Year In Review - Writing!

In this new section of my blog, I want to talk about the events and occasions that together made 2017 the memorable year it was, directing me to where I am today. 2017 has been a year of ups and downs, as has often been the case in my life, especially in recent times. Without the support of readers of 'Spanish Views', this year would have been immeasurably harder. Thank you to everyone who played their part in making this blog the success it is, please enjoy reading this second chapter of my 'Year In Review!'

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I have had a busy year this year, continuing to write as enthusiastically as I did when I first came to Spain. Writing is my passion, it’s what I enjoy doing most and it’s something I dedicate a lot of time to; with good reason, I have an awful lot to say! In 2017 I have managed to concentrate on my fervency far more, than I have done in previous years. The success of my blog ‘Spanish Views,’ has encouraged me to write everyday, as I believe a blogger should do; documenting my life, living in Spain. I have of course updated and added new sections to to this blog, including an interview category, speaking with personalities, who have had an influence on my life; an eclectic bunch, who’s impact, support, guidance and direction, have made me the person I am today. The blog itself has enjoyed sustained success in 2017, with thousands of readers continuing to enjoy my daily entries. I am humbled by everyone who continues to take an interest in ‘Spanish Views,’ the comments I receive, emails and feedback from people in the street. I hope to build on the success of 2017, making 2018 even better; changing, adapting and creating a web page and blog of continued substance and consistency, reaching out for new and informed readers, whilst recognising the important role my current readership perform!

My column ‘Chatter,’ in the Gran Alacant Advertiser is in its sixteenth month of publication, offering a personal perspective on current affairs and Expat life in Spain. I am delighted by the positive response from residents in this part of the Costa Blanca and further afield. My convictions are not always in keeping with those who live and holiday here, but they do spark debate and interest in subjects that are important to all of us; which is what writing is all about; for that I am grateful. I am often approached by people, who want to discuss an article I have written, suggesting material for future columns or just asking me to elaborate on a topic I may have covered recently. This is the aspect of my work, that I enjoy most. In 2017 I have met or been introduced to more people through my writing than ever before and am able to draw on their experiences and advice as well as my own thoughts and impressions. It has also been fantastic to write about other issues in the ‘GA Advertiser,’ in a new section called ‘Local Legends;’ interviewing local people of merit, nominated by those who take an interest in the work the Advertiser does.
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Finally after publishing my first blog ‘Bipolarcoaster,’ in a series of monthly books, currently selling online at Amazon, I am just about finding time to continue writing a book about my life; a project that has been ongoing for a number of years, researching my family tree and writing for a number of publications both here and in the UK. All of this penmanship on top of my work at ‘LoungeD’ in Plaza Mayor and campaigning against bullying in the work place; a packed agenda that makes for a busy life. I don’t stand still these days, but am enjoying the new challenges and opportunities that my life in Spain has given me. Not everything runs smoothly all the time, but that’s what keeps me on my toes; putting pen to paper, just adds to the excitement of daily life, surviving as an Expat in Southern Spain; never a dull moment, always looking forwards, documenting demanding and testing moments and recording my life living in Gran Alacant!

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