as a crucial part of market value and market appeal for any property. The hard work you have put into the landscaping of your villa is already greatly improving the curb appeal, and it will only get better as you go further. I am glad you are able to use the skills of local people, which is a way for you to be contributing to the community you are now a part of. So sorry about your lost footage, but I hope you will still take a big break from your work and your videos so you can enjoy the holidays with your family. Merry Christmas from Annapolis, Maryland USA.
Thank you so much, Deborah, for your thoughtful and encouraging comment! 😊 I’m thrilled to hear you’re enjoying the landscaping progress-it really is such a key part of enhancing the villa’s charm and value. 🌳 Knowing the trees are thriving in their new spot feels like a small win amidst all the hard work! I completely agree about supporting local people; it’s been a pleasure learning from them and giving back to the community here. The lost footage was a setback, but your kind words definitely lift my spirits. Wishing you a Merry Christmas from Sicily to Annapolis, and I hope you have a wonderful holiday season with your loved ones! 🎄✨
Happy holidays to you too! 🎄 Thank you for following along-it’s so encouraging to know you’re enjoying the updates. Here’s to more progress and exciting milestones in 2025! 🎉
I agree, don't worry about the lost footage, you are doing an amazing job bringing this property back to life. So lovely of you to guide the elderly neighbour around the property again - the locals will love what you are doing and bringing new life to it. Good luck with the next projects. Celia NZ
Thank you so much for your kind words, Celia! 😊 It truly means a lot to have such amazing support, especially during setbacks like losing the footage. Showing the property to my elderly neighbor was a really special moment-it’s heartwarming to see the locals appreciate the effort going into bringing this villa back to life. Hope you’ve had a lovely Christmas, and don’t forget-a new video is coming out this Sunday! 🎄🎥
You are doing an amazing job, the outside is looking so different now. Sad about the loss of your data but accidents happen and we learn from them. The most important thing is that you all have your health. I think it is so lovely your neighbour feels comfortable in coming around regularly (I am sure he may know the snake). Hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and all the very best wishes for the New Year xx
Thank you so much for your kind words, Judy! It really means a lot. The outside is definitely coming together, and despite the data loss being frustrating, you’re absolutely right-it’s all a learning experience, and health is what matters most. 😊 I feel so lucky to have such a kind neighbor; his visits and stories are a real highlight, and I’m sure he might know more about the snake! 🐍 Wishing you and your family a wonderful Christmas and all the very best for a happy and healthy New Year! 🎄✨ xx
Not going to lie, I almost didn't watch this video because of the snake content but Im really glad I did to see you and your neighbour spending time together in a garden that meant so much to him. Terrible news about the lost footage, I unfortunately have plenty of experience of lost data over the years and unfortunately have no words of support that could change how you feel about it. With that being said, the visual changes to the property are incredible and certainly worth paying for especially to remove the liability danger from that tree. I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and a prosperous New Year ahead. Stay safe, relax & have fun and we will see you after family time
I admire your ability to think through issues and not rush into things. A safe pair of considered and quietly skilful hands is a valuable thing. Thank you for your videos. We wish for you and yours a happy Christmas season and a safe and productive new year. Phil, Suffolk U.K 🇬🇧
@scottsorby7966 Hi Scott, thanks so much for sticking with the video despite the snake content! 🐍 I really appreciate your kind words. Spending time with the neighbor and hearing his stories about the garden made the whole experience so special, even with the hard work involved. The lost footage was definitely a tough pill to swallow-I’m sorry to hear you’ve been through similar frustrations. It’s one of those things that teaches you the hard way to back everything up properly. I’m so glad you’re enjoying the visual changes so far, especially with the tree removal. It was a tough decision, but as you said, safety and liability made it necessary. Wishing you and your family a wonderful Christmas and an amazing New Year! Thank you for your ongoing support, and I’ll see you in the next one after some family time. Stay safe and take care! 🎄✨
@FIL357 Hi Phil, thank you so much for such a kind and thoughtful comment-it really means a lot! 😊 Taking the time to think things through has certainly helped avoid a few costly mistakes along the way, so I appreciate you noticing that approach. Wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and all the best for a safe and productive New Year! Thanks again for the encouragement and support-it keeps me motivated to share this journey. Cheers from Sicily to Suffolk! 🎄🇬🇧✨
Omg that snake is long, coming from a country where we don’t Have them my skin is crawling. Take care in the garden and wear protective boots. The garden is coming along nicely.😊
I know, Karen, that snake was a shocker! 😱 Coming from the UK, where snakes aren’t really a thing, it’s definitely an adjustment. I’m always careful in the garden, especially after that discovery-protective boots are now a must. Thank you for noticing the progress in the garden; it’s really starting to come together! 🌱🐍
Oh no sorry to hear about your hard drive. Something always goes wrong so while a terrible loss better than alternatives. I’m here for the long haul and thrilled to see the progress you’re making. The garden looks amazing and so touching to see your neighbour enjoying it. Love your videos!
Thank you so much, Jojola! 🌿 You're absolutely right-something always seems to go sideways during a project like this, but I’m grateful it wasn’t anything worse. Losing the hard drive was a tough pill to swallow, but your kind words and support mean the world. ❤️ I’m glad you’re enjoying the progress, especially the garden-it’s coming together slowly but surely! Seeing my neighbor appreciate it made it all the more rewarding. 😊 Thanks for sticking with me for the long haul! 💪✨
Thanks so much! 😊 I’m thrilled you’re enjoying the updates. It’s a labor of love, and knowing people like you are following along makes it even more special. Stay tuned for more to come! 🌟
Love your channel and the property .My husband and I are looking into buying in Italy it is such a beautiful country .I love your information regarding getting the best out of thr property without spending large sums of money Thank you
Thank you, Andrea! 😊 That’s so exciting that you and your husband are looking into buying in Italy-it's such a stunning country with so much character! 🇮🇹 I’m glad you’re finding the tips and ideas helpful; it’s amazing what you can do with a bit of creativity and resourcefulness without breaking the bank. 💡💪 Wishing you both the best of luck with your property search, and I hope to see you following along for more inspiration! 🏡✨
That what life is all about it. Our misfortune pushes us down for a while, but how we decide to move forward it will define who we are Sorry for what happened to you but we all can admire your accomplishments and the direction you are going. Keep looking forward and working on the task in front of you. Victory will be right in the corner.
Thank you so much for your kind words, Jeanine! You’re absolutely right-our setbacks shape us, and I’m determined to keep pushing forward. Knowing there’s a supportive community like this makes the journey even more meaningful. Merry Christmas to you, and here’s to a fantastic year ahead! 🎉
Hi! Merry Christmas! Do no worry about the fig tree. New sprouts means the tree is alive. Its probably sap. New sprouts will not grow out of the brown spot so don’t worry about it. Your loquat will take much longer to come back than any fig tree.
Hi Cyn, Merry Christmas to you as well! 🎄 Thanks for the reassurance about the fig tree and loquat-I’ll be keeping an eye on them, but it’s great to hear they’re resilient. And yes, that snake was massive-I think I’ll be keeping my distance! 😅
Your wood was impressive😮. The trees could be a hit or a miss. Good on the neighbour coming to look around. Getting local people to do some of work again all ties in with neighbourhood. Have good one son. To you and the family. 👏👍🏴 oh the snake it’s called a kier starmer easily recognisable.
😂 Cameron, I nearly spit out my tea at the Kier Starmer comment-absolutely priceless! 🐍 Let’s hope the snake doesn’t start promising renovations it can’t deliver. 🤣 As for the trees, you’re spot on-they’re either thriving or on a ‘wait-and-see’ basis. And yes, the neighbor popping by was great-local connections really do make a difference. Appreciate the laughs and the support, mate. Cheers to you and your family as well, and watch out for any slithering politicians in your garden! 🌳😂
Thank you, Eric! 😊 Wishing you a Merry Christmas and an amazing 2025 as well! 🎄✨ I’m excited to share even more progress in the coming year. Your support means a lot-stay tuned! 🛠️
That’s some sort of open end seal, if it’s growing I’d leave it alone. Some people burn the open end and other might dip wax to seal so insects and rain doesn’t settle on the end and rot it. Also cutting the end at an angle helps run the water off so it doesn’t sit and settle that’s why I’m pretty sure whoever cut the trees knew what they were doing.
Thanks, Maria! That’s great insight. 🌳 I’ve seen the angled cuts and sealing methods you mentioned before-it makes a lot of sense to prevent water damage and rot. I’m going to keep an eye on the stumps and might try a wax seal or similar treatment if needed. It’s always good to hear that whoever cut them likely knew their stuff-it gives me confidence in the trees' chances of thriving! 😊👍
It's looking pretty good so far great job. I'm sure you already know this tip.Cut wood: Wood cut from a tree typically takes about 12 months to dry. Merry Christmas from 🇨🇦🙏
Thank you, Yolanda! 😊 Yes, I’ve heard that about drying wood-it’s a long wait, but so worth it to get it just right! I’m keeping the cut pieces indoors to help them dry properly, so fingers crossed they turn out great. 🎄 Wishing you a very Merry Christmas from Sicily to Canada! 🇮🇹🎅✨
Thanks so much! 😊 I’m glad you’re noticing the improvements-it’s been a lot of work, but the front garden is finally shaping up! Still more to do, but it’s satisfying seeing progress. 🌿
Love your content. I like you share tips and tricks as well as sharing your progress. Contemplating retiring abroad an your channel is giving me some great things to consider. Job well done from the US!
Thank you so much, Paulene! 😊 I’m really glad you’re enjoying my content and finding the tips and tricks helpful. Retiring abroad can be such an exciting adventure, and I’m thrilled my channel is giving you ideas to consider. 🌍🏡 Wishing you all the best on your journey, and thanks for the kind words from the US-it really means a lot! 🇺🇸✨
Thanks for the tip! I’ve heard about using wax or paint to seal exposed cuts, and it makes so much sense for preventing rot and disease. I’ll definitely look into treating the cuts on my trees to keep them healthy. Cheers! 🌳🕯️
Such a shame about the hard drive loss but you've managed to catch us up beautifully. Once ready to work with, I think the wood table could look absolutely stunning and so nice to re-purpose the timber. How nice your neighbour appreciates all the hard work you’ve put into the villa, especially as he has emotional links to the place and also great to see a little of life outside the villa and those amazing patisseries! Have a wonderful festive season with the family and look forward to your continuing journey in the New Year.
