Editor’s Slice
Year w e yN Happ you all o Hopefullyt you’re all rested after the festivities of Christmas and New Year. We had a quiet
family time, which I do enjoy but it was strange to not be assembling toys, finding batteries and shouting “Keep the noise down!” to the girls! The whole day seemed to be filled with food and facebooking from the kids. It seems sad in a way that Christmas loses its meaning − not just religiously but from the joys of having little children around with the happiness they bring. Instead it’s snoring teenagers, swiping of smart phones, downloading of tunes and giving gifts of alcohol to your grown offspring instead of the latest Barbie doll. I guess if you can’t beat them, join them − so I have spent many a minute over Christmas plugged into my iPod listening to books and music. I think I am getting addicted to this habit − or maybe it is just because I live in an all-female environment! So…now it’s back to business. Thank you for all your kind comments from the last few issues – the main one which always pleases us is the fact that you find The Andalucían a ‘good read.’ One of my New Year resolutions is to continue to bring you articles of interest, so we are always delighted to hear from you. If you have an article or short story, or news from a group or charity, please don’t hesitate to send it to me. Email it to info@theandalucian.com For our advertisers, the fact that people are clearly enjoying reading The Andalucían means that the advertisements are being widely seen, and because we appeal to different members of the family, the magazine is around longer for reference. I hope 2013 proves to be a good year ahead for all of you – we will certainly be doing our best to make sure it’s a bumper one for your favourite magazine!
Mike
The Andalucían X5092417D Calle Juanito Romero s/n Campillos 29320, Malaga Contact us Telephone: +34 952 723075 Mobile: +34 627 683380 info@theandalucian.com www.theandalucian.com Owner: Claire Marriott Editor: Mike Marriott Next deadline: 22 January
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Things to Do
Beating the January Blues As the Christmas and New Year festivities draw to a close, the tree lights get boxed up and guests return home, many people sink into a melancholy mood as January unfolds. Bills may be piling up, leaving you down, but there are some frugal ways that you can beat this January colour scheme and even enjoy the month! First, get all your Christmas photos organised. With digital cameras, phones and tablets there are bound to be lots to choose from. Reminiscing about all the fun times you had over the holidays can help smooth over the sense of loss when everyone scatters back across the miles to their homes, especially if you’ve had loved ones staying whom you may not see for a while. Print off the very best ones and put them up where you will see them every day. Places such as the refrigerator or by the bed are great locations to put these pictures of your nearest and dearest. Don’t forget to share the party snaps electronically so that others can enjoy them and share the memories too. This will help you stay in touch with those relatives who live far away. Fond recollections are a nice way to help ease the transition to the possible dark days of January.
A third great way to get out of a low is to think about others – especially the less fortunate. With all the hype of Christmas, we often forget that others may not have had such a wonderful time; many will have spent the season alone, ill or missing a loved one. We seem to be bombarded with charity boxes, appeals and sponsorship forms throughout the year but you can help others − and yourself − by volunteering to help an organisation. There are many good causes here and worldwide who are also interested in an extra pair of hands – not everything has to do with a financial donation. There are many different places where you can volunteer, and that will help you get your thoughts off yourself and onto what a difference you can make in the lives of others. Take the time to find a good volunteer job and it will reward you all year long.
Future planning is the second way to beat the January blues. When we look to the future with hope and excitement, staying blue becomes very difficult indeed. Take the time to research a trip and find those great deals. Imagining yourself in exciting new places is easier than ever because the internet has many tourist sites and photos of exotic places. Check the flights back to UK if you are missing family and see if you can’t grab a bargain for a trip back in the coming months.
A fourth frugal way to beat the New Year doldrums is to stay in touch with family and friends. Make a point to plan get-togethers more frequently than usual, even if it is just popping round to a friend’s house for a coffee and a chat. A pot luck dinner and game night is an easy, affordable way to stay in touch with others and create your own merriment. Plan an evening with a few friends − all take one course each to the venue – and you will be surprised how much this gathering can lift your spirits. Socialising is a key
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Things to Do
element to our happiness, and particularly so during the colder months when it is tempting to socialise less. We’ve all done it – “It’s too cold to go out,” “It’s too dark in the evenings and I’m feeling a bit under the weather…” – if you are feeling this way, this is when you should really do more socialising. You'll find it is a fantastic way to brush off the blues. Find an excuse to do things instead of an excuse not to!
