You're Never Too Old To Be Young: Get Your Party On!

I am thirty-five, which actually when written down, seems a whole lot younger than I thought it was five minutes ago, and although I sometimes ponder over 'getting older', I stop and realize that in fact, I have at least another (lets say I live to 95), SIXTY-YEARS left on this amazing Earth.  

So, in essence, I've only just begun...let's just hope the Earth can hold out as long!

I am thirty-five.  I frustratingly made it through my 'zits and, you're dumped' teenage years, painstakingly yet spectacularly sailed through my 'why doesn't he love me, we've been together two whole months...oh look he's cute, lets do shots' twenties, and then, somehow amidst all the excitement and adventure, arrived at thirty-five with a husband and family in tow?  

And, while my teenage years are a distant memory, my twenties continue to linger a little closer, but nothing compares to life right now.  I am thirty-five and I am in complete control.  My heart knows exactly what it wants when it comes to love and friendship, my mind is clear in that I choose my life and to not put up with other people's crap, and unless it's been a long scorching day in the sun (aka August bullfight), my drinking prowess is (gotta say it) better than ever!

Life is better than ever: right now!

While I'm certainly not a 'squillionaire' celebrity, nor would I desire to be, I have been privileged and adventurous enough to be able to and continue to live and travel around the world and experience some amazing moments that, even if my memory fails me down the track, I'll have hundreds of thousands of photos to relive them.

And, somehow on a drunken night in a little town bar, I met an amazingly patient man who decided that he'd be crazy to live without me (or with sometimes I'm sure).  

Then of course, after being the poster child for not having children for thirty-something years, my clock obviously 'tick-tocked' away furiously, as Michael came into our lives and, well, I don't need to explain that kind of love...in fact I probably couldn't anyway.

Life, right now is so much fun!

I noticed a comment recently, written to a same age friend that read 'Aren't you too old to be doing that', and immediately I thought how naive or smart a*s, either one could work.  

Why should there be an age limit on fun, on going out dancing and drinking (a lot), on riding roller coasters, jumping in bounce houses, dressing up in costume, or anything else that is considered 'too old'?  

I remember in my smart a*s twenties, thinking that thirty seemed SO old, and the sight of anyone over such an abominable age at a bar made me wonder if instead, they should be home with their family or knitting.  However, I also always remember those same people not giving a sh*t...just like I don't now.

In fact the only difference between my getting my party on at twenty-one and me at thirty-five is the  daily midriff and belly button piercing bearing tops (then) and now, my love of short skirts and boots (it's a Spanish thing)!

I've been lucky to have made some amazing friends (old and new) who, just like me love to go out and just enjoy life, whether it be an all-nighter at a bar or over a few wines at a BBQ, friends are the key to staying young...friends who like me, don't already consider themselves old...trust me it's gonna happen eventually, why bring it on any quicker?

But, is this age appropriateness, this so called book of 'age limits' true of all countries?  Do Australians and Europeans party the same, age the same, live life with the same zest?  

I'd like to believe so, however,  aside from the party state of California (whoop whoop), Germany and Spain hands down blow everyone else out of the water with their 'all age' partying...it's almost, actually it is impossible to keep up with them!  

There is no such thing as an age limit...you are definitely never too tall to ride that party!

So, whether you are thirty-five or sixty-five, next time you want to rock out, instead of thinking 'I'm too old to do that or go there', give a big eff you to age and anyone that stands in your way, and GO get your fun on!  

You are NEVER too old to be young!  

Crikey!

Portuguese Weekend: Tavira, Lagos and Cape Sagres!

Tavira at Low Tide

With the border of Portugal and the Algarve Coast being a short, you'd be crazy to not go, drive away from Rota, Spain, we decided to pack up the kiddos and spend the weekend exploring the, often passed by quaint fishing village Tavira, the touristy yet spectacular beach town Lagos and the draw-dropping edge of the Earth...Cape Sagres!

With passports (not that being part of the EU we ever needed to show them), snacks and the iPad packed we began driving towards Tavira, a short three-hour endless packets of Swedish fish and corny singing car games, drive away. 

After checking in to Residencia Hotel Por do Sol , a small family owned residence with quaint yet extremely large apartment style rooms, we began to explore Tavira.

