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| Actual |
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************En trámite de traducción***********
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Bajo este título se presenta parte del material anteriormente publicado bajo "Actual", que no sigue siendo actual pero todavia puede estar de interes. |
| Eventos |
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Bajo este rubro se presenta material en texto y imágenes sobre eventos pasados en Costalita ó en sus cercanías más cercanas. |
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2012 |
 Linda Rise fixed our hair |
 Maggie Dodd contributed with colour analysis |
 Hostess Annie Wilson with fine curls |
 Linda gave us small hints about hair care |
 We were offered Cava and tapas |
 Full of expectance for the evening |
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On December the 6th 2012, SWEA and Linda Rise arranged, up at Los Naranjos Golf, a Beauty Evening where we were given good advise and professional support, not only with our hair, but also with make up and colour analysis. |
 Here we come! |
 Merry Christmas! |
 Nice with some warmth! |
 Lot's of goodies to eat! Photo:Agneta Aspensjö |
 Nueva Andalucia decorated for Christmas |
 Dress Code red is correct this time of the year |
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Our first Christmas Table for this year we ate at the Casita on December fifth 2012. |
 We thanked our teacher Inger Ek |
 ..who got an Italian Christmas cake from us |
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During the autumn Monika has attended a Spanish Course each Wednesday afternoon up at the Casita and December the fifth 2012 it was time for her last session. We thanked our teacher Inger Ek and decided to continue with the lessons after Christmas. |
 Now we are only waiting for the Glögg |
 Margareta demonstrates what? size or shape? |
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Some Swedish traditions must not be forgotten, even though the sun is shining and temperature is exceding 20 degrees. So, the first of December 2012, it was time for the annual traditional Glögg Party (Glögg = hot wine mixed with sugar and spices, accompanied by almonds and raisins) at Jan's and Gunilla's terrace together with Swedish neighbours and friends. |
 Monika and Gunilla enjoying a delicious breakfast |
 Hostess of the day: Margaretha Janemar |
 Mats informed about regional independence tendencies |
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Our schedule is now really very busy. Something happening every day. November 29th 2012 SWEA invited to their last Breakfast Meeting this year at Centro Forestal Sueco. Guest of the day was Mats Björkman from local Swedish newspaper on the coast, Sydkusten, who, in an initiated way, told us about what is going on right now and during he latest month in Spain. |
 Some tables won more prices than others |
 Ulla and Sven rarely miss a Shrimp Gourmandize |
 After the meal we were offered coffee and cookie |
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The Casita again on November 28th 2012, now to enjoy a substantial number of shrimps accompanied by homemade aioli and Västerbotten cheeze, i e it was time again for Shrimp Gourmandize which, from now on (if nothing else comes in between), will be arranged on the last Wednesday every month during the winter. |
 Discussions were lively and opinions were diverting |
 Tjalle got a bottle of wine for his presentation |
 Thomas and Monika preparing before the evening's sampling |
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November 27 2012 was a thrilling evening up at the Casita when we for the first time were part of a new initiative, namely Ham Sampling. Under the guidance of "ham expert" Tjalle from AHN in Fuengirola we got a presentation of, as well as the possibility of sampling, four different types of Spanish Ham. He informed us about why the taste and the price differs so much between different varieties of ham. We could also sample different types of wine together with the different types of ham so that we could find out the perfect combinations. Per, who previously was firmly convinced that a dry sherry should be the best company of a ham, will after this exercize not drink anything but Malaga wine with his ham. |
 Akka One in the air |
 The evening's presenters, Ted and Christina |
 Nice being together with Ulla and Sven |
 Check the knuckles of pork! |
 The atmosphere was high in the room |
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The Wednesday programme in the Casita November 21st 2012 consisted in a very special and thrilling presentation. Ted and Christina Hagelborg told us in an enthusistic way how they planned for and carried out a flight in Nils Holgersson's footsteps through Sweden in an ultralight airplane, suitable enough christened to Akka One (click for more info). To end it all up we were offered Kenneths knuckles of pork with mashed turnips. |
 Soili visiting Fia's stand |
 Britten and Monica love to pose |
 Kerstin talked second hand with Angela |
 Per cheering with Ulla |
 Nice to meet isn't it? |
 Margareta and Anki compared impressions |
 Mugge and Kerstin enjoying each other |
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On November 20th 2012 SWEA arranged their yearly returning Minifair at Centro Forestal Sueco. |
 The compère with two happy participants |
 Leif won the first price on the lottery |
 What year did Palme take on as Prime Minister the first time? |
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On November 14th 2012 we were on location up at the Casita in order to compete in a regularly arranged competition where the idea is to know when certain events took place. The competition, bearing the title Året när schlagern slog (The year that the tune became a hit) was, as usual, lead in a very entertaining way by Leif Lidén. Last time that we participated in the same competition we were runnerups, but this time we ended at a much more modest place, mostly due to the fact that the team on two questions guessed a year diverting more than ten years from the correct answer! |
 The chef was this happy... |
 ..over this delicious outcome |
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The Goose Dinner of the year we enjoyed on November tenth 2012 at Lena's and Thomas' place. Really delicately prepared, in fact the best goose Per ever has eaten. |
 Mmm, clayey soil, southwest slope, fresh and lively acid |
 The atmosphere was on top in the room |
 Mugge and Monika enjoyed the tasting |
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On November the ninth 2012 we were invited to the Birdie (click for more info) winehouse to attend a wine tasting based upon their products. We were offered not only wine and tapas en masse, but also detailed information on the different wines and wine districts. We were also given the option of buying the wines we found tasteful at reduced priced, an offer that we (of course) couldn't resist. |
 Let me think, should we turn right or left? |
 Well on the spot, Agneta greets us welcome |
 Isn't that our little common gull on the wall? |
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The fourth of November 2012 Agneta Larsen together with artist colleague Mariann Johansen-Ellis invited us to their vernissage, this time for a change, in the small, white and cozy mountain village Mijas. Difficult to find the location and difficult to drive through the narrow village streets but, once in place, it was more than worth all the trouble. |
 Per and Thomas have common friends |
 Book was signed later on, in Stockholm |
 Thomas spoke as a real Spaniard, e g with his hands |
 ETA was presented in words as well as pictures |
