Roaming Brit
  • Blog
  • The Story Of Us
  • Other Blogs
    • Forever Enduring Cycles Blog 2015 >
      • Forever Enduring Cycles
      • Bipolarcoaster
      • Books For Sale
  • Gallery
  • Spain
    • First Month
    • Three Months
    • Six Months
    • One Year
    • 2 Year Anniversary
    • Spanish Views
    • Gran Alacant >
      • GA Advertiser
      • Gran Alacant News
      • LoungeD
      • No Wives Club
  • About
    • New Life
    • Wedding
    • 21 Years
    • Timeline
    • My Story
    • Australia 2016/17
  • Guest Bloggers
    • Penelope Wren
    • Debra Rufini
    • Claire Coe
    • Richard Guy
    • Optimistic Mummy
    • Julie Rawlinson
    • Letters Of Hope
  • Links
  • Contact
  • My Writing
    • Short Stories From My Youth
    • Verruca Almond
    • The Streets

From a new life in spain, to an old life in britain, 'roaming brit' documents uncertain times!

Picture

On 31st January 2016, my partner and I left Southampton to start a new life as Expats in Gran Alacant, on the Costa Blanca. This blog will document our journey, as we navigate the Spanish system, travelling a path untried and untested. With Brexit looming, political turmoil in Europe, and an unpredictable future, harsh decisions must be made. Illness, family bonds, and a Change of heart all make for challenging times in the life of a 'Roaming Brit!'

Picture

New York - My First and Last!

26/7/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
New York was the only place in America I'd ever wanted to go to. This is a city that has captivated my imagination for many years and when I was given the opportunity to travel there in 2002, I jumped at the chance. This was only a short time after the Twin Towers had been unceremoniously brought down by a terrorist attack in 2001, and I was apprehensive about travelling, but it was too good an opportunity to miss. Darrell had already decided he didn't want to go, the United States had never appealed to him, and he suggested I take a friend with me instead. I paid for a young girlfriend from Whiteparish, the local village, where we lived, to fly with me for the week-long holiday, the first I had been on, without my husband!

Arriving at JFK Airport, we were a World away from the UK. The security measures in place were exceptional, taking two hours to finally see us through customs and into the unseasonably hot spring weather outside. There was no limousine waiting for us at the terminal, just a yellow cab and a bumpy ride to our hotel overlooking Central Park. Sitting in the back, we were cramped and hot, separated from the driver by a perspex screen. The leg room was tight; I tried to get comfortable for the long ride through Queens and Brooklyn, desperate to arrive in Manhattan as soon as we could. As we approached the Queensboro Bridge over the East River, I was feeling irritated and anxious. There was no air-conditioning in the car and after fighting furiously with the electric window, no fresh air either. I was however amazed by this great bridge, so typically New York in style, towering above the car as we slowly drove through the pulsating traffic, gridlocked in every direction. This may well have been the journey from hell, but it is a memory that has stayed with me. Sometimes the most enduring recollections aren't always the best!

Our hotel on West 71st Street, small and rather intimate, comfortable and homely, was the ideal base for the next seven days. American breakfast was served each morning, which mainly consisted of muffins and pancakes, washed down with gallons of coffee; the best start for the day ahead. Walking through the streets of Manhattan, we explored Times Square, taking in the breathtaking views from The Empire State Building and ate lunch at Trump Tower, sat outside watching people pass by. I remember casually lighting a cigarette after a light lunch; the gasps from other customers was almost deafening. This was clearly a practice frowned upon and I quickly stubbed it out, looking highly embarrassed, as I sunk back into my dining chair. Eloise, my companion looked on, rather amused, giggling to herself - we are certainly not in Whiteparish any more. Check paid we left hurriedly, towards Madam Tussauds.

