The Very Best Blog Ever!

Logs on the blog!

2012-02-13T12:38:00.003Z

The idea was that if we went away in January when it was very cold and returned in February when it was getting warmer that we wouldn't need so much heating and that we would then get logs during the summer ready for next winter.

However, while we were away in January it was relatively mild and as soon as we returned the temperature fell and we have had a severe cold spell since. Consequently, we needed a fresh supply of logs.

Ramón brought them yesterday and at the same time pulled out a small apple tree which had been looking decidedly sick.

Here they only burn olive wood; it gives out a lot more heat and burns longer than pine.

Earlier today, Margaret stacked the logs so now we have a plentiful supply again.

Jorge's 50th birthday present!

2012-02-11T23:40:00.003Z

Just over 2 months after Jorge's birthday party, his present is ready!

We all met in his mother's house in the village where he was given it.

The view is of the street where he lives looking towards the church and is painted and then fired onto a tile by a local artist. An original present and well worth the wait!

Santa Águeda

2012-02-04T23:16:00.002Z

It was so cold this year that Santa Águeda was only given a shortened tour of the village.

However the temperature outside didn't stop the ladies of Torre del Compte enjoying a great meal in the bar/restaurant...

...and dancing with entertainment throughout the afternoon into the evening...

...organised this year by 5 very enthusiastic young ladies.

To see more photos, click HERE

To see the video of the dancing and entertainment, click HERE

Gran Canaria

2012-01-31T18:59:00.006Z

It's holiday time and so to get some winter sun we have just spent 3 weeks in Gran Canaria at the same hotel we stayed at last year.

Our apartment has a great view over Puerto Rico...

...and has a large south facing terrace.

You just can't get too much of views like this!

The hotel has a couple of swimming pools...

...which look picturesque at any time.

During our stay the sea was very calm...

...however, the harbour walls are being reinforced. I don't think the crane driver has made a very good job of stacking the blocks!

Whatever time of year, there are always flowers in bloom...

...and the bougainvillea is as colourful as ever.

Yes, that is a large coffee pot in the garden.

Each night in the hotel there was a different theme for the food. Above, the chef is stuffing his enchiladas on Mexican night...

...while on Canarian night, local cheeses are served on cheese boards made in the shape of the islands.

Yes, we would go back again!

Click on a photo to see it full size.

To see more photos click HERE.

It's 3 Kings!

2012-01-05T20:59:00.006Z

Although it's windy this evening, it doesn't deter the walk through the streets with the flaming torches. (Although I did get some wax from mine blown onto my coat!)

After following the 3 Kings and their pages through the streets to the hall by the bar, they pose for photos.

It's an expectant time for the children as names are read out to receive presents.

Excitement mounts for the children and their parents as the pages announce the names...

...as well as their grandparents!

La Fontcalda

2012-01-02T17:13:00.006Z

Not far from us, on the very picturesque road down to Tortosa is the pueblo of Prat de Compte.

Like so many villages they were connected by a railway line which was closed in the name of progress and the route was turned into a Via Verde, Green Way. It is used extensively today by walkers and cyclists. The old stations still exist even though they are often far from the village they relate to.

The old railway line winds it's way through some very beautiful scenery...

...and I'm sure that if the railway existed today, it would be well used.

We can see light at the end of the tunnel but shortly after that, there's another tunnel!

A short distance from the station we come to La Fontcalda down in the river valley.

Here there is a sanctuary which is documented from the 14th century and is now a popular tourist destination. During Easter and the summer months there is a hotel with bar and restaurant closeby. The church is the 3rd that has existed on this site and dates from 1753.

The name La Fontcalda is taken from the local spring which provides medicinal mineral rich water.

All the tunnels, cuttings and bridges still exist for this railway line - why not bring it back?

And then more people would be able to see these fantastic views!

La Pena

2011-12-26T16:53:00.004Z

Built in 1930 and covering an area of 113 hectares the reservoir is currently 61% full, exactly the same as it was at this time last year.

La Pena collects water from the surrounding mountain range and forms a very picturesque lake.

Today was ideal for the Boxing Day walk, an attempt to burn off a few of the calories from yesterday.

No one else had the same idea however - we were the only people there!

It's Christmas!

2011-12-25T18:27:00.003Z

And it's a beautiful day - sunny with no biting wind.

After the church service we go round to our friends, Floyd and Jorge, to see their Christmas grotto...

...and nativity displays. Not just one...

..but two!!

Then back home for a Christmas dinner for two...

...and then, another wonderful sunset.

Evoque!

2011-12-23T23:47:00.004Z

Got it at last!

And it's every bit as good as we'd hoped!

Presentation at Alcañiz

2011-12-21T23:52:00.001Z

We are a special end of term treat to the mature students learning English at the escuela de idiomas, the school of languages, in Alcañiz.

We present "25 of my favourite films" to groups of between 40 - 50 students on 2 nights.

They are in 5 "teams" and have to answer questions on the film clip they have just been shown.

Competition is keen...

...but everyone wins a Spanish delicacy as it's so near to Christmas.

Ariadna's party

2011-12-08T23:06:00.002Z

To celebrate Ariadna and Carmen's birthdays they had a joint party!

They both received lots of presents...

...and Raúl cut the cake.

A great time was had by all.

Our christmas tree.

2011-12-04T17:29:00.007Z

We decorated the village christmas tree this afternoon.

Lots of boxes had been wrapped as presents...

...and some of these were placed around the base of the tree...

...while others were hung from higher boughs along with other decorations.

It certainly made the job easier having Manolo and his tractor available.

It was a very pleasant, sunny afternoon which made the job easier...

...although the job wasn't finished until it was dark.

Jorge's 50th!

2011-12-01T23:21:00.002Z

Some of us have been there, others have it yet to come but one birthday you will never forget is your 50th.

Jorge had a special celebration at Hotel Calpe in Alcañiz...

...where he opened one of his presents...

...and we all enjoyed a splendid meal.