TAVIRA

Known as the 'Venice of Algarve', Tavira is a quiet, pedestrian friendly and charming town with only 8,000 residents in the heart.  

Golden sunset-facing, wicker chaired street and roof top cafes, the majestic yet overgrown climbable ruins of the Moorish castle, the thirty-seven beautiful churches, and the miss-match of Moorish, Renaissance, and gothic architecture splashed throughout the village make Tavira a photographer's dream, and for Michael, an endless playground.

Gardens within the Tavira Castle Walls

Tavira boasts the Santa Maria do Costella, the resting place for Dom Paia Perez Correia and his knights of the Grand Order who heroically fought against the Moorish in 1242, and the beautiful Moorish castle rebuilt after the thirteenth century Christian conquest of the Algarve, with it's magical pomegranate trees and pebble paved gardens within the castle walls.

Although Tavira certainly flowed with charm and romance, especially at sunset standing on the Roman bridge above the River Gilao, it felt very very English.   

Clearly, by the endless tourist shops selling English flag souvenirs, boomerangs of all things and chicken fridge magnets, in the Summer months Tavira must certainly be a bustling hub for English and I guess Australian tourists, not to mention the featured pie/fish and chips, salad sandwiches and ham sandwiches menu items boasted at every restaurant.

In fact, as we were not able to find one traditional Portuguese restaurant, not that I actually would have known what traditional Portuguese food was anyway, we opted for Indian at the Punjabi Palace, a family owned restaurant that grows their own organic chili peppers in the garden behind the restaurant. 

The next morning after a delightful sunrise rooftop breakfast overlooking Tavira, we ventured towards are next stop, Lagos, a quick one-hour drive away.

LAGOS

Lagos, Portugal, not to be confused with Lagos, Nigeria, is a bustling beach town (in the Summer) that stretches along the Algarve coastline with endless golden sand beaches, dramatic cliff formations and secret caves majestically set over pristine blue waters, and is indeed a spectacular warm destination, one that, to me epitomises a typical bikini-clad beach scene from any James Bond movie.

Lagos, originally part of the Turdetania (Algarve - Sierra Morena region) was founded almost 2000 years before Christ for the Conios people (Turdetanos) and as with most villages and towns along the Algarve, is renowned for and relies on both tourism and fishing to support it's economy.  

After meandering through town admiring the ocean backdrop, we stopped at Ponte de Piedade, just one of five spectacular cliffs with steep wood and concrete steps leading to the water's edge, took off our sandals, rolled up our jeans and began climbing down towards the ocean.  

If the weather had been just a touch warmer and I'd packed my beads and white-bikini, the scene would have been set, but instead, we splashed around in the water while admiring the towering rock cliffs above us, wandered through the caves and promised to come back in the Summer time.  

                                                                                   

Michael had a little too much fun in the water, actually taking an accidental dip, resulting in saturated clothes and a crying long steep ascent to the top of the cliff, riding on Chad's shoulders, but a quick trunk change = happy Michael later and we were climbing down another cliff, this time towards an ocean inlet where any local Joe tourist operators offer a 15-minute ride around the cliffs in their small fishing boat at 20 Euro per person. 

We decided to pass on this option, given that one, I get incredibly sea sick and two, 20 Euro per person just doesn't float my boat (excuse the pun).  I am sure it is a lovely experience, although come Summer time, I can imagine the wait to be rather extensive.

Summer time in Lagos would be a sun worshipper's paradise!

CAPE SAGRES

Before Christopher Columbus proved that the Earth was indeed round, Cape Sagres was considered the 'Edge of the Earth'.  Cape Sagres was also considered a vital location for European navigational knowledge and haven for pirates.  

In May 1746, while traveling with an armed convoy from Genoa to England, Christopher Columbus was attacked by pirates at Cape Sagres (Vincent), sinking his ship and forcing him to escape by swimming six miles to shore.

Such expeditions and the competitive lure for New World discovery, prompted Prince Henry the Navigator to build his navigator's school at Cape Sagres, the same Prince Henry the NAVIGATOR who never actually sailed on any of his expeditions.