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On October 21st 2012 we on the coast were paid a visit by Thomas Gustafsson, journalist and author, but more than anything else known for his experiences from, and knowledge about, Latin countries all over the world. Thomas has previuosly published two books on Spain: Sol och skugga (Sun and Shadow, 2002) and Spanien: En resa genom historien (Spain: A trip through it's History, 2009). The later was intended to be number three of a trilogy, but Thomas now revealed that he is thinking of a fourth book in his series. The second of the series Spanien: En stat, flera nationer (Spain, One State, several Nations), is right now being printed and will be released within short. Thomas has also written a number of books on Cuba. His presentation, held at Centro Forestal Sueco for roughly 70 listeners, covered Spain's history from the Iberians until today, as well as the political and economical situation of today's Spain. A very interesting presentation, not only from facts point of view but also because of Thomas' own theories and explanations on how, where and why. |
 Kenneth's food tasted delicious |
 Birgitta with bag from Santi Wine House |
 ..and Monika invested in the future (=christmas) |
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October 17th 2012 Birgitta Bergin was invited to the Casita to introduce herself and her latest book Tre Veckor (Three Weeks), released earlier this spring. She told us also that book number two is on its way. |
 We enjoyed staying outdoors in the warm evening |
 There was plenty of paella for everybody... |
 ...and many deer reunions |
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October 10th 2012 it was Autumn Premier at our Casita, this time in the shape of a Spanish Night where we, except for paella with accompanying beverage, also were offered song, music and nice company. |
 Cheeers and welcome! |
 Here we dance the Salsa! |
 Monika enjoyed the dance as well as the wine |
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On September 27th 2012 we were around 70 persons gathered at Miadel enjoying, not only delicious tapas accompanied by suitable beverage, but also a fantastic dance show performed by four professional dancers fram Málaga. |
 Guest of the night, Christina Schollin |
 Christina and Monika |
 The evening's hostesses, Fia and Monica |
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September 24th 2012 Monica Silverstrand and Fia Ensgård had invited Swedish actress Christina Schollin to the Casita to share with us, interested audience, her knowledge on how to look forever young. |
 Professional tennis |
 Trainer Sergio, Per, Elliot and granddad Kjell |
 Elliot, courted by three ladies |
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On September 23rd 2012 we accompanied our friends Kjell and Anki to Seville over the day to meet their eldest grandchild Elliot Carnello and give him a hand while he was playing tennis. |
 On the way in, checking attendance |
 Tasty breakfast |
 Monika and Fia, two merry SWEAS |
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SWEA really had a tearing start this autumn. September 14th and October 12th 2012 we had Networking Lunches at restaurant Terra Sana behind the Casino and in between, on September 27th 2012, there was a Breakfast Meeting at the Centro Forestal Sueco. Plans are to run these two activities once a month during the winter. |
 We drove over the Öresund bridge |
 Boat in regular traffic on the Geneva Lake |
 Swiss alpine village Leysin |
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In the beginning of September 2012 it was time to drive down to Costalita and not to make the trip too long we started from our Summer house north of Jönköping. Our first lap took us down to a hotel outside Kassel where we use to make our first stop almost every time on this route. The second day we had decided to stay over in Switzerland and as Monika always wanted to see Montreux we had booked a hotel in the neighbourhoods. Our hotel was located only a few kilometres outside Montreux as the crow flies, but we had not expected it also to be situated more than a kilometer higher up, more exactly an altitude of 1650 metres above sea level. A bonus that we could spend the night in a real alpine village! |
 Mont Blanc is permanently covered with snow |
 Monika wanted a souvenir from Grenoble |
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Next morning we started with sightseing in Montreux whereupon we headed towards Chamonix on winding alpine roads with fantastic views. After a lunch at an inn close to Chamonix we continued our trip towards Grenoble, our next stop. Two ex Olympic cities on one and the same day! Furthermore we passed only a few kilomtres outside Albertville but time didn't allow us to visit them all. We had already decided that our next stop should be Aix-en-Provence and we still had an important number of kilomtres to drive. |
 Our hotel in Valencia |
 Modern Art in Valencia |
 Valencia is a very green City |
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From Provence we continued towards Valencia (click for more info), our last stay-over stop on this trip. Next day we spent the entire morning exploring the city before we headed for the last part of our trip down to Costalita. |
 Waiting in front of the Cathedral |
 Per walking |
 Bagpipers in the gangway |
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In the beginning of May 2012 we left Costalita for our trip towards Sweden. Lelle joined us so with Nelia we were four in the car. We had decided to follow the west coast of Europe and passing Seville, Mérida, Cáceres, Salamanca, Zamora and Benavente (spending the night) we reached the first real destination on our trip, Santiago de Compostela (click for more info). Most visitors to Santiago arrive equipped with pilgrim stavs and with a varying number of miles behind them after having walked along the Pilgrim route, El Camino, where the final destination is the apostle Jacob's grave in the Santiago Cathedral. Also our group visited the same and as Lennart, our travel companion, waited for us outside the cathedral (no dogs allowed inside) with Nelia and his wandering stav in the hand, two ladies approached him and asked whether the dog had made him company on his pilgrim wandering. The obvious answer from Lennart was yes, of course. As he told us about this when we came out, Monika had great difficulty not to laugh. |
 Rain, rain and new pilgrims arriving.. |
 We hurried through this village (OTUR=Bad Luck) |
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As we, shortly after, heard bag pipe music, we didn't believe our ears. The mystery was solved shortly after when Per, our eminent travel leader and guide, told us about Galicia's history where an interesting fact is that the Galicians basically are Kelts (just like the Scots) and that the bag pipe is an important part of their life style. So what we heard was simply a Galician, practicing the music of his land. |
 In front of the Guggenheim, big dog - and small |
 Barbecue night in Bilbao, Lelle at the grill |
 Christ watching over San Sebastián |
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We do the Pilgrim trip backwards, from goal to start, and also by car and not by foot, but still. From Galicia our trip goes on through Asturia and Cantabria until we finally arrive in Bascia and our next stop Bilbao (click for more info). When we, the previous day, drove over to Santiago at 1300 metres above sea level it was chilly and nature was barren and desolate. The stretch Santiago-Bilbao was quite different with fantastic open views of green hills and valleys. In Bilbao we were taken care of by Costalita neighbours, living in Bilbao. We had a very special barbecue dinner with a wunderful meat high up above the city. To end it up we had a tour of the city and Bilbao by night is really something special. The following day we "made" Bilbao and had a look at the pride of the city, the Guggenheim museum. After Bilbao our next stop was San Sebastian (click for more info), a very pictureque city where the posh people go for the summer. From there we continued our trip, after having filled the car up with gas, (cheaper in Spain than in most other European countries) up through Europe. |
 Per's favourite wine castle in Saint Emilion |
 To the left Fort Boyard at tide |
 San Michel convent on its cliff |