Finally, a wonderful way to lift you out of despondency is to improve your surroundings. Many people are trying to sell their property for a multitude of reasons but until the buyer comes along, take advantage of what a good month January is for a good − albeit slightly early − spring clean. Organising your clutter is just the beginning and as luck would have it, most stores have sales on right now where you can pick up storage containers to help you get in order. This makes the timing perfect for your budget! Look around your home for minor repairs that need to be done and finish those old home improvement projects, because these things will also go a long way to making you feel happier in your home and will certainly help when those prospective buyers walk through the door. And for a no-cost way to improve your surroundings and lift your spirits, try simply rearranging your furniture. A pro-active approach to keeping the winter demons at bay will help you get a spring in your step before the season arrives.
5
Health & Beauty
When chicken skin is more KP than KFC
Do you have chicken skin? Chances are you do. Do you have red bumpy skin on your thighs, calves, upper arms or even your bottom? Is it often accompanied by dry skin – if you are nodding in agreement, than you have keratosis pilaris. Don’t worry, you are not alone - half the population suffers from this inherited condition. Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a very common skin condition often referred to as "chicken skin" due to its appearance. Worldwide, it affects an estimated 40 to 50 per cent of the adult population and approximately 50 to 80 per cent of all adolescents. Cases of KP vary in degree and can range from minimal to severe. 'Keratosis' means that too much keratin is being produced – this excess leads to a tough outer layer of skin: 'pilaris' comes from the Latin word for hair (pilus). In keratosis pilaris, many small (one to two mm in diameter) rough plugs can be seen blocking the hair follicles on the upper and outer parts of the arms and thighs which give an often-embarrassing goosebump effect. Some redness may appear around the small spiky bumps. If a plug is pulled off, a fine coiled-up hair may be found inside it. This is often misdiagnosed as an ingrown hair — however they are not the same condition. Keratosis pilaris only appears when extra keratin accumulates in the hair follicles, not when a hair simply grows inwards or sideways. Most people don’t even realise they have KP, let alone that it is a medical condition. Often resembling
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a rash of red bumps, it is still mainly characterised by the appearance of small, rough bumps on the skin. Primarily, it appears on the back and outer sides of the upper arms, but can also occur on thighs and buttocks or any body part except palms or soles. These raised bumps are often confused with acne or purely a seasonal change in the skin – seasons can play a part, but KP is not acne. If you have KP, you only have your parents to thank. Keratosis pilaris is an inherited skin condition, running strongly in many families, sometimes with a generally dry skin (ichthyosis). The way it is inherited varies from family to family, but it often fits into an 'autosomal dominant' pattern; this means that there will be a one in two chance that each child of an affected parent will inherit the condition. Usually visible in childhood, and most obvious during adolescence, symptoms can clear throughout adulthood. It tends to be better in the summer than in the winter, or other times of low humidity when the skin dries out. Some people find their keratosis pilaris ugly. The skin feels rough or spiky as though it has permanent spots. Occasionally, the condition is itchy and in severe cases, it can lead to eczema. But don’t worry − despite both men and women feeling that their chicken skin appearance is unsightly or an embarrassment, it is completely harmless and not infectious.
Health & Beauty Unfortunately, there is no complete cure, but treatments are available. Results vary and can often be disappointing. Yet with persistence, most people will see satisfactory improvement as a result of changes to their regimes. Whatever treatment you try or get prescribed, it is recommended that it is not discontinued because the buildup of keratin (the hard protein in the skin, nails, and hair) will continue to re-form around the hair follicles. General tips • Only use mild soaps or gentle body washes • Apply moisturisers frequently — for better absorption, apply to the skin while it’s still moist after showering • Take tepid showers rather than hot baths • Light exfoliation with an abrasive pad may sometimes be of help, however scrubbing the areas of KP is not recommended, and can worsen the condition • Keeping areas of KP exfoliated with a salicylic acid or AHA-based lotion works best — but use a body moisturiser containing these ingredients too, for example brands such as Neutrogena, Eucrein etc. • Do not pick or scratch the bumps – this will only make it worse
It’s also important to prevent excess skin dryness by using mild cleansers rather than strongly fragranced bath or shower gels. Popping a few drops of bath oil in the tub can be very effective. If these measures don’t work, your doctor or a dermatologist may prescribe a topical steroid or special preparation containing salicylic acid or urea. Thereafter, continued use of an alpha hydroxyl moisturiser should keep the problem under control. You can also talk to your doctor about vitamin supplements and the best moisturising treatment for your skin. So before you want to bare those legs and arms in the lead-up to the heady heights of the Spanish sun again this year, grab your body brushes and creams and banish those chicken skin goosebumps forever!