Thank you so much, Caroline. It was definitely a shame about the hard drive, but I’m glad I managed to bring everyone up to speed! I’m really looking forward to seeing how the tables turn out-it feels great to repurpose the timber and give it a new life. It’s been so rewarding to connect with my neighbor and learn a bit more about the villa’s history. And yes, those patisseries are dangerously delicious! Have a wonderful festive season with your family, and I can’t wait to share more of the journey in the New Year! 🎄✨
Wow Jonathon.. the circles on those tree trunks is beautiful. Now I want you to put a glass to on the tables😂 (you do what you want😂) Gracious me .. that bakery looks lethal. How wonderful to have that close to your new home. Your transplants are looking good for now.. I guess you really have to wait until they have survived a summer before you can be sure. What a blow, losing footage. I’ve been admiring the works that we are seeing. As we say, worse things happen at sea, and we can follow on. I’m rather glad you got local help. Less expensive and community building at the same time. It seems they have achieved some really good goals and your back is ok.. digging those footers would have been hard work. Wishing you a great Christmas. Cheers from Oz 🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄
Lorraine, you’ve got a great eye for detail! 👀 I love the idea of adding a glass top to the tables-it could look amazing! As for the bakery, it’s a dangerous place for the waistline but worth every bite. 😂 I completely agree about the transplants; summer will be the real test. And you’re so right-losing footage was tough, but I’m grateful for the progress we can still share. Thank you for your lovely message, and cheers to a fantastic Christmas from Sicily to Oz! 🪵🎄
Snakes are good to keep the mice away although I wouldn’t want to see a snake close to my house . In Sicily I’ve only seen the common black thin snakes. Sorry to hear about your hard-drive , being a new UA-camr myself I know how much work it entails to film and create content . However accidents happen and just look ahead and you still have so much great content to share . Tanti Auguri 2025
I’m with you on the snake situation-if it helps keep the mice away and isn’t venomous or eyeing up the kids for lunch, I’m fine with it staying in the garden! 😂 Thank you so much for your kind words about the hard drive; it’s definitely a learning curve with all this filming and content creation, but I’m staying positive and focusing on what’s ahead. I just checked out your channel, and it’s fantastic! Your composting video caught my eye as I’m planning to make a compost container soon-definitely something I’ll be watching for tips. Whereabouts in Sicily are you located? Hope you had a lovely Christmas! Don’t forget, a new video is coming out on Sunday, so stay tuned. Wishing you all the best for 2025! 🎄✨😊
Been thinking about the tasks you have or will be executing. Might be worth getting hold of a sack barrow. I have been using one for years, like you I am a fairly strong person but have so benefitted having one, especially in the garden. And you can pull heavy loads up steps if the tyres are pneumatic! Seasons greetings to you and your loved ones 😁Phil, Suffolk.🇬🇧
Hi Phil, you’ve hit the nail on the head there-I could absolutely do with a sack barrow! I’ve got one back in the UK, but unfortunately not here in Sicily. While it would be a massive help, especially for moving heavy loads and getting them up steps, I’m trying to keep my costs down and make do with what I’ve got for now since the budget is pretty tight. Seasons greetings to you and your loved ones too, and a big hello to Suffolk! 🇬🇧 Thanks for the thoughtful suggestion-it’s definitely on my wish list for the future. Cheers! 😊🎄
Thank you, Anita! 😊 Merry Christmas to you and your family as well. 🎄 Taking some time to rest and recharge before jumping back into the renovations. Have a wonderful holiday season! 🌟
Merry Christmas, Jonathan. I have thoroughly enjoyed watching you from the beginning. May the coming year bring you fortune, friendship and family. Ciao!
Thank you so much for the kind wishes, and Merry Christmas to you too! 🎄 I truly appreciate you being part of the journey from the start-it means the world. Wishing you a fantastic New Year filled with joy and blessings! 🌟
I'm sorry about the lost video, but you still did the work! I am so impressed with your work ethic and the information you pass on. Enjoy the holiday with your family ❤
Thank you so much, Tracie! ❤ Losing the footage was a tough lesson, but as you said, the work still got done, and that’s what matters most. I really appreciate your kind words about the work ethic-it keeps me motivated! Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday season filled with joy and love. 🎄😊
Merry Christmas to you and your family. Losing your footage is almost heartbreaking, I'm sorry you went through it. You are making the best decisions and very strategically. You know what you are doing! I'll enjoy seeing your next endeavor. Take care!
Thank you so much, Kathy! 😊 Merry Christmas to you and your family too! 🎄✨ Losing the footage was definitely a tough one to swallow, but I’m trying to focus on what’s ahead and keep pushing forward strategically. Your kind words mean a lot-it’s all about tackling one project at a time and making the best of it. I’m excited to share the next steps with you! Take care and enjoy the holiday season! 🌟🎁
Thank you so much, Neuton! 🎄❤️ Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with love, laughter, and happiness. Your kind words and support mean the world to me-cheers to an amazing 2025 for us all! 🥂😊
Half way the video I thought..the front trees are magically gone. Then you told how and what! Omg..what bad luck. Make sure however we stick with you till the job is done..cheers!
Haha, yes, the disappearing trees were a bit of a plot twist, weren’t they? 😅 I’m glad the explanation cleared things up! The front garden is shaping up nicely now, but it’s been a journey. Thank you so much for sticking with me-it means the world to have such supportive viewers! 🙌 Cheers to seeing this job through to the end together! 🍷🌳
Mate, I was absolutely devastated when it happened-I completely feel your pain. It might not seem like it, but there’s so much work that goes into this channel. From setting up cameras and filming to editing videos and replying to comments, it’s like having a second full-time job. Losing all that great content was a real blow, but on the bright side, I’ve learned my lesson, and it definitely won’t happen again. Everything is backed up multiple times now! Thanks for your understanding and support-it really means a lot. 😊📂
Great idea, Hilberry! 😊 Recessing the top and leaving a rimmed edge would definitely add a bit of style and practicality as a side table. I could probably manage this with a router-another project to add to the list! Thanks for the suggestion! 🛠️
Thank you so much, Fiona! 😊 Merry Christmas to you and your family too 🎄🎅 It means the world to know you'll be waiting for the next update-I'll definitely keep the momentum going! Cheers to an exciting 2025 ahead! 🛠️✨
Hu. Maybe you should put adjustable low profile legs underneath your log chairs. You could do that to level them ? Or at least, it will protect your tiles from damage.
That’s a brilliant idea, Guylaine! Adjustable low-profile legs would be perfect for leveling the log chairs and protecting the tiles too. I’ll definitely look into that-it’s a great way to make them more functional. Thanks for the suggestion! 🪑✨
It has been amazing watching your progress on this villa. I wish you and your family the very best Christmas and a Happy New Year! I look forward to seeing what you do in 2025!
Thank you so much for your lovely comment and kind wishes! 😊🎄 It’s been an incredible journey so far, and I’m so glad you’re enjoying the progress. Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy New Year! Here’s to more exciting updates and projects in 2025! 🏡✨
Wow, Carl and Rozana, thank you so much for your generous super chat-what a lovely surprise! 😊 Your kind words and support mean the world to me, and I truly appreciate you following along with my journey here in Sicily. Hearing about your own renovation adventures and knowing you’re cheering me on is so inspiring. I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and are looking forward to an amazing New Year. Wishing you both all the best and plenty of relaxing days ahead-you’ve certainly earned them after all the hard work you’ve put in over the years. Cheers again for your kindness and generosity! 🎄✨🎉
Thank you, Marta, and Merry Christmas to you and your family as well! 🎄 Sending warm wishes all the way from Sicily to Palm Springs, California. I hope you have a wonderful holiday season and a fantastic New Year ahead! 😊🎉
Thank you, Peter! Merry Christmas from Sicily to South Africa! 🎄✨ I’m glad you’re enjoying the videos, and I’ll do my best to keep the updates clear and informative. Appreciate your support-take care, my man! 😊
Thanks for the tip! I actually do have an angle grinder, so adding grater sleeves to the toolkit sounds like a great idea for those wood tasks. It’ll save a ton of time and effort! 💡🪚
Thank you, Michelle! 🎄✨ Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year too! 🎆🥂 Here’s to an amazing 2025 filled with joy and exciting new adventures! 🎉😊
really enjoy watching the progress that you are making to the place, long gone are the days of rat and mice poop. I think the snake skin could be CORN Snake, harmless to us but good at keeping the mice population down
Happy New Year, Sandmac! 🎉 Thank you so much for your support-I’m glad you’re enjoying the progress. Yes, thankfully the days of rat and mice poop are well behind us! A corn snake, you say? That’s a comforting thought-sounds like it’s been doing a good job as a natural pest control. Thanks for the info, and I hope you have an amazing year ahead! 😊
Are you renting your car or did you purchase a car? Is this home a vacation home or do you plan to move your family from the UK to Sicily? What mode of transportation do use in returning to the UK?
Great questions, Jenny! 😊 At the moment, I’m just renting cars here in Sicily-car hire prices are surprisingly reasonable, which works perfectly for now. 🚗 Once the villa is complete, Sicily will be my full-time home. I’m currently staying in an Airbnb while doing all the work, but it’s comforting to know I can return to the UK anytime to catch up with friends and family (and take a break from renovations!). ✈️ I usually fly between Sicily and the UK-it’s the quickest way to travel back and forth. Thanks for asking, and I hope you’re enjoying the journey! 🌟
So sorry to hear about your hard drive. I thought a lot had happened that I didn’t see. It just shows how much progress you’ve made. The front garden is looking wonderful. I can just imagine how it will look when finished. I’m excited to see future episodes. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Thank you, Debbie! 😊 Losing the hard drive was a tough one, but you're absolutely right-it highlights just how much progress has been made. The front garden is starting to take shape, and I can’t wait to share more updates as it transforms further. 🌿✨ Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year too! 🎄🎉 Thanks for following along-it means so much!
I think the snake is a grass snake (Natrix helvetica sicula), not venomous. And for you and your family: merry christmas! I enjoy your video's very much.
Thank you, Cees! That’s good to know about the snake-if it is a grass snake, I’ll take it as a helpful pest controller rather than something to be concerned about. 🐍😊 Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones as well! 🎄 I’m so glad you’re enjoying the videos, and I can’t wait to share even more progress in the new year! 🌟
Thank you so much, Faye! 😊 Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you too! 🎄🎉 I’m glad you’re enjoying the garden work-it’s hard but rewarding. Cheers to more progress in 2025 from sunny Sicily to Australia! 🇮🇹🇦🇺
Thank you! 🎄 It’s been so rewarding to see the progress week by week. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with joy and success! 🛠️✨ Can’t wait to share even more in 2025!
It really was a big one, wasn’t it? 🐍 Definitely gave me a surprise! Merry Christmas to you too! 🎄🎅 Wishing you a joyful holiday season and all the best for the New Year! 😊
Thank you so much! 😊 Wishing you happy holidays as well! 🎄🎉 I can’t wait to share more progress with you in the new year-plenty more exciting updates to come! 🙌
For the trees you are discussing on this video, even if they look dead, give them several months or a year to come back. Because they were severely pruned, it can take time for them to recover & begin producing. If, after a year, they don't produce, you should consider replacing them. Just keep watering and fertilizing as needed.
Thank you for the excellent advice! 🌱 I’m definitely planning to be patient with the trees. Even though they look a bit sad now, I’m hopeful they’ll bounce back with time and care. I’ll keep up with the watering and give them the occasional boost of fertilizer. Your point about waiting a year is really helpful-gives me a good timeline to work with. Fingers crossed they recover and start producing! 🤞 If not, I’ll look into replacements down the line. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge! 😊
The loss of the data must be extremely frustrating. Thanks for the catch up video; Sicily seems to come to life in the winter, very green! Regarding the snake, personally I like the idea of one living on the property, it will take care of any unwanted pests. Hopefully the cat will know to steer clear. Happy Christmas to you and all the best for 2025!
The data loss was definitely a blow, James, but I’m glad I could still put this catch-up video together. 😊 You’re absolutely right about Sicily in winter-it’s so lush and green, a completely different vibe! As for the snake, I agree it could be a great natural pest control, but I’ll definitely be keeping an eye on the cat to make sure there are no close encounters. 🐍🐾 Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and all the best for 2025 too-thank you for the support! 🎄✨
I was watching thinking I must have missed a video as the trees were uprooted and moved and ground landscaped. Such bad luck with the damaged hard drive. The snake skin creeped me out. As someone else commented, asking the neighbour for opinion on snake species a good idea. How lovely to see you walking arm in arm with your elderly neighbour. Does he know some English or is he speaking with you in Italian? Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and a safe and healthy New Year. Looking forward to future videos and watching the progress with your Sicilian House. 😊❤
Thanks, Marie! Losing the footage was a blow, but I’m glad I could catch everyone up with this video. The neighbor only speaks Sicilian, so communication is challenging, but it’s amazing how much we can understand through gestures. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you as well-I can’t wait to share more progress in the coming months! 🎄😊
Cheers, sorry to hear about the loss of the hard drive... we have been waiting for you next vlog... Having done many restorations/renovations over the years in inner Sydney Victorian terraces & more recently a 14 year 100 yr gut of old timber farmhouse from piers to roof... on acreage (100acres) 250 k from Sydney... at 75yo I have little time left so have packed up the tools (tractors, chain saws & brush cutters)... we really enjoy watching you struggle knowing you are having to gut the property... now with no electricity or running water... you seem to be doing all the right things in order on your own... great to see you have a Bricko nearby & of course food in Italie is to die for🫒... Best of luck for the New Year.... Rozana🌹& Carl🦘
Cheers, Carl and Rozana, and thank you for your kind words and support! 😊 I was absolutely devastated about the hard drive-it had so much great content I was excited to share. I really thought the specialized data recovery lab in the UK would manage to save it (they even work with the police!), but after weeks of waiting, I got the dreaded call that it couldn’t be recovered. That said, I’m moving forward and staying positive, ready to keep tackling this journey head-on. The renovation in Sicily has definitely been a learning curve, especially the buying process and figuring out what materials are available and where to get them. It’s such a different experience here-no websites, signs, or advertisements for builders’ merchants. You could drive past a massive supplier and never even know it! The electrics, plumbing, and waste pipes have also been a big adjustment since everything is buried in concrete walls. To avoid any future surprises, I’ve decided to redo everything for peace of mind. Back in the UK, I’m more used to things being behind stud walls or under timber joists, so it’s been quite the experience adapting. I suppose the silver lining is that after going through all this, the next property should be much easier and quicker to tackle! Your farmhouse renovation on 100 acres sounds like an incredible achievement-I can only imagine the hard work and dedication that took. My plot is a manageable 1,000sqm, and I’m glad I didn’t go for one of the properties I viewed with 10,000sqm of land, as I’d definitely need a tractor to manage that! I hope you had a lovely Christmas and are looking forward to a fantastic New Year. Thank you again for following along-it means the world! 🎄✨
Happy Christmas Jonathon to you and loved ones,never mind about the setback its regrettable but you're certainly moving in the right direction,don't know what to make of that damned snake!
