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Blue Skies and Black Olives

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In a moment of impulsive decision-making, John Humphrys purchased a semi-derelict cottage and a building site overlooking the Aegean, drawn in by the stunning bay. With his son Christopher, a musician fluent in Greek, living nearby, John envisioned building a beautiful villa. However, the next four years were filled with unexpected challenges. While some experiences were comical—like dealing with an escaped peacock in his lemon grove and a rat infestation in the cottage—others were more complex. John faced difficulties with locals, including an old man demanding payment for olive trees on his own land, an unfriendly neighbor who attempted to barricade him in, and a friendly neighbor who set fire to his fishing boat after a dispute. The builders added to his frustrations, and anyone who has dealt with construction work will empathize with his struggles. Throughout this journey, John gained a deeper understanding of Greece and developed a love-hate relationship with the country and its people. Christopher, too, learned more about his father, recalling the challenges of growing up with a man who often lacked patience. Together, they share a story that is both humorous and revealing about a country that captivates and frustrates in equal measure.