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On our way up through Europe we visited, after staying overnight in Biarritz, the Saint Emilion vineyards as well as the cognac factories in Cognac, whereupon we continued towards our next stop, Rochefort in the Charente-Maritime region. There we made an excursion to the small village Fouras, from where we had good views over Fort Boyard. We also had the opportunity to see how the oysters of the day were collected from the sand banks at tide. The following day we drove on up to Bretagne where we, after a substantial French dinner, slept overnight in St Malo by the English Channel. The next day's program included a visit to the convent built on the peak of the cliff island Saint Michel which, like the Pilgrim route, is included on UNESCO'S list of world heritages. Many steps to climb! On our way along the French Normandy coast we made a few purchases in Calvados before heading for our last night's stayover outside Sweden, in Brussels. |
 Louise surprised us with violin playing |
 Claes' son Peter with family were there |
 Per talked Colombia with Cristina, with roots from there |
 Two happy guests |
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On April 28th 2012 our friend Claes celebrated his birthday which we attended together with some 30 friends, from all over the world, up at the Santa Fe outside Coín. Besides the lovely country environment we were offered a delicious five course menu with exquisite beverage thereto. |
 Margareta and Jocke are among our highest ranked |
 Per got a thank you from the group through Sven |
 Inger and Gun, two of our most faithful players |
 Leif turned up to be a good entertained |
 Britta sang many verses for us |
 Jacob contributed with a good story |
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The very last bridge tournament for the season, played on Thursday 12th of April 2012, was followed by a tremendous Bridge Final Dinner up at Restaurant Johnny. |
 Lena and Nelia are having a cosy time together |
 Vibecke with her latest novel |
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During the spring 2012 we have made several new acquaitances bringing joy into our lives. Lena we met for the first time at the Casita where she, out of nowhere, popped up as a dog trainer arranging courses for dogs every Saturday afternoon in the backyard. As can be seen in the photo, Nelia and Lena are very much enjoying each others company. Vibecke we got to know through her husband, Kalle, who during the winter participated in Per's Bridge course for beginners. Vibecke, whos daily work is as attorney at the court of appeal in Oslo, spends her leisure time writing detective novels and very recently she published her third book, Arvssynden (the Original Sin) with attorney-at-law Vera L Cappelen in the leading role, just as in the two first books. For those of you enjoying good and thrilling reading the book is available at Miadel in Nueva Andalucia (in Norwegian only). |
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Good Friday, April 6th 2012, Monika went on an organized Bus Tour, arranged between SWEA Marbella and AHN, to attend this years Passion Play in the small mountain village Riogordo (Click here for more info on Riogordo). We had barely sat down on well placed, comfortable plastic chairs when the rain broke. Bad timing! After one hour of waiting without the least information on whether there would be a performance or not, we had a poll on whether we should stay or go back home and the majority voted for going back home. We still do not know whether there was a performance or not (according to the organisers they had only had to cancel twice during its 50 years lifetime), but for our part this event will have to be postponed for another year. |
 View over Britten's cosy backyard |
 Full of expectations, waiting for make-up... |
 ... by Marianne |
 Busy testing |
 Do I really need to make me over? |
 See how fine Betina was made |
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On April 4th 2012, eleven SWEA women met up at Britten Emme's place in Monda to spend an enjoying afternoon with the theme Make me over. And we were definitely made all over. The afternoon started with a delicious buffet followed by Britten's homemade strawberry cake, all of which we enjoyed out in the garden. After this superb meal Marianne Sydow took care of us for make-up and information whereupon Britten dressed us up in creations of her own design completed with matching accessories from Gulle Gebauer. |
 Birgitta served us personally her stuffed cabbage rolls |
 Monika posing with our new acquisition |
 The stuffed cabbage rolls were exquisite |
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The annual backyard Flea Market at AHN was set for Saturday March 31st 2012 and despite a few light raindrops in the end it was a success. Usually this is not the kind of event that Per is interested in, but this time Birgitta Broberg tempted us with her homemade stuffed cabbage rolls with cream sauce and boiled potatoes which was far too difficult to resist. Uncommonly enough also Per bought something, in this case a painting by Gösta Lewin, painted as early as in 1974, which was Gösta's personal contribution to the flea market. |
 Despite the early hour we were quite a few on site |
 Fia describes her life at Costa del Sol... |
 ...to us interested listeners |
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This months Breakfast Meeting with SWEA took place on March 29th 2012 at Centro Forestal Sueco. This day Mats Björkman from the Swedish quarterly publication Sydkusten should have informed us about today's situation in Spain but due to illness he could not make it why Fia improvised as Guest Speaker. In a very entertaining way she told us about why and how she moved down to Costa del Sol and how she has adapted herself to life down here. |
 Lena won a bottle of Wine on the evening's first Bingo |
 Sven's wonderings: Why does our table never win? |
 Hurrah, I won! |
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On the evening March 28th 2012 AHN invited to their regular event Bingo with Shrimp Gourmandize why we headed our steps there. Not so much for the Bingo, but more for the Västerbotten cheeze and to some extent the shrimps, unfortunately this time a bit small, in size as well as in numbers. As usual, I was going to say, Monika won a bottle of wine on her entrance ticket. We had great fun as always! |
 SWEA Marbella's founder, Ingrid Nordström |
 Our professional models, Gulle... |
 ..and Marie-Louise |
 Mingling Monika and Anki Foto: Fia Ensgård |
 Our models thanking the audience after the show |
 Happy faces from our singer Monica and Fia |
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SWEA's annual Fashion Show took place on March 22nd 2012 in the banqueting rooms at Los Arqueros Golf Club where around a hundred ladies were presented with, apart from a show with beautiful clothes, also a delicious lunch composed of chicken salad and warm goat cheese with honey vinegar on apple slice and for dessert chocolate mousse tart with cream. The coffee was accompanied by the big surprise of the day, namely SWEA's quite new own singer, earlier a member of Wizex group, Monica Silverstrand, who to the great delight of the audience sang, among others, ”New York, New York”. Marianne Sydow, who acted as conferencier, told us that the coming spring will be dominated by pastel colours, skirts will be longer and clothes will be inspired by the 50's. Nine ladies and one gentleman were modeling for us in coiffures created by Linda Rise from Los Naranjos. The clothes presented came from Classic Golf, Fia i Backen, Britten Emme and Fashion Villa while Gulle Gebauer contributed with jewellery and handbags. |
 Boris Pasternak? When was it now? |
 How was it now? Which year were we on? |
 Yes! We ended as runnerups! |