Cape Sagres is windy and desolate yet with it's saturated red cliffs and the remains of Prince Henry's navigator's school tightly secured within the 18th Century fortress that dominates the cape, surrounded by torrential crashing waves, amazing.

Standing on the edge of the Earth gazing out on the endless clashing tides of the ocean while watching a dark storm gathering was humbling and wildly intimidating.  

As my eyes briefly skipped along the cliffs, watching the gulls soar and dip with the wind currents, I noticed brave fishermen precariously perched on small rock ledges half-way down the cliffs, fishing pole in one hand, cigarette in the other, with legs casually dangling over the crashing waves and sharp rocks.

I at that moment realized that, while I may have felt insignificant against the incredible force of Cape Sagres, to them, it was just another day at the edge of the Earth, fishing.

With windswept hair, windburn lips (mmm sexy) and hungry bellies, we gorged on fresh seafood and wine at the wonderful Portuguese restaurant  Telhiero do Infante nestled below the cliffs and overlooking the ocean...maravilhoso!

Portugal - the Algarve was an absolutely amazing weekend getaway from Spain in the Winter time, so I can only imagine how the sun-kissed Summer, with my James Bond bikini and a cool glass of wine would feel.

Crikey!

Part II: Yes, You Can Work at Naval Station Rota, Spain!

When we received our orders to Rota, Spain, the first thing some random Rota Facebook person told me was that I couldn't work there, so I'd better get used to the idea of being a stay-at-home-mUm (SAHM) for the next three years.

Initially I thought, rock on, three years of chilling out in Spain, traveling every other weekend and just rancho relaxing with Michael.  Husband couldn't complain, I was being told by the powers that be, that working just wasn't an option, so I happily locked my mindset onto that 'lady of leisure' lifestyle.

However, upon arriving in Spain I was informed that 'that' power that be wasn't entirely accurate and that I could in fact apply for work in the General Service (GS), Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF), Contract Hire, and Community Classes Instructor system, and could actually use my 'coveted' military spouse preference for some of these positions to beat out other candidates.   In this article, I will be covering the GS and NAF employment opportunities.

BUT (there is always a but) as I found out very quickly and frustratingly, actually obtaining a desired GS position was less about that Bachelor Degree or ten years of experience in the exact field of application (go figure) and more about the most important of qualifications...LUCK!

The Naval Station Rota (NAVSTA) job market is one tough nut to crack and if you're not clued in, you may end up being the nut that cracks, so read on!

But before I go any further, let me clarify that my views in this post are based on actual experiences and experiences from many sources on base since I've been here.  Let me also state that I support our troups and our veterans 100%, I truly believe that if you are willing to sacrifice your life for my freedom, then absolutely, rock on, you deserve my praise and an edge (Veterans Preference) in obtaining a GS position...that I'll never deny.  Now, that the legal mumbo jumbo as such is covered, let me continue.

My goal here is to explain very clearly and honestly the application procedures, regulations and absolute lack of common sense in obtaining certain forms of employment here at NAVSTA Rota so that you know exactly what to expect before you, like me go through a YEAR of roller coaster emotions from 'whoohoo' to 'maybe'  to 'are you effing kidding me'.  

DoDDs: David G Farragut School

It is possible...there are actually a few hen's teeth to retrieve, you just need some luck and an in-depth knowledge of the types of positions available, where to find them, and how the whole gatekeeper Human Resources Office system works.   

I truly believe that spouses become incredibly frustrated and angry when applying for GS positions through HRO because simply put, there is no transparency in or explanation of the regulations.  It's a simple 'no you weren't selected because you were blocked by a veteran', 'no, although the form we sent you (some 3 weeks after the job was filled) said that you didn't apply by the due date, you were actually blocked by a veteran'.  

But what about my military spouse preference (insert sarcastic chuckle here)?

Of the six or seven GS positions that I applied for in the almost one year since arriving, only ONCE did I actually make it through the Veteran's blockade and land a GS position...one that I truly love, so it is possible, it just takes some patience and a whole box of four leaf clovers!

