It was yet another 'No Wives Club' Birthday yesterday. There has been so many celebrations this month, that I have lost count. Paul was celebrating reaching the grand old age of 60. 

Let me first say a little bit about my friend Paul, without making it sound like an obituary, after all 60 is the new 40, so I am told. Paul is one of those decent people, you come across rarely. He has been a great source of strength for myself and Darrell, during our time in Spain; we both appreciate all he has done for us. Nothing is too much for Paul, he will always go out of his way to help others if he can. The one word I would use to describe him, is 'gentleman!' Paul does love to swear, but has this knack of doing it in such a way, that you just couldn't take offence. A loving father, doting husband and special friend; this is Paul, it's why we love him!

Paul came to Spain to relax, but has ended up taking on a business in Gran Alacant. In truth Paul will never relax, preferring to keep busy, with his wife Michele. I can't thank both of them enough, for being two genuine, generous and gregarious individuals, who are always a pleasure to be around.

A very Happy Birthday to you Mr Stokes, I hope you enjoyed your evening yesterday, as we did; the buffet provided by Zest was wonderful, the company exceptional; here's to many more Birthdays to come!

Yet another May Birthday to celebrate, among the 'No Wives Club!' Katie  celebrated her 27th Birthday, arranging a party at her home in Gran Alacant. It was a fabulous evening, as her husband Andy hosted a BBQ on the solarium; each of us bringing something to the gathering. Many congratulations, for your Birthday on Saturday Katie; thank you for your hospitality, as ever!

So yesterday I reached the grand old age, of 46, not something I was looking forward to. To be honest. Since I reached the age of 40, I haven't really celebrated Birthdays. I don't see the point of celebrating, getting a year closer to death.  That sounds morbid doesn't it; it's not meant to, just a fact of life!

My friends here in Gran Alacant, went out of their way, to make sure, I enjoyed my day; I really couldn't ask for a better group of people, to be a part of my life. With Darrell, away in the UK, they have been their for me, every step of the way, yesterday was no exception.

After having pre dinner drinks at Zest, in Sierra Mar, we headed to my favourite Spanish restaurant, La Bodequite de Pascual y Agus in Gran Alacant, for some of their fantastic Paella; Paul and Michele had arranged a Birthday cake and champagne, which was an absolute treat and delight. I haven't had a Birthday cake in many years. Sitting, eating, drinking wine on a warm spring evening, was just the tonic I needed, to feel more positive, than I have for a long time. A fantastic Birthday, spent with some special friends!

Thank you to everyone who sent me Birthday messages; I am always grateful, for your thoughts and good wishes! 

Click on the photo above, to take you to the La Bodeguita de Pascal y Agus, facebook page!

It was a gorgeous day, for the 'No Wives Club' party at Dawns on Friday. All of us made food for the day; Paul and Michele, made the starter, Prawn Piri; Myself and Darrell made the main, Lasagne; Dawn and Pete had the BBQ going, for chicken and potatoes and Katie, made dessert, Chocolate Pots with strawberries. 

We played 'Black Jack' on Pete's, well stocked bar; a game, I've never played before and one I actually enjoyed. Plenty of chatting in the spring Spanish sun, copious amounts of alcohol, a game of darts, swimming in the pool, talking until the early hours of the morning.

This is what Spanish life is all about. This was a party about husbands leaving and returning and a last hoorah before the start of the busy summer season  begins.  The day was perfect, relaxing and a good time was had by all.

Thanks to Dawn and Pete, for their hospitlity!

It was an early start, for me at least, this morning; we went with Dawn, to Carrefour, in Santa Pola; first, we stopped at a local  merchant, so Dawn could get some locally produced red wine; at 1,40€ a litre, you can't go wrong. We were getting supplies for the 'No Wives Club' party tomorrow. Once again, it is all change here in Spain. Andy has already left, Gran Alacant, returning to the UK today. Pete, Dawns husband, flies in from Africa today and Darrell leaves on Tuesday.

With the summer season on the horizon, our new bar opening soon and people, once again on the move, Dawn suggested, it was time, to sit and relax at her villa and have a get together.  The weather is gorgeous at the moment, so it is a perfect opportunity, for us all to spend time in each others company, before everyone departs, on  their separate ways.

Dawn and myself are making the main meal; I am preparing a lasagne today; Paul and Michele are making the starter and Katie is dealing with desert.  With Dawn also providing the alcohol, it's all systems go, for a party, by the pool, in the sun tomorrow afternoon!
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