The 4th World Market at Fuentespalda

2011-11-27T23:37:00.005Z

The Amas de Casa groups from villages in the Matarraña region, as well as many other organisations, each had a stall at the IV Mercado del Mundo at Fuentespalda.

The theme for the Amas de Casa groups was to produce a regional postre or sweet dish. These were offered for sale throughout the day and in the afternoon the dishes were photographed by a professional photographer for the 2013 calendar for the area.

On offer from Torre del Compte were Torrijas and Vino de Nueces. Basically Torrijas are white bread soaked in milk then squeezed out, shaped, coated in beaten egg then deep fried. And who said the Mediterranean diet was healthy! But they are delicious!! The Vino de Nueces, or Nut Wine, was also home made.

To see the events of the day click on the link HERE.

You never know what will be on offer at these events and the final entertainment of the day was a display of oriental dancing by Ana Lorenz.

To see Ana's performance, click HERE.

Quite a day out to remember.

11.11.11.11.11.11

2011-11-11T11:11:00.001Z

Watch the video of the historic event on YouTube by clicking HERE

Acupuncture! Stop smoking!

2011-11-01T10:53:00.004Z

Over two months ago a friend of ours underwent a course of acupuncture in order to kick his habit of smoking those superb small Spanish cigars.

He was very determined to quit and felt the pins applied
to both ears really helped curb the cravings!

Has it worked?

Now, after 2 months...

...no!

Autumn at last!

2011-10-30T22:20:00.001Z

It's autumn at last - well, at least this tree thinks so!

Summer seems to have hung around for quite a while this year...

...but who's complaining?

Another sunset, 9 days later.

2011-10-13T19:17:00.004+01:00

Another bonfire!

2011-10-12T10:23:00.009+01:00

This time the bonfire is to celebrate the eve of Nuestra Señora del Pilar, (click on the title above for more info), and today is a holiday!

There was a good turnout and the bonfire was splendid.

The bonfire is held traditionally in the area known as La Co-operativa - this is where the olives are brought later in the year to be processed.

The Amas de Casa, (Housewives group), provided the cakes and cava which went down a treat.

It was a perfect evening with the (almost) full moon beaming down from a starlit sky.

Both Alena and Margaret were busy all evening serving cava and cake.

And to continue the celebrations, a very good friend has brought a cake! It symbolises the robe worn by Our Lady and tastes delicious!

It seemed a pity to cut into and then eat such a work of art but we forced ourselves!

Strictly Come...

2011-10-05T21:30:00.002+01:00

It's back - and so is Brucie!

It must be autumn - (but not here, yet).

Margaret has been bitten by the celeb dancing bug and now must watch EVERY show including the daily "updates" on BBC2.

Russell Grant will go all the way!

Dragonfly

2011-10-05T17:37:00.004+01:00

Even the dragonflies are making the most of this extended summer!

Click on the photo for a larger view.

Let's hope that this one was not intended to hatch out next summer!

I've just checked on the lifecycle of the dragonfly and evidently in this part of the world they are flying around from July until late October - early November. This one will be looking for a mate quite soon as it is well away from water. They eat lots of horrid mosquitos and other obnoxious insects. Their life span is only one year. What a pity!

Sunset

2011-10-04T19:13:00.004+01:00

We are having a spell of amazing weather right now, summer has forgotten to end!

This evening the sun set behind the castle ruin at La Fresneda - quite spectacular!

A weekend in Benasque.

2011-09-12T18:21:00.000+01:00

Benasque nestles in it's own valley in the heart of the Pyrenees and is surrounded by the highest peaks in that area.

From the town it is a short drive and then a short walk to ...

...the Gorgas de Alba, a picturesque spot with lots of water cascading down the gorge.

Conveniently there is a bridge to enable visitors to cross the ravine.

Nearby is a hotel with its very own tame local mountain goat. Notice the curved horns.

6kms from Benasque by road, or 1km as the eagle flies, is the highest village in the Pyrenees, Cerler, which during the winter season is a very popular ski resort and for the remainder of the year just a lovely place to visit.

A little further up the main road, (which incidently doesn't lead anywhere as it can't pass through the mountains), is the Hospital de Benasque which was an old shelter and mountain police barracks. The main feature of the building, which is now a hotel with a restaurant and bar, is the carved wood which is everywhere.

Further up the valley and after a short journey by special bus and a rather longer trek we see the Forau d'Aiguallut with even more impressive cascading water and where there is permanent snow on the top of the nearby mountain. The water runs underground to the north and surfaces in France.

One of the local inhabitants can be seen in the photo above.

Meanwhile, there is some fantastic scenery en route.

Our favourite hotel in Benasque serves great food and is very hospitable.

A brilliant weekend!

To see 200 more photos of the weekend, click HERE.

To see my video of Benasque, click HERE.

To see my video of Cerler, click HERE.

To see my video of the Gorgas de Alba / Hospital de Benasque / Forau d'Aiguallut , click HERE.

Misa en honor a San Ramón y comida de hermandad en la Plaza Mayor

2011-08-31T23:25:00.001+01:00

It's the final day of the village fiesta and it starts in the church at midday with a mass for San Ramón who is the patron Saint of the village and we celebrate his day today!

The statue of San Ramón is carried around the village and...

...it's another opportunity to dress in regional costume.

Around 300 hundred people were in the Plaza Mayor for another great paella!
It certainly doesn't feel like a Wednesday!

To see more photos of the events of the day, click HERE.

El Parrissal

2011-08-30T23:45:00.003+01:00

A fine morning and we set off with 2 of our friends to El Parrissal, a spot about 35 minutes drive from Torre del Compte, just past the village of Beceite which nestles in the foothills of Els Ports, the mountain range between us and the Mediterranean.

The valley we are walking up has the river Matarraña flowing down it and the path crosses the river in many places.

To help you cross the river there are logs to walk across but like me, you can take the more direct route.

Also, where it is impossible to walk up the side of the river as it travels through various ravines there are planks to walk on against the cliff face even though getting onto them might appear a little tricky!

To see more photos of the intrepid expedition, click HERE.