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Wednesday March 21st 2012 was quiz night at the Casita with subheading When did the hit hit? lead by Leif, who informed us on happenings from a particular year, and Marianne, who let us listen to a tune from hit lists the same year. The teams were randomly composed and placed at different tables. Their task consisted in writing down the year they believed was the correct one on a piece of paper. After ten different years Per's team ended as runnerups, mostly because of the last resort given for each question, namely the name of the Litterature Nobel Prize winner that particular year. Per also acquired (new) knowledge on which year colour TV was officially introduced in Sweden (1970). |
 Green was the colour of the day |
 Even the drinks were green |
 Gugge was early 'in the hat' |
 Look, how happy we were! |
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On March 17th 2012 we celebrated the Patron of Ireland S:t Patrick up at Atalaya Golf Club in nice, of course green clad, company. The menu was 100% Irish and started off with Oak Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese accompanied by Traditional Irish Soda Bread followed up by Irish Black and White Puddings and Clonakilty Pork Sausages. As main course we were served a Beef and Guinness Casserole and to end it all up we finished the meal with Apple Slices and Baileys Irish Cream. The only part of the meal that wasn't of Irish origin were the wines and we heard no complaints about that. |
 Husband Kjell celebrated the newly born with a fat cigar |
 Birgitta introduced her new novel... |
 ..to some 70 interested guests |
 Happy guests, each one with a copy of the book.. |
 ..signed by the author herself |
 Cheers to a successful new career as writer! |
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March 16th 2012 we were invited to attend a Prerelease Party arranged at restaurant Salt & Pepper in Puerto Banús on the occasion of Birgitta Bergin releasing her début book, "Tre Veckor" (Three Weeks), a relationship drama taking place days before Christmas in a period of, that's right, just three weeks. |
 Ingalill, our enthusiastic presenter |
 Satisfied and pleased audience |
 Aggressive lottery marketing |
 Michael Paasikivi passed by to sign his latest book |
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March 14th 2012 we were up at the Casita and listened to Ingalill Munther's informal talk over the subject Books that entertain, give knowledge and thrill where she introduced us to a number of books that she would like to recommend us and the reason why. Also Göran Sundius got his portion of the pesentation and told us about detective stories that he recommended for reading. Many of us got new inputs on books that we never had heard about before but that we now would attack on the first possible occasion. We were lucky with the lottery and won a copy of Mikael Paasikivi's first detective story, Gold in the Blood. The evening's menu consisted in braised rolls of beef with accompaniments such as eg an exquisite cream sauce and marinated cucumber Swedish style, all prepared and served by Kenneth. |
 Lovely weather wasn't it? |
 A dash of rose Cava could never be wrong |
 Per's homemade semla buns tasted YUM YUM! |
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February 28th each year we celebrate the Day of Andalusia which is a public holiday in Andalusia, i e nobody needs to go to work. And this without removing another holiday as happened in Sweden a couple of years ago when we decided to make our national holiday public. On the contrary, in Spain, as the 28th falls on a tuesday, people take the opportunity to stay home from work also on monday. Ourselves we grabbed the opportunity to merge the Spanish celebration with our own Shrovy Tuesday why Per presented us with his homemade "Semla" (Swedish bun filled with cream and almond paste). |
 New Chairman Christa welcomes us |
 At SWEA we love to meet over a delicious breakfast |
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Febrary 23rd 2012 SWEA arranged a Breakfast Meeting at Centro Forestal Sueco in Marbella. |
 Per won twice |
 Monika won a free entrance |
 We had great fun at our table! |
 If we didn't win we could always get a side win |
 Vibeke and Karl-Johan got both... |
 We rounded off the evening at Yoshiko's.. |
 ..in company with our good friends |
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On February 22nd 2012 it was time again for a Bingo with Shrimp Gourmandize up at the Casita. We were not just there, we also won prizes! Not just won, but won a lot and often! For the first time in his life Per won on the Bingo, not just once, but twice. Two rows on the same board. This evening our table was really the Winning Table with a capital "W". |
 Last lesson |
 The Party is on! |
 We find it quite fun to play.. |
 ..while Per supervises and gives us intructions |
 The Last Supper with Per and the disciples |
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February 20th 2012 was the day for the very last lesson of Per's Bridge Course for Beginners in the Casita and to celebrate this we, teacher and pupils, finished off with a hell-of-a Goodbye Dinner. There was an athmosphere of gaiety and the food, consisting of pork loin stuffed with prunes prepared by Kenneth, was very well tasting (as usual). |
 A thank you to loyal officials in the Casita |
 Ingalills specially designed card for Gun |
 After the meeting we were offered food and drinks |
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February 18th 2012 was set as the date for the Annual Meeting at AHN Nueva Andalucia. New board members were elected and the old ones were given a big "Thank You". A very special thank you was given to Gun who now, after seven years of service, is handing over to Bengt. Once the official part of the meeting was over we were presented with a delicious sandwich cake and drinks. |
 The Class assembled at the Casita backyard |
 Nelia showing how to roll over (Photo: Ingalill M) |
 Learning means concentration |
 Nelia in focus with our instructor, Lena |
 Ma Cherie showing her tricks |
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Every Saturday during the spring we attend a Dog Course at the Casita backyard, at least when the weather so permits. The courses are lead by Lena, professional dog- and horse instructor. A very nice Saturday activity and we are having great fun together! |
 Mia and Camilla |
 Rose-Marie greeting us welcome |
 Britten and Margaretha enjoying the sun |
 Aja and Agneta on their way to the meeting |
 The Annual Meeting ended with a delicious lunch |
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February 13th 2012 SWEA Marbella (Click for more info) had their Annual Meeting and besides the usual topics such as approval of the Annual Report, selection of new Board members, etc we had a delicious lunch together. We really have a good fellowship and do a lot of funny activities together in SWEA Marbella. |
 Monika and Gunilla waiting to be served |
 This is the way to dance Flamenco! |
 The Dancing Troup complete |
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This Sunday afternoon, February 12th 2012, Öystein, arranged a Spanish Dinner in his restaurant at NRC and with great expectations we headed for it. The meal, prepared by guest chef Antonio Madrid, we found so and so, mostly potatoes and fish, but the entertainment was top class. We were presented with world class Flamenco, performed by one of Spain´s best flamenco dancers, also he by the name of Antonio, who in his daily work teaches flamenco at the Flamenco Academy. As an encore, tenor Öystein sang a few songs, among those his show-piece number one, Oh Sole Mio, as always ackompanied by Philip. |
 Monika made a bag bargain |
 This is the way to deep fry churros... |
 ..preferably to be devoured on site |
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Sunday afternoons there is a Flea Market on the right-hand side of the road up to Benahavís and February 12th 2012 we made a trip there. Really a genuine Flea Market, different from all the Street Markets we have at different places all along the coast, all days of the week. A real "boot" market where people, mostly Englishmen, are taking the chance to get rid of a variety of stuff. Monika checked quite a few used hand bags whereas the highlight for Per was to put his teeth into a fresh deep fried "churro" which, dipped in hot chocolate is a real delicacy especially on cool days. |