Happy Christmas, Paul! 🎄 Thank you for your support and encouragement-setbacks are part of the journey, but I’m staying focused on the bigger picture. And that snake! Definitely gave me a surprise, but I’ll try to see it as a good luck sign, haha! 🐍
Hi! Merry Christmas! Do not worry about the fig tree. New sprouts means the tree is alive. Its probably sap. New sprouts will not grow out of the brown spot so don’t worry about it. Your loquat will take much longer to come back than any fig tree. Ugh. . . The lost data. Going forward you will edit better and and also not leave too many gaps without a voice over. You’re doing a great job!
Hi! Merry Christmas to you too! 🎄😊 Thank you for the reassurance about the fig tree-it’s great to hear that the new sprouts are a positive sign. I’ll keep giving it time to recover, and I’ll be patient with the loquat as well. The lost data was definitely a lesson learned, and I’ll be making sure there are no gaps and that everything is backed up multiple times going forward. Thanks for your kind words and support-it really means a lot! 🙏✨
Thank you, Maude! 🎄 Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and all the best for 2025. 🇨🇦 I can’t wait to see what the new year brings for the villa and share the journey with you!
Thank you so much! 🎄🎆 My neighbor had a look at the snake skin, but unfortunately, with the language barrier (he speaks Sicilian, which is very different from standard Italian), it’s still a mystery! 🐍 Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful Christmas and a fantastic New Year! 🎅🤶✨
I think those pieces of pine will make wonderful little tables. The wood grain is gorgeous. Oh Jonathan, I’m so sorry to hear about your problem with the hard drive. How deflating to go to all that work then to have it unretrievable. Your partner must feel awful. I know I would. Your followers will understand. Just take the time over the holidays to enjoy your family as you’re quite right, that’s what matters the most 🤗 All the best at Christmas and the coming year!! Fireworks. 🌲💥 ⭐️🙏
Thank you so much for your kind words, Terri! 😊 I’m really excited about those pine pieces-they’re going to make some stunning little tables once they’re fully dried. The grain really is something special, isn’t it? As for the hard drive, it was such a blow, but you’re absolutely right-family and the holidays are what matter most. My partner does feel awful, but accidents happen, and we’re all learning from it. The support from amazing followers like you makes it all so much easier to bounce back. Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and a fantastic New Year! 🎄💥✨ Cheers! 🙌
Hi John, thanks for watching and enjoying the content! The locals have been lovely, honestly. I think they find it a bit curious and amusing that a foreigner is taking on such a big project, but they’ve been so kind and supportive. It’s nice to feel welcomed into the community. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you too! 🎉🇮🇹
If you want some outdoor appeal. Cut the grass along your outside wall and power wash your wall. Would look much nicer and would increase your overall appearance
That’s a great suggestion! I’ve already been strimming the front garden, but I love the idea of power washing the outside walls-it would really give it a fresh look. Thanks for the tip; I’ll add it to my to-do list! 💦🧼
Buongiorno, E' un gran peccato che tu abbia perso i video dei lavori passati, ma, mi sembra un esagerazione tornare nel Regno Unito per recuperarli. Bastava chiedere e ti avrei dato un paio di indirizzi in zona, di tecnici bravi, che recuperano dati per mestiere. Peccato per gli alberi, ma hai fatto bene. Negli anni in cui fu costruita la casa, la Forestale regalò a chiunque avesse un terreno, degli alberi di pino, come quelli che hai abbattuto e tutti, sistematicamente dopo almeno 30 anni, li hanno dovuti abbattere per lo stesso tuo motivo, io stesso ne avevo 4 grandissimi, quasi il doppio dei tuoi e avevano spaccato i muri di cinta intrufolandosi sotto la base della casa, li ho dovuti togliere.. Per la pelle di serpente, non aver paura, si tratta sicuramente di una ( volgarmente chiamata ) " Biscia d'acqua" generalmente di colore nero, è innocua non velenosa, si nutre di lucertole e topolini, in pratica un buon alleato. Rinnovando la mia disponibilità nel caso dovessi avere bisogno, Auguro a te e famiglia buone feste Natalizie.
Grazie mille per il consiglio e per condividere la tua esperienza con i pini! È incredibile come siano stati piantati con le migliori intenzioni, ma poi abbiano creato così tanti problemi con il tempo. Capisco perfettamente la tua situazione con i muri di cinta-è esattamente ciò che stava accadendo qui. Per quanto riguarda la "biscia d'acqua," mi fa piacere sapere che è un buon alleato e non pericolosa. La tua disponibilità è davvero gentile e molto apprezzata. Tantissimi auguri di buone feste a te e alla tua famiglia! 🎄😊
Thanks so much, Stewart! 🎄 Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you and your family as well. Your kind wishes mean the world, and I’m looking forward to keeping the progress going strong in 2025!
Absolutely right-lesson learned the hard way! 😅 Everything is now backed up multiple times to avoid this happening again. Thanks for the reminder and for watching! 😊📁
Dear Jonathan.😊 Merry Christmas and a very happy New Year to you and your family.😊🎅🤶🌲 Thank you for the year of videos that is now coming to an end.. A lot has happened I can see and it is very unfortunate with what was deleted. But we are only human and sometimes bad things happen.😩 I have been somewhat absent because I have unfortunately become very ill. Had kidney cancer 2 years ago and had my right kidney removed because there was a large tumor on its way out. But I have many problems now with various pains. But I am fighting because the year has not been the easiest with my health. I pray that the year 2025 will be with me and I will feel better again. May you and your family have fun and enjoy it all. Thanks again for the videos, I look forward to seeing what will happen to your lovely place.❤🙏 Many loving Christmas greetings to you and your family from Maria in Denmark.🙏❤🎅🌲
Dear Maria, Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year to you and your family. 🎄🎉 Your message has truly touched me, and I’m so sorry to hear about the health challenges you’ve faced. It takes incredible strength to go through what you’ve endured, and your resilience is truly inspiring. I’m sending you all my thoughts and prayers for a brighter, healthier, and happier 2025. Thank you so much for being with me on this journey from the very beginning-it means the world to know that you’ve been a part of this adventure, even when dealing with your own struggles. I hope my videos can bring even a small bit of distraction or joy to your day, and I promise to keep sharing the progress as it unfolds. Take care, Maria, and remember you’re not alone-there’s a whole community here rooting for you! Sending you lots of love and strength from Sicily. ❤️ Warmest wishes, Jonathan 🙏✨
@OperationSicily Thank you so much Jonathan. It warms my heart so much and you are just the sweetest loving man. Because there are many who have fled my life since I got kidney cancer. People can't accept that the lively, always good and funny Maria has had a hard time. Has always been someone who was there for others in life. But now I have seen to what extent people basically are in the difficult times. Very very sad and has made me very unhappy. So what you write helps to keep the courage and hope up because I am waiting for some very crucial tissue samples from the abdomen (genitals), the intestine and some mega nodes in my femurs. I am afraid unfortunately it is not so good because now I have lost a total of 37 pounds, Yes, it is all some shit. Because we are going to Sicily no matter what because I definitely do not want to be here anymore where people have shown their true selves. It will be very exciting with your house and the logs that you want to use as tables, I would advise you to spray with some clear varnish to close the wood from vermin and so that it will not crumble all the time. Because that happens when they get in. Yes or paint them but that would be a bit of a shame I think. I hope you are doing well and also remember to relax because life can quickly turn around and we must learn to enjoy the present a little more. When I look back on how much I have done throughout my life and sacrificed myself for others, yes, there is a lot that I actually regret. Because now it turns out that much of it had no meaning. No, I just have to be a little more selfish and think about my own well-being. And about my son who is the only one who is there for me 100%. May you be well, take care of yourself and have a happy New Year. Big hugs from me. Maria.🙂
Thank you, Thomas! Working with wood is so satisfying, isn’t it? There’s something special about creating something with your own hands. Merry Christmas to you as well, and wishing you an amazing 2025 filled with success and creativity! 🎄✨🛠️
My worst nightmare finding a huge snake skin knowing the snake could be anywhere. Perhaps your neighbor can identify the species. Those citrus trees are going to be amazing. Have a great Christmas with your family and all the best for 2025
I can’t lie-the snake skin gave me a bit of a shock too! 😅 I’ve shown it to my neighbor, but he wasn't sure about the species. Hopefully, it stays hidden underground for a while longer! Thank you for the kind words about the citrus trees-I’m excited to see how they flourish. Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and a fantastic 2025! 🎄🍊
It doesn't look like a venomous snake's skin, those tend to be smaller in size. I would not worry about it much, probably will move from your area as it's too busy
Thank you! 🎄😊 I have quite an eclectic taste in music-it really helps keep me motivated during those long hours working solo. I’ll listen to anything from classical pieces like Hans Zimmer and Ludovico Einaudi to hip-hop and rap. It all depends on my mood and the task at hand! What’s your go-to music while tackling projects? 🎶🛠️
Hi Johnathan, so sorry you lost your footage mate!! That’s so unfortunate! I feel for you. Please be careful of your back I was pushing that log up that ladder with you!!! Have a great Xmas with your family, as you said they’re the most important thing, they must be very proud of you. Look forward to your content and progress in 2025. Do an agree a beautiful garden is a big selling point. Take care stay safe🎄
Hi Doreen, thank you for the kind words! 😊 Losing that footage was tough, but I’m so glad you’re enjoying the updates. Don’t worry-I’ll be extra careful with those logs; they’ve been a workout for sure! 💪 You’re absolutely right, family is everything, and I’m so grateful for their support. Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and can’t wait to share even more progress in 2025! 🎄 Stay safe and take care.
Thanks, Glyn! The big renovations are just around the corner now that the permits are sorted. First up will be major tasks like new windows, doors, and rewiring-can’t wait to dive in! Stay tuned! 🏡
I wasn’t expecting that snake either! 🐍😅 It definitely gave me a surprise! Nature has its way of keeping things interesting here in Sicily. Hopefully, no more unexpected visitors like that anytime soon! 😂
Jonathan, we only see you alone in Italy im curious how did the whole buying a property in Italy and you going off to renovate and create a UA-cam following go? Who’s idea and how was that dialogue navigated?
Great question, Maria! 😊 The idea of buying a property in Italy and documenting the journey on UA-cam was something I’d been dreaming about for a while-it’s a mix of passion for renovation, adventure, and creating something unique. Once I found the villa in Sicily, it just felt like the perfect project to take on. The UA-cam channel idea came naturally as I thought it would be a great way to share the highs and lows of the process with others, while also hopefully inspiring anyone with a similar dream. Navigating it all has been a bit of a balancing act, but it’s been so rewarding to see people like you enjoying the journey! 🌟🏡
Nice wintertime video, doesn’t seem to be too cold there? I saw the test painting on the outside wall. Please don’t paint the house too dark grey, makes it look like a dungeon… 😧 keep it as light as possible, makes the house look friendly, kind of modern architecture and keeps the rooms inside cool in summertime.