¡FIESTA! (including "disfraces")

2011-08-25T23:41:00.006+01:00

Fiesta week kicked off on Thursday 18th with chorizada en la cooperativa, sausages in the yard of the village farmers cooperative.

There was lots of smoke but unlike London these weren't burning buildings but bonfires to cook the sausages on!

Later on that evening there was lots of running and screaming in the streets but unlike London this was not a riot but the sound of people enjoying themselves with the annual waterfight!

Everyone was totally drenched as they followed the band through the streets of the village going from peña to peña to have a drink while the people in the houses poured buckets of water on them from their balconies and even used hosepipes.

The following morning, Friday, the was the mass for San Ramón. Click HERE to see the video on YouTube.

Meanwhile during the fiesta period, the "Amas de Casa, Lo Portal" had an exhibition of their work in the town hall. To see photos of the work on display, click HERE.

In the evening was the communal meal with everyone in the Plaza Mayor to eat their own food which was followed by a comedy act which was actually quite funny.

On Saturday the jota group "Calandria" gave an excellent performance in the school yard. (They have their own section on this blog - don't miss it!).

Later that night it was time for the "Concurso de Disfraces" or Fancy Dress Competition. There were 7 peña groups this year and the standard was very high.

First up, Peña Lo Serapio as a female volleyball team - they came 7th. Click HERE to see their video.

Next, Peña David Gimeno as a swarm of flies - they came 5th. Click HERE to see their video.

They were followed by Peña Lo Skaldat, a group of protesters who came 6th. Click HERE to see the video.

Next, Peña Lo Corral who were running with the bulls, Pamplona style. They came 3rd. To watch their performance, click HERE.

The circus arrives in Torre del Compte care of Peña Lo Karkas who after a most entertaining performance came 2nd. Click HERE to see it.

The pope was in Madrid but made a detour to visit Torre del Compte with his friends in Peña Lo Topi. To see the winners, click HERE.

Finally Peña Cata-croc re-enacted the tale of St George and the dragon - they came 4th. Click HERE to see their performance.

Even the potatoes are happy here!

Throughout the fiesta there seemed to be a lot of emphasis on eating and drinking!

One popular demonstration was on how to make furniture from logs using your chainsaw. However, I don't think IKEA has anything to worry about just yet!

After the chainsaw demo, hot chocolate was served.
Delicious, thick, creamy chocolate which always goes down well, (with everyone, not just the chocoholics!)

And throughout the fiesta there was not one drop of rain - come to think of it, it hasn't rained this month!

The village trip to Sos del Rey Católico

2011-08-24T23:58:00.001+01:00

At 6:30 28 of us set off in the coach from Torre del Compte.

We have a guided tour of the village, a museum and the church...

...then it's time for a very nice lunch.

To see (lots) more photos, click HERE.

Another great day out.

Grupo de la Jota "La Calandria"

2011-08-20T23:58:00.004+01:00

At 19:00 in the school yard the jota group "La Calandria" gave their performances to a large audience of the people of Torre del Compte.

The costumes were splendid but could not have been all that comfortable as it was quite a hot evening even though the group had based themselves in the more shaded part of the school yard.

The dancers were very energetic as they showed their prowess with castanets, tambourines as well as sticks and some very fancy footwork.

The vocalists performed a couple of solos each as well as some numbers as a group...

...when the dancers performed their pieces.

Another well received part of the fiesta celebrations.

To see the dances a 2 of the solo vocals, click on the links below.

A jota dance (1) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bAiUYG-aWfM

A jota dance (2) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4utmo2v9Xw

A jota dance (3) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MFhRJxgZb8Q

A jota dance (4) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lVPtlqjLtxA

A jota dance (5) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4IiQQO97Sy8

A jota http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUR1nHkgSKA

Another jota http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nq1GN-MCzF k

La rondalla or "jotas" around the village.

2011-08-06T23:47:00.005+01:00

When you think of traditional Spanish music you automatically think of the Spanish guitar and Flamenco singing and dancing. However, the jota is just as popular in many regions in Spain. Click HERE to find out about jotas.

La Rondalla, or group of minstrels, played and sang their traditional songs known as jotas as part of the festivities provided by the Amas de Casa to complete their special day.

To give the group their official title, they are "Grupo de Jota de Valdealgorfa, La Natividad de Nuestra Señora".

They started playing and singing in the main street of the village...

...then made their way playing and singing as they went, to 3 different locations where they performed more songs..

...before ending up in the Plaza Mayor for several more songs. At each place where they stopped, the committee of the Amas de Casa provided the ever increasing audience with cava to drink and lots of cake.

To see and listen to each of the 28 jotas performed that evening click on the links below. Each clip is quite short, less than 2 minutes, apart from numbers 2, 6, 11 and 17 where the group are walking between locations.

Jota 1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzjwwRMwF0 k

Jota 2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7nZp2R1N0Fg

Jota 3 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VjRTHfe4AyQ

Jota 4 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvQiSlobU80

Jota 5 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srBosAhuEm8

Jota 6 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mS84C5oaplM

Jota 7 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYXr1WZ3y_w

Jota 8 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLuSv9V7Cdo

Jota 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_SF3IEZ3UGM

Jota 10 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6eUFYql_R4

Jota 11 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lp8Q11kfHvc

Jota 12 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WKTGb4yotPY

Jota 13 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHnNyVqpfII

Jota 14 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRMT-jGAvvo

Jota 15 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=djBORSsuGDg

Jota 16 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5G9GjFpqJE

Jota 17 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wqVPOhjvLwE

Jota 18 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDtBpmh0Zxo

Jota 19 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GW8fnELtitU

Jota 20 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gLtY-P3kSvk

Jota 21 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3wH5pDA6fVM

Jota 22http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_R1O4gRqFaI

Jota 23 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KPGa5aWrjc

Jota 24 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZqCxG6rZus

Jota 25 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FFvyJOAW9o

Jota 26 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZr01x2bOvw

Jota 27 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KpnGwgy2GBM

Jota 28 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJawsWSBUyM

The Amas de Casa's annual meal

2011-08-06T23:39:00.003+01:00

Traditionally the committee serve the meal and this year they were dressed as "serving wenches".

