They sound like great projects. @Jacques I love wood in the home.  I dont have many fine pieces, apart from general furniture.  I have a large home made chest for a lounge table and a beautiful large leadlight panel that my brother made set in wood.  (about a metre square.)

My son has his own difficult year, not to do with girlfriend.  It will be good to put it behind us.  She wanted him to commit to overseas travel which he could not reasonably do.  She does not pay board, but puts all her pension into savings, and has a part European life style.  Travelling also has never been a big goal for him, so it is where their interests separate ... In a way it is all good life experience.  I am staying out of it.

I have you managed to meet your friend in the really real ... ?