Thanks, Mathias! You're absolutely right-it doesn’t get too cold here, even in winter, which is one of the perks of being in Sicily! ☀️ About the paint, I completely agree with your point on keeping the color light. I’m leaning towards lighter shades to keep it modern and inviting while also helping with the heat during summer. Appreciate your thoughts-great advice as always! 🎨🏡
You’re absolutely right, Maria! 😊 The bark does add so much character, but I’m thinking of treating it with a clear wood hardener to keep it in place once it’s fully dried. Hopefully, that will do the trick!
Boa constructor skin during construction-sounds like a plot twist! 😂 Hopefully, it’s a one-time guest appearance. Thanks for the laugh and for watching! 🐍
Thank you so much, Cheryl! 😊 Sending warm wishes to you all the way in SA! 🌍 I’m so glad you’re enjoying the videos-plenty more to come as the villa transforms. Stay tuned! 🛠️✨
Totally agree-those tiles are definitely quite bold! 😅 The whole bathroom is set to be completely replaced, including those 'very out there' tiles. That said, it’s funny how some people really love them for their retro charm! Thanks for sharing your thoughts! 😊
Yes, I’ve heard of arborist wax! It seems like a really smart option to seal and protect those cuts. Thanks for the suggestion-it’s definitely on my list to look into! 😊
No way are subtitles needed for this video. I am not from the UK and can understand him perfectly. For example listen at 25.40 his voice is completely understandable and audible.
@shrory Haha, I promise I’m not speaking an entirely different language-it’s still Stockport English! 😉 But I get it, accents can seem a bit thicker after being away for a while. Glad to hear you liked the tree work and the seal paste-it’s all part of the plan to give these trees the best chance possible! Cheers from Stockport to wherever you are now! 🌳🎥
@michaelgavin5612 Thanks, mate! I’m glad you find it clear-always a relief to hear my ramblings make sense! 😂 I’ll keep trying to balance the audio for everyone, though. Thanks for sticking with the videos! 🙌
Per le piante avevo un giardiniere bravissimo, infatti avevo un bellissimo giardino e tante piante da frutto, per potare bisogna saperlo fare, penso anche che ci sia una grande differenza in Inghilterra, li è sempre freddo, comunque per il serpente non è velenoso, compra all'agraria il prodotto che serve per farli allontanare e non li vedrai più 🎯 , ti abbraccio 🤗 ,buon lavoro e Buon natale
Grazie mille Cristina! 😊 È vero, potare bene richiede esperienza e conoscenze-che fortuna avere avuto un giardiniere così bravo! Hai ragione anche sulle differenze climatiche tra l’Inghilterra e qui, cambia tutto per le piante. Grazie per il consiglio sul prodotto per allontanare i serpenti, sicuramente darò un’occhiata all’agraria per prenderlo. Ti mando un grande abbraccio e tanti auguri di Buon Natale! 🎄✨🤗
Wonderful comments below. Here in FL, USA we have a few varieties of snakes and most are harmless and help keep the rodent population down. One thing that keeps us entertained are little anole lizards (they keep the palmetto bugs down). The only thing that we are supposed to kill are the Cuban Tree Frogs but I don't have the heart to kill them. When you live there full time and there is a lot of activity, the snakes will probably stay away. Your place is looking good. Oh can you make planks from the longer tree limbs for a table top? And two limbs for the table legs? The two logs you put in the house would make nice seating I think, the kids would love it! Happy holiday to you, your family and your viewers. Peace.
Thank you so much for the kind words and insights! 😊 It’s amazing how nature creates its own pest control system-those anole lizards sound like a great addition to any garden! I agree about the snakes; with more activity on the property, they’ll probably steer clear, though they’ve been helpful with keeping the rodent population in check so far. 🐍 I love the idea of using the tree limbs for a table and legs-it would definitely add some rustic charm! I’m already working on drying the logs I brought inside, so fingers crossed they turn into something functional and fun for the kids. 🙌 Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday season filled with peace and joy! 🎄✨
You need to have an external hard drive. I can’t stress that enough. Too many people lose photos, videos etc just because the don’t save their stuff to an external source. I have my stuff saved in 3 different backups, so this does not happen. Enjoy your holiday.
You are absolutely right, and I’ve definitely learned my lesson the hard way! I now have multiple backups in place to make sure this never happens again. Losing those videos was devastating, but at least the lesson has been learned. Thank you for the reminder and the advice-it’s solid! Wishing you a fantastic holiday season as well! 🎄😊
I'm loving these videos. It's really good seeing the progress you're making. I had a quick look online about the leaves on your olive tree and it says it's that the plant is too wet, but that was just a quick look. A quick question are you learning Italian for while you're over there and if you are what are you using to learn? Also, how is it going with the neighbours have they given you a warm welcome?
Thanks so much, Matt! 😊 I’ve also read about overwatering causing issues with olive leaves, so I’ve been trying to keep a closer eye on it. As for Italian, I’m learning bits here and there with Duolingo and Google Translate-it’s slow going but I’m getting there! 😅 The neighbors have been so welcoming and kind, even with the language barrier-it’s been great connecting with them. Cheers for watching and for the great questions! 🍃🇮🇹
🎄 Happy Christmas from Sicily! 🎄
Thank you so much for watching this week’s video! Your support means the world to me, and I hope you’ve enjoyed seeing all the progress on the villa renovation. Don't forget, new videos go live every Sunday so make sure to hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications! 🔔
📸 Follow me on Instagram for exclusive behind-the-scenes content and daily updates:
👉 @Operation.Sicily
🎥 Check out my TikTok for quick renovation snippets and fun moments:
👉 @OperationSicily
☕ Support the journey and buy me a coffee! Every contribution helps keep this project moving forward:
👉 Buy Me A Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/operationsicily
Thank you all for being such an amazing part of this journey. Wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 🎅🎁 Let me know in the comments what you think of this week’s progress - I’d love to hear from you! 😊
Stay tuned, and see you next Sunday! 🏡✨
When moving trees , think water and feed. Dig or auger a number of plastic down pipes ,half to one metre long, drill holes all over pipes , put them in the ground around the trees you plant or move. It makes watering easy, the water soaks in deep, simply fill the pipes with water and liquid feed regularly with a hose. Stops waste of water and avoids run off. 🇮🇪☘️ Good luck.
Thanks so much for this excellent advice! 🌱 The pipe method is such a clever idea, and I can absolutely see how it would save water while ensuring the roots get exactly what they need. I’ll definitely remember this when planting or moving more trees-it sounds like a game changer!
Wishing you all the best from Sicily, and thank you for the thoughtful tip! 🇮🇪☘️😊
BACKUP is key. But a correct BACKUP is on different drives! So not just ONE hard drive, but 2 or 3 hard drives with the same content. It takes time but you get security. Also, keep backup in different places if you can.
I keep my data and footage on different hard drives and sometimes on different media!
You’re absolutely right-backup is key! I’ve definitely learned my lesson the hard way. I now have multiple backups on different hard drives, and I’m being much more mindful about the quality of the drives I use. Previously, I went for cost over quality, and that ended up being half the problem at the recovery lab. The damaged hard drive was cheap and ridiculously difficult to recover. Lesson learned, and it certainly won’t be happening again!
Whereabouts are you based?
Hope you’ve had a lovely Christmas and enjoyed the recap video-it’s been a big 6 months, and there’s so much more to come next year! Thanks for the advice and support! 🎥💾🎄
Awwww, dont worry now about all the lost footage, you showed the work you've been doing and it's brought us up to date. Looks great, and I'm so enjoying the vast changes. Have a good week
Thank you, Sonia! 😊 I’m so glad you’re enjoying seeing the changes-it’s been a long journey, but so rewarding to share it. The lost footage was definitely a tough one, but you’re right, it’s all about keeping the momentum going. Wishing you a great week too!
Hello Jonathan, Greetings from France where its horrible and cold. I have to agree on another comment. Hard drives are unreliable so send everything to the cloud instead. Footage is gone, its a shame but there is something more coming that we will also enjoy. Re the garden you now have its coming along nicely. Ask the local sheep herder or goat man to see if they would like to put there flock in the yard for a day, but be careful goats eat everything. Trees are coming along nicely but they will need mulching.
Coming from Melbourne where everything is deeply fine mulched because of the hot weather to France where I have not been able to find any great mulch, instead think about mulching with the shavings that you can buy in bales for horses bedding and put that around your trees and give a good soaking. Also another comment you got about the pipe in the ground and filling with water is an excellent idea. I planted a whole fruit orchard using an auger and the pipe method. Had the best fruit trees around and watering them was a breeze. Re feeding them. The little and often liquid feed, I find is best. You want recovery, and fruit.
Fruit trees are incestuous things they do need pollinators and if you look on line you can find which ones will mate with which but have a look around the neighbourhood close by you might find the mate you need just over the fence. With your citrus if you can't find any fertilizer to feed them, then morning human male urine on them (its the strongest Urea) is also good if needs must.
Regarding your snake. 🪱Left the snakes behind in Australia only find find green vipers in my yard here in France. Working on the usual rule of thumb unless you bother them or they are in the house then you won't have to worry. He or she will now be wintering over but be careful in the spring when lifting up stuff in the yard, you might find one curled up.
Seasons Greetings to you and yours, Merry Christmas.😊🌲
Hello from Sicily, Kim! 😊 Greetings to France, where it sounds like you’ve traded Melbourne heat for a chillier challenge! ❄️ Thank you for all the fantastic advice-it’s like a masterclass in gardening and tree care. 🌳 I’ve actually saved all the branches from the two large pine trees I removed, and I plan to mulch them down and spread the mulch all over the planter beds that house the fruit trees. Your suggestion about using horse bedding shavings is another great idea-I’ll keep that in mind if needed.
The pipe watering method sounds absolutely amazing, and I’ll definitely remember it when I come to planting more trees in the future. As for feeding them, well... I’ll keep your urea suggestion in reserve for desperate times! 😂
Great tip about pollinators as well. I’ve noticed a few fruiting trees around the neighborhood, so hopefully, they’re doing their matchmaking job. And about the snake-your rule of thumb makes perfect sense. I’ll be extra cautious come spring when moving anything around the yard! 🐍
Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and all the best for the New Year! 🎄✨ Thanks for all the amazing tips and support! 😊
When buying potted plants, like flowers, buy the bigger ones and then split them up. You can sometimes get 3 or 4 plants out of that 1 big one.
That’s such a clever tip, Judy! 🌼 I love the idea of getting more plants from one pot-it’s a great way to stretch the budget and fill out the garden. I’ll definitely keep this in mind for future planting! 🌱💡
Hi, Jonathan (again!). Consider placing a trail cam in your garden somewhere low to the ground and you'll see what critters you share your space with. They aren't very expensive and your kids will love looking at the footage. You can turn it into a game trying to identify what you see.
I absolutely love this idea-it’s brilliant, and I’m definitely going to set up a trail cam in the garden! 🦊🐿️ It’ll be great fun for the kids to see all the little critters we’re sharing the space with, and I’m sure it’ll become a bit of a family game to identify them all. Thanks so much for the suggestion-it’s going on my to-do list! 👍✨
right decision to take out the trees due to damage they were causing. looking forward to seeing how things progress 👍
Thanks, Jacqui! It was a tough decision, but definitely the right one to protect the property and make space for future plans. 😊 I’m excited to share more progress soon-there’s still so much to come! 👍 Stay tuned and have a great day! 🌳💪
Your progress is amazing! I am especially impressed with your cleaning abilities, esp with no running water or electricity! I’m so sorry about the hard drive. Look forward to watching your continued progress.