An easy couple of steps added to your daily routine have proven to be the best treatment for the condition: every morning and evening, lightly use a body brush (natural fibres are best) on the affected areas. Follow this with applying a good body lotion ideally with AHAs. You do have to persist, but after just two weeks, results will be seen – the longer you persist, the less dramatic the goosebump appearance will be. However, do remember there is no cure for KP, but just by adding these two elements to your daily routine, you should see improvements.
After a few months, you may find that doing this every few days is more suitable to keep your chicken skin at bay. You may need to alter your body lotion to a richer type during the winter/low humidity months. Proper care can control the problem. Dermatologists recommend chemical exfoliants which are found in alpha hydroxyl moisturisers such as many intensive repair creams, as this type of treatment is very effective because it prevents hair follicles from clogging. 7
Interesting Facts
The Reclamation of Words I have been using words for a very long time; I owe so much to them. They helped me proclaim my devotion to my wife nine years ago this very day; they enabled me to articulate my feelings in poetry and songs eloquently and they were really useful when writing my somewhat tart − yet amusing and satisfying − letter of resignation after 11 intolerable years at a certain teaching establishment. I therefore feel compelled to stand up for the verbs, pronouns, nouns, adjectives and onomatopoeias, invectives and more, that have served me so well. For all the good they do for us we, the word-users, mistreat words through ignorance, indifference and misinterpretation. They have had their semantics manipulated and coerced to the point where their power of communication has waned, and so I write now in an attempt to right certain wrongs. I begin with ‘love'. The word ‘love’ originally had a profound meaning; an expression of the utmost devotion and passion felt for a partner or deity. The Bible tells us to "love thy neighbour", a metaphor for universal peace which has survived hundreds of wars, thousands of injustices and pulled us through millions of instances of man’s inhumanity to man. And yet it has been hijacked by advertising executives − well-meaning but somewhat lost little men in drab suits − to convince us that we will love the new line of solar powered nightlights. How can they expect me to feel the same way about a carpet cleaner as I do about my children? Should I declare my undying devotion to the latest digital shoehorn?
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Love is a word that I found so hard to use for so many years; a word that my father found so hard to say to me, as his father had before him. When I did hear the word, I felt my heart palpitate. I fought to catch my breath and I felt a magic inside which touched my core. Today, so many of us misuse this little word through the ease and eagerness with which we say it. We've all done it: "I love spinach ricotta," or perhaps "I love the way you've done your hair." So I make a pledge to use this tiny, but magical, word more appropriately in future. Another misused word is the over-used ‘awesome' Anyone who has flown over the Atlas mountains, or stood at Niagara Falls, or seen a truly magnificent thunderstorm will really understand the true purpose of the word. It recognises something which goes beyond human comprehension; something of such magnitude of scale, beauty or majesty. However, one night in the mid-to-late 80s, a Californian dropout called Brad "The Dude" Zimmerman crept into the dictionary and ruthlessly and forcefully kidnapped the word ‘awesome' so that he might adequately describe an over-distorted heavy metal guitar solo. Now Brad has an ‘awesome’ surfboard, an ‘awesome’ tattoo and an ‘awesome’ ‘57 Chevy − none of which strictly qualify the use of the word ‘awesome'.
Interesting Facts
I also have suspicions that Mr Zimmerman was also responsible for the abduction of the word ‘like!' Since the early 90s, the word has been a substitute for the word ‘said' (a perfectly innocent little word, and certainly not deserving of such ill-treatment) as used by teenagers of low-academic persuasion (like I was). You may have heard this in impolite adolescent society. For example: "I was, like, ‘Oh my God', and he was, like, ‘no way', and I was, like, ‘when, then?', and he was, like, ‘maybe now?' And I was, like, ‘maybe not…maybe laters'." This translates as: "I said, ‘Oh my God', and he said, ‘no way,' and I asked ‘when then?’ He replied ‘maybe now?’ And I replied, ‘maybe not… maybe later.'” ‘News' has been replaced by ‘gossip,' while ‘art' is used to describe a back-heel kick of a ball by an overpaid footballer with hairy knuckles and a barely opposable thumb – I wonder what Dali or Picasso might have thought of such a use of the term. I am not opposed to the development of the English language − far from it. Indeed, there are some words which, in truth, should be sacked, particularly in the world of sex and bodily functions. For example ‘flatulence' is an awful word. It's simply not as funny as ‘trump’ or many others used.