The first course known as "entremeses", which translates into "English" as "hors d'oeuvres", is cold cuts of meat garnished with salad. Then chicken was the main course followed by ice cream.

Wine, water and bread are on supply throughout the meal.

Entertainment followed in the form of a Can-Can dance performed by the committee.

To see the video of the dance, (which is not to be missed!), click HERE.

Land Rover Discovery

2011-08-04T20:01:00.035+01:00

A la venta en octubre/noviembre 2011.

Land Rover Discovery 3 HSE TDV6 automático, en muy buen estado, (enero 2006).

Haga clic en las fotos para ver la imagen a tamaño completo.

Faros Bi-Xenón y retrovisores de plegado eléctrico.

4 neumáticos nuevos (octubre de 2010). Llantas de aleación 18".

Ayudas para una conducción segura, que incluyen: Frenos Antibloqueo, (ABS), Asistencia Electrónica de Frenado de Emergencia, (EBA), y Control Electrónico de la Tracción, (ETC). El Control Dinámico de Estabilidad, DSC), y el Sistema Anti-balanceo, (ARM), funcionan con el sistema de frenado para obtener un correcto sobreviraje o subviraje en las curvas para mantener la estabilidad en todo momento.

Revisiones periódicas pasadas en el taller oficial de Land Rover.

Consumo: 9.4 L/100km, (medio) i emisiones CO₂: 275g/km.

Maya Gold - metalizado, un color ideal para no mostrar la suciedad.

6 cilindradas, 2720cc, potencia máxima 190CV/4000rpm

Los ceniceros nunca se han utilizado.

Aceleración: 0 - 100 km/h en 12.8 segundos

1ͣ Fila de asientos con 6 airbags, (frontales, laterales y de cortina, este último para proteger la cabeza)).
Airbags de cortina en la 2ͣ fila y 3ͣ fila de asientos.

Faros antiniebla delanteros, faros delanteros de encendido automático y lavafaros térmicos.

Detector automático de lluvia en los limpiaparabrisas.

Suspensión neumática de altura variable.

Columna de dirección ajustable en altura y profundidad.

Transmisión automática que incorpora "CommandShift", lo que proporciona al conductor un control manual completo en los cambios de velocidades.

Sistema 4x4 "Terrain Response" de Land Rover.

En octubre/noviembre, menos de 87.000 kms.

Cargador de 6 CDs, con radio, MP3, pantalla de 7", GPS,
control de velocidad de crucero, climatizador de temperatura automático.

Asientos eléctricos con memoria para tres posiciones.

Asientos de piel en color "alpaca".

Alta especificaciones de alta fidelidad "Harmon/Kardon", con 8 altavoces + bafle pasivo.

Siete plazos de fácil acceso; los dos asientos traseros, sólo se ha utilizado uno durante una semana.

Luces de protección de puertas.

El freno de mano electrónico se puede accionar con un suave movimiento de palanca y se suelta automáticamente cuando se inicia la marcha.

ITV hasta enero, 2012.

Con 7 plazas, un poco de espacio en el maletero.

Pero con dos, un maletero enorme: 2558 litros.

Con 5 plazas, espacio más que suficiente: 1260 litros.

Con una cobertura de 3 plazas.

La famosa división del portón trasero.
La rueda de repuesto de tamaño completo está debajo.

Conector de alimentación de 12V en la parte trasera, así como
en la parte delantera y en la 2ͣ fila de asientos.

3 luces de cortesía en el interior y retrovisor interior antideslumbrante.

Sensores traseros de aparcamiento y barra de remolque.

Ahora lo ves.

¡Ahora no!

A la venta en octubre/noviembre, 2011.

22.950 euros

u oferta más cercana.

¿Preguntas?

¡Llame e infórmate!

Contacto 686237181

Estoy en la comarca del Matarraña en España.

Birthday treat!

2011-08-03T23:53:00.001+01:00

You know when it's kids birthdays and all they want to do is to go to McDonald's - well, that is exactly what we did on my birthday.

We don't have a branch around here, thank goodness, but seeing as we were out for the day and there was one nearby we thought we would treat ourselves for lunch.

Not that we could be called regulars - the last McDonald's junk food we ate was last February on Gran Canaria, So this was a special treat.

And to round the day off, when we got back, we shared this delicious fruit tart - only as a special birthday treat of course!

We've made it!

2011-07-31T08:36:00.007+01:00

Do you remember what you were doing exactly 40 years ago?

We do!

Play "Spot the difference" between the 2 photos.

And the answer is, "40 years".

Friends in England had sent us a fantastic bouquet of flowers and card.

In the village the committee of the Amas de Casa were preparing for their special day next weekend but after they had sold all their tickets we were treated to aperitivos at the bar.

After that it was time to get changed and go to El Convent, a restaurant in the next village, La Fresneda, for a meal paid for by friends here in Spain.

We've never been to this restaurant before - it's very expensive!

However, it is in a very nice setting...

...and nicely shaded from the sun...

...with nice tableware...

...and delicious dishes.

This certainly was a very special meal and will be remembered for a long time.

After the meal it was tea and coffee in the garden...

...then home for a relaxing jacuzzi.

A very special celebration and a wonderful day together!

Thanks to all of our friends who sent cards and other greetings and
special thanks go to those who made of of this possible.

It's SALE time!

2011-07-22T19:01:00.001+01:00

The summer sales are here and there are some bargains to be had.

However, not all of the goods on sale are such a bargain after all. I rather liked these sandals but I'm not sure they are a good buy!!

English week, 10th - 17th

2011-07-17T23:39:00.001+01:00

Last week we had 3 delightful Spanish girls here to have an "English week".

We played tennis...

...did exercises in English...

...watched English TV...

...played basketball...

...table football...

...petanque...

...did lots of cooking such as lasagna...

...pizzas...