 Welcoming the guests |
 Only happy faces around the table |
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February 10th 2012 it was time for a Networking Lunch organized by SWEA. As usual we met at restaurant Terra Sana right behind the Casino. This particular day we celebrated the one-year jubilee for our Networking Lunches. |
 Waiting for the Wine Sampling... |
 This night's presenter: Morgan Skantz |
 Our chef Kenneth, accompanied by the hostesses of the evening |
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Wednesday again, now February 8th 2012, and as every Wednesday thrilling activities up in our Casita, this time in the shape of a Wine Sampling lead by Morgan Skantz, well known wine expert and wine merchant on the coast. Morgan introduced us, in a very entertaining way, to Spanish wines, their background and history. If he hadn't chosen to dedicate his life to wine, he could successfully have made a career as entertainer. Morgan's presentation ended with an introduction to, and sampling of, three different wines from his own range, one white, one rosé and one red. Especially the white one, a verdejo (Trascampanas 2010, Bodega Gótica) from Valladolid, struck Per's fancy. The dish of the evening was prune-stuffed loin of pork, one of our local chef Kenneth's specialities, and definitely one of our favourites. |
 The evening's presenters - Sven and Irene |
 Sven reciting 'The Brig Blue Bird of Hull' |
 Monica and Rolf with friends |
 Among the guests: Leif, Marianne and Karin |
 Monika enjoying her Bouillabaisse |
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February 1st 2012 we attended a Taube Evening in AHN's Casita. Besides an exquisite Bouillabaisse prepared by our chef Kenneth, we were presented with not only fascinating stories from the life of Evert Taube but also poetry reading, singing-along and music. The reason for serving us Bouillabaisse was not only a hint to Evert Taubes life at sea but also to the Böljebäsarna society who regularly met at Restaurant Gyldene Freden in Stockholm to eat, drink and sing (like ourselves this lovely evening). |
 Tromb out over the sea |
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Right in the middle of the afternoon on January 27th 2012, when we went for a walk along the beach promenade we spotted a tromb out over the sea right in front of Costalita. Suddenly the water was lifted right up into the air. Quite unbelievable! This kind of things, we thought, do only happen in Oklahoma with surrounding areas. The photo was taken by our Irish friends with their mobile phone. |
 Per in good (blue) company |
 View over the Smurf Village |
 Walls are decorated with smurfs |
 Now in the Movie Business - here the Hollywood House |
 Almond trees were blooming beautifully.. |
 ..all along the mountain road |
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From time to time we make small excursions and now, end of January 2012, we took the opportunity to combine two activities. On narrow and winding mountain roads to and from Ronda we really got the chance to enjoy the dazzly almond trees blooming this time every year and we also took the opportunity to visit mountain village Júzcar (click here for more information), today mostly known as Spain´s very own Smurf Village, with all houses beautifully painted in blue, alive Smurfs in person and a popular tourist attraction. |
 Birgitta, host of the evening, looking after her guests |
 Fun with Bingo, isn't it?, opines Kurt |
 We didn't win, but are happy anyway! |
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January 31st 2012 was the date for this years first Bingo with Shrimp Gourmandize in AHN's Casita and we didn't miss this opportunity of course. No wins on the Bingo or the Lottery but Monika won a bottle of red on her entrance ticket. We had great fun in company of old and new friends. Per doesn't go there neither for the Bingo nor for the shrimps, but for the Västerbotten Cheese! |
 Our teacher Inger |
 Monika's class is small, but busy |
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January 11th 2012 Monika attended the first lecture of a new Spanish Course up in the Casita. The course, comprising twelve sessions during the spring, offers three different levels to pick from: beginners, a little more advanced than beginners, and advanced. The teacher, Inger, now retired, previously held a position as Spanish teacher at the Swedish school in Fuengirola. |
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2011 |
 Lars Friberg, Kent Schanke and Michael Wolf |
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The night before we left for Sweden, November 30th 2011, we went up to Los Naranjos Golf Club to see Michael Wolf, CEO of Swedbank, and to listen to his view, as well as the views of the bank, on the actual economical situation. Michael turned out to be a well informed as well as an entertaining speaker and we got a lot of good advise. On top of the presentations we were invited to a delicious buffet, with possibilities for more discusssions. |
 Per and Sven cheering to the 30 years |
 Öllegård, Fia and Lennart shared table |
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November 23rd 2011 AHN in Nueva Andalucia celebrated its 30 years and had, for that reason, invited us to an exquisite three-course Jubilee Dinner. During the dinner Gun Boström took the opportunity to tell us about the birth of the Casita as well as various episodes during its thirty year long history. It was interesting to hear that the birth and origin of the Casita was due to a number of Bridge players looking for a place to meet and play and for that reason acquired the Casita which today is the home for AHN Nueva Andalucia. So, thanks to the Bridge we all happy members today have this very nice place where we can meet and enjoy different kinds of activities. |
 The lunch started, as usual, with a glass of cava |
 Kerstin surrounded by our hostess Louise and Monika |
 Bengt says Thank You and cheers.. |
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November 20th 2011 we celebrated our yearly end-of-season lunch for the Bridge at NRC with the traditional handing over of the Tungården Cup, this year to Britta, being the one who had collected most Gold Stars over the year. As several times before, the Cup was handed over by the founder's daughter, Kerstin Tungården. The lunch, consisting of sole filets, followed at the NRC restaurant. |
 Monika mingling with Helena and Kent |
 Lena representing in SWEA's own monter |
 Two happy SWEA women |
 Also Per mingled some, here in pretty company |
 Rose-Marie, today elected Swede of the Year on the coast |
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November 15th 2011 SWEA arranged as usual their annual Mini Fair at Centro Forestal Sueco in Marbella and we were there. While Per circulated, sampling all the delicacies offered in the shape of Tapas and Wines, Monika took the opportunity to mingle. |
 Gun greeted us with a small speach |
 Per was placed next to the goose, sorry, Eva |
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On November 12th 2011, we attended, for once a Goose Dinner, arranged up in the Casita. A little exotic for those of us without roots in Scania (Southern Sweden), so as a precaution we had the traditional "Black Soup" (soup prepared from the goose's blood) replaced by a delicious lobster chowder. |
 Per, for the day in a new shirt and scarf, and Lelle |
 Monika and Louise ready to party |
 At our table we were also in company of Lasse |
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On November 5th 2011 we attended a Mask Ball, or at least something that looked very much like one. During the day the yearly Golf Tournament Presiden'ts Cup took place, ending with a common Dinner and Prize giving ceremony in the evening. To make this event even more entertaining, we were all asked to dress only in Black and Red, which we tried to live up to the best we could. |