In fact, one of the most beautiful people I have ever seen − beyond my family − was a middle-aged greying nurse who held my mother's hand tightly and with such unconditional love, sympathy and kindness after my mother's massive stroke. This was not the false workmanship of a professional carer who had simply learned the handbook of dealing with frightened patients, or practised sympathetic lines and catchphrases as though she were little more than a bit-part player in a bad soap opera. Her words and actions could not be compared to the ‘have a nice day…. now go screw yourself' culture which pervades much of our society. This was a masterly exhibition of what it is to be really human; to really feel another's pain. The kindness was so much more attractive than the latest celebrity’s big-plasticboob job, or yet another well-known test-tube-pulled face. This was really ‘beautiful.’ So go forth all ye stolen words and reclaim your rightful place in the wonder that is the English language.
I save my final request for the word ‘beautiful'. For me, and no doubt millions of others, this word can only be used in relation to such outstanding exquisiteness and splendour that other adjectives simply pale into significance. Yet it is now applied to stick-thin models who have non-biodegradable breasts, collagen eyelids and, in later years, skin pulled so tightly from the cheekbones that the excess wrinkles have to be clipped with a clothes peg at the back of the head and then covered by a wig that looks as though something has crawled up her back and died. She does this because she thinks it will make her ‘beautiful'. In reality, she looks like an expressionless alien who is stuck in a fizzy drink bottle. You see, we think that beauty is only physical when this is simply not true. For example, I have the body of a Titan and the rugged good looks of an all-action film hero, when in truth I am actually a nerd (a great word). 9
Lifestyle
Make your Promises Green It has been said that a New Year's resolution is something which goes in one year and out of the other but joking aside, it doesn’t have to be. You may feel that promises are made to be broken; we all know how hard it is to keep your New Year resolutions — by February, it’s back to normal for most of us. If your resolutions in the past have been mainly to do with your own well-being, health, wealth and happiness, maybe it is time to try a new type – a green resolution. 1. Try one new organic food It's healthy for you and for the environment, so why not try just one additional organic food this year? More and more types of food − from popcorn and kiwis to crisps and avocados − are available as organic. Granted, some are hard to find in your local village shop here in Andalucía, but why not try growing your own? Even if it is just a strawberry pot for the months ahead!
2. Line dry your sheets and towels Doing your laundry the green way could hardly be easier here in the sun — simply hang a clothes line across your terrace or garden and drape your just-washed sheets and towels on it. If that's not an option, try drying smaller items inside on a drying rack. The small effort will also save you money, since dryers consume between five and 10 percent of home energy. 3. Try public transportation one day a month For folks used to commuting in their own car, it can be tough to give up the convenience it provides. Ease the transition by making a New Year resolution to use public transportation just one day a month. Pick a day when you don't have a bunch of errands to run, and can afford to get home a little later than usual. Remember to pack a book or magazine, and enjoy the ride! The train and bus services here in Spain are fantastic value and of a very high standard, so check your local stations for times and prices – you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Don’t forget to claim your discounts too, if you have a Spanish pensioner’s card! 4. Buy less rubbish This one is easiest of all, since it requires you to do absolutely nothing. Next time you're tempted to shop for some new bit of tat, or drive all over town looking for a new widget you probably don’t need, just don't — instead, just make do with the things you already have. This New Year's resolution will save both time and money, and you'll have less junk to throw away later. 5. Change one light bulb Better to change one light bulb than to curse the electric bill. Newer energy-saving lights, such as LED and compact fluorescent lights (CFLs), save tremendous amounts of energy. Try finding just one place where an LED light will work well – for example a lamp which you might leave on for hours − and make the switch.
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Lifestyle 6. Get one re-usable bag The entire world loves a shopper who brings his or her own bags into a store. Doing so can save you money in two ways — some shops offer a small discount for using your own bag, and most outlets are now charging for bags. And with many retailers offering smart, stylish re-usable bags, you might want to start carrying one even when you're not shopping; they make great beach bags. 7. New Year's recycling Most of us try to recycle at home, but how many people really recycle at the office, or when they're out shopping? If your workplace doesn't have a recycling programme, make a New Year's resolution to at least try to start one. And if you've received clothes for Christmas, why not look out for the clothing banks in the village or take your old clothes to a charity shop for someone else to make use of? You’ll feel better for the clear-out. Most towns have a recycling programme with the green and yellow bins, but if you are not local to one, take your items for recycling to your local tips instead.