Thank you so much, Valeri! 😊 The cleaning has definitely been a challenge without running water or electricity, but it’s all part of the journey! 💪 Losing the hard drive was tough, but I’m glad to have your support as I push forward. I really appreciate you following along-excited to share more progress with you soon! 🏡✨
The local with the goats might be happy to graze them on that lovely lush clover.😊
And the gift of a bit of fertilizer would be good!
That’s a great thought! 😊 If the goats could graze on the clover and help with some of the garden upkeep, that would be a win-win. I’ll definitely speak to the local with the goats and see if it’s an option. Thanks for the idea! 🐐🌱
Sorry for your data loss but I here regardless xx
Thank you, Jayne! Your support means the world to me, especially during moments like this. It’s all part of the journey, and I’m so grateful to have people like you here regardless! 😊 Hope you’ve had a lovely Christmas, and don’t miss the new video coming out this Sunday! 🎄✨
Ouch, that was a costly mistake. Keep going, you've got amazing planning skills that I really aspire to embrace by watching your progress. Merry Christmas to you and your family 😊
Thank you so much for your kind words! Ouch indeed, but setbacks like these are all part of the process, and they make the victories even sweeter. I’m so glad to hear you find the planning inspiring-it means a lot. Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a fantastic New Year! 🎄✨
Enjoying the video. As for the fig tree it looks fine to me. It will lose all it's leaves during the colder months. New shoots will come from last season's old wood and with this new fruit. You can prune back every winter. All other fruit trees look good. Keep at it and you will be rewarded 👍
Thanks for the reassurance about the fig tree! 🌳 I’ve been trying to stay patient as the colder months pass, and I’m glad to hear it looks normal to you. I’ll make sure to prune it back during the winter as you suggested. Really appreciate the encouragement-cheers! 🍈✂️
Awww so sorry you lost all that footage Jonathan 😢. Everything seems to be coming on leaps and bounds though now ❤. Merry Christmas to you and your family 🎄🇬🇧xxx
Thank you, Mandy-it’s been tough losing the footage, but the progress is definitely keeping me motivated. Merry Christmas to you and your family too! Sending love from Sicily! 🇬🇧🎄
In my opinion the curled leaves of the olive tree are water stress, perhaps it has received too little water ...in the meantime I wish you a very Merry Christmas
Thank you for the insight about the olive tree’s leaves-it’s definitely something I’m keeping an eye on. Water stress makes a lot of sense given all the changes the trees have been through recently. I’ll make sure they get the right balance of water to help them recover.
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas as well, and thank you for following along with this journey-it means a lot! 🎄😊🌿
@OperationSicily Merry Christmas to you and your family, and if you don't post anything by the end of the year HAPPY NEW YEAR!
The trees you relocated from the back to the front garden really fill in the space nicely. I agree with all of your tips about landscaping as a crucial part of market value and market appeal for any property. The hard work you have put into the landscaping of your villa is already greatly improving the curb appeal, and it will only get better as you go further. I am glad you are able to use the skills of local people, which is a way for you to be contributing to the community you are now a part of. So sorry about your lost footage, but I hope you will still take a big break from your work and your videos so you can enjoy the holidays with your family. Merry Christmas from Annapolis, Maryland USA.
Thank you so much, Deborah, for your thoughtful and encouraging comment! 😊 I’m thrilled to hear you’re enjoying the landscaping progress-it really is such a key part of enhancing the villa’s charm and value. 🌳 Knowing the trees are thriving in their new spot feels like a small win amidst all the hard work! I completely agree about supporting local people; it’s been a pleasure learning from them and giving back to the community here. The lost footage was a setback, but your kind words definitely lift my spirits. Wishing you a Merry Christmas from Sicily to Annapolis, and I hope you have a wonderful holiday season with your loved ones! 🎄✨
Happy holidays to you and your family. Thank you for the content, and looking forward to watching your progress in 2025! 🙂
Happy holidays to you too! 🎄 Thank you for following along-it’s so encouraging to know you’re enjoying the updates. Here’s to more progress and exciting milestones in 2025! 🎉
I agree, don't worry about the lost footage, you are doing an amazing job bringing this property back to life. So lovely of you to guide the elderly neighbour around the property again - the locals will love what you are doing and bringing new life to it. Good luck with the next projects. Celia NZ
Thank you so much for your kind words, Celia! 😊 It truly means a lot to have such amazing support, especially during setbacks like losing the footage. Showing the property to my elderly neighbor was a really special moment-it’s heartwarming to see the locals appreciate the effort going into bringing this villa back to life. Hope you’ve had a lovely Christmas, and don’t forget-a new video is coming out this Sunday! 🎄🎥
Happy New Year. 😊
You are doing an amazing job, the outside is looking so different now. Sad about the loss of your data but accidents happen and we learn from them. The most important thing is that you all have your health. I think it is so lovely your neighbour feels comfortable in coming around regularly (I am sure he may know the snake). Hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and all the very best wishes for the New Year xx
Thank you so much for your kind words, Judy! It really means a lot. The outside is definitely coming together, and despite the data loss being frustrating, you’re absolutely right-it’s all a learning experience, and health is what matters most. 😊 I feel so lucky to have such a kind neighbor; his visits and stories are a real highlight, and I’m sure he might know more about the snake! 🐍 Wishing you and your family a wonderful Christmas and all the very best for a happy and healthy New Year! 🎄✨ xx
Not going to lie, I almost didn't watch this video because of the snake content but Im really glad I did to see you and your neighbour spending time together in a garden that meant so much to him.
Terrible news about the lost footage, I unfortunately have plenty of experience of lost data over the years and unfortunately have no words of support that could change how you feel about it.
With that being said, the visual changes to the property are incredible and certainly worth paying for especially to remove the liability danger from that tree.
I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and a prosperous New Year ahead.
Stay safe, relax & have fun and we will see you after family time
I admire your ability to think through issues and not rush into things. A safe pair of considered and quietly skilful hands is a valuable thing. Thank you for your videos. We wish for you and yours a happy Christmas season and a safe and productive new year. Phil, Suffolk U.K 🇬🇧
@scottsorby7966 Hi Scott, thanks so much for sticking with the video despite the snake content! 🐍 I really appreciate your kind words. Spending time with the neighbor and hearing his stories about the garden made the whole experience so special, even with the hard work involved.
The lost footage was definitely a tough pill to swallow-I’m sorry to hear you’ve been through similar frustrations. It’s one of those things that teaches you the hard way to back everything up properly.
I’m so glad you’re enjoying the visual changes so far, especially with the tree removal. It was a tough decision, but as you said, safety and liability made it necessary.
Wishing you and your family a wonderful Christmas and an amazing New Year! Thank you for your ongoing support, and I’ll see you in the next one after some family time. Stay safe and take care! 🎄✨
@FIL357 Hi Phil, thank you so much for such a kind and thoughtful comment-it really means a lot! 😊 Taking the time to think things through has certainly helped avoid a few costly mistakes along the way, so I appreciate you noticing that approach.
Wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and all the best for a safe and productive New Year! Thanks again for the encouragement and support-it keeps me motivated to share this journey. Cheers from Sicily to Suffolk! 🎄🇬🇧✨
Omg that snake is long, coming from a country where we don’t Have them my skin is crawling. Take care in the garden and wear protective boots. The garden is coming along nicely.😊
I know, Karen, that snake was a shocker! 😱 Coming from the UK, where snakes aren’t really a thing, it’s definitely an adjustment. I’m always careful in the garden, especially after that discovery-protective boots are now a must. Thank you for noticing the progress in the garden; it’s really starting to come together! 🌱🐍
Oh no sorry to hear about your hard drive. Something always goes wrong so while a terrible loss better than alternatives. I’m here for the long haul and thrilled to see the progress you’re making. The garden looks amazing and so touching to see your neighbour enjoying it. Love your videos!
Thank you so much, Jojola! 🌿 You're absolutely right-something always seems to go sideways during a project like this, but I’m grateful it wasn’t anything worse. Losing the hard drive was a tough pill to swallow, but your kind words and support mean the world. ❤️ I’m glad you’re enjoying the progress, especially the garden-it’s coming together slowly but surely! Seeing my neighbor appreciate it made it all the more rewarding. 😊 Thanks for sticking with me for the long haul! 💪✨
You are doing a great job with this property . Enjoy your posts.🤶🤶
Thanks so much! 😊 I’m thrilled you’re enjoying the updates. It’s a labor of love, and knowing people like you are following along makes it even more special. Stay tuned for more to come! 🌟
Love your channel and the property .My husband and I are looking into buying in Italy it is such a beautiful country .I love your information regarding getting the best out of thr property without spending large sums of money
Thank you
Thank you, Andrea! 😊 That’s so exciting that you and your husband are looking into buying in Italy-it's such a stunning country with so much character! 🇮🇹 I’m glad you’re finding the tips and ideas helpful; it’s amazing what you can do with a bit of creativity and resourcefulness without breaking the bank. 💡💪 Wishing you both the best of luck with your property search, and I hope to see you following along for more inspiration! 🏡✨
That what life is all about it. Our misfortune pushes us down for a while, but how we decide to move forward it will define who we are
Sorry for what happened to you but we all can admire your accomplishments and the direction you are going. Keep looking forward and working on the task in front of you. Victory will be right in the corner.
Thank you so much for your kind words, Jeanine! You’re absolutely right-our setbacks shape us, and I’m determined to keep pushing forward. Knowing there’s a supportive community like this makes the journey even more meaningful. Merry Christmas to you, and here’s to a fantastic year ahead! 🎉
Hi! Merry Christmas! Do no worry about the fig tree. New sprouts means the tree is alive. Its probably sap. New sprouts will not grow out of the brown spot so don’t worry about it. Your loquat will take much longer to come back than any fig tree.
Hi Cyn, Merry Christmas to you as well! 🎄 Thanks for the reassurance about the fig tree and loquat-I’ll be keeping an eye on them, but it’s great to hear they’re resilient. And yes, that snake was massive-I think I’ll be keeping my distance! 😅
Your wood was impressive😮. The trees could be a hit or a miss. Good on the neighbour coming to look around. Getting local people to do some of work again all ties in with neighbourhood. Have good one son. To you and the family. 👏👍🏴 oh the snake it’s called a kier starmer easily recognisable.
😂 Cameron, I nearly spit out my tea at the Kier Starmer comment-absolutely priceless! 🐍 Let’s hope the snake doesn’t start promising renovations it can’t deliver. 🤣 As for the trees, you’re spot on-they’re either thriving or on a ‘wait-and-see’ basis. And yes, the neighbor popping by was great-local connections really do make a difference. Appreciate the laughs and the support, mate. Cheers to you and your family as well, and watch out for any slithering politicians in your garden! 🌳😂
Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2025. :). Nice progress and looking forward to seeing more. :)
Thank you, Eric! 😊 Wishing you a Merry Christmas and an amazing 2025 as well! 🎄✨ I’m excited to share even more progress in the coming year. Your support means a lot-stay tuned! 🛠️
That’s some sort of open end seal, if it’s growing I’d leave it alone. Some people burn the open end and other might dip wax to seal so insects and rain doesn’t settle on the end and rot it. Also cutting the end at an angle helps run the water off so it doesn’t sit and settle that’s why I’m pretty sure whoever cut the trees knew what they were doing.
Thanks, Maria! That’s great insight. 🌳 I’ve seen the angled cuts and sealing methods you mentioned before-it makes a lot of sense to prevent water damage and rot. I’m going to keep an eye on the stumps and might try a wax seal or similar treatment if needed. It’s always good to hear that whoever cut them likely knew their stuff-it gives me confidence in the trees' chances of thriving! 😊👍
It's looking pretty good so far great job. I'm sure you already know this tip.Cut wood: Wood cut from a tree typically takes about 12 months to dry.
Merry Christmas from 🇨🇦🙏
Thank you, Yolanda! 😊 Yes, I’ve heard that about drying wood-it’s a long wait, but so worth it to get it just right! I’m keeping the cut pieces indoors to help them dry properly, so fingers crossed they turn out great. 🎄 Wishing you a very Merry Christmas from Sicily to Canada! 🇮🇹🎅✨
Wow, the front garden/yard is looking good.