Central Park was an escape from the busy city outside and as the temperature soared, we spent far more time walking around this magnificent green space than anticipated. Sat on a bench, looking out towards cyclists, dog walkers, joggers, lunchtime book readers and children playing Frisbee, tennis and handball, I was reminded of my own childhood. Central Park brought people together, in a way a concrete city just can't; surrounded by buildings on all sides, this open landscape is the crowning glory of Manhattan. It was unusual and alien in every respect, but a special place, full of beauty and poignancy for New Yorkers and tourists alike.

Sheltering from the midday sun, collecting my thoughts, I wrote a few words on some paper, that I still have today - ' New York is everything I expected, but Central Park is more; the city dweller has finally turned into a country boy!' Of course, I love this great city, but I preferred the clean air, open fields and tree lined walk ways. As I wrestled with my conscience in the years ahead, sadly urban life won the day. If I could live my life again, this would be one road I would change!

I was sad to leave 'The Big Apple,' I enjoyed every aspect of my time there. From the corned beef and gravy at the Deli, the art deco architecture and twenty-four hour nightlife, I was in awe of it all. It isn't a place I particularly want to visit again however, content with my time spent there, but looking forward to the idyllic Wiltshire countryside and the place I called home. As our Lincoln town car arrived to take us to JFK (I had learned my lesson concerning New York cabs.) and I climbed into the back, sinking my feet into the plush red carpet, I suddenly felt tired and ready for home. This was an amazing place to visit, but it just wasn't a city to stay for long. New York was my first dip into America and likely to be my last. Since Donald Trump has become President, my views of Americans have become less than favourable. With so much more of the World to see, the United States is no longer my destination of choice. New Yorks enduring pull is also its inevitable downfall, there is only so much hustle and bustle one man can take!


Picture
Picture
Picture


0 Comments

Final Family Toast

26/7/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Thursday was our last family toast; as the World has moved into the 'new normal,' so we have decided to end our salutations together, which have been taking place since 9th April, right at the beginning of the pandemic. As a family, we have all had our ups and downs, coping with the difficulties that COVID-19 brought to us all. We have, however, kept in touch and continued to celebrate the importance of family and friends, even during the darkest of times.

The World, may well have moved into a strange sense of normality, but the virus is still there creating havoc, destroying lives, separating family and leaving destruction in its wake, so we may well be back celebrating once again, sooner than we think. Darrell and I will continue to do our toast together as a family, we are still living apart, unable to see one another, because of this crisis. This weekly tribute has brought Darrell, Mum and me a lot closer, despite the distance between us and it will be a shame to lose that now.

This event has encompassed Birthdays, celebrations, illness, good and bad times and has documented nearly three months when Britain changed like never before. Looking back and this period in history as all of us grow older, will be important for future generations. As all of us age, babies become toddlers and families are reunited once again, we can all be proud of what we have achieved in the face of adverse times.

The television has been full of images, reminding us of the very real threat that continues to this day. We have seen Hospital and care works save countless lives, key workers pushing ever harder to ensure the Great British public are able to carry on living as normal a life as possible, Captain Tom, raise thirty-three million pounds for NHS workers, VE Day, The Queen's Birthday and parents homeschooling children up and down the country; this strange chapter has shown the best and worst of human nature. The photographs we took, had stories of sadness and grief behind faces, left simmering for just a moment, as all of us took the time to put on a smile for the people we love.

A big thank you to everyone who took part in our 'Non Touch Toast,' you have all been great and a fabulous source of support, especially for Darrell and I. We can all see each other in the flesh once again, but the memories of what transpired over the last few months will linger for a long time yet. They say 'a photo can tell a thousand words,' which indeed it can, capturing a moment in time, none of us what to experience again, chronicling the enduring bonds of family, as the World, fell apart, at the seams!

Picture

Picture


0 Comments

Clayborne Embraces The 'New Normal!'

20/7/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Picture
From the 24th July all of us will be required to wear masks in confined spaces, like shops. We already have to wear them on public transport and this was a natural next step in the fight against Coronavirus. In my opinion this should have been done four months ago, but we are where we are, and just have to make the best of this terrible situation we find ourselves in.