We have all been guilty of not doing our bit, not recycling as a religion, driving a big fat gas-guzzler and trying to keep the house at 85° all winter with the air-con churning away — but these little green changes can do so much for all of us. Granted, we may not be here in years to come to see the changes our actions make, but does that make it right that we don’t try?
So, before you make the usual weight-loss exercisemore promises, make an easy New Year's resolution. Take a deep breath and relax: do something more meaningful for the sake of others. Go on, buy a bagfor-life, fill it with those Christmas wine bottles and walk to the nearest recycling bin – you never know, you may lose some of those calories you wanted to shed anyway!
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Short Story
A New Year with Sweet Memories By Ella Durham
When I was a kid growing up in the late 60s, I lived here in this cobble-stone street, full of terraced cottages. At one end of the street stood a palace of pure delight: Mr Scowcroft’s sweet shop, filled with a vast array of delicious things. It was no ordinary shop, in my view. It was a magical place - drawing all the local children into its fascinating parlour like a spider’s web draws a fly, and tempting their senses with a myriad of sugary delicacies. It was a place where mothers (and fathers too, sometimes) regularly gathered to gossip and discuss the news of the day while their little ones buzzed round the floor seeking their tooth-rotting fix. It was a welcoming place too, with a sense of community and concern for the neighbour, and its life was steered gently by its owner’s kind hand. I never forgot it. Sadly, there are few such shops left trading these days. The personal touch isn’t profitable enough anymore, they say. Maggie T’s new world entrepreneurs and salespeople all want to be upwardly mobile now, adopting a push and grab philosophy rather than the old-fashioned type of personal service and care. Besides, supermarkets and petrol stations seem to have captured the market for the sale of all confectionery. Pity, say I! What magic is there in a petrol station mini-mart where the aromas of candy, mint and chocolate are washed away with the tang of plastic gasoline bottles and windscreen wiper wash and no-one cares at all? But I digress! Now, I’m standing in front of the old sweetshop once more, with its paint peeling off the door and its windows boarded up. It just needs someone to care about it. Shame really.
I remember standing inside this place every Saturday morning, tightly clutching my sixpence pocket money and gazing in awe at the huge jars filled with glorious treats. They stood tall upon the shelves like guardsmen, proudly displaying their delicious goodies. There was so much to choose from in those days: creamy toffees which pulled out your teeth fillings, barley sugar twists, aniseed balls, cubes of Turkish Delight, rice-paper covered flying saucers filled with sherbet, humbugs, ‘Black Jacks’ and ‘Fruit Salad’ chews wrapped in pink and green paper which stuck to your fingers as you hurried to tear the wrapping off. There was liquorice root and, best of all, fruit lollies called ‘Traffic Lights’ which changed colour from red, through yellow to green as you sucked them. Not to mention the huge range of ice-creams and frozen juice ices just waiting to cool you on a hot day. I loved them all. Behind the counter would stand Mr Scowcroft − a funny yet dear little man; short, stocky with a great mop of ginger hair and spectacles which fell down onto the tip of his nose. And he always seemed to be smiling − never angry or quick tempered. I heard mother call him ‘charming’ once. At that age, I thought him to be the kindest man I knew. “Good morning,” he would say politely with a slight bow, when he saw me standing there while my mother observed things. “I see you have your pocket money, my young sir! So, what would you like to try today?” His smile was like summer sunshine and he never, ever took your custom for granted. Each child was always treated with the greatest respect although, looking back, it was probably their accompanying mothers to whom he was so mannerly, seeing as they were the ones with the fat purses. He gave me a warm feeling with his kind eyes and generous heart, and everyone in the neighbourhood loved him. “Hmmm, let me see,” I would reply, putting a finger to my lips as I pondered my choice. Mr Scowcroft didn’t seem to mind waiting for my answer. Smiling, his eyes would crinkle at the corners as he put his hands in his white coat pockets, patiently waiting for the reply which would mean some of my sixpence tinkling into his wooden cash register.