Thanks so much! 😊 I’m glad you’re noticing the improvements-it’s been a lot of work, but the front garden is finally shaping up! Still more to do, but it’s satisfying seeing progress. 🌿
Love your content. I like you share tips and tricks as well as sharing your progress. Contemplating retiring abroad an your channel is giving me some great things to consider. Job well done from the US!
Thank you so much, Paulene! 😊 I’m really glad you’re enjoying my content and finding the tips and tricks helpful. Retiring abroad can be such an exciting adventure, and I’m thrilled my channel is giving you ideas to consider. 🌍🏡 Wishing you all the best on your journey, and thanks for the kind words from the US-it really means a lot! 🇺🇸✨
Arborists treat the exposed cuts by either painting over the exposed area or waxing it (normal melted candle will do) to prevent disease and rot.
Thanks for the tip! I’ve heard about using wax or paint to seal exposed cuts, and it makes so much sense for preventing rot and disease. I’ll definitely look into treating the cuts on my trees to keep them healthy. Cheers! 🌳🕯️
Such a shame about the hard drive loss but you've managed to catch us up beautifully. Once ready to work with, I think the wood table could look absolutely stunning and so nice to re-purpose the timber. How nice your neighbour appreciates all the hard work you’ve put into the villa, especially as he has emotional links to the place and also great to see a little of life outside the villa and those amazing patisseries! Have a wonderful festive season with the family and look forward to your continuing journey in the New Year.
Thank you so much, Caroline. It was definitely a shame about the hard drive, but I’m glad I managed to bring everyone up to speed! I’m really looking forward to seeing how the tables turn out-it feels great to repurpose the timber and give it a new life. It’s been so rewarding to connect with my neighbor and learn a bit more about the villa’s history. And yes, those patisseries are dangerously delicious! Have a wonderful festive season with your family, and I can’t wait to share more of the journey in the New Year! 🎄✨
Wow Jonathon.. the circles on those tree trunks is beautiful. Now I want you to put a glass to on the tables😂 (you do what you want😂)
Gracious me .. that bakery looks lethal. How wonderful to have that close to your new home.
Your transplants are looking good for now.. I guess you really have to wait until they have survived a summer before you can be sure.
What a blow, losing footage. I’ve been admiring the works that we are seeing.
As we say, worse things happen at sea, and we can follow on.
I’m rather glad you got local help. Less expensive and community building at the same time. It seems they have achieved some really good goals and your back is ok.. digging those footers would have been hard work.
Wishing you a great Christmas.
Cheers from Oz
🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄
Lorraine, you’ve got a great eye for detail! 👀 I love the idea of adding a glass top to the tables-it could look amazing! As for the bakery, it’s a dangerous place for the waistline but worth every bite. 😂 I completely agree about the transplants; summer will be the real test. And you’re so right-losing footage was tough, but I’m grateful for the progress we can still share. Thank you for your lovely message, and cheers to a fantastic Christmas from Sicily to Oz! 🪵🎄
Snakes are good to keep the mice away although I wouldn’t want to see a snake close to my house . In Sicily I’ve only seen the common black thin snakes.
Sorry to hear about your hard-drive , being a new UA-camr myself I know how much work it entails to film and create content . However accidents happen and just look ahead and you still have so much great content to share . Tanti Auguri 2025
I’m with you on the snake situation-if it helps keep the mice away and isn’t venomous or eyeing up the kids for lunch, I’m fine with it staying in the garden! 😂 Thank you so much for your kind words about the hard drive; it’s definitely a learning curve with all this filming and content creation, but I’m staying positive and focusing on what’s ahead.
I just checked out your channel, and it’s fantastic! Your composting video caught my eye as I’m planning to make a compost container soon-definitely something I’ll be watching for tips. Whereabouts in Sicily are you located?
Hope you had a lovely Christmas! Don’t forget, a new video is coming out on Sunday, so stay tuned. Wishing you all the best for 2025! 🎄✨😊
Been thinking about the tasks you have or will be executing. Might be worth getting hold of a sack barrow. I have been using one for years, like you I am a fairly strong person but have so benefitted having one, especially in the garden. And you can pull heavy loads up steps if the tyres are pneumatic! Seasons greetings to you and your loved ones 😁Phil, Suffolk.🇬🇧
Hi Phil, you’ve hit the nail on the head there-I could absolutely do with a sack barrow! I’ve got one back in the UK, but unfortunately not here in Sicily. While it would be a massive help, especially for moving heavy loads and getting them up steps, I’m trying to keep my costs down and make do with what I’ve got for now since the budget is pretty tight.
Seasons greetings to you and your loved ones too, and a big hello to Suffolk! 🇬🇧 Thanks for the thoughtful suggestion-it’s definitely on my wish list for the future. Cheers! 😊🎄
Merry Christmas to you and your family. Enjoy and have a good rest. 🎄🎅🥂🍾
Thank you, Anita! 😊 Merry Christmas to you and your family as well. 🎄 Taking some time to rest and recharge before jumping back into the renovations. Have a wonderful holiday season! 🌟
Merry Christmas, Jonathan. I have thoroughly enjoyed watching you from the beginning. May the coming year bring you fortune, friendship and family. Ciao!
Thank you so much for the kind wishes, and Merry Christmas to you too! 🎄 I truly appreciate you being part of the journey from the start-it means the world. Wishing you a fantastic New Year filled with joy and blessings! 🌟
I'm sorry about the lost video, but you still did the work! I am so impressed with your work ethic and the information you pass on. Enjoy the holiday with your family ❤
Thank you so much, Tracie! ❤ Losing the footage was a tough lesson, but as you said, the work still got done, and that’s what matters most. I really appreciate your kind words about the work ethic-it keeps me motivated! Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday season filled with joy and love. 🎄😊
Merry Christmas to you and your family. Losing your footage is almost heartbreaking, I'm sorry you went through it. You are making the best decisions and very strategically. You know what you are doing! I'll enjoy seeing your next endeavor. Take care!
Thank you so much, Kathy! 😊 Merry Christmas to you and your family too! 🎄✨ Losing the footage was definitely a tough one to swallow, but I’m trying to focus on what’s ahead and keep pushing forward strategically. Your kind words mean a lot-it’s all about tackling one project at a time and making the best of it. I’m excited to share the next steps with you! Take care and enjoy the holiday season! 🌟🎁
Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to you and your family, have a wonderful season full of love and laughter.🎄❤️
Thank you so much, Neuton! 🎄❤️ Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with love, laughter, and happiness. Your kind words and support mean the world to me-cheers to an amazing 2025 for us all! 🥂😊
Half way the video I thought..the front trees are magically gone. Then you told how and what! Omg..what bad luck. Make sure however we stick with you till the job is done..cheers!
Haha, yes, the disappearing trees were a bit of a plot twist, weren’t they? 😅 I’m glad the explanation cleared things up! The front garden is shaping up nicely now, but it’s been a journey. Thank you so much for sticking with me-it means the world to have such supportive viewers! 🙌 Cheers to seeing this job through to the end together! 🍷🌳
I am so sorry to hear about your data loss! 😢 I understand how you feel, the same thing happened to me.
Mate, I was absolutely devastated when it happened-I completely feel your pain. It might not seem like it, but there’s so much work that goes into this channel. From setting up cameras and filming to editing videos and replying to comments, it’s like having a second full-time job. Losing all that great content was a real blow, but on the bright side, I’ve learned my lesson, and it definitely won’t happen again. Everything is backed up multiple times now! Thanks for your understanding and support-it really means a lot. 😊📂
How about recessing most of the inner part of the top of the tree stumps down a couple of inches, leaving a rimmed edge. Might make a nice side table.
Great idea, Hilberry! 😊 Recessing the top and leaving a rimmed edge would definitely add a bit of style and practicality as a side table. I could probably manage this with a router-another project to add to the list! Thanks for the suggestion! 🛠️
Merry Christmas, enjoy the season with your family and rest assured, we’ll be waiting when you come back 🎄❤️
Thank you so much, Fiona! 😊 Merry Christmas to you and your family too 🎄🎅 It means the world to know you'll be waiting for the next update-I'll definitely keep the momentum going! Cheers to an exciting 2025 ahead! 🛠️✨
Hu. Maybe you should put adjustable low profile legs underneath your log chairs. You could do that to level them ? Or at least, it will protect your tiles from damage.
That’s a brilliant idea, Guylaine! Adjustable low-profile legs would be perfect for leveling the log chairs and protecting the tiles too. I’ll definitely look into that-it’s a great way to make them more functional. Thanks for the suggestion! 🪑✨
It has been amazing watching your progress on this villa. I wish you and your family the very best Christmas and a Happy New Year! I look forward to seeing what you do in 2025!
Thank you so much for your lovely comment and kind wishes! 😊🎄 It’s been an incredible journey so far, and I’m so glad you’re enjoying the progress. Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy New Year! Here’s to more exciting updates and projects in 2025! 🏡✨
Thanks!😀😀
Wow, Carl and Rozana, thank you so much for your generous super chat-what a lovely surprise! 😊 Your kind words and support mean the world to me, and I truly appreciate you following along with my journey here in Sicily. Hearing about your own renovation adventures and knowing you’re cheering me on is so inspiring. I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and are looking forward to an amazing New Year. Wishing you both all the best and plenty of relaxing days ahead-you’ve certainly earned them after all the hard work you’ve put in over the years. Cheers again for your kindness and generosity! 🎄✨🎉
Dear Jonathan Merry Christmas to you and your family from Palm Springs California.
Thank you, Marta, and Merry Christmas to you and your family as well! 🎄 Sending warm wishes all the way from Sicily to Palm Springs, California. I hope you have a wonderful holiday season and a fantastic New Year ahead! 😊🎉
Merry Xmas from South Africa . Keep going,, well done so far .I am not a renovated but I appreciate your explaining . Take care my man
Thank you, Peter! Merry Christmas from Sicily to South Africa! 🎄✨ I’m glad you’re enjoying the videos, and I’ll do my best to keep the updates clear and informative. Appreciate your support-take care, my man! 😊
with an angle grinder and grater sleeves you can manage your wood-tasks (smoothing and levelling) in short time
Thanks for the tip! I actually do have an angle grinder, so adding grater sleeves to the toolkit sounds like a great idea for those wood tasks. It’ll save a ton of time and effort! 💡🪚
@OperationSicily it's a little bit dangerous; but with an extra-handle at the grinder it should be more safe
Merry Christmas 🎄and Happy New year
Thank you, Michelle! 🎄✨ Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year too! 🎆🥂 Here’s to an amazing 2025 filled with joy and exciting new adventures! 🎉😊
really enjoy watching the progress that you are making to the place, long gone are the days of rat and mice poop. I think the snake skin could be CORN Snake, harmless to us but good at keeping the mice population down
Happy New Year, Sandmac! 🎉 Thank you so much for your support-I’m glad you’re enjoying the progress. Yes, thankfully the days of rat and mice poop are well behind us! A corn snake, you say? That’s a comforting thought-sounds like it’s been doing a good job as a natural pest control. Thanks for the info, and I hope you have an amazing year ahead! 😊
Are you renting your car or did you purchase a car? Is this home a vacation home or do you plan to move your family from the UK to Sicily? What mode of transportation do use in returning to the UK?
Great questions, Jenny! 😊 At the moment, I’m just renting cars here in Sicily-car hire prices are surprisingly reasonable, which works perfectly for now. 🚗 Once the villa is complete, Sicily will be my full-time home. I’m currently staying in an Airbnb while doing all the work, but it’s comforting to know I can return to the UK anytime to catch up with friends and family (and take a break from renovations!). ✈️ I usually fly between Sicily and the UK-it’s the quickest way to travel back and forth. Thanks for asking, and I hope you’re enjoying the journey! 🌟
Good morning from Mississippi. I love the tables ❤
Good morning from Sicily! ☀️ I’m so glad you love the tables-they’re turning out to be a fun and creative project. Thanks for the support! 🪑🌲
So sorry to hear about your hard drive. I thought a lot had happened that I didn’t see. It just shows how much progress you’ve made. The front garden is looking wonderful. I can just imagine how it will look when finished. I’m excited to see future episodes. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Thank you, Debbie! 😊 Losing the hard drive was a tough one, but you're absolutely right-it highlights just how much progress has been made. The front garden is starting to take shape, and I can’t wait to share more updates as it transforms further. 🌿✨ Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year too! 🎄🎉 Thanks for following along-it means so much!