GENERAL SERVICE (GS) POSITIONS

These positions are the golden ticket, as not only are they annually salaried, but they entitle you to paid sick leave, annual leave, living assistance benefits, health benefits and promotion to higher GS grades.  You MUST be a US Citizen and have a least one year left on your sponsor's orders.  All GS position vacancy announcements are displayed on a notice board inside the Human Resources Office in Building 1 and in a folder at the Fleet and Family Support Centre.  Vacancy announcements are also advertised in the Coastline (free base newspaper) and on the HRO website, however, they are not always updated, so I suggest visiting HRO every other day.

How to Apply

First things first... that standard prettied up resume you have with the cute fonts and header will not cut it.  You MUST redo your resume in the boring yet precise required Federal format which although tedious at first, can easily be tweaked for each vacancy announcement.  If you've never seen a Federal Resume (I hadn't), they are very specific in line items, required verbiage and format.

The Fleet and Family Support Centre (FFSC) offers free Federal Resume classes (727-3232) with computer access, although if you have a current resume that you would like them to look at, I suggest walking in and asking if anyone has a few minutes to look over it.  Don't wait for the class if a position you are applying for cuts off sooner.  The staff at the FFSC are wonderful.

Cut-Off Dates: Every vacancy announcement has a cut-off date and future weekly cut-off dates, meaning that you must have your application (manually handed) to HRO by the cut-off date to be applicable for review and possible referral.   I always ensured that my applications were in by the first cut-off date, as that's the first batch of resumes looked at.  If HRO find suitable candidates in that first week, regardless of the fact that you made the second cut-off date, you're out of luck!   Get in first!

With each new vacancy announcement you will need to provide a copy of your sponsors orders, veterans preference form (if applicable) your resume, military spouse preference form (if applicable) and the standard application form.  HRO do NOT keep copies of your paperwork, therefore for each vacancy announcement, you must complete and submit the forest of paperwork.

NAVSTA Commissary & Exchange

After you have submitted your application, wait one week then call HRO to follow up on the status of the announcement number.  As a rule, while the employer has up to (30) days to make a selection from the referrals, HRO will be able to tell you within a week if you were blocked by a veteran or were referred for the position.

Your sponsor's mailbox 'will' also receive a notification of the outcome, however I only ever received one...that's why I say call!

NON-APPROPRIATED FUNDS (NAF) POSITIONS

These numerous part-time/permanent/flexible positions are recruited by but not limited to the three major employers:  Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR), Navy Exchange (NEX) and the Department of Defense Dependent Schools (DoDDs), and range from lifeguard to substitute teacher.  NAF positions are available to veterans, spouses, civilian contractor spouses, and the beauty of these positions is that they do not require US Citizenship, nor do they follow the Veteran's preference hierarchy.

NAF positions offer hourly wages ranging from approx US $7.00-14.00p/h and are probably the quickest way to gain employment on base. Note, however, that as a NAF employee you are not entitled to paid sick leave, health benefits, living assistance...still, it's money in your pocket to travel and enjoy Spain!  Plus, from what  I have been told(?), if you hold a NAF position for one year you are eligible to jump into the GS system, but then again one hears many things when it comes to the mythical NAF-GS system jump!

How To Apply

MWR positions (the Godfather of the base) posts available positions on their website, and within their office in building (1) beside HRO, PSD across from the hospital.  NEX and DoDDs post in the Coastline and at .  You are not required to submit a Federal or standard resume, rather you simply complete an application form that details your work and education experience. 

What if I'm Not a Military Spouse?

I won't lie, for GS positions, you'll need the luck of the Irish to get you through!  The totem pole for preference as such puts you almost at the bottom behind veterans and military spouses, although in saying this, I still strongly suggest applying for GS positions as you just never know when that veteran or military spouse will not apply or in fact be selected for a position.  Stranger things have happened!

In conclusion, although it may become frustrating at times, there are some great opportunities to work on base...or if the daily grind isn't for you, there are some great volunteer opportunities with Rota Animal Welfare League (RAWL) who I happen to know are currently looking to fill the President and Secretary board positions.

Enjoy Spain!

Crikey!

Become a Conscious Discipline Parent INSTEAD!

After months of applying for General Service (GS) positions at Rota Naval Station, and continuously being blocked by military veterans and retirees, I finally broke through the blockade and landed a wonderful position as a Program Assistant (teacher) at the Child Development Centre (CDC).