...and pancakes...

...played table tennis...

...learned new tunes on the keyboard...

... and spent a lot of time in the jacuzzi!

What a week that was!

La boda / the wedding

2011-07-16T23:02:00.002+01:00

About once a year the ermita at Torre del Compte is used for a christening or a wedding.

Today was the wedding of Patricia and her fiancé Roberto. The wedding party walk up to the ermita from the village which is quite a trek in a wedding dress and high heels.

The page boy had the rings firmly tied to a cushion.

With the train in place Patricia and her father Pedro make their way into the ermita for the service. They are now about 20 minutes late.

A shower of rice greets the newlyweds as they leave the ermita.

How romantic!

Raquel's new look!

2011-07-15T12:19:00.001+01:00

¡San Juan!

2011-06-25T23:02:00.002+01:00

It's San Juan and to celebrate we have a meal on the terrace with family and friends.

We are not celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary until next month and here is the cake to prove it! (Click on the photo to enlarge it in order to read the inscription on the cake.)

It is customary in Spain to cut the cake with a sword - we have one each!

After the meal a challenging game of table football...

...then later in the evening, dancing on the street to a live band.

Here's to the next 39 years and 11 months.

Summer's in full swing!

2011-06-22T17:09:00.004+01:00

Summer time, and the livin' is easy,...

...hydrangea's flowering...

...and the hebe's in bloom.

Nisperos are rippening,...

...and the grapes are hangin',

etc, etc.

Another day in the country.

2011-06-12T23:10:00.011+01:00

When you see those buildings in the middle of the country, just 3 or 4 large sheds...

...with large tanks outside of them, do you know what is in them?

Pigs, or in this case, over 2,000 piglets. And the smell is overpowering!!

Such a farm near Valderrobres is managed by our friends where we went for a meal to celebrate Joaquin's birthday with his wife, Rosa Marie.

The meal was in their renovated farmhouse, only one room...

...and the cooking was done outside. Today we are having "arroz del huerto" which translates as "rice of the allotment" or "rice garden".

Basically, it is pieces of pork and rabbit on the bone, snails, red peppers and onions fried together then rice and water added and finally garnished with courgette flowers.

While the rice is cooking, we enjoy a first course of prawns and salad with smoked salmon.

To celebrate Joaquin's birthday there is a special cake. May he have many more - delicious!!

Meanwhile, Joaquin works out the complexities of some of his presents!

Encinacorba

2011-06-05T23:10:00.014+01:00

Encinacorba is a small village some 146 km to the west of us, about 2½ hours away and 760 metres above sea level. It is also the village where one of our friends comes from so a group of us were invited there for the day.

The weather could have gone either way but as it turned out it was a glorious warm, sunny day with hardly a breeze.

The church is in the Mudéjar style and is virtually a mini-cathedral. The main difference between this and actual cathedrals we have been in is that the people here are so proud of their church we were given a guided tour and encouraged to take photos.

It is remarkable to find such a grand church as this in a small village, population around 100.

Brick rather than stone is the main building material here. Lots of buildings have been renovated and look very presentable.

A local spring and trough ensures your horse never needs to go thirsty around here.

And then it was onwards and upwards another 160 metres to the ermita for our paella.

We could actually eat inside as there was a room at the back of the ermita for just that purpose.

Outside, the wildlife and the flowers were flourishing...

...in the peace and tranquility.

Another fantastic day out.

Calanda

2011-06-04T23:32:00.006+01:00

Saturday morning and I am the designated driver for 4 members of the Amas de Casa of Torre del Compte to visit an exhibition of patchwork and lacemaking presented by the Amas de Casa group in the (relatively) nearby village of Calanda.

The exhibition is taking place in the very large Multiusos hall and has specialist stalls selling everything you would need to produce lace - except the know how!

People are there from not just the local villages but from far and wide across the region.

Rosario, Rosi, (wearing her Amas de Casa t-shirt), Carmen and Margaret, pose for a photograph in front of a patchwork bedspread.

Young and old settle down to practise their skills at bobbin lacemaking...

...while some designs just look so incredibly complicated!

It's good to see that these activities are still thriving.

Cherries!

2011-06-02T18:01:00.000+01:00

This has been a terrific season for cherries - this region is renowned for the quality of this fruit.

As you can see from these photos, they are exceptional.

It took us quite a while but we now have 21 large jars of these cherries to enjoy in the coming months.

Trip to Zaragoza

2011-05-31T23:41:00.003+01:00

At 7:30am a group of 17 of us from Torre del Compte set off on a coach to Zaragoza...

...to the Aragón TV studios to be more precise.

The representatives of the village were given their "make-up" - L to R, Antonio, the mayor, Mercedes and Fernando. Carmen just looked so nice she had to be in the photo.

We were in the audience...

...but Margaret and Rosi were chosen to demonstrate some exercises being discussed during the programme.

The group photo outside the studios.

The Plaza del Pilar just in front of the cathedral has been turned into a campsite by young protesters.

After a superb lunch we had time for a coffee outside then a stroll around the streets before having a guided tour around the new Museum of Religious Art.

It certainly was a very different day out.

Holiday on the Costa del Sol

2011-05-29T23:41:00.005+01:00

We decided to take it easy on the way down the country and take 2 overnight stops. First was Albacete.

Our room was very large and modestly furnished with 2 double beds!

Albacete is famous for being the dagger, scissor and knife centre of Spain - hence the statue of the knife seller above. You have to look twice at these statues to see if they move as human statues have become so commonplace.

Also from this region of Castile-La Mancha is Don Quixote with his sidekick Sancho Panza, real statues again.

Margaret can't resist posing in the hotel corridor.

Second stop was at Alcalá la Real with it's own Moorish fortress...

...and then a very fine paella in the restaurant for the evening meal.

Topiary in it's early stages on a roundabout.

It's good to see the familiar view of the Mediterranean from the balcony of our apartment...

...and out the back the pine trees are flourishing.