I think the snake is a grass snake (Natrix helvetica sicula), not venomous. And for you and your family: merry christmas! I enjoy your video's very much.
Thank you, Cees! That’s good to know about the snake-if it is a grass snake, I’ll take it as a helpful pest controller rather than something to be concerned about. 🐍😊 Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones as well! 🎄 I’m so glad you’re enjoying the videos, and I can’t wait to share even more progress in the new year! 🌟
Merry Christmas 🎄
Happy 😃 new year 🎉
Love the chainsaw and all the garden work !!!
Good luck 🤞 with the renovations
Cheers 🥂
Australia 🇦🇺 🦘🦘👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
Thank you so much, Faye! 😊 Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you too! 🎄🎉 I’m glad you’re enjoying the garden work-it’s hard but rewarding. Cheers to more progress in 2025 from sunny Sicily to Australia! 🇮🇹🇦🇺
Coming along nicely!
Have a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!
Thank you! 🎄 It’s been so rewarding to see the progress week by week. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with joy and success! 🛠️✨ Can’t wait to share even more in 2025!
WOW!! That snake is big!!!!! Merry Christmas 🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄
It really was a big one, wasn’t it? 🐍 Definitely gave me a surprise! Merry Christmas to you too! 🎄🎅 Wishing you a joyful holiday season and all the best for the New Year! 😊
Happy hollidays and look forward to u progress
Thank you so much! 😊 Wishing you happy holidays as well! 🎄🎉 I can’t wait to share more progress with you in the new year-plenty more exciting updates to come! 🙌
For the trees you are discussing on this video, even if they look dead, give them several months or a year to come back. Because they were severely pruned, it can take time for them to recover & begin producing. If, after a year, they don't produce, you should consider replacing them. Just keep watering and fertilizing as needed.
Thank you for the excellent advice! 🌱 I’m definitely planning to be patient with the trees. Even though they look a bit sad now, I’m hopeful they’ll bounce back with time and care. I’ll keep up with the watering and give them the occasional boost of fertilizer. Your point about waiting a year is really helpful-gives me a good timeline to work with. Fingers crossed they recover and start producing! 🤞 If not, I’ll look into replacements down the line. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge! 😊
The loss of the data must be extremely frustrating. Thanks for the catch up video; Sicily seems to come to life in the winter, very green! Regarding the snake, personally I like the idea of one living on the property, it will take care of any unwanted pests. Hopefully the cat will know to steer clear. Happy Christmas to you and all the best for 2025!
The data loss was definitely a blow, James, but I’m glad I could still put this catch-up video together. 😊 You’re absolutely right about Sicily in winter-it’s so lush and green, a completely different vibe! As for the snake, I agree it could be a great natural pest control, but I’ll definitely be keeping an eye on the cat to make sure there are no close encounters. 🐍🐾 Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and all the best for 2025 too-thank you for the support! 🎄✨
I was watching thinking I must have missed a video as the trees were uprooted and moved and ground landscaped. Such bad luck with the damaged hard drive. The snake skin creeped me out. As someone else commented, asking the neighbour for opinion on snake species a good idea. How lovely to see you walking arm in arm with your elderly neighbour. Does he know some English or is he speaking with you in Italian? Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and a safe and healthy New Year. Looking forward to future videos and watching the progress with your Sicilian House. 😊❤
Thanks, Marie! Losing the footage was a blow, but I’m glad I could catch everyone up with this video. The neighbor only speaks Sicilian, so communication is challenging, but it’s amazing how much we can understand through gestures. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you as well-I can’t wait to share more progress in the coming months! 🎄😊
Cheers, sorry to hear about the loss of the hard drive... we have been waiting for you next vlog... Having done many restorations/renovations over the years in inner Sydney Victorian terraces & more recently a 14 year 100 yr gut of old timber farmhouse from piers to roof... on acreage (100acres) 250 k from Sydney... at 75yo I have little time left so have packed up the tools (tractors, chain saws & brush cutters)... we really enjoy watching you struggle knowing you are having to gut the property... now with no electricity or running water... you seem to be doing all the right things in order on your own... great to see you have a Bricko nearby & of course food in Italie is to die for🫒... Best of luck for the New Year.... Rozana🌹& Carl🦘
Cheers, Carl and Rozana, and thank you for your kind words and support! 😊 I was absolutely devastated about the hard drive-it had so much great content I was excited to share. I really thought the specialized data recovery lab in the UK would manage to save it (they even work with the police!), but after weeks of waiting, I got the dreaded call that it couldn’t be recovered. That said, I’m moving forward and staying positive, ready to keep tackling this journey head-on.
The renovation in Sicily has definitely been a learning curve, especially the buying process and figuring out what materials are available and where to get them. It’s such a different experience here-no websites, signs, or advertisements for builders’ merchants. You could drive past a massive supplier and never even know it! The electrics, plumbing, and waste pipes have also been a big adjustment since everything is buried in concrete walls. To avoid any future surprises, I’ve decided to redo everything for peace of mind. Back in the UK, I’m more used to things being behind stud walls or under timber joists, so it’s been quite the experience adapting.
I suppose the silver lining is that after going through all this, the next property should be much easier and quicker to tackle! Your farmhouse renovation on 100 acres sounds like an incredible achievement-I can only imagine the hard work and dedication that took. My plot is a manageable 1,000sqm, and I’m glad I didn’t go for one of the properties I viewed with 10,000sqm of land, as I’d definitely need a tractor to manage that!
I hope you had a lovely Christmas and are looking forward to a fantastic New Year. Thank you again for following along-it means the world! 🎄✨
Happy Christmas Jonathon to you and loved ones,never mind about the setback its regrettable but you're certainly moving in the right direction,don't know what to make of that damned snake!
Happy Christmas, Paul! 🎄 Thank you for your support and encouragement-setbacks are part of the journey, but I’m staying focused on the bigger picture. And that snake! Definitely gave me a surprise, but I’ll try to see it as a good luck sign, haha! 🐍
Hi! Merry Christmas! Do not worry about the fig tree. New sprouts means the tree is alive. Its probably sap. New sprouts will not grow out of the brown spot so don’t worry about it. Your loquat will take much longer to come back than any fig tree. Ugh. . . The lost data. Going forward you will edit better and and also not leave too many gaps without a voice over. You’re doing a great job!
Hi! Merry Christmas to you too! 🎄😊 Thank you for the reassurance about the fig tree-it’s great to hear that the new sprouts are a positive sign. I’ll keep giving it time to recover, and I’ll be patient with the loquat as well. The lost data was definitely a lesson learned, and I’ll be making sure there are no gaps and that everything is backed up multiple times going forward. Thanks for your kind words and support-it really means a lot! 🙏✨
Wishing you and your family a merry Christmas. Looking forward to what will come in the new year. 🇨🇦❤️🇨🇦
Thank you, Maude! 🎄 Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and all the best for 2025. 🇨🇦 I can’t wait to see what the new year brings for the villa and share the journey with you!
You’ve done so much starting to take shape. Merry Christmas to you and your family from down under 😊
Thanks so much, means a lot! 🙏
Wow! Maybe your neighbor can identify the species? Happy Christmas and New Year to you and yours!🎄🎆🎅🤶
Thank you so much! 🎄🎆 My neighbor had a look at the snake skin, but unfortunately, with the language barrier (he speaks Sicilian, which is very different from standard Italian), it’s still a mystery! 🐍 Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful Christmas and a fantastic New Year! 🎅🤶✨
I think those pieces of pine will make wonderful little tables. The wood grain is gorgeous.
Oh Jonathan, I’m so sorry to hear about your problem with the hard drive. How deflating to go to all that work then to have it unretrievable. Your partner must feel awful. I know I would. Your followers will understand. Just take the time over the holidays to enjoy your family as you’re quite right, that’s what matters the most 🤗 All the best at Christmas and the coming year!! Fireworks. 🌲💥 ⭐️🙏
Thank you so much for your kind words, Terri! 😊 I’m really excited about those pine pieces-they’re going to make some stunning little tables once they’re fully dried. The grain really is something special, isn’t it?
As for the hard drive, it was such a blow, but you’re absolutely right-family and the holidays are what matter most. My partner does feel awful, but accidents happen, and we’re all learning from it. The support from amazing followers like you makes it all so much easier to bounce back. Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and a fantastic New Year! 🎄💥✨ Cheers! 🙌
Hi Jonathan enjoying the content. What’s the reaction been like from the locals to a foreigner moving in? Merry Christmas & Happy New Year. JohnD
Hi John, thanks for watching and enjoying the content! The locals have been lovely, honestly. I think they find it a bit curious and amusing that a foreigner is taking on such a big project, but they’ve been so kind and supportive. It’s nice to feel welcomed into the community. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you too! 🎉🇮🇹
If you want some outdoor appeal. Cut the grass along your outside wall and power wash your wall. Would look much nicer and would increase your overall appearance
That’s a great suggestion! I’ve already been strimming the front garden, but I love the idea of power washing the outside walls-it would really give it a fresh look. Thanks for the tip; I’ll add it to my to-do list! 💦🧼
Buongiorno, E' un gran peccato che tu abbia perso i video dei lavori passati, ma, mi sembra un esagerazione tornare nel Regno Unito per recuperarli. Bastava chiedere e ti avrei dato un paio di indirizzi in zona, di tecnici bravi, che recuperano dati per mestiere. Peccato per gli alberi, ma hai fatto bene. Negli anni in cui fu costruita la casa, la Forestale regalò a chiunque avesse un terreno, degli alberi di pino, come quelli che hai abbattuto e tutti, sistematicamente dopo almeno 30 anni, li hanno dovuti abbattere per lo stesso tuo motivo, io stesso ne avevo 4 grandissimi, quasi il doppio dei tuoi e avevano spaccato i muri di cinta intrufolandosi sotto la base della casa, li ho dovuti togliere.. Per la pelle di serpente, non aver paura, si tratta sicuramente di una ( volgarmente chiamata ) " Biscia d'acqua" generalmente di colore nero, è innocua non velenosa, si nutre di lucertole e topolini, in pratica un buon alleato. Rinnovando la mia disponibilità nel caso dovessi avere bisogno, Auguro a te e famiglia buone feste Natalizie.
Grazie mille per il consiglio e per condividere la tua esperienza con i pini! È incredibile come siano stati piantati con le migliori intenzioni, ma poi abbiano creato così tanti problemi con il tempo. Capisco perfettamente la tua situazione con i muri di cinta-è esattamente ciò che stava accadendo qui. Per quanto riguarda la "biscia d'acqua," mi fa piacere sapere che è un buon alleato e non pericolosa. La tua disponibilità è davvero gentile e molto apprezzata. Tantissimi auguri di buone feste a te e alla tua famiglia! 🎄😊
Thank you very much for the update wishing you a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New year and all good wishes to your family.
Thanks so much, Stewart! 🎄 Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you and your family as well. Your kind wishes mean the world, and I’m looking forward to keeping the progress going strong in 2025!
In hindsight, always make a backup of your hard drive to an external source.
Absolutely right-lesson learned the hard way! 😅 Everything is now backed up multiple times to avoid this happening again. Thanks for the reminder and for watching! 😊📁
Dear Jonathan.😊
Merry Christmas and a very happy New Year to you and your family.😊🎅🤶🌲
Thank you for the year of videos that is now coming to an end.. A lot has happened I can see and it is very unfortunate with what was deleted. But we are only human and sometimes bad things happen.😩 I have been somewhat absent because I have unfortunately become very ill. Had kidney cancer 2 years ago and had my right kidney removed because there was a large tumor on its way out.
But I have many problems now with various pains.
But I am fighting because the year has not been the easiest with my health.
