Visit From Home!

For the first time, in a long time, I haven't blogged for twenty four hours, I left that pleasure, to my Scottish friend Rab and his thought for the day. I have been busy myself; it was Dia De Los Reyes (Three Kings Day) yesterday, in Spain; traditionally the time, when Spanish Children are given their Christmas presents, in complete contrast to Britain's Christmas Day, on 25th December.

The Monte Mar Bowls Club, also had a fun day in Gran Alacant on Saturday; LoungeD was the venue for drinks and refreshments, during their breaks from the various activities, taking place at the bowling green opposite Plazor Mayor, where LoungeD is situated. It was a long day for me, arriving at work at 8.45 am and eventually getting home at 9.30pm. It was, however, lovely to see one of my favourite customers, David at LoungeD, with his son, who had returned briefly this new year. One of the most difficult aspects of life living in Gran Alacant, is the transient nature of those who come and go; David returns home today and I am looking forward to seeing him again in February. After work, a large bottle of Rioja was due and duly drunk. I had a slight hangover this morning but slept like a rock; the end of a successful day!

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On 5 January, Christopher, a close friend from Hythe in Southampton arrived for a visit. His brother Kiefer had stayed with us in the summer and we were more than happy to welcome Chris after two years. Chris has lived with us in the past, all of us having a close bond, formed over many years. He seems delighted to be here. The weather in the UK has been particularly bad and with most of the news travelling across the continent also downbeat, depressing and frustrating, Britain doesn't seem to be a great place to be at the moment. In fact, I have just been looking at the news from back home on the television, this gorgeous Sunday morning. The newscaster was talking about the winter Hospital crisis in the UK, bed closures and lack of investment in the British National Health Service. This is a regular occurrence at this time of year and one reason I am happy living in Spain. The NHS crisis highlights everything that is wrong with my old home and why Chris is eager to spend time away this winter. He isn't the only one; a lot of Brits, Expats and otherwise, choose to spend time on the Costa Blanca during the winter months; I'm sure Chris will enjoy the welcome change in temperature.

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With yesterday being 'Three Kings Day,' it was a Red Day or Bank Holiday here in Spain. Darrell and Chris drove into Elche, while I was at work, forgetting what day it was; everything was closed. As one resident told me: 'The Spanish are very militant about their holidays; nothing, absolutely NOTHING will be open.' After a drive back, they both spent the day in the square at Plaza Mayor, drinking cocktails at 'Rogers.' Still it was a great way to get Chris acquainted with Gran Alacant and meeting new people.

It is good to have Chris here; I know he does find it difficult at home sometimes, so he can use his stay as a much needed break, from the drudgery of life. Chris is also writing a book, so he can use his time to finish it, something he has been wanting to do for a while. Gran Alacant, is a great introduction to Spain; he may decide to go further afield and explore the glorious topography, this country is famous for; equally he made decide to return to the south coast of England!

I am happy to keep good links to the past and mine and Darrell's life in Southampton. Not everyone I knew back then are on my priority list of friends to remain contact with. I got an email the other day, from someone I knew back home; someone I wasn't entirely comfortable with. They wanted to come out and stay; probably to get a free holiday; needless to say I am not replying to the message. I am very choosy who I keep in contact with these days. My absence from those in Britain has fortunately allowed me to reassess situations, circumstances and people. Two years ago I had very clouded judgement about those who were supposed to be close, believing people to be friends when they weren't; moving away from these influences has shown me, who they really are.

Chris has just popped up to meet Natalee before she starts work, if he manages to find where she lives, which gives me time to cook dinner and get ready for my shift. Darrell is still in bed; he has work tonight and Mollie and Wildling are in hiding, not happy with our new guest. It is another glorious day today; this winter really has been warmer than usual, perfect for Chris to have a wonder around Gran Alacant, getting to know the place. Tomorrow is another Red Day in Spain, even more time to chill and discover, just what this place has to offer!

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