On a walk along the beach we discover a sea urchin, (notice the fivefold symmetry - although you wouldn't be too bothered about that if you stood on one barefoot.)

As usual the food is great...

...as is the entertainment from this young lady, Lourdes,

On the way back we have an overnight stop at Almansa with it's 14th century castle.

Lunch the following day is at Peñiscola at a rather nice hotel although the 2 characters behind Margaret look a bit dodgy!

Another great holiday!

Jamón

2011-05-12T20:16:00.002+01:00

As La Presidenta de Amas de Casa Margaret was invited to attend a presentation to promote Jamón de Teruel held in Valderrobres. Pigs are big business around here.

The tour started at the secondary school where they have a specialist course for aspiring chefs.

There were around 6 different local restaurants represented, each of which had stepped up to the plate and produced a dish containing jamón. These ranged from a delicious sea food platter with trufas and jamón to...

...breads with jamón in the form of various creatures.

Jamón and artichokes,...

...delicious bite-size pieces of jamón...

...and for the sweet course, a sort of swiss roll encased in jamón.

After the 2 hour lunch which consisted of eating all of the dishes above, a visit to 2 local factories which actually produce the jamón.

Jamóns are cured for several months.

Other products include fuet, seen here hanging up, (or rather down),...

...and lomo which is a tasty pork meat which has been marinated.

After the tour, we went to the headquarters of the Comarca to sample more, you've guessed it, jamón and to share ideas on how the products and tourism could be promoted in a more dynamic manner. Another great day out, (unless you happen to be a vegetarian.)

Teruel

2011-05-10T20:17:00.018+01:00

Teruel is a very nice city but it's a pity it is so far away. It is the capital of this province and although there are a couple of provincial capital cities closer, they are not the capital of our province. Teruel is over 170 kms away, a 2½ hour drive through lovely countryside and mountains.

We had to go there to renew our "residency" - our previous card had just expired, (after 5 years!) and this cannot be done by any other means other than actually going there with all necessary documents, their photocopies and a photo.

We arived just before 9am which gave us time for breakfast before the 9:40 appointment.

When everything had been sorted out, it was time for another coffee in a sunny spot at a bar in the main square and then a wander around the city centre. We now have certificates of residency which do not have to be renewed so we will never have to go to Teruel again.

The architecture is interesting.

There's a (model) bull on the top of this column.

The narrow streets lead to interesting buildings.

Even the "Residencia de Pensionistas" fitted in well...

...as does the Ayuntamiento.

The 13th century cathedral, is a fine example of Mudéjar achitecture.

The north entrance is just off a small, quiet square.

Inside, the cathedral is cool and surpringly well lit considering the lack of windows.

There is a splendid wooden ceiling...

...and some fascinating side chapels...

...lit by a window in the top of their domed roofs.

Brilliant design and we thought roof lights were so modern.

It's all in very good condition.

I hope these statues on a platform are lighter than they look for when they go out around the streets.

Across the little square is a museum of sacred ornaments and paintings...

...collected from various churches across the region...

...and presented here for posterity.

It all made the trip worthwhile.

XI Marcha por Caminos and Fideuà

2011-05-08T19:04:00.004+01:00

At 8:30am there is quite a crowd in the Plaza Mayor having their breakfast; pieces of chocolate, galletas and of course a hearty drink, for strength.

It is an excellent morning especially after the storms that we had the previous evening.

The group photo.

(I only wear this hat once a year and today's the day!)

En route the flowers are in full bloom. Blue,...

...white...

...and yellow.

We pass by an old masía in the middle of nowhere.

At the first control point, at around 5km, there is water to drink and a bag of almonds for sustenance.

The walkers then head off on the remaining 10km of the walk while we head back to the village as we have to prepare the stall for the Amas de Casa.

While we are waiting for the return of the walkers, the fideuà is being prepared. First you add the meat to a pan containing a little oil...

...and stir over a medium heat.

Meanwhile, prepare the garlic.

Add the peppers...

...a little tomato purée...

...and some chopped tomato.

Margaret models one of the bags for sale.

In goes the seafood and water...

...and finally the fideu itself.

Margaret continues selling to the end, in fact, after the end, as people came to buy during the meal when everything had been put away!

The meal is served onto plates...

...and here it is - delicious, best yet!

The group tuck in...

...and 300 people have a very good time.

What's cooking this week?

2011-04-30T23:16:00.026+01:00

Another cooking demonstration by Carlos for the amas de casa, this time 3 main course dishes are on the menu.

Only the freshest basic ingredients are used.

Canelones with an asparagus and red pepper filling...

...covered with a bechamel celery sauce and topped with grated parmesan cheese.

Hake with a prawn and mushroom filling...

...absolutely mouth watering!

And finally mushroom croquettes. Delicious.

To see more photos and to get the recipes of the 3 dishes mentioned above, in English and Spanish, go to the blog of the amas de casa of Torre del Compte, (Asociación "Lo Portal" de Torre del Compte), by clicking on the link HERE.

Easter Monday

2011-04-25T23:16:00.003+01:00

At 9:00am we met and went to La Fresneda to buy the meat then into Alcañiz first for breakfast at La Oficina and then shopping. La Oficina is a great name for a bar/restaurant. If you are there and someone calls you, you can honestly say, "I'm at the office", while you tuck into your bacon, eggs and chips for breakfast!

This was our first visit to Rosi and Pablo's masia near to Valdealgorfa. Pablo has been restoring it over the last year and it was perfect for the events of the day.

We were to have the traditional meal of roast peppers and aubergines with artichokes, lamb cutlets and chops with sausages.

For starters there were plates of olives, crisps, fuet, carved ham...

...and cheeses.

Meanwhile, outside on the BBQ, Pablo and Manolo were looking after the meat.

To follow, there were strawberries and a brazo de gitano - a long swiss roll - and this one had a cream filling for one half and chocolate for the other.

After the meal, a pleasant walk in the countryside...

...collecting wild flowers on the way.

Another great Easter Monday!

Fayre time!

2011-04-23T17:18:00.010+01:00

The preparation for the fayre began a couple of weeks ago when one of the products to be sold was made.

