Winter is coming to Spain, well at least it is at night. Still in the twenties during the day, it is falling to a chilly eight degrees at night; far too cold for me now. Furry covers, tartan slippers and a mug of Bovril. Every little helps!
Paul came over this afternoon, and brought me a present. I guess after my facebook post, about things I miss from Britain, he thought it would be appropriate. He couldn't be more right. I love tinned pies and ham and those steamed puddings, by heinz, you can also buy in tins. I'm a bit of an odd ball like that. Good old fashioned comfort food, Perfect! Thanks Paul!
Popped out to Sierra Mar with Katie this afternoon. It was such a lovely day. 25 degrees today, although after the summer, it felt a bit cold for me, so jeans and a tank top it was. A few drinks in the sun, wonderful conversation, relaxed and happy. It was Fish & Chip day in the square, so it was packed, mainly with Norwegians. Those from Norway, tend to leave for the summer, returning in October/November, when the weather is more agreeable to them. The Norwegian club was open, the bars were thronging with people, it felt just like summer!
Had to pop to the Hospital in Elche, before work at Princess Astorias today. Yup, even I was shocked at how palatial and gorgeous the place was. NHS in the UK, you have a lot to learn. Actually IMED is a private Hospital, which does make all the difference. I'm moving in!
Although I do actually have NHS cover in Spain now, via my SIP card, I haven't been to a State Hospital yet, although I have been told they are OK; nothing like IMED of course. The difference between the NHS here compared to Britain, is the personal care. In Spain the family are expected to look after your care and even the cooking of your food, during your stay in Hospital. In fact a family member is expected to stay with you, while you are a patient. Basically, if you have no family, you are stuck. Let's hope I don't have to go in, while Darrell is away!
Cover for a family of four, for private health care, including dental treatment is around 200€ a month and that is comprehensive cover. Not a bad price and something to think about for the future!
Today Annie will be laid to rest in Southampton. I am sorry I could not be there to celebrate her life, with family and friends, but circumstances dictate otherwise.
Annie will be given a great send off I am sure, as she rightly deserves. I have many fond memories, from our 25 year friendship, and will be remembering her today, as all of those, who attend her funeral, will also.
Annie's final journey, surrounded by so many, who loved her, will be a time to recall her kind heart, beautiful soul and enduring friendship. They really don't make them like her anymore. We were all lucky to have her!
So just like Brexit, another political bombshell. The USA has a new President Elect, Donald Trump. Both clinton and Trump were not the best candidates in this Election. The campaign was divisive, negative and at times difficult to watch. People in America, voted for the the person they hated less; it is a dreadful day for politics, America and the World. Today, globally, we are in a much scarier place.
For me, Trumps closeness with Putin is the biggest concern. Putin is ex KGB, he has presided of anti gay laws, invaded independent nations and threatened the World with nuclear war. With these two, in charge of two, once great nations, what chance does the rest of us have?
All everyone can do, is wish the new President well and let's hope he shocks us all, as Reagan did in the 1980s and become one of the greatest, most popular American leaders ever!