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Short Story
“Please may I have a quarter of those?” I asked once, pointing to the tallest sweet jar on the top shelf. Mr Scowcroft sighed but then nodded and set about clambering up his stepladder to reach the enormous mint imperial jar. I watched in excited anticipation as the jar was lowered and the snowy white balls tumbled from it into the old-fashioned weighing scales which Mr Scowcroft always used on such an occasion. I handed over my sixpence eagerly. Mr Scowcroft laughed and said, “There you are, my dear boy. Now, don’t go eating them all at once or all your teeth will fall out!” Terrified at the prospect, I made those mint imperials last all week! He was such a lovely man and dedicated to making a small child’s eyes open wide in delight at the sight of a sherbet fountain. Such good memories! It’s been some time since I was here in this street. People often move away from their home town when they grow up and I was no different. My years in the Armed Forces took me many places and taught me many things − the most important of which is, ‘Look out for each other and treasure your family’. That’s why I’m here now. My young daughter, Rebecca, is almost six now − just about the same age as me when I first began to spend my pocket money in this sweet shop. She hasn’t seen very much of her daddy while he’s been away serving in the Falklands, but now she clings to my hand, as if she knows that I’m glad to be back and this time, I will not be leaving her behind. This is a brand new year – 1983 − and a new start for me and my family; a new job and a new way of life – and all outside of the Army. This time I’m home to stay − home to my roots, you could say. It’s where I want to be and doing what I promised myself I would do after I survived the battle of Goose Green. So here I am, a grown man with a young family of his own, back in the street where he grew up, standing outside the sweetshop which gave him such fond memories and reminiscing about an old man who made him very happy when he was a kid. I gaze up at the outside of the shop front. I feel sad when I see it is all closed up and its name sign, ‘Mr Scowcroft’s Sweet Shop’ has been removed. Mr Scowcroft is gone now and his magical sweet emporium stands empty. The end of an era? Perhaps, but then again time rolls on and all things must change. Well, that’s what most people say, isn’t it? I can’t say that I always agree. Rebecca pulls on my hand.
“Then where are all the sweets and ice-creams? And why is it closed?” she continues. I am just about to reply when a delivery van draws up alongside us. Its driver jumps out and hurries towards us. “I’ve got a delivery of boxes of stuff and a new shop sign for this place here, mate. Any chance you know where the owner is?” he asks, as he nods in the direction of the closed shop. “What sort of ‘stuff’?” Rebecca pipes up. “Shush, Becks, don’t be so nosey,” I tell her, giving her hand a little squeeze. Then I turn to the driver. “A new sign, you say, for this place? Well, I would love to see what it looks like. I used to know the old shopkeeper and I spent a lot of my boyhood cash in this sweetshop. I don’t suppose I could have a sneaky look at it before you put it up, could I?” “Well… I don’t know ‘bout that,” replies the driver cautiously. “I’m supposed to just deliver it directly to the owner of this place. Seems someone else has decided to re-open it as a corner shop after all these years. Wish it was still a sweet shop, though. I have to get all my kids’ chocolate bars from the local petrol station mini-mart!” He looks at me sideways. Continued on page 14
“Is this the sweetshop you told me about, Daddy?” she asks. “Yes,” I reply, a small lump forming in my throat. 13
Short Story
“You’re not the new owner by any chance, are you?” “Certainly am! New Year and a new life here. I can’t wait to get started,” I reply with a grin. “Well in that case,” says the driver, “you’d better sign this.” He holds out a clipboard with a delivery note attached. I take his pen and sign my name with a flourish. He takes back the note and squints as he attempts to read the signature at the bottom of the paper. He shakes his head, obviously giving up on my writing. My mother always said I should have been a doctor. “I suppose you can have a look at the shop sign now. I’ll just unpack it inside the van. You can tell me what you think.” He heads back to the rear of his van and strips away the wrapping from a large wooden board. I stare at it, delighted. It’s just the job! I never thought I’d see this day. It’s been tough since I left the Army, especially as I was away when my parents died in the car crash, but somehow I know I’m doing the right thing for my family by coming here. “That’s great, just great,” I declare, pointing to the new shop sign.
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“So, where do you want this delivery putting Mr… er… Mr…er…” he struggled. “The name is Scowcroft,” I laughed. “Mr John Scowcroft − junior! And we’d like you to unload all the boxes of sweets inside the shop please, wouldn’t we, Rebecca?” Rebecca claps her hands and jumps up and down in joy. I just hope she loves mint imperials.