A lot of stirring was needed once the ingredients had been added - a couple of hours in fact.

After a couple of days to allow it to set, it was then ready to cut into blocks...

...and then cut into smaller blocks. Have you guessed what it is yet?

Soap.
Several more hours were spent wrapping it ready to be sold.

Other products were made yesterday afternoon. Delicious donuts...

...and scrumptious casquettas.

It took several hours to make the full quantity.

Another part of the preparation a week earlier was to clean the school playground - a mammoth task but many hands made it relatively straightforward.

The plants were chosen for the plant stall a couple of days ago...

and then the morning finally arrived - the plants were sold, the pastas sold out, the soap was very popular...

...and Margaret did a roaring trade selling natural essences.

A lot of work went into this but everyone enjoyed it and the results will swell the funds of the Amas de Casa of Torre del Compte for the forthcoming year.

To see the short video of the fayre on YouTube, click HERE.

And then just to finish off the celebration of St George's day, a meal in the evening with friends.

The film presentation.

2011-04-14T23:20:00.001+01:00

It's that time of year again when we give a presentation in English to a group of Spanish students.(Note: this photo was taken before the other members of the group arrived).

That means it was time to dust-off a couple of our many unused suits and for me to wear a tie!

This year the presentation was about "films" which again was structured around a team quiz...

...and at the end, everyone got a Cadbury's creme egg! Well, it is almost Easter.

It's iris, poppy and blossom on the street time!

2011-04-10T16:02:00.005+01:00

It's been a glorious week and that has really brought the flowers on.

The irises which we brought with us have burst into flower - they have their own special bed!

Meanwhile, the poppies, which grow wild by the side of the road with other weeds, have started to flower...

...and in Alcañiz, the trees down the high road are in blossom.

It all looks very promising.

Hyacinths and weeds!

2011-04-04T21:59:00.004+01:00

Up the camino today the weeds are in full flower...

...and the grape hyacinths are in bloom.

Even this grass is flowering!

Isn't spring wonderful?

Margaret's birthday party!

2011-04-02T23:12:00.001+01:00

A very fruity sangría had been prepared,...

...the meat had been stuffed and cooked along with baked apples,...

...even the lilies had bloomed...

...so that everyone could have a great time...

...at Margaret's birthday party.

Cooking with the amas de casa

2011-03-26T22:53:00.016Z

On 3 occasions over the last 6 weeks the ladies of Torre del Compte have met on a Saturday afternoon to watch a cooking demonstration given by Carlos who is the chef at a restaurant in nearby Beceite.

21 people regularly attend the demonstrations which are held in the unoccupied flat owned by the ayuntamiento which has basic cooking facilities. Carlos does very well under the circumstances.

Previous demonstrations have dealt with the cooking of meat and vegetables and today it is the turn of postres.

First was the puff pastry with custard and fresh fruit.

This is a scrumptious favourite for everyone!

The next was the lemon tart with a base of crushed María biscuits...

...and a delicious lemon, egg yolk and condensed milk filling .

Individual tarts as well as a large tart were produced.

Finally, chocolate muffins with a liquid chocolate centre - yummy!

Here are the recipes for all 3 postres both in Spanish and English:

Hojaldre con crema y frutas / Puff pastry with custard and fruit.

Ingredientes / Ingredients:

1 placa de hojaldre /1 packet of puff pastry.
Frutas variadas / various fresh or tinned fruits.
1 huevo / 1 egg.

Para la crema / for the custard:
1 litro de leche / 1 litre of milk
4 yemas de huevos / 4 egg yolks
250 g de azúcar / 250 g of sugar
100 g de maicena / 100 g of corn flour
Limón, canela y vanilla / lemon, cinnamon stick and a vanilla pod

Precalentar el horno a 220 °C / Preheat the oven to 220 °C

Elaboración para la hojaldre / Method for the pastry case:

1.Cortamos la placa de hojaldre en la forma deseada, y forramos el borde con una tira fina de hojaldre / Cut the pastry to the chosen shape forming a border around the two side edges. Prick the base all over with a fork.

2. La horneamos a 220 C durante 15 minutes / Bake in the oven at 220 C for 15 minutes.

Elaboración para la crema / method for the custard:

1. Hervir la leche más los aromas / Heat the milk slowly with the zest of lemon, cinnamon stick and a vanilla pod.

2. A parte mezclamos la maicena con un poco de leche sobrante y las yemas / Mix (slake) the cornflour with the rest of the milk and add the 4 egg yolks using a balloon whisk.

3. Cuando la leche ya este infusionada la incorporamos en la mezcla de la maicena y lo llevamos a una ebullición lenta / Pour the milk over the slaked cornflour and then return to the pan and slowly bring the mixture to the boil constantly using the balloon whisk.

4. Cuando esté espesa la vertemos en un molde y enfriamos / after the starch grains burst the mixture will thicken. Place it in a refridgerator to cool.

Elaboración construción / Method for constructing the tart:

1. Extendemos la crema en el fondo del hojaldre / Spread the cooled custard over the bottom of the pastry case.

2. Cortamos las frutas y las disponemos por encima en forma de decoración / Wash and cut the fruit and arrange the fruit in lines down the pastry case. Brush the fruit with lemon juice to stop oxidation.

Disfrutar / Enjoy...

Tarta de limón / Lemon Tart

Ingredientes / Ingredients:

200 g de galletas maría / 200 g Maria biscuits
100g de mantequilla / 100g butter
El zumo de 3 limones / Juice of 3 lemons
3 huevos / 3 eggs
370 g de leche condensada / 370 g condensed milk.

Elaboración / Method:

Precalentar el horno a 180 °C / Preheat the oven to 180 °C

1. Trocear las galletas y mezclarlas con mantequilla derretida / Crush the biscuits and mix with the melted butter.

2. En un bol, mezclar los huevos, el zumo de limón y la leche condensada hasta que quede una crema espesa / In a bowl mix the eggs, lemon juice and condensed milk with an electric mixer until the mixture thickens.