 Two girls from Småland attended the show.. |
 and so did an Optimist Consultant |
 The models were presented with a rose by Brittens husband |
 Gulle was a model... |
 ..and so was Monica.. |
 ..and Birgitta |
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November started in a good way. Already on the 2nd Anki and Monika attended Britten's Fashion Show at Miraflores Golf. After finally finding the way there, which wasn't easy in the dark, we had a great night. The dark? Guess I forgot to tell you that, since more than a month now, the local governments don't pay their electricity bills why the Electricity Board (quite logically) cut off the power deliveries leading to the majority of main roads being completely without light. |
 Visiting Gunnar and Astrid at La Quinta |
 Life is good - at Anki's and Kjell's place |
 Flamenco follow-up party on Louise's roof terrace |
 Monika and Margareta savouring Friberg's tapas |
 Wedding Day Toast (our own) on Emmet's and Ursula's Terrace |
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During the month of October we grabbed the opportunity - as always - to enjoy the company of our friends on the coast and above there are a few photos from different occasions. |
 Going there we stopped for a coffee break... |
 ..and some new acquaintances |
 reaching our destination we could finally stretch our legs |
 Per was a busy photographer down in the museum |
 Lunch after a thorough research of the excavations |
 Britta and Ingrid enjoying a cup of coffee in Tarifa |
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On October 30th 2011, almost a year after Monika made the same trip, Per participated in a oneday tour with AHN to the Atlantic coast, right after Gibraltar, for a visit to the old Roman town Baelo Claudia (Click for info) with its excavations. On the way back home a stop was made in Tarifa where opportunity was given for some strolling around in the Old Town or just sitting down for a cup of coffee. |
 Gunnar, do you think we will win tonight, asks Åsa? |
 Even if we don't win, we gorge ourselves with shrimps |
 Isn't he saving some for me? |
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October 26th 2011 it was time again for a Bingo with Shrimp Gourmandize up in AHN's Casita. No Bingo wins this time for us but Per won a bottle of wine on his entrance ticket. Always something! |
 We laughed a lot. Some... |
 ...more than others |
 Sometimes we girls meet for some networking and lunch |
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October 25th 2011 SWEA had invited Optimist Consultant Ingalill Enbom for a presentation and Monika, of course, didn't miss this opportunity. A little bit suspect title maybe, but it proved to be of good value as well as entertaining. |
 The pupils felt a little bit lost the first session |
 Per registrating Margareta |
 Class gathered together with their teacher |
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On the 24th of October 2011 AHN in Nueva Andalucia started a Bridge Course for Beginners headed by Per. The course, attended by 23 pupils, runs on monday afternoons during autumn and spring, with a total of ten sessions, each one with a duration of three hours, out of which half is theory and half is practical card play (adapted to the same day's theory). |
 A beautiful shot by Carl Mason - final winner of the competition |
 We spectators enjoyed the game as well as the sun |
 Among the players was our old pro - Terry Bourgoyne |
 The ball was finally found - up in the tree!! |
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On October 16th 2011 we went to La Quinta golf course to follow the final day's play of the men's Benahavís Senior Masters, part of the European Senior Tour. |
 What's up for dinner? |
 As usual Öystein offered a tasty buffet |
 ..accompanied by - first class flamenco |
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October 15th 2011 Öystein invited us to a Flamenco Show at NRC Restaurant. |
 Mingle... |
 ..mingle... |
 ..and even more mingle |
 Mingle... |
 ..mingle... |
 ..and even more mingle |
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On the 12th of October 2011 time had finally come for us to start up the autumn season at AHN's Casita and the usual way this was done with an evening for mingling where the Casita offered drinks and food for free, this time a delicious homemade pie with salad. We were also coddled with soft live music out in the mild summer night in the garden. We were around 80 persons taking this opportunity to great ourselves welcome down to the coast and wishing that the evening would never end. Those of you who are still not members and looking for occasions to enjoy yourselves with different activities together with other scandinavians on the coast can now be members for 2012 and as a gift this membership will also be valid for the remining part of 2011. An overview of activities offered is found on the Casita web page (access by clicking on the word Casita above). |
 Roslagsbälgarna stroke up for dancing |
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6th of October 2011 Öystein invited us to his Oktoberfest at NRC where we enjoyed a very nice evening with delicacies for our stomachs as well as for our ears. Responsables for the music were the accordeon group Roslagsbälgarna from Sweden and their very talented female lead singer. We were all singing along as well as dancing to the wellknown melodies, mostly from the sixties. |
 Agneta and Monika |
 Pernilla with father, Peter |
 ..and some of the guests |
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October 1st 2011 we were invited by ceramic artist Agneta Larsen to her vernissage, this time taking place up in Benahavís, where we could admire her latest works at restaurant El Castillo (Click for more info) run by Swedish Pernilla. Besides lovely weather and breathtaking views we were also offered drinks and an assortment of herring preparations on Swedish hard (knäcke) bread. |
 It was a Full Moon night... |
 Our guide Daniel joining his pack.. |
 ..where the white female wolf greets him |
 Waiting for the Full Moon we enjoyed a 3-course meal |
 Expectations were great.. |
 ..and soon it will be time!! |
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On September the 12th 2011 there was a Full Moon and to celebrate this SWEA arranged an excursion to Antequera (Click for more info) and the Wolf Park Lobo Park close by, under the theme Howl with the Wolves. |
 Öystein's Easter Plate.. |
 and Chicken Yellow, were the ingredients |
 ..for a night ending with a concert by the "Three tenors" |
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April 21st 2011, Maundy Thursday, we started the celebration of our Semana Santa (Easter) for "real". It all took place up at NRC and started with bodily nourishment, an Easter Plate designed Öystein, which, by tradition, was followed by coffee and suitable matching beverage up at Louise's place. To end up the evening, and to make it complete, we finally enjoyed a portion of spiritual nourishment consisting of a Concert by the "3 divos" down in Öystein's restaurant. |
 Barbro and Anki, interested audience |
 Special T-shirts were for sale |
 The whole route is well indicated with signs |
 On "approved" pilgrimage, a diploma is issued |
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On April 13th 2011 we headed, with our friends Barbro and Kjell, towards the Casita where the Wednesday program this week consisted of Monika Wahlström showing photos from and talking about her Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage in 2010. This year also happened to be special, a so-called Holy or Jubilee year, a year when St James's Day, July 25th, falls into a Sunday, why the number of pilgrims was extra large (next Holy/Jubilee Year will be in 2021). |
 The wine sampling took place at Casa Santi in Marbella |
 On arrival we were offered a glass of Cava |
 Rose-Marie Wiberg greeted us welcome |