At Cancer Research we are also getting ready for the big day and Clayborne the Cancer Research Teddy, has also been given a new mask, made by our very own Anita, who also volunteers for the charity. 2020, the year that never was, should have been a busy period for Clayborne, travelling to Japan and Thailand, and like all of us, he is feeling the strain, looking forward to his next trip abroad. In the meantime he is venturing out and about around Portsmouth with me when we can.

Remember to wear your masks from Friday and help protect shop staff like me, during this crucial phase of the pandemic. Without your support we couldn't continue doing the job we do, making money for cancer research; we look forward to welcoming you on your next visit, sporting your new mask of course!

Picture
Well that's the end of the public information advert. I had a particularly successful day at the shop today, sorting out the electrical department, which was looking rather tired.

We managed to make £260.00 last week on electrical items, (£2600 overall) a great total after four months of lock down and I want to continue this growing trend. This is my section, so I only have a few hours to stock up; still I think it's looking great for the days ahead. Whatever you are doing this week, have a good one!

Picture
Picture
Picture


0 Comments

Photographs of Hope - Family Toast, good to see your faces!

20/7/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture

Inspirational photographs at a time of crisis, creating positivity for the future!

Picture

Two familiar faces back for this week's family toast. It's been a long time coming, but it's great to see Aunty Sue and Karen back once again.

Picture

Picture


0 Comments

Reconnecting With Mrs F - Mindful of the times we now live in!

19/7/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Last week I managed to see Mrs F, as soon as lockdown restrictions were lifted. After shielding for the recommended twelve weeks, Mrs F felt it was safe to finally venture outside for the first time. Of course, it was good to see her, but I was and still am, sceptical about the lifting of restrictions so soon, especially for the most vulnerable in society. This deadly virus is still about  and isn't going anywhere soon.

Chatting with her, it was clear that she hadn't enjoyed her forced isolation. Like most older people, she spends a lot of the time on her own in any event, so the last three months of this pandemic have just highlighted her vulnerability. I sensed that she just needed someone to talk to, so took some time out from work briefly, to have a chat to her on her way home.

Mrs F is always a joy to talk to, with so many stories to tell and I always appreciate her company, so seeing her face light up, as I had a brief conversation was a joy to be seen. She explained that she didn't speak to family as much as she would like and always looked forward to seeing me at work. Of course working in a customer focused environment, you do come across many people on a daily basis and each of us who work in the department, have customers who come in just to see us, each day. We can and do take the time to speak with each person for as long as they need, and they value the small talk. During this pandemic I have seen many people who live alone, coming in for a quick tête-à-tête, while they pick up their essential shopping. This was a life line for many, and I am glad all of us were able to help create a feeling of normality at a time of crisis.

Last Sunday I phoned Mrs F, as I will later today, just to see how she is; I was able to spend a little more time than usual listening to her. Despite her only living a short walk away, I have said I will not come to her home, just in case I carry anything along I shouldn't. I am mindful of this virus at every juncture and continue to social distance, sanitize my hands and refrain from greeting in the usual way. When we talked a few days before, we stood the regulatory two meters apart, only elbow bumping briefly as she went about her day. This is hard for everyone, especially people like Mrs F, but it is necessary to ensure all of us are spared any heartache in the future.

I still remain unable to see my father and other family members but when the time is right I will see them all again. I no longer trust this Government or its motives - when they told us it was safe to socialise at a limited level, I continued to keep my distance, as I still do now. The way they have acted throughout this crisis is been reprehensible, moving too slow to shut down and too quick to reopen. I will continue to do what I consider to be right, even if it means I am following a different path to others.

Picture
I was recently contacted by a friend in Gran Alacant, Spain, where Darrell and I used to live, who explained the COVID-19 situation there. It seems that the urbanization has had an outbreak of Coronavirus and local residents are being asked to follow strict guidelines in order to bring any upsurge under control. I have no idea what is going on there on the ground, but it is a pointer as to what expect everywhere across the World in the future. We have done remarkably well in Portsmouth, keeping the virus at bay, but if we are not careful we will see a second spike and people like Mrs F will once again have to shield.

I will continue to do the right thing, probably until we have a vaccine in place to stop COVID-19. However, I am lucky to work in an environment, where I come into contact with customers and can maintain friendships and relationships with some truly wonderful characters. I am happy they are returning to normal life once again but always, always conscious of the threat that still lurks in the shadows. Every one of us should do what we can to stay close with our loved ones and look forward to a time, without the presence of Coronavirus in our midst! We should also treat this virus with the respect it deserves and avoid its manipulative path at all costs, keeping safe and staying as far away from others as we possibly can. Remember COVID continues to kill at an alarming rate and all of us are potential targets!

Picture
Picture
Picture


0 Comments

Cancer Research - First Day Back!

13/7/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
First day back at Cancer Research today, after a four-month break. It was great to see so many familiar faces and although the 'new normal' prevented us from working in exactly the same way we were used to, we did our best to carry on as best we could. It was good to know fiends and colleagues hadn't changed a bit, each with their own lockdown story to tell, but like me, everyone was pleased to be back, making money for Cancer Research UK!

All of us have different reasons for volunteering; for many spending time with others is important, especially if they live alone. Cancer Research promotes friendships and encourages volunteers to form bonds, that they wouldn't otherwise have had. COVID-19 put a stop to social interaction and many of my colleagues have spent the last sixteen weeks alone. Coming back to this little shop in Portsmouth, has once again given them the confidence to express themselves in the company of others, something sadly missing in all our lives until recently. Getting back to the way things were isn't going to be easy, but tiny tentative steps should help, as all of us begin the process of once again reconnecting with others!

I am thrilled to be back with some truly wonderful co-workers, who I have dearly missed. I am known for calling Cancer Research my 'Happy Place,' because that is exactly what it is. It boosts my sense of self-worth and gives me something to look forward to each week, able to chat with companions and make money for a cause I champion. It feels fantastic to be home - the first place I started working when I returned from Spain and a part of my life I will always hold dear!
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture


0 Comments

Welcome Home Mollie!

12/7/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Mollie has arrived from Australia, where she has been for the last two years. Like most of our personal belongings she was shipped to Perth when we left Spain in 2018 and that is where she stayed. I asked Darrell if he would post her several weeks ago as my life isn't the same without her. This grand old lady has travelled  with both of us, all over the World and I thought it was about time she came back home.

The truth is, Darrell and I haven't decided where we want to stay long term, but it looks likely to be somewhere in Europe, when this Pandemic is finally over, so Mollie would have to return to this part of the World one day. She was one of the few possessions I kept when we left our home in Gran Alacant, and she is a big part of my life, containing many memories.
0px
This is the picture I commissioned when the actress Mollie Sugden died. She was the lady I grew up with on the television set, as I sat down to watch 'Are You Being Served' with my Mother in the 1980s. Of course, it wasn't until later I understood much of the meaning behind the comedy that was a part of the show, but that didn't stop me laughing at sketches that still resonate today.

Like most comedy shows of the 1970s and 80s, they weren't particularly politically correct and would never be instructed today, but 'Are You Being Served' echoed a different Age, that seemed far more innocent than now. Mollie was an actress who never failed to make me laugh and a house full of laughter is the most important aspect to life. Happiness at times of stress and upheaval is the key to success, which is why Mollie is home where she belongs!
Picture
Picture
Picture


0 Comments

Photographs of Hope - Family Toast!

11/7/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture

Inspirational photographs at a time of crisis, creating positivity for the future!

Picture
Picture
We've been doing our family toast for ten weeks now, throughout the duration of the first wave of this pandemic, and like most families we have done our best to keep in touch, despite the difficult circumstances. I still haven't seen all of my relatives, even now, because I don't want to put anyone at risk.

The last time I saw my Father, was in January of this year. It has been hard not seeing him, especially at this time, but I don't feel it is appropriate quite yet. I work in Tesco, a pub and have a voluntary job with Cancer Research, all of which are customer facing roles.  I come into contact with many members of the public daily, that's a lot of people; so I really don't want to put my Father or any other member of my family at risk unnecessarily. I do speak to Dad every week, and he seems to be in good spirits, but this is also a lonely time for him and all of us who are separated.

This week we were able to welcome back Aunty Sue, to our family toast, after a few weeks away. Sue hasn't been feeling on top form recently and decided to take a break. To be honest I don't blame her; there were times I wish I could have just disappeared for a while, hoping this year would just go away, but to no avail. Aunty Sue hasn't been too well and having to shield for weeks on end has taken its toll on her, but fighting fit as ever, she has returned, joining in the weekly toast!

I was reading an article online this morning, talking about living with Coronavirus long term. It looks like it will be awhile before we can all get back to normal and enjoy life as it used to be. Until then, we will have to continue making the best of this situation; our weekly toast will be here for a while yet, which is no bad thing. Family up and down the country are coping remarkably well and all of us have used our ingenuity to focus on the relationships that remain important, despite the distance between us. I guess sometime next year, we will all be able to hug each other once again; until then we have our weekly toast to one another, showing everyone, no matter where they are, that we continue to care about them and lives we share!

Picture

Picture


0 Comments

Bosnia Herzegovina - The Majesty of Mostar!

9/7/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Visiting Bosnia in 2014, was the highlight of my stay in the more recognised state of Croatia. This relatively new country was formed in 1992, after the Bosnian public voted to break away from the old Yugoslavia, shortly after the Communist eastern block nations began to crumble. Between 1992 and 1995, war raged in the region following the vote for independence. Bosnian Serbs supported by the new Serbian Government and the Yugoslav Peoples Army fought to secure the country. This was a war that split families, saw the death of thousands through ethnic cleansing and perpetuated the shelling of towns and cities. As we drove along the Dalmatian coast towards the Bosnian boarder, I felt apprehensive, not knowing what to expect, after all this was a country still recovering from conflict; conjecture ran riot inside, as we entered this undiscovered land.

Mostar was our destination, the fifth largest city in the country, named after the 'Mostari' or bridge keepers, who guarded the world-famous 'Stari Most,' or old bridge, over the river Neretva. This 16th century bridge was our destination, one of the most important landmarks in Bosnia. It is a physical crossing between the Islamic and Christian halves of the city. This is a place where East literally meets west.

I was struck by the wounds that still litter this city. Standing outside the Gimnazija Mostar, looking around the vast open space before me, I was overwhelmed by the number of ruined, derelict buildings, left as a reminder of the Bosnian War. Much of the destruction had been replaced by new, modern structures, well-kept and looked after, but there were however mnemoric reminders of a traumatic past. Badly bombed tectonic shells, daubed with bullet holes, shrapnel damaged and adorned with gaping holes. It was a rather eerie scene, that constantly reminded one of this great cities recent past, a memorial to a time before the conflict. I'm not sure whether these were left as a permanent aide-mémoire or just left untouched, undeveloped from twenty years prior, but it certainly brought home the nature of Mostar and the history that still lived on  in the architecture that protrudes around every street corner!

Walking through the Islamic sector of the city, you could be forgiven for thinking you are in Marrakesh or Algiers. We passed through a number of small souks, as we walked around the historic cobbled streets. Beautifully made handicrafts, herbs and spices punctuating the air, Arabic jewellery, ceramics and carved wooden mementos. This is how I imagined the Islamic World to be, and I wasn't disappointed.

We sat in a small traditional Turkish kahve dükkanı and had some thick home ground coffee. As I looked out across the narrow street towards the market stalls beyond, absorbing the atmosphere, sights, sounds and smells of the emporium, I noticed the locals, traditionally attired in Islamic dress, young children playing happily with friends and the odd tourist bartering with a stallholder; all this in complete contrast to the war that left its mark on Mostar. After a spot of shopping and some photographs on the bridge we headed towards the Christian side of the city; the feel was distinctly European. Islamic treasures were replaced with more familiar western postcards, religious icons and cafés selling alcohol. Once again we stopped, this time for a much-needed ice-cold beer and a glass or two of wine, followed by an evening meal in a restaurant tucked neatly away behind a tree covered court yard, a welcome break from the searing Balkan heat.

Mostar is a beautiful city, despite being disfigured by war. I felt relaxed and safe walking around its streets and have many fond memories, spending time with family, surrounded by hundreds of years of history. This Balkan gem unfamiliar to most, will most certainly be a tourist destination of the future. The breathtaking views were a reminder of my travels in Italy and like Sorrento and the Amalfi coast, I fell in love with Mostar and the life it encapsulates. Despite my British credentials, I will always be a European at heart; the freedom to travel unhindered at will, is important to my sense of well-being. Visiting Bosnia, even briefly, was a life-changing moment and one I hope to repeat; seeing more of this magical, inspirational, historic region deep in the heart of Europe, as it comes of age, is a journey for another day!




Picture
Picture
Picture


0 Comments

Cancer Research Returns!

6/7/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Cancer Research reopened today, after closing its doors nearly four months ago, just before the pandemic took hold in the UK. I will be returning to my voluntary job next week, but wanted to pop into the shop today, to see what measures are in place when I finally start on Monday morning. Not knowing what to expect, I was pleasantly surprised  at how organised everything was. By their very nature, charity shops, create the feeling of cluttered disorder, so working in such an environment will be yet another challenge to overcome in the age of COVID.

I stayed for about an hour chatting to Zerina and Sam, as they navigated this new World, which remains alien to them on their first working day. Of course, having worked for Tesco for the last four months during the height of the virus, I am well-used to the social distancing measures in place to protect staff and customers; Cancer Research have done well to get everything ready and in place for the reawakening today.

It was great sat talking with Zerina once again, having only spoken to her on the phone; I have always enjoyed her company and as with the Newcome on Saturday, it felt like I had never been away. She was her usual jovial self  and realistic about the difficulties ahead. My biggest concern is accepting donations from the public and what procedures are in place to limit exposure to any potential danger. By next Monday, I will be working in three front facing, customer orientated roles and that leaves me at a higher risk than most, so anything that can be done to protect me at this time is important. I am a natural worrier who suffers with anxiety, so reassurance and peace of mind are mandatory to my sense of well-being!

All donations will be stored for 72 hours before being displayed in the shop, in case of any contamination. There are of course gloves, masks and visors, should I need them and like most other establishments, a one way system is in place. I feel confident enough to return and once again next week and want to play my part at this crucial time. Too much Cancer research has been put on hold and with a lack of income, charities have suffered more than most, so as someone who has volunteered for many years, I feel it is right to continue to help raise funds, for a cause that is dear to my heart.

I would like to wish everyone at the shop the best of luck for the future, and look forward to playing a small role in the perpetual success of this friendly shop, at a time when the World needs all the help it can get!

Stay safe everyone!

Picture
Picture
Picture


0 Comments
<<Previous

    Author

    51-year-old Author and professional blogger. Expat formerly living in Gran Alacant on the Costa Blanca! Currently, residing in my adopted home of Perth, Western Australia.

    Picture

      Contact Luke.

    Submit
    Picture
    Click me & email for more information!
    Picture
    Picture

    Categories

    All
    30th Anniversary
    Asia-2019
    Australia
    Australia-202223
    Bangkok & Chiang Mai 2023
    Bettys-revenge
    Bipolar
    Bipolarcoaster
    Britain
    Bullying
    Business
    Cancer Research
    Cats
    Characters-i-have-known
    Charity
    Charlatan-or-confidant
    Christmas Thoughts
    Claybornes World
    Coming-out-stories
    Cooking
    Coronavirus
    Croatia 2022
    Current Affairs Politics
    Darrell In The Uk
    Death Of Queen Elizabeth
    Dunbars
    Easy Horse Care
    Events
    Events That Shaped My World
    Family
    Fascinating-facts
    Friends Colleagues
    Gran Alacant
    Guest-bloggers
    Ibs
    Immigration
    Information
    Inspirational People
    Interviews
    Japan And Thailand 2020
    Jersey-2019
    King Charles III
    Lifestyle Break
    Lockdown-life-in-photos
    London 2022
    Lounge-d
    Luke-martin-jones-awards
    Marmite Watch
    Memories Of Fareham
    Memories Of Home
    Memories-of-home
    Memories Of Portsmouth
    Memories Of Southampton
    Memories Of Spain
    Me-too-oxfam
    Milestones
    Moving
    My Life
    My Writing
    Non Touch Toast
    Oxfam-sociopathy
    Penelope-wren
    Photographs-of-hope
    Picante And Marigold
    Pippa
    Pippa And Akira
    Platinum Jubilee
    Postcards From Home
    Quotes
    Rabs-world
    Remembering Gran Alacant
    Reviewing Gran Alacant
    Santa-pola
    Self-isolation
    Shopping
    Short Stories From My Youth
    Southampton
    Spiritual
    Taiwan 2024
    Teaching Jamie
    Thailand 2022
    Thailand And Singapore 2025
    The-darkness
    The-streets
    The Two Of Us
    Travel
    Verruca-almond
    Vietnam 2024
    Villa In The Sun
    Visits From Friends
    War In Europe
    Weight Loss & Health
    Year In Review 2015
    Year In Review 2016
    Year In Review 2017
    Year In Review 2018
    Year In Review 2019
    Year In Review 2020
    Year In Review 2021
    Year In Review 2022
    Year In Review 2023
    Year In Review 2024
    Zest

    Archives

    April 2025
    March 2025
    February 2025
    January 2025
    December 2024
    November 2024
    October 2024
    September 2024
    August 2024
    July 2024
    June 2024
    May 2024
    April 2024
    March 2024
    February 2024
    January 2024
    December 2023
    November 2023
    October 2023
    September 2023
    August 2023
    July 2023
    June 2023
    May 2023
    April 2023
    March 2023
    February 2023
    January 2023
    December 2022
    November 2022
    October 2022
    September 2022
    August 2022
    July 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015

    Picture
    Picture
    Picture
    Picture
    Picture
    Picture
    Tweets by realtruthblog
    Picture
    Picture
    Picture


    Instagram
    Picture
    Picture
    Picture
    Picture
    Picture
    Picture
    Picture
    A place to call home
    Finally, a place we can call home.  A community of like minded individuals, who used to call Britain home.  Now Spain is our choice, an altogether gentler, happier, sunnier and safer experience!
            Luke Feb 16
    Picture
Picture
Picture

Telephone

+447999663360

Email

[email protected]
  • Blog
  • The Story Of Us
  • Other Blogs
    • Forever Enduring Cycles Blog 2015 >
      • Forever Enduring Cycles
      • Bipolarcoaster
      • Books For Sale
  • Gallery
  • Spain
    • First Month
    • Three Months
    • Six Months
    • One Year
    • 2 Year Anniversary
    • Spanish Views
    • Gran Alacant >
      • GA Advertiser
      • Gran Alacant News
      • LoungeD
      • No Wives Club
  • About
    • New Life
    • Wedding
    • 21 Years
    • Timeline
    • My Story
    • Australia 2016/17
  • Guest Bloggers
    • Penelope Wren
    • Debra Rufini
    • Claire Coe
    • Richard Guy
    • Optimistic Mummy
    • Julie Rawlinson
    • Letters Of Hope
  • Links
  • Contact
  • My Writing
    • Short Stories From My Youth
    • Verruca Almond
    • The Streets