Spotlight
Not an end but a beginning
By Derek Lavender and Roger Hiscock
All the doom and gloom merchants have been having a great time. The end of our world or the beginning of the end was predicted for December 2012. As you are reading this, obviously the former never happened. But almost certainly, mankind must change or at some point, the second prediction may well come true. Love of one’s fellow man has largely been replaced by greed — many people now worship money as a God. In some countries, more than nine tenths of all the money is in the hands of a tiny percentage of mega-rich, and unbelievably that is still not enough for some of them. We must, in order to survive, start to change. Let us see this as a wake-up call. We must start to love our planet; at the very least, use of precious resources must slow down dramatically. The pollution of the air, sea and earth is already starting to cause chaos. We must change before it becomes totally irreversible. Try always to give a kindness. Show others that you care.
Our treatment of the planet is bad enough, but the way we treat all living things and our fellow man is totally going up the wall. Discover your own spirituality or if you are already spiritually aware, work on it − and no, this is nothing to do with churches! We all have within us a powerful force — a force for good and a force for healing. If you would like to learn how to develop this spiritual force within you, contact a local group. There is no cost and a very small commitment for your time. Please help to start a new beginning - phone Roger on 952 745053 or Derek on 958 108158 and we can tell you more.
Solutions on page 19 15
Roaming Andalucía
Alameda - a town steeped in history The small municipality of Alameda is the northernmost province of Malaga. Situated to the north-west of its largest neighbour, Antequera, it lies on a plain in which only a few small hills of the Sierra de la Camora break the horizontal landscape. Ideally located centrally between Antequera and the countryside of Cordoba and Seville, it is home to just over 5000 people - the natives are called Alamedanos or Lametanos. It takes its name from the stream Álamos, which crosses the municipality. To the south of the town, you can find the Ratosa lagoon, which although dry during most of the year, is protected for its wildlife and fauna by the Junta de Andalucia. This is a welcome break in the countryside from the numerous olive trees and cereal crops which Alameda produces.
The central fountain − Fuente de la Placeta − was built in the Plaza de España from delicate local stone at the time of King Carlos III. Until recent decades, it was still the main source of fresh water for the town, and the sizeable width of the fountain's base, built perhaps deliberately, made it impossible to fill a large pitcher without leaning over and falling into the fountain. Townsfolk developed a trick of putting the pitcher on the ground and filling it using a hollow cane reed.
Also in the plaza is a tombstone from 1994 which reads: "The first Republican council, established on June 27, 1931, ordered the bell of the clock,” and it has their names carved in relief on it. This plate, although unreadable today, was placed to commemorate their part in the unfortunate events of 1936. The nearby Plaza de la Constitution is a pleasant, tree-lined square with benches where many of the locals take their evening walk or paseo. It has a very welcoming feeling about it. The findings of human settlements are very old, and many date back to the Iberian era. Nevertheless, the most numerous traces of population come from the Roman era when the city of Astigi Vetus used to exist. The area was first settled in as a town by the Phoenicians, and is home to archaeological evidence of much earlier times of habitation, dating back to Paleolithic and Neolithic times, thought to be from 2000 – 2500BC. Vestiges of these settlements can be seen at the Necropolis Calcolitica just outside the town − a system of more than 20 inter-connected burial pits and ossuaries, some a metre wide.
The Romans made Alameda an important settlement throughout their time in Andalucía, and with the remains of a villa and baths and a wealth of artefacts having been discovered, it suggests there was a major trade and military base on and around today’s 16
Roaming Andalucía
Alameda during the first century BC. The remains of the baths are maintained in a 3000 square metre enclosure in Calle Enmedio, and have been dated to between the first and the third centuries AC. The site is now a preserved national monument.
established parties in Alameda is the Night of the Candelaria, celebrated on February 2. Especially important is the celebration of Holy Week, which begins on Palm Sunday when the first of the Easter processions take to the streets.
Little more is known about the history of Alameda from then until the 16th century. A small Visigoth treasure from the sixth century indicates that there was a settlement at that time in this location, and once the 16th century began, it became part of estate of the Marquis of Estepa.
On 14 and 15 May the locals celebrate San Isidro, patron of the town. The streets are brightly decorated with floral motifs and the first night ends with a lively popular festival. The next day, the pilgrimage takes place, and this is attended by numerous decorated floats.
Because the roads which connected Granada, Málaga and Seville crossed, the Marquis de Estepa decided to build a church in 1663, around which time the population was established. This baroque church (Iglesía de la Purísima Concepción), has seen many changes since its initial construction − the tower was a much later addition, along with the remarkable rococo altar piece at the head of the nave. Given the growing population, the addition of two new aisles, supported by eight massive pillars, was completed in 1779. The tomb of the famous bandit El Tempranillo can be seen in the church's interior patio. His death certificate is preserved in the parish archives.
