The Adventures of Melvyn and Lesley
Having retired we are busy pursuing the things we enjoy
It was lovely to catch up with Sue and Geoff. We normally see them skiing in Les Arcs. They have just bought a place in Spain (45 minutes from here) and swopped there motorhome for an A class Rapido. They plan to ski all over the place (again) this winter, but, hopefully we will catch up with them again. 
At the tail end of the wet weather, but still a grey morning we decided to recce cycle routes to La Unión. There are a few options, but, also the chance to take in some serious unwanted hills, which for us as non-cyclists are better left until we have got a bit more experience. I think we have sorted a route with a few alternatives that will be challenging enough for us, and also found a place where we can get a good coffee and some tapas.
While we were there we booked a tour of Parque Minero for next Thursday. We first wanted to do this after a cycle trip through the abandoned quarry in the area last year – another epic adventure.
First proper venture into the hills. After the storm, conditions underfoot were very wet and muddy in places but it was great to be back. I had a look at where I sailed last year with Chris Andrews, but at the moment there’s a barrier across. Conditions for driving there look dodgy too.
Well, that was quite a storm. Laying in bed was like being in the middle of a firework display. We got off lightly, some people were completely flooded with muddy water. The car park and roads are like wet fields and the beach has been washed into the sea.
Well, breakfast/lunch. A favourite past time on a Sunday is to sit in the harbour reading the paper while enjoying a coffee and a snack. Usually with chocolate in it for me. Lovely scenery with more than the occasional RIB taking out dozens of divers. A bit rusty with the Spanish names for some of the food on offer but we got there. We both had cafe café con leche, Lesley had media una rodaja de tomate en pan tostado (half a slice of tomato on toast) y (and) manzana tarte (apple tart). I had queso y jamón sándwich tostado y Napolitanas chocolate (chocolate filled filo pastry thing). All very nice and lots of calories.
On the way back we stopped to have a look at Playa de Levante de Mar Menor. We have seen locals windsurfing there and it looks like a good spot for wave sailing.
It wasn’t as windy as we hoped but at least I got onto the water. Using my biggest sail but really the board and fin were too small. Maybe it’ll be better tomorrow.
Well that’s the first week, always a busy week getting setup. It flies by.
The first bike ride this trip. Apart from sore bums, necks and wrists, it was very enjoyable and a good chance to remind ourselves of some of the local geography. 31k done in all with a coffee stop at about 27k (Los Nietos). Dos Café con Leche grandes for a mere €2.20 – it must cost that much just for the contents.
Lesley’s gears have always been a bit clunky and sometimes slip. I missed out on all things to do with bikes as a youngster, I seemed to get into motorbikes and cars from an early age but never learned the basics with bikes. With a bit of research on youtube I made a start, I didn’t expect to still be at it several hours later, but, I feel I now have a good understanding of how they work and Lesley reckons they feel the best they have ever been!
I might have a look at what’s involved in doing a full service now, watch this space.
Today I rigged my two biggest sails. That now gives me sails from 8.5m² down to 6.0m², that should cover most everyday situations.
I also rigged a system to hold the sails secure against the hedge using springs and rope. Hopefully, they will be held tight even in strong wind. All I need now is the wind.
Great news from Tom today as he FaceTimed us to let us know that he has qualified as an International Certified Personal Trainer. Well done Tom!
Feeling a bit tired today, started with short run and then shopping. My turn to drive the Fiat 500, very impressed a lovely little car.
Had a bit of a siesta when we got back, missed the windsurfing but went down to have a look later.
Lesley made a lovely tea of sea bass, lentils and brocoli.
