Frying Pan of the South

We now know why this area of Andalucia is so aptly named 'the frying pan of the south'. Temperatures have soared to 44 degrees in the shade, 52 out in the sun. We were told this area experienced extremes of weather - now we know! Very cold and wet winters and meltingly hot summers. Too hot to be up on the terrace other than for early breakfasts (what are they?!) and sun downers before supper. When at home, we take refuge of sorts indoors. We are still going out and about but oh for an air con car!! Sleep during the night is frequently interrupted by fan on.... fan off..... fan on...... During some unearthly hour last night, desperate to cool myself down, I was to be found in the bathroom soaking hands and wrists in cold water followed by feet and ankles! We have no aircon indoors but could do with it - we might yet invest in a mobile unit!! Sam and Sarah are due out this Thursday eve for a long weekend so I guess it will be down to the lakeside beach at Iznajar with picnic and sun brollies during the day hours though we'd love to take them to Zuheros - perhaps a very early start might make it possible!

We've had some fun these last couple of weeks:

A couple of neighbours hosted a small outdoor supper party (rather reminded me of the Bertolli ad where a large number of folks sit around a huge table under the shade of the trees enjoying each others company and wonderful array of food - always set me longing). This was during the evening when it's a tad cooler - a friendly, convivial evening. to which we were delighted to be included, sharing delicious food and much vino and fino (the local 'hill wine').















A couple of evenings later we were 'walking' the newly laid pavement along the lower road of the village, led by the mayoress - apparently a custom to 'christen' such a smart new pavement. A reasonably small group began the walk but a much greater number were there at the end having joined in on the walk as it progressed - put me in mind of the Pied Piper! There was a presentation of a small gift for the oldest man and woman on the walk and youngest girl and boy then it was down to the bar - on the mayoress! What a charming custom and yet another way to bring everyone together.

























We had an unexpected trip back to England for the funeral last Monday of an uncle of Michael's - such a great chap - full of mischief and fun. We were glad to be able to make it though and spend some time with the family afterwards. We were only back for a few days so apologies to those folks we/I usually catch up with. We did, however, spend some time with our boys before heading back, which is always special.

Last Friday night was the Santiago Fiesta in El Higueral.
After Mass the figure of the saint was brought out and carried around the streets, every once in a while the procession would stop whilst the village choir accompanied by 2 guitarists would sing the wonderful way they do here - full of passion and life. The procession eventually came back to the church and everyone made for the village hall where tables and chairs had been set up outside in front of the staging for the live music and the biggest BBQ I've ever seen and the food kept coming............ Lots of fun and dancing which went on until gone 4 in the morning. We've the September fiesta to look forward to now which is supposedly by far the biggest, grandest and best of them all - a 3 day affair!!