24.05.24

I went to town this morning to buy some things I needed for the Camino. As is not uncommon, I found that all the shops were closed because of a holiday. This was because it was the day of the big street party in Alhaurin. We are still in the midst of the Feria which goes on till Sunday. So I walked up the street where it takes place to check out the preparations. That street is incidently very close to my house. All along the half mile stretch were the locals setting up bars and starting to prepare paella and sardinas for the party.

Around 3pm I went back. There was a scene of colour, noise and sheer fun that is hard to describe. Everywhere, there were people eating, drinking and having the best time with smiles all around. It was impossible to feel anything but joy and to drink in the atmosphere. In the square near my house, there was a competition to pick the best young flamenco dancers. It is at times like this that I feel so lucky to have been adopted by this wonderful country. I can see the sense of family and tradition that will be passed on from parents to children for many generations to come. Flamenco is in the blood of Andalusia and has come from the Gitano (Romani) people to become the national dance of Spain. Almost all the ladies from young to old were dressed in these wonderful and beautiful costumes. I know my Siobhan would have been amongst them.