Now me and Marcus (my husband) came up with a great idea in the spring - let's learn to drive a boat. It can't be that hard, all sorts of idiots are allowed to drive boats, you just have to sit and watch at the Mar Menor on a sunny day to see how many idiots are out there!

Mary Eames' studio has been my haven during this "annus horribilis".  I started taking lessons with her and do a class once a week.  That time spent in the studio has paid so many dividends  and I am pleased with the way my skills and knowledge of different media has grown.  Pastels, watercolour learning to use chinese paints are all developing skills under her tutulage. See earlier diary.

Cartagena is a medium-sized town on the south-east coast of Spain, dominated by an industrial port and an illustrious naval history: the inventor of the submarine was from Cartagena, as commemorated by the huge grey prototype submarine from 1888 that squats down by the leisure port. The largest submarine in the world is also being built here, under wraps so nothing to see unfortunately.

We've been to the port town of Águilas (you pronounce it with the stress on the very first A) a couple of times over the last few years and we’ve always had a wonderful time. Our most recent visits included a spot of diving, some really great food and seeing a dolphin. I’ll tell you more.

We had a week off work and thought a couple of days diving would be fun. We chose http://www.buceoaguilas.com/ right on the harbour, next to the train monument.

Anfi del Mar

Anfi Tauro’s 9-hole and
18-hole golf courses are set among a spectacular landscape of palm
trees, lakes and volcanic mountains. Designed by world leading golf
course designers, von Hagge, Smelek and Baril, they offer the perfect
balance between beauty and challenge.

Anfi Tauro Golf is a
stunning oasis for year-round golf, thanks to Gran Canaria’s seemingly
never ending mild climate and Anfi Tauro’s breathtaking landscape.

Anfi Emerald Club is home to 119 luxury apartments and enjoys
possibly the best view in Gran Canaria. The theme of the precious stone
“Emerald” is reflected in the lush green gardens and tranquil nearby
golf course...