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April 5th 2011 SWEA arranged a Wine Sampling at the Casa Santi in Marbella. We were 18 participants, full of expectations who, guided by the competents enologs of the house, got an introduction to, as well a sample testing of four red and two white wines, each one of them representing a different region of Spain. |
 Alexandra with her 1,6 million bag |
 Anki, Louise and Kerstin were there |
 Greeting the participants is part of the show |
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On Tuesday March 24th 2011 the coast had a visit by Alexandra Charles, invited by the Marbella SWEA (Swedish Womens Association) Club. Alexandra, burning for equal rights, health and feminism, was (as usual) warm to her subject, The 1,6- and 2,6-million Clubs, her darlings. |
 Per assists with the Cava |
 A little Guiness publicity can't be wrong |
 Many hats around this night |
 It all should be green, including the drinks |
 We had a table of our own... |
...close to the orchestra |
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The National Saint of Ireland, St Patrick, is celebrated on March 17th every year and down here we celebrate him the following weekend. On March 19th we, and some 150 other people, went to the Atalaya Golf Restaurant to celebrate. Before going there we were presented cava up at Louise's place. We were accompanied by some Irish friends: Don, Dan and Jennifer from NRC as well as Emmet and Dave from Costalita. |
 Karin... |
 ..and Gulle at CFS... |
 ...and Marie-Louise at Los Arqueros |
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March 20th and 22nd 2011 there were two different Fashion Shows with just a day in between. First Britten Emme's show where she displays clothes of her own design at the Centro Forestal Sueco and two days later SWEA's annual Spring show at Los Arqueros Golf Club. |
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March 23rd 2011 it was time for the Bingo with Shrimp Gourmandize in the Casita again. No wins this time either, but we had a nice evening and the Västerbotten Cheese to the shrimps taisted mmm! |
 Myran and Per enjoying each others company |
 Bosse with his "All-in-One"-sandwich |
 Ann-Britt and Mats gourmandizing |
 Anki and Per eating heartily.. |
 Per's favourite, creamy Queso de Tetilla, Tit Cheese |
 Eva showed on the map where the cheeses came from |
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We all know about Wine Tasting, but now was the time to taste one of its main accessories, the cheese. March 16th 2011 we participated in a very interesting Cheese Tasting evening at the Casita, lead by Eva Gevius who, during her many years long stay in Spain, has taken the opportunity to know more about Spanish Cheese. Not any cheese like that but cheese typical for the different Spanish Regions. Nine different cheeses were not only presented to us, but we also got the opportunity to sample each one of them. In large portions! Guess if we were full up after that! |
 You start by shaping a small egg... |
 ...and end up with a small birdie |
 ...who now has found a home |
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On March 9th 2011 our Casita was visited by the very own Swedish Ceramics artist of the Coast, Agneta Larsen (click for info), who told us about herself, her background and her daily life. She also took the opportunity to introduce us interested spectators into the mysteries of ceramics artistery. Right in front of our eyes she created a small clay birdie. Following Agneta's presentation we were offered a more bodily nourishment in the shape of Kenneth's Fish Gratin. |
 The hero of the occasion |
 Inga-Britt from Wexio was there |
 Almost everybody gets a window table at Öystein's place |
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On tuesday March 8th 2011 Öystein arranged a small Semla Party (Semla is a Swedish delicacy consisting of a bun, filled with cream and almond paste, which by tradition should be eaten on the Tuesday of Lent) up at his NRC restaurant. We were a group of delighted persons getting the opportunity to enjoy this little piece of bread. As a starter we were presented a delicious Goulasch Soup with wine why we all were full and happy when leaving the table. |
 Interested audience |
 The theme for the day |
 Ragnhild used computer support to show her photos |
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March 2nd 2011 Ragnhild gave us a talk about the Flowers and the Bees at Casitan's traditional Wednesday meeting. Ragnhild's presentation was accompanied by beautiful photos of flowers, and also a few bees, photos that she and her husband Stig have been collecting over the years. |
 La Bib guided us in Marrakech |
 One night we were at a show! |
 We had a cup of tea at famous La Mamounia |
 Soussi was our guide for the whole trip |
 ...while Karim was our local guide in Fès |
 Marrakech by night |
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The week February 20th-26th 2011 Monika and Gunilla went on a bus trip to Maruecos (click for info) where they spent a few days (and nights) at hotels in Fès, Marrakech and Rabat while also "on the way" visiting Casablanca and Tangiers. |
 Jim Broberg presents MásMovil... |
 ...and Ingalill Munther tells us about... |
 ...a selection of famous Spanish artists |
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February 16th 2011 the very own artist of the Casita, Ingalill Munther, told us in a very engaged way about a number of well known as well as less known Spanish Artists accompanied by a slide show. Ingalill's lecture was preceded by an introduction by Jim Broberg to MásMovil, for the moment the cheapest Spanish mobile operator (connection charge 15 cents / call charge 5 cents per minute to all Spanish mobile phones and landlines). |
 We started with an ordinary class... |
 ...and finished with a thank you to the master... |
 ..and the assistants/disciples Irene & Ingvar |
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January 7th 2011 was the date for the second last session of Per's Beginner's Class in Bridge and as some of the participants had other more important things to do on the day for the last session we decided to finish the day with an early "Good Bye" dinner with plenty of good food (Pork fillet stuffed with prunes) and beverage. Irene and Ingvar, who has been taking care of all the practical things around the course, were thanked with flowers and wine and the same honour was also given to "professor" Per. |
 Blooming Almond Trees |
 Our guide Miguel was born in the area |
 We had lunch in a local home |
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February 7th 2011 Monika participated in a whole day excursion, organized by SWEA, to the old village Alfarnate (Click for info), located some 50 kms to the east of Málaga, up in the mountains. The date for this excursion was carefully picked in order to enjoy, at maximum, the blooming almond trees covering fields and hillsides. We also found the time for a visit to the olive oil plant "Nuestra Señora de Monsalud" in Alfarnate. The peak experience of the trip was that we at lunchtime, divided into smaller groups, were invited to enjoy a genuine Spanish lunch with the locals in their homes. |
 Monika got a book with personal dedication |
 As usual an athmosphere of gaiety at the Shrimp Party |
 Åke had more luck with the lottery than with the Bingo |
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Every Wednesday during the season (October-April) Club Nordico arranges different programs in their Casita up in Nueva Andalucía followed by a common dinner at a low cost (12€ for members and 14€ for non-members). On January 19th 2011, one of the new Swedish authors of detective stories, Mikael Paasikivi gave a presentation of his new book, Gold in the Blood, and it's background and there was also a possibility for the guests to get signed copies of the same. The following week, on January 26th 2011, it was time again for one of the most popular and well visited arrangements of Club Nordico, i e the Bingo with Shrimp Gormandize where, except for the shrimps in unlimited quantity there is also offered toasted bread with cheese from Västerbotten (For non-Swedes a short explanation is that this is the top of the top when it comes to cheese in Sweden, produced in the Västerbotten County, far up north). Yum-yum!! |
