Well done Lilac. Very sensible decision. I've done the same here. I've been getting quotes for our front drive to be redone as the paving slabs are old and several are broken and squint. I decided in the end that it's too much money though. I might hire a pressure washer to clean them and then we can try to straighten the squint ones.
I agree about Nice Trying. I've just signed up for the race for life and now am thinking back to the days when it was okay to go and do a marathon and feel confident of not getting shot. Life is very weird just now.
Your holiday sounds lovely Creme. I hope you have a wonderful time. 
Weird also about the coup in Turkey. There is so much in the news at the moment isn't there? It's like the political techtonic plates are shifting and every little movement needs another one further long the line to get everything in balance.
I feel as though all the political unrest is down to people wanting more and needing more, in all different countries. I reckon frugaleering here is a great answer to that. If we need less, and want less then there will be less need for conflict.