3. Cubrir el fondo y las paredes del molde con la pasta / Press the mixture into the base and the sides of the container.

4. Rellenamos con la crema de limón, también podemos poner por encima unas lagrimas de chocolate derretido / Pour the lemon mixture over the base of the biscuits in the container.

5. Cocer durante 25/30 minutes / Cook for 25/30 minutes.

Disfrutar / Enjoy...

Coulant de chocolate / Chocolate muffin

Ingredientes / Ingredients:

2 huevos / 2 eggs
60 g mantequilla / 60 g butter
40 g azúcar / 40 g sugar
30 g harina / 30 g flour
125 g de chocolate / 125 g of chocolate

Precalentar el horno a 180 °C / Preheat the oven to 180 °C

Elaboración / Method:

1. Mezclar los huevos con el azúcar, añadir la mantequilla derretida y mezclar / Mix the eggs with the sugar and then add the melted butter and mix.

2. Incorporar el chocolate ya derretido y a continuación la harina / Incorpoate the melted chocolate and the flour gradually.

3. Mezclar todo lo anterior y disponer en moldes individuales previamente untados en aceite / Mix all of the above ingredients and pour into individual moulds which have been oiled previously.

4. Hornear durante 7 minutes at 180 °C / Cook for 7 minutes in a preheated oven at 180 °C

5. Desmoldar y servir espolvoreando con azúcar glasee / Release from the mould and sprinkle with castor sugar if desired.

Disfrutar / Enjoy...

Pear blossom!

2011-03-19T23:00:00.000Z

Spring has sprung,
da grass is riz
I wonder where
them boidies iz?

Da little boids is on da wing

Ain't dat absoid

Da little wings is on da boid!

There he is up in the sky,
He dropped some whitewash in my eye!

I‘m alright, I won't cry,
I'm just glad cows can't fly!

(by Anon)

Spring has newly sprung

the hills are full of grass

and along comes a billy-goat

sliding on his overcoat

down the summer pass

Ogden Nash - "The Passionate Pagan and the Dispassionate Public -- a Tragedy of the Machine Age.

Spring has sprung, fall has fell,
winter’s here, and it’s cold as heck.

Pancakes!!

2011-03-14T14:55:00.003Z

We made pancakes on Shrove Tuesday. They were so good we wanted to share them with the world.

To see the short video we made, click HERE.

Gorse blossom!

2011-03-13T18:05:00.000Z

Spring must be here if the gorse blossom is out.

The bees were very busy buzzing around so they must know it's spring.

LLEDÓ with the Amas de Casa

2011-03-06T23:29:00.001Z

We arived in Lledó at 9.45a.m. and we were given delicious hot chocolate with biscuits, an excellent start to the day. In the photograph are four of my friends from Torre Del Compte - Nieves, Rosario, Rosi and Pilar.

Click to enlarge.

Our lunch was to be paella which was cooked outside on an open wood fire.

We then began our tour of the village, following the brass band which had been hired for the occasion. They led us to the church were we were given a wonderful concert.

We walked along the streets of the old part of the village, some parts needed a few renovations.

A banner was displayed on this balcony to give that festive feeling.

We visited two exhibitions, one of local photographs and the other mantones, (shawls), some of which were very old; but all were very beautiful.

One of the many beautiful mantones on display.

Some of the old houses had been renovated and their stonework returned to its former glory without the once fashionable rendering.

Lledó has a most magnificent backdrop to the village. The picturesque mountains nearby had snow on their peaks from the recent snow flurry four days earlier.

The meal was generous with mouthwatering entremeses, (cold cuts of meat), this time with pizza and sausage rolls as well as langostinos, (prawns). This was followed by the paella we saw being cooked outside earlier. We had red wine, water sin and con gas and after our icecream we had coffee or tea followed by manzana liqueur. It is also traditional to have locally made biscuits - but to ensure we didn´t leave them, they were bagged individually so that we could take them home to our loved ones.

I collected the regalo, (present), in my role as El Presidente which were given to all of the villages of the Matarraña.

What a fantastic way to celebrate the centenary of International Women´s Day...

Holiday in Gran Canaria!

2011-03-04T16:55:00.014Z

The first part of our holiday was in the Parador at Cruz de Tejeda which is in the centre of the island at around 1,500 metres above sea level.

Click on any image to see it full size.

The view from our room was incredible with the Roque Bentayga being very prominent at 1,414 metres.

In the photo below, taken at sunset, Pico del Teide on Tenerife can be seen above the cloud to the right.

There were some dramatic sunsets.

The pueblo of Tejede is peaceful and tranquil at this time of the year. Even at this altitude they can still grow oranges.

Evenings in the Parador were spent in the lounge in front of the fire.

Another attraction of the Parador is the spa which we had all to ourselves one morning.

The menu in the Parador was well worth exploring - in this dish I had 55 caracoles. Delicious!

Not in the Parador but in a restaurant nearby - clearly not popular vintages.

Driving around the centre of the island you were never far away from known landmarks even though the drive had taken a long time - there are no straight roads in this region.

Cactus thrives at lower altitudes...

...as do the local colourful weeds.

There are breathtaking views all around the island.

The second part of the holiday was at Puerto Rico very close to where we stayed last year but a little higher up the hill. Below is the view from our terrace.

Around the grounds of the hotel, the gardens were set out neatly...

...with lots of colourful bougainvillea...

...and lots of palms and cacti.

One day we visited Palmitos Park and saw all the animals and plants we saw last year but this year we also saw the dolphins which have just been introduced. Click HERE to see the video on YouTube.

We also saw the exotic birds and birds of prey shows. To see edited highlights of both shows, click HERE. After the show with the birds of prey there was a photo opportunity with an eagle!

The cacti were splendid...

...as were the birds...

...and butterflies.

Another show we had to visit was the parrot show - great fun. To see the edited highlights, click HERE.

Another day we visited Maspolomas...

...and saw the famous dunes.

A brilliant holiday. We've already booked for next year!