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2010 |
 Per serverar värdinnan lite cava |
 Först cava, alternativt öl och Gammel Dansk... |
 ...och sedan trevlig middag inomhus |
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November got an excellent start with an open air Cocktail Party up at Louise's place and ended with traditional Halloween celebrations in our home, this time in nice company with Irene, Ingvar, Inger and Arne. |
 We had to pay a small fee ... |
 Fashion show following the lunch at Castillo de Monda |
 Models thanking the audience |
 Marbella Design Academy |
 Hostesses for the Day, Britten and Ewa |
 Elegant, don't you think?" |
 Monika, one of the new models |
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Twice in a short period of time, October 25th and November 2nd SWEA arranged excursions to Monda. On the first occasion we visited the design school Marbella Design Academy whereupon we had lunch at the castle, Castillo de Monda. The second time was a more informal one. We were invited to the home of Britten Emme where we tried out clothes and made some modeling between ourselves, a very entertaining experience. |
 Nuevo Presidente, Rolf, supervisando el pago de entradas |
 Algunos tenian más suerte que los otros |
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Octubre 27 2010 se celebró el primer Bingo con Hartura de langostinos de la temporada en la Nueva Andalucia Casita de AHN. La noche fué muy agradable aún que los premios no fueron repartidos en una manera igual (vease foto arriba). Nuestro nuevo proclamante de Bingo, Janne, llevó su misión a cabo con bravura y con seguridad vamos a verle de nuevo en un futuro próximo. |
 Afraid? Me? |
 Our instructor, Vivian, is tough, but fair |
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Per is not the only one involved in education. Also Nelia is attending school from time to time. Here we participate in a lesson down at the San Pedro beach with around 20 dogs in the class although Nelia herself prefers the Estepona course as there are not so many dogs there. |
 Juego práctico forma parte del curso |
 Bajo supervisión. Foto: Sven Sörnäs |
 Bridge es el sujeto principal también durante las pauses |
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During the autumn 2010 and spring 2011 Per leads a Bridge Course for Beginners in AHN's Casita up in Nueva Andalucia. The course, comprising 10 lessons, has received a very big interest why, even though the capacity of the Casita is used to its maximum, all interested could not be admitted. 25 lucky disciples are now attending this course on monday evenings and coutiously doing their homework during the rest of the week. Hopefully the majority of the pupils will be able to attend the ordinary AHN bridge on thursday nights after completion of the course. |
 Olle told us enthusiastically about Argentina |
 We were presented with delicious food and beverage |
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On October 20th 2010 we visited AHN's everyweek Wednesday program up in Nueva Andalucia and this time we had the pleasure to listen to Olle Montelius who, in an initiated way and with enthusiasm, told us about Argentina. Olle has, except for the fact that he himself lived in the country for many years, previously arranged as many as nine round trips for interested Swedes in the country and mid February next year is set as the date for next trip over there which, according to Olle, will be the last one arranged by himself. Following Olles presentation we were also offered an exquisite meal, plum-stuffed loin of pork. |
 The Guide showing a model of Bolonia |
 Bolonia's antique remains were perfect for a rest |
 Walking down to Tarifa for a coffee upon the meal |
 Merry faces in the bus |
 The bus driver just succeeded with a U turn to take us down again |
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October 18th 2010 Monika went with SWEA on a whole day excursion to the Atlantic coast, right behind Gibraltar, where modern town Tarifa as well as some historical places were visited. First historical place to explore was the old Roman town Baelo Claudia (Click for info) with its excavations on the beach, and from there the tour went on to Castellar de la Frontera (Click for info) built on the top of a rock and completely surrounded by an old Morish Castle. As a bonus when going to Castellar de la Frontera we drove through the eastern outskirts of Alcornocales natural park with Europe's, and one of the world's largest populations of naturally growing Cork Oak. |
 Best friends |
 At NRC wafles were served... |
 .. and at the Casita we got drinks and tapas |
 The Werding Clan on our terrace |
 New participant record at the Casita season's opening |
 Two happy Flee Market visitors |
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During week 41, i.e. mid October 2010 several things took place. Our friends Jan and Gunilla had their daughter Anna with kids visiting, the Annual Flee Market was arranged at the Nordic Royal Club and, finally, the AHN Casita up in Nueva Andalucia invited to their Grand Opening for the season with free drinks and tapas. |
 Ivan Renliden ackompanied on piano |
 Kjerstin got flowers after the performance |
 ..and the Rome Choir in the background |
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October 8-9th 2010 we had a celebrity visit on the coast by Kjerstin Dellert and Ivan Renliden who gave two performances, one at the Swedish Church in Fuengirola and one at the Los Naranjos Golf Restaurant. Kjerstin was ackompanied by, except for Ivan Renliden, also by the Rome Choir (Romkören) lead by Kicki Bothén. |
 Spectacular thunder storms during the Night |
 Villa Padierna - pretty Club House and Hotel |
 Laura Davies, winner of the Tournament |
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The weekend September 16th-19th 2010, Los Flamingos Golf Club, right across the road from Costalita, hosted the Open de España, one of the tournaments on the Ladies European Golf Tour. Due to heavy rains and thunder storms during the night Thursday-Friday, the game had to be shortened from four to three days. In the leader ball the last day we could see Laura Davies from England and Carin Koch from Sweden where Laura finally ended as winner. |
August 4th - 8th 2010 Michelle Obama and her 9-year old daughter Sasha picked our beautiful part of
the coast for a few days of vacation. During their visit they stayed at Hotel Villa Padierna right across the street from Costalita and, during their
short, but hectic, visit they found the time to visit Marbella, Ronda as well as Granada och Alhambra. One afternoon was dedicated to going swimming
in the Mediterranean and for this purpose they picked our very own beach which, for this occasion, had been thorougly cleaned and got some new palm
trees. The beach itself, a stretch of some 50 metres right below old Sharky's, next to the Playa Bella Hotel, was temporarily closed to the public
and access to the same was strictly controlled by some hundred US Security Guards and the Spanish Police in cooperation. The swimming session was, to
Sashas great delight, followed by a visit to the Selwo Wildlife Park in Estepona.
Three months after the visit of Michelle Obama life returned to normal. The remains of the American flag on half pole and our brave
EU flag torn to pieces. Is it a reflection of the world economy we see here? It would have been stupid by Villa Padierna not to take advantage of
this opportunity for publicity so it didn't take long before a sign came up informing that Mrs Michelle Obama was there to "inaugurate" the
restaurant. The truth, however, is that Mrs Obama was there for vacation and that the restaurant was not even opened at that moment.
Nuestra Playa fué invadido por visitantes y Guardias
Michelle disfrutando Marbella
Sasha en el agua con Governante y Guardias
Flag Parade
New bragging sign