Bits and Bats

August is the most boring month of the year here. Many business's either close completely or work mornings only as it's far too hot to work for a whole day. Schools have been closed since the end of June.

Our main moan is that Bar Antonio has closed for five weeks! It's good for the lads, Luis, Mauro, Jose and Pedro as they work for eleven months of the year with just Sunday's off but we do miss it. We've now set up 'base camp' at Bar Esmeralda's as it's near to the shops and within easy reach of home.

The owner of our apartment called by last night with two huge pots of paint. He's asked Brian to decorate next door but has brought enough to cover the Forth Bridge! I only hope he isn't expecting my house being done in that awful colour! Just as we thought we were safe he came back and asked Brian to repair Annie's roller shutter. She'd also been in the dark for a couple of days. He is so funny.

Last but not least is the Bowling Alley. Terry and Helen dropped by before they went back to England to collect their stuff and ours but it seems that we have to come up with ninety euros before we can claim our own belongings. I have phoned but no-one will explain the reason and it's a little harsh as we've spent years playing there. Such a bitter end to an era.