August is the month when the fair takes place, with singing, dancing and good food playing a large role. You can see artists performing anything from modern music to the traditional Andalucían flamenco. Whether you visit for one of these celebrations or just to take a look at the bandit’s tomb, be sure to put Alameda on your map of places to see. Drop in at one of the local restaurants or bars − not only are the Alamedanos friendly people, but the local food is fantastic!
This legendary 19th century bandit, whose real name was José María Hinojosa Corbacho, was born nearby in Jauja and became one of the most famous outlaws in Andalucia. He was finally slain by an old rival near the village in 1833, and his tomb is one of the most visited attractions in Alameda.
In 1883, Alameda was incorporated into the newlycreated province of Málaga, under the control of Archidona. This was an unpopular and confusing decision in a village which was still under the orders of both the bishop of Estepa and the archbishop of Seville. The town was finally placed under the orders of the archbishop of Málaga as late as 1959. Despite being one of the smaller Andalucian towns, it is still big in celebrations. One of the longest17
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Ode to January
By Alicia Moss
'Twas the month after Christmas and all through the house, nothing would fit me − not even a blouse. The cookies I'd nibbled, the eggnog I'd taste at the holiday parties had gone to my waist. When I got on the scales there arose such a number! When I walked to the store − well less a walk than a lumber. I'd remember the marvellous meals I'd prepared; the gravies and sauces and beef nicely rared. The wine and the rum balls, the bread and the cheese, and the way I'd never said, 'No thank you, please.' As I dressed myself up in my husband's old shirt, and prepared once again to do battle with dirt, I said to myself, as I only can: 'You can't spend a winter disguised as a man!' So - away with the last of the sour cream dip, get rid of the fruit cake, every cracker and chip. 18
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Every last bit of food that I like must be banished, 'til all the additional ounces have vanished. I won't have a cookie - not even a lick. I'll want only to chew on a long celery stick. I won't have those biscuits, or slice of bread or pie, I'll munch on a carrot and quietly cry. I'm hungry, I'm lonesome, and life is a bore. But isn't that what January is for? Unable to giggle, life’s no longer a riot, so Happy New Year and to all − a good diet!
Alice’s Wonderland
What a Happy New Year
by Alice Marriott aged 14 & ¾
Hello and Happy New Year! I hope you had a good Christmas and New Year − I did! It was a little quieter than usual but I think that is what happens as you grow older. I didn’t get up until about nine o’clock, which I think Mum and Dad were quite grateful for as it used to be about five in the morning when Becky and I would jump on their bed to wake them up. Becky came for Christmas dinner and to open her presents. Mum cooked way too much as normal, but Becky was pleased and obviously enjoyed the food as she was asleep on the sofa by five! Mum gave her a doggy bag of goodies to take back which only kept her going until the end of Boxing Day! Spanish Christmas is so different. We went to the local nightclub, which all families seem to do, to see the New Year in after the grape gobbling you do to the chimes – I only managed ten grapes… not sure I’ll ever get the hang of stuffing all 12 in and to be honest, it’s not something I’m going to practise either! The fireworks were great; I love it when they go off near Teba’s castle − it looks really dramatic. I saw the New Zealand ones on the TV as they’re hours in front of us, but I had to convince Dad that they were real as he didn’t think they were that far in advance – as if they’d just put them on for the sake of it! Some of the conversations in our house do make me wonder sometimes. London’s fireworks were amazing – I did feel for all the people there, though − they looked freezing.
Well, I’m off out in a bit so I’ll have to go and do the washing up, so until next time – hope you’ve enjoyed the Three Kings and I’ll speak to you next month. Love Alice x
It’s been good to have time off school, especially after all my exams, but I’m quite ready to get back there now and see my friends again. It’s strange in a way living on the outskirts of one village with one set of friends, but going to school in another village. I will get to find out soon if I have to do another year at high school or start college early, as they are trying to change the education system – Mum’s attitude is they should just start improving what they do already, rather than mucking about with the years you’re there. I don’t think she has much time for the education here in Spain! I have to admit some of the teachers are a bit strange and not always very helpful, which does make it hard if you’re not a Spanish kid. Saying that, my report last term was the best I’ve ever had so I must be doing something right! 19