What's Happening:

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Week nineteen brought the monsoon's strength with it, pushing all activity indoors — the weather has ruled out any exterior work for now. Inside, varnishing is underway, that deep amber glow now spreading across timber walls and floors as the first coat goes on. The plan is three coats throughout once conditions allow: a high-gloss finish outside for maximum weather protection, and a softer matt finish inside for something warmer underfoot and easier on the eye.

Glazing has also begun on the large doors, for a reason that's more charming than technical: local squirrels have been letting themselves in at night, bringing longan fruit with them for a feast — and leaving staining on the newly varnished floors as evidence. Eviction notices have been served, and glass panes are now going in to make sure they stay served. The staircase, meanwhile, is showing off its carved balustrade in full varnished glory for the first time — one of the clearest signs yet of how far the house has come.