I pray that the year 2025 will be with me and I will feel better again.
May you and your family have fun and enjoy it all. Thanks again for the videos, I look forward to seeing what will happen to your lovely place.❤🙏
Many loving Christmas greetings to you and your family from Maria in Denmark.🙏❤🎅🌲
Dear Maria,
Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year to you and your family. 🎄🎉 Your message has truly touched me, and I’m so sorry to hear about the health challenges you’ve faced. It takes incredible strength to go through what you’ve endured, and your resilience is truly inspiring. I’m sending you all my thoughts and prayers for a brighter, healthier, and happier 2025.
Thank you so much for being with me on this journey from the very beginning-it means the world to know that you’ve been a part of this adventure, even when dealing with your own struggles. I hope my videos can bring even a small bit of distraction or joy to your day, and I promise to keep sharing the progress as it unfolds.
Take care, Maria, and remember you’re not alone-there’s a whole community here rooting for you! Sending you lots of love and strength from Sicily. ❤️
Warmest wishes,
Jonathan 🙏✨
@OperationSicily Thank you so much Jonathan. It warms my heart so much and you are just the sweetest loving man. Because there are many who have fled my life since I got kidney cancer. People can't accept that the lively, always good and funny Maria has had a hard time. Has always been someone who was there for others in life. But now I have seen to what extent people basically are in the difficult times. Very very sad and has made me very unhappy. So what you write helps to keep the courage and hope up because I am waiting for some very crucial tissue samples from the abdomen (genitals), the intestine and some mega nodes in my femurs. I am afraid unfortunately it is not so good because now I have lost a total of 37 pounds, Yes, it is all some shit. Because we are going to Sicily no matter what because I definitely do not want to be here anymore where people have shown their true selves.
It will be very exciting with your house and the logs that you want to use as tables, I would advise you to spray with some clear varnish to close the wood from vermin and so that it will not crumble all the time. Because that happens when they get in. Yes or paint them but that would be a bit of a shame I think. I hope you are doing well and also remember to relax because life can quickly turn around and we must learn to enjoy the present a little more. When I look back on how much I have done throughout my life and sacrificed myself for others, yes, there is a lot that I actually regret. Because now it turns out that much of it had no meaning. No, I just have to be a little more selfish and think about my own well-being. And about my son who is the only one who is there for me 100%. May you be well, take care of yourself and have a happy New Year. Big hugs from me. Maria.🙂
Brilliant job I love working with wood so I can see where your coming from Merry Christmas and all the very best wishes for 2025
Thank you, Thomas! Working with wood is so satisfying, isn’t it? There’s something special about creating something with your own hands. Merry Christmas to you as well, and wishing you an amazing 2025 filled with success and creativity! 🎄✨🛠️
Merry Christmas
Appreciate it, thank you! 😊
My worst nightmare finding a huge snake skin knowing the snake could be anywhere. Perhaps your neighbor can identify the species. Those citrus trees are going to be amazing. Have a great Christmas with your family and all the best for 2025
I can’t lie-the snake skin gave me a bit of a shock too! 😅 I’ve shown it to my neighbor, but he wasn't sure about the species. Hopefully, it stays hidden underground for a while longer! Thank you for the kind words about the citrus trees-I’m excited to see how they flourish. Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and a fantastic 2025! 🎄🍊
It doesn't look like a venomous snake's skin, those tend to be smaller in size. I would not worry about it much, probably will move from your area as it's too busy
What do you listen to while working? I’m enjoying following the renovation of this house! Merry Christmas!
Thank you! 🎄😊 I have quite an eclectic taste in music-it really helps keep me motivated during those long hours working solo. I’ll listen to anything from classical pieces like Hans Zimmer and Ludovico Einaudi to hip-hop and rap. It all depends on my mood and the task at hand! What’s your go-to music while tackling projects? 🎶🛠️
Hi Johnathan, so sorry you lost your footage mate!! That’s so unfortunate! I feel for you.
Please be careful of your back I was pushing that log up that ladder with you!!!
Have a great Xmas with your family, as you said they’re the most important thing, they must be very proud of you.
Look forward to your content and progress in 2025. Do an agree a beautiful garden is a big selling point. Take care stay safe🎄
Hi Doreen, thank you for the kind words! 😊 Losing that footage was tough, but I’m so glad you’re enjoying the updates. Don’t worry-I’ll be extra careful with those logs; they’ve been a workout for sure! 💪 You’re absolutely right, family is everything, and I’m so grateful for their support. Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and can’t wait to share even more progress in 2025! 🎄 Stay safe and take care.
When will you start renovating the building? Can't wait to see what you do with the place.
Thanks, Glyn! The big renovations are just around the corner now that the permits are sorted. First up will be major tasks like new windows, doors, and rewiring-can’t wait to dive in! Stay tuned! 🏡
Rather LARGE snake! I wasn't expecting that.
I wasn’t expecting that snake either! 🐍😅 It definitely gave me a surprise! Nature has its way of keeping things interesting here in Sicily. Hopefully, no more unexpected visitors like that anytime soon! 😂
Jonathan, we only see you alone in Italy im curious how did the whole buying a property in Italy and you going off to renovate and create a UA-cam following go? Who’s idea and how was that dialogue navigated?
Great question, Maria! 😊 The idea of buying a property in Italy and documenting the journey on UA-cam was something I’d been dreaming about for a while-it’s a mix of passion for renovation, adventure, and creating something unique. Once I found the villa in Sicily, it just felt like the perfect project to take on. The UA-cam channel idea came naturally as I thought it would be a great way to share the highs and lows of the process with others, while also hopefully inspiring anyone with a similar dream. Navigating it all has been a bit of a balancing act, but it’s been so rewarding to see people like you enjoying the journey! 🌟🏡
Nice wintertime video, doesn’t seem to be too cold there? I saw the test painting on the outside wall. Please don’t paint the house too dark grey, makes it look like a dungeon… 😧 keep it as light as possible, makes the house look friendly, kind of modern architecture and keeps the rooms inside cool in summertime.
Thanks, Mathias! You're absolutely right-it doesn’t get too cold here, even in winter, which is one of the perks of being in Sicily! ☀️ About the paint, I completely agree with your point on keeping the color light. I’m leaning towards lighter shades to keep it modern and inviting while also helping with the heat during summer. Appreciate your thoughts-great advice as always! 🎨🏡
@ It will be an amazing cozy home, I‘m sure! Merry Christmas to you and your family 🎄
You’ll need to glue the bark as when it dries it could peel off.
You’re absolutely right, Maria! 😊 The bark does add so much character, but I’m thinking of treating it with a clear wood hardener to keep it in place once it’s fully dried. Hopefully, that will do the trick!
🇮🇹Buon Natale🇮🇹❣️
🇮🇹 Buon Natale anche a te! 🎄✨ Grazie per il supporto, e auguri di un meraviglioso anno nuovo!
Wohoww dude, that’s a boa constructors skin…they always show up during construction
Boa constructor skin during construction-sounds like a plot twist! 😂 Hopefully, it’s a one-time guest appearance. Thanks for the laugh and for watching! 🐍
That small tree with some leaves on is a nespola 😊
Thank you, Alexandra! That makes sense-it’s a nespola! I’ll be keeping a close eye on it to see how it does in the coming months. 😊
Love the videos watching from SA
Thank you so much, Cheryl! 😊 Sending warm wishes to you all the way in SA! 🌍 I’m so glad you’re enjoying the videos-plenty more to come as the villa transforms. Stay tuned! 🛠️✨
I would replace the tike in the bath. It is overpowering
Totally agree-those tiles are definitely quite bold! 😅 The whole bathroom is set to be completely replaced, including those 'very out there' tiles. That said, it’s funny how some people really love them for their retro charm! Thanks for sharing your thoughts! 😊
Think the snakes , long black , are harmless
Thanks, Annette! 😊 That’s good to know-I’ll stay calm if they pop up again. The joys of countryside living, right? 🐍 Appreciate your support!
This is wax that arborists use to protect exposed cuts
Yes, I’ve heard of arborist wax! It seems like a really smart option to seal and protect those cuts. Thanks for the suggestion-it’s definitely on my list to look into! 😊
Think I've been away from Stockport (Gtr Manchester) UK too long, have to have subtitles on. Nice too see you applying seal paste to the trees
No way are subtitles needed for this video. I am not from the UK and can understand him perfectly. For example listen at 25.40 his voice is completely understandable and audible.
@shrory Haha, I promise I’m not speaking an entirely different language-it’s still Stockport English! 😉 But I get it, accents can seem a bit thicker after being away for a while. Glad to hear you liked the tree work and the seal paste-it’s all part of the plan to give these trees the best chance possible! Cheers from Stockport to wherever you are now! 🌳🎥
@michaelgavin5612 Thanks, mate! I’m glad you find it clear-always a relief to hear my ramblings make sense! 😂 I’ll keep trying to balance the audio for everyone, though. Thanks for sticking with the videos! 🙌
Per le piante avevo un giardiniere bravissimo, infatti avevo un bellissimo giardino e tante piante da frutto, per potare bisogna saperlo fare, penso anche che ci sia una grande differenza in Inghilterra, li è sempre freddo, comunque per il serpente non è velenoso, compra all'agraria il prodotto che serve per farli allontanare e non li vedrai più 🎯 , ti abbraccio 🤗 ,buon lavoro e Buon natale
Grazie mille Cristina! 😊 È vero, potare bene richiede esperienza e conoscenze-che fortuna avere avuto un giardiniere così bravo! Hai ragione anche sulle differenze climatiche tra l’Inghilterra e qui, cambia tutto per le piante. Grazie per il consiglio sul prodotto per allontanare i serpenti, sicuramente darò un’occhiata all’agraria per prenderlo. Ti mando un grande abbraccio e tanti auguri di Buon Natale! 🎄✨🤗
Wonderful comments below. Here in FL, USA we have a few varieties of snakes and most are harmless and help keep the rodent population down. One thing that keeps us entertained are little anole lizards (they keep the palmetto bugs down). The only thing that we are supposed to kill are the Cuban Tree Frogs but I don't have the heart to kill them. When you live there full time and there is a lot of activity, the snakes will probably stay away.
Your place is looking good. Oh can you make planks from the longer tree limbs for a table top? And two limbs for the table legs? The two logs you put in the house would make nice seating I think, the kids would love it!
Happy holiday to you, your family and your viewers. Peace.
Thank you so much for the kind words and insights! 😊 It’s amazing how nature creates its own pest control system-those anole lizards sound like a great addition to any garden! I agree about the snakes; with more activity on the property, they’ll probably steer clear, though they’ve been helpful with keeping the rodent population in check so far. 🐍
I love the idea of using the tree limbs for a table and legs-it would definitely add some rustic charm! I’m already working on drying the logs I brought inside, so fingers crossed they turn into something functional and fun for the kids. 🙌
Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday season filled with peace and joy! 🎄✨
You need to have an external hard drive. I can’t stress that enough. Too many people lose photos, videos etc just because the don’t save their stuff to an external source. I have my stuff saved in 3 different backups, so this does not happen.
Enjoy your holiday.
You are absolutely right, and I’ve definitely learned my lesson the hard way! I now have multiple backups in place to make sure this never happens again. Losing those videos was devastating, but at least the lesson has been learned. Thank you for the reminder and the advice-it’s solid! Wishing you a fantastic holiday season as well! 🎄😊
I'm loving these videos. It's really good seeing the progress you're making. I had a quick look online about the leaves on your olive tree and it says it's that the plant is too wet, but that was just a quick look. A quick question are you learning Italian for while you're over there and if you are what are you using to learn? Also, how is it going with the neighbours have they given you a warm welcome?
Thanks so much, Matt! 😊 I’ve also read about overwatering causing issues with olive leaves, so I’ve been trying to keep a closer eye on it. As for Italian, I’m learning bits here and there with Duolingo and Google Translate-it’s slow going but I’m getting there! 😅 The neighbors have been so welcoming and kind, even with the language barrier-it’s been great connecting with them. Cheers for watching and for the great questions! 🍃🇮🇹