Today marked the completion of my orientation training, however training in my capacity will be an on-going commitment, one necessary to not only maintain my current skills but to further develop and adapt to new ideas and understandings of early childhood education and of the ever-evolving Navy wide policies and procedures.

Sounds exciting right?  I certainly think so!

I also realized this past week, that being a qualified parent, alone, does not automatically result in being a qualified teacher.  Rather, I learned that our parenting skills, the ways in which (prior to having my eyes pulled opened this week) my husband and I were directing and guiding Michael through his positive and challenging behavioral moments, were in fact NOT how a teacher would do so in the classroom.

That's not to say that we were bad parents before this week, rather, by us just using the common, 'No and Don't Do This' pre-topic words every time Michael did something we didn't want him to do, we were not only restricting Michael's opportunity to be a part of the decision making process, but we were restricting his basic need of independence (with guided limitations).

We were normal parents who got angry and frustrated when at 7:00pm bedtime, the tantrum started, the "I'm not tired", "I'm hungry", "My belly hurts", "I don't like my room", excuses began, and the climbing out of bed non-stop with screaming and crying, throwing toys at the door until some three hours later played out..every night!

We tried every possible common direction:  Stay in bed you'll get a treat in the morning, you'll make mUm and dAd sad, you'll be tired tomorrow, okay come and have something more to eat, a sip of water, Michael it's bed time now, go to bed, that's it, no more getting out of bed or there's no treat tomorrow.

Every one of these reactors did absolutely nothing to ease Michael's desire to stay out of bed, did nothing to ease his tantrum, or our frustration levels...we were letting a three year old take control of us, control of our emotions.   Whoah, back up a minute: last time I checked, we were the parents!!!

We were telling him what NOT to do, but we were never educating him on what we actually wanted him to do.  We were focusing on the negative behavior versus teaching him the positive behavior.  Of course being busy parents, whether in a hurry, tired, sick or frustrated, naturally it was easy to just demand that the negative behavior be stopped immediately and say "Don't do that", "Stop that" etc.

THEN, I was introduced to and trained in, what has become our new live-by, absolutely works 99% of the time rule...the rule of INSTEAD!

"Michael, INSTEAD of hitting your sister, I'd like you to keep your hands by your side and use your words to tell her that you are angry or frustrated".


"Michael, INSTEAD of getting out of bed, I'd like you lie down and stay snuggly and warm".


"Michael, INSTEAD of throwing your toys, I'd like you to help me pick up all the fast racing cars first".


"Michael, INSTEAD of saying a bad word, I'd like you to use your nice words when you talk with friends".  

Yes, he dropped an f-bomb at a party a few weeks back and my instant reaction was to angrily say, 'Michael, don't ever say that word again', but he just looked at me with a blank stare and said "Mum, what word, I didn't say it".  

I instinctively and somewhat embarrassed (in front of friends - trying to be the good parent) said, "You know the bad word I mean, don't ever say it again you understand".

Now, looking back, it's not rocket science (really) to assume that, he probably had no idea why I was so angry at him for saying a word he had no idea what it was or that he even said, what it meant and why he was supposed to never say it again!  He just knew I was angry at him!  Is that fair?  I didn't tell him what I wanted him to do, I just demanded that he not do what he had absolutely no idea what not to do...confusing....think of the poor kid?

Simple enough using INSTEAD right, in fact probably too simple that it just couldn't possibly work, especially with an, already tried something like this, independent and defiant tyrannical three point five year old?

But, after just ONE week of using INSTEAD's for every time we wanted Michael to do something positive, instead of immediately reacting angrily with on the negatives, "Don't run on the stairs", "Don't throw your toys", "Don't hit", and the 'don't' list goes on and on, we used the INSTEAD rule!

We focused on the positive and not the negative aspect of the behavior and tonight, the week long trial and error culmination, after Michael climbed into bed with only one INSTEAD request, he fell asleep.

My husband and I looked at each other and said, 'ARE YOU FREAKING KIDDING ME....THIS ACTUALLY WORKS".

Who would have thought it could be so simple?  Of course, it's not a one-shot guarantee to work every time, as children certainly love to test their limitations, they are experimenting, exploring and developing every day, so to restrict those developments would be unfair, however, we have seen this method work.

