Where does time go.....!!

Unbelievably, we have now lived in this beautiful part of Andalucia for three years and nearly every day we reflect on how lucky we are to have had the opportunity to settle here.

We sometimes still think of our journey here on the good ship Pont Aven, looking back from the stern at the coast of England disappearing behind us, leaving all that was familiar behind. However, we were also looking ahead with both excitement and trepidation to a new life in a totally different place, hoping that it would all work out.

And do we have any regrets?. No, not one. We have enjoyed the culture, music, cuisine, scenery but most of all the friendship, warmth and generosity of the wonderful people here. We have made many new friends and continue to do so. Through this blog, we have met and made contact with people from all over the world, quite a few of whom are "Olvereños por el Mundo", people from Olvera currently living and working away from home. It's a particular pleasure to be able in a small way to offer a link to their pueblo, friends and family.

We still continue to try and integrate into our community by learning "Andaluz", not spanish, and by attending and supporting local events. My language skills still fall way short of the standard that should be expected after three years but Anne strides forward in leaps and bounds, spouting forth at every opportunity to the delight of our neighbours and spanish friends. However, we continue to progress and strive to move forward.

The only sad aspect in the last year was the loss of our dear old dog Peppie last August. She did so well to make the journey and adapt to life here only to eventually succumb to old age at the age of fourteen. We still miss her dearly of course but the pain has been eased by our new "pretend Podenco" dog Calcetines who now accompanies us on our adventures and continued exploration of this beautiful area in which we live.

So, all in all, life is still good. We have our health, although you wouldn't think so if anyone see's me huffing and puffing up the steep streets of Olvera, but hopefully we can continue in the months ahead to show you more of Olvera and its lovely people on the blog.

Please continue to post comments and send us emails as we love to hear from all who kindly take the time to look in.

Best wishes, Alan and Anne