How to shorten a pair of curtains.

 I finally persuaded Steve to replace some of the curtains on the boat, the existing ones were dark brown and the linings were in threads. The fabric was also very bulky which meant the curtains  blocked a lot of the windows even when opened fully. The new curtains needed shortening so Steve and I discussed staying in one place for a couple of days as it would take a while.We decided to change the kitchen blinds as well, they were also brown, Venetian blinds which were a bugger to clean.

We were moored near a branch of Dunelm so went to choose some new blinds and curtains. We eventually settled on some in pale duck egg blue, pale, restful and most importantly, not brown.

We also purchased new blinds for the kitchen.

We agreed to stay on the mooring for three days, two days for me to shorten four pairs of curtains and one for Steve to fit the blinds.

On day one I cleared my knitting from the coffee table and got out pins, tape measure, scissors and chalk. I went to wash my hands before I handled the fabric. I returned to find the new blinds, Steve's drill and tool box on the coffee table, he decided to start putting the blinds up!

I offered to delay starting the curtains but no, Steve decided we would only stay one day, I tried explaining that shortening four pairs of curtains in a day was a bit of an ask, especially as he'd want help with the blinds. Steve totally refuted the idea of needing any help with the blinds whatsoever!

I cleared the breakfast bar so I had somewhere to lay out the curtains, I can't use the floor as there is no room. I also set up my sewing machine.

I unpacked the first pair of curtains.

Steve needed help measuring the window, that done I started to measure the curtains and mark the cutting line. 

Steve needed me to hold one end of the tape.

Then he needed me to move the curtains so he could spread the blinds out. 

Then he needed me to hold the fabric still whilst he cut it.

Then hold one of the brackets so it was level.

Then find his pencil, drill bit, bracket, end piece, pencil again make innumerable cups of coffee, offer constant reassurance and so on and so forth. 

Eventually the blinds were up, and it's early evening and by now we are hungry so I prepare a meal.

The first pair of curtains lay abandoned over the back of the sofa my sewing machine has been moved back to its usual place in the bedroom.

Steve looks around and comments on my lack of progress!

Not even one pair of curtains finished!

Earlier in the day Steve has received a text, informing him that his prescription is ready for collection. As we are moored near a train station I suggest we stay put an extra day and he can go and collect his prescription, he agrees.

The following day Steve sets off on the 9:15 train.

By the time he returns on the 2:20 train I'm just finishing the last of the eight curtains!

It's a pity you didn't do these yesterday like you were supposed to says Steve.