We have been taught this method with upmost gratitude and thanks to my new employer and I strongly suggest that all parents, caregivers and providers at least consider the possibility (if not already) of using the INSTEAD approach.

In addition, Dr. Becky Bailey, a guru in educating parents, caregivers and providers on Conscious Discipline added a further in-depth knowledge as to the reasoning behind Michael's behavior, whether it be positive or negative behavior and how we as parents can take BACK control of being the adult!

Dr. Bailey's Live DVD is absolutely amazing, although at $295, may not be affordable for all parents, so instead, grab a 'cuppa', put your feet up and watch this snippet video.

Remember, YOU are the one that needs to be in control...YOU!

Crikey!

*This is not a sponsored post.

You've Got Orders to Rota, Spain...Now What?

Congratulations!

If you've somehow managed to swindle get your hands on orders to Naval Station Rota (NAVSTA), read on because you're in for an unbelievably amazing experience, one that you'll never forget for so many wonderful, exciting, interesting and challenging reasons.

And for you, I am going to write a series of 'Moving To Rota' blog posts, each one covering VITAL information from my year-long point of view as a military spouse of an E7 active duty husband, living off-base.


I want to bypass the not always entirely accurate handbook of a million details and make your move and time in Spain as REALISTIC and enjoyable as possible.  Consider this post on 'Where to Live', Part 1.

First things first: Don't Be Scared!  Sure, you're moving overseas but in reality, you're moving to an American military base (lamen) that just so happens to rest on Spanish soil.  This means that if you foolishly decided to never leave the gates (and some people do), you would probably never even know you were in Spain...Walmart could be just down the street for all you'd know.

Naval Station Rota Map (Absolutely NOT to Scale)

But, please please please DO NOT become a Base Rat as they are unaffectionately known here.  Base rats are those people that rather than get off their butts and experience the amazing short drive away travel opportunities (Portugal, Gibraltar, Morocco) and cultural experiences at their doorstep (literally), choose to sit at home and become Base Rats..no bien!

Where Should I Live?

Fortunately, as it stands now, you have the choice to either live on base in standard (very small) cookie cutter thin walled, base housing without cost, or, you can live off-base (in the economy) and utilize your housing allowance cap, which is different for each service member.

Keep in mind, when you arrive though, you'll have thirty days of paid lodging either at the Navy Lodge or in temp base housing (some deduction in pay for temp housing), to find a house off-base or move into a base house, of which I'm not sure if or what the current wait list is.  

However in my opinion, if you have children or pets like we did, and don't mind a small reduction in pay for comfort, opt to stay in temp base housing, as the Navy Lodge is a simple small hotel room.

And on that thirty day window....don't be too scared by the deadline...extensions are possible through housing, as during our way too long (picky) 'house hunting' period, we extended an additional fourteen days.  

Eventually, after multiple house inspections and negotiations we found a fabulous house off- base in an area known as El Puerto de Santa Maria (Puerto for short), an area that we had chosen to live, even before arriving to Spain.  

We chose to live off-base for the sole reason that we wanted to experience Spain as locals and not as American tourists visiting for three years.  We wanted to immerse ourselves into the Spanish culture and with all due respect, remove ourselves from the possible daily drama of on-base nuances of which, unless your spouse happens to be the big big boss (el Jefe), chances are may experience on this tour in some form or another.

ON-BASE HOUSING 

There are two housing areas: Las Palmeras (the palms) and Las Flores (the flowers).

Las Flores:  Two story apartment, separate kitchen, living, television room. Thin walls, squeaky floors and stairs. Lino floor downstairs, thin grey carpet in upstairs bedrooms.  Very small back yards.  Joined to adjacent house at kitchen/living room wall.  Outside patio area joined to adjacent apartment.

Las Palmeras: Single level, brick house, separate kitchen, pantry, television room. No living room, so most people use a high bar-style table and chairs.  Thin walls, larger yards.  Houses joined at garage.

 Either way, unless you or your spouse happens to be a big, big, big wig, base housing is SMALL, I mean REALLY, REALLY, sell that living room furniture, small...really!  

DGF School: Facing the Elementary & Multi Purpose Buildings

However, an exciting conversion project (two houses into one) is underway in Las Palmeras, which from what I've heard is going to be wonderful, although if you are arriving any time within the next 6-12 months, don't get your hopes up on getting one of these...the show model was only released just before Christmas 2011.

Which House, Which Area?

If you do decide to live on-base, when you arrive, not beforehand, head into the Housing Office (beside the hospital), register your arrival and house hunting intentions with them, and you will be shown a map with the available houses to you, rooms based on how many dependent children you have.  

Then, head off in your matchbox rental car (from the airport terminal desk) and drive around and see each house.

Keep in mind that some corner lots will have larger yard, some even with trees, some are on a slight hill with a view of the nearby fields (Las Palmeras area: splashed with vibrant sunflowers in season) and some are simply wedged between other houses with no view or yard to speak of.  Make your decision wisely, as you only get one paid move!!!

Costs?

If you live on base there are NO out-of-pocket expenses, no gas bill, no phone bill, no heating/ac bill, it's an all-inclusive use as much as you like deal!  

Proximity to base facilities?

Base housing is approximately a five-minute drive from the majority of base facilities including the drive-in, Commissary, Exchange, Child Development Centre (CDC), fitness centre, hospital, and obviously, you or your spouse's place of work.

Downtown Puerto: A Bustling Area with the Famous Bullring

David G. Farragut (DGF), the shared one complex elementary/middle/high school is within walking distance from all base houses in Las Palmeras, or at most a two-minute drive away from Las Flores housing.

Is it safe?

Absolutely, you're inside a gated secured military facility.  

I mean I wouldn't take it for granted, but your children will always have a playground to play in (they are scattered throughout housing) with numerous other American children wandering around...at all hours and all ages!!!   This base is small, everyone speaks English and seems to know almost everyone else and who's children go with which parents. It feels like little suburban America to me.

Should I sell my appliances?

Base housing runs on US voltage with US outlets so you would be crazy to sell your appliances.   If you do decide to sell them, housing warehouse can loan you appliances (no cost) for the duration of your tour.

110 US voltage

220 European voltage

OFF-BASE HOUSING

Living off-base doesn't mean that you are removed from the base.  If fact, we live in an area called Santa Catalina within El Puerto de Santa Maria, and it takes me approximately a 10-15 minute drive to reach the base, a distance that is not even a talking point considering the size of our house and the experience for us of living in the economy.

Santa Catalina Beach: El Puerto de Santa Maria

I drive Michael to the CDC every morning, work out, drive home, shower, go back on base, sometimes two or three times a day...it's never a concern, every facility is still at my finger tips, though they are just a touch longer.  

And, if you are worried about no habla Espanol (no speak Spanish) DON'T BE, as English is widely spoken by most real-estate agents or with the translation assistance of Housing.

If you are considering living off-base, here is a breakdown of the most desirable areas, each with their own personality and each within a few minutes drive from the base.  There are other lovely areas, however they are a little further away from base.

EL PUERTO DE SANTA MARIA (El Puerto for short) - pronounced PWERTO!

This is, from what I keep hearing is, I guess the most desirable area for American's wanting to live off-base.  Puerto is like a fancy umbrella and underneath it sits little suburbs including Puerto, Puerto Sherry, Santa Catalina, and Vistahermosa.  

Houses are typically large three or four story in a white or red wash stone exterior and white marble interior large.  Most have medium sized front yards, high security fences, swimming pools, view of the ocean, and are within walking distance to either a gorgeous beach, the port, the country club, bullring or some other form of delightful Spanish entertainment.  

ROTA

Rota, an old town is the closest to the base (just outside the gate) and is typically favored by young couples and single people who enjoy a vibrant beach party atmosphere, especially come Summer when the clubs open and the streets pouring with happy tourists and locals are filled with music until 6-7am.  

Rota Rooftops from the Castle

The houses are usually two-three story white wash, close or attached to each other with minimal or no yard.  

Rota is a quaint historic town filled with great restaurants and nightlife, however, with young children it personally would not be my first choice.   

EL AGUILA, EL MANANTIAL & LAS REDES

These beachside areas sit in