Category: Quotes

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

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!'

No Longer Afraid To Say Goodbye!

10/2/2021

I've never been any good at choosing the 'right people' to have in my life. A terrible judge of character, I have always relied on my belief in others, to form an opinion about personality and reputation. Preferring my own sense of judgement, to rumour and hearsay, I accept what someone tells me, as honest and true, forgetting not everyone is irreproachable and sincere. Unscrupulous and dubious voices, always shout loudest; unrepentant, unashamed and shameless, the abusers protest too much!

I have put up with a lot of 'cobblers' in the past; two faced, disingenuous individuals have played a prominent role in my life, since I was old enough to make my own mistakes. Today, things are very different, today I no longer hanker after friendships, accepting second best. I continue to enjoy the company of those closest, but on equal, inclusive terms; I am never afraid to say goodbye!

Recording A Journey That Continues Today!

5/12/2020

The differences that brought us together, are the bonds that keep us strong. Even during the worst of times, we fought hard to remain as one. Immigration, the threat of deportation, forced separation and now a pandemic, all pushed us to our limits. There were and still are times I want to give up, but the memories of the life I once had and will have again, keep me grounded, level-headed and hopeful that circumstances will change, and we can once again resume the story of our life. Until then a photo, marking our union, even during isolation, will keep our relationship alive. A photograph recording a journey that continues today!

Do What You Have To!

16/10/2020

'This pandemic is really getting me down, so I'm doing what I can to relieve the stress. Netflix has become my next best friend; anything that takes me to a better place, is on my list of things to watch. For the fourth time, I am working my way through 'Benidorm.' Taken back in Spain I'm enjoying the most enlightening years of my life. When all this is over I'll be the first one on the plane and the last one back.... Do what you have to, keeping the dream alive, the memories vibrant and the stories will survive!'

Final Day

6/6/2020

Remember, when our time on Earth is done, when we experience our final moments, as we gently close our eyes and the light slowly fades to dark, we won't remember the bad times.

Whether surrounded by family and friends, or alone with our final thoughts, the outcome is the same for all of us. Our eyes will close, the darkness will descend and suddenly a lifetime of memories, laughter, faces and joy will flow back like the river of blood that pulsed through our veins!

Don't dwell on the worst that life has thrown your way. On this, your final day, it doesn't matter any more, it never did. Just remember the love you had, the person you held close, the warmth they gave and the memories, you both made together

Darren Vranjes - 9 October 2015

When The Sun Shines....

15/2/2019

I was greeted the morning by warm sunshine beating on my bedroom window. "When the sun shines down, my heart sings too!" It's been a while since I felt this good. The brightness of the day, so common when I lived in Spain, almost taken for granted on the Costa Blanca, makes one feel alive, positive, full of energy and looking forward to the day ahead. Despite the chill in the air, today is 'my' beginning of Spring!

Sigh of Relief!

4/1/2019

It's over, finally bloody over! All of us can breathe a sigh of relief and say goodbye to Christmas. The atmosphere at work today, was decidedly downbeat, as customers contemplated the start of 2019. After all the expense, hype and build up to the big day, it's time to start paying the bills, The sudden realisation that the festivities are at an end for another year can be too much to stomach for some. Britain celebrates the birth of Christ like no other Country I know, so it's only natural to feel deflated and fed up, as the season comes to an end. Next year will bring more of the same, but I wouldn't change it for the World; it's good to be home!

Tapas!

23/11/2018

You know you are back in Blighty, when you are served English tapas with your pint!

Click on poster above to email!

Making Time!

6/11/2018

I made some time for family last night, a chat long overdue. Getting stuff off my mind, another point of view.

Testing times call for guidance, from those who are cordial, those whose advice matters, those who are amiable!

My clan are important especially today, as indisposition becomes the focus, beguiling dismay.

Click above to email!

Testing Times!

30/10/2018

Testing times bring people together, shared grief under difficult circumstances. Events shape our World everyday, many we have no control over, they shake us to the core. Opening the door of forgiveness and acceptance we move forwards with hesitation, carrying wounds less raw!

Forgetting The Past!

19/10/2018

Making new friends in the place of my birth, back home, after a lifetime away. Rebuilding a life so long resisted, putting down roots, extending my stay. All part of belonging and accepting the present, making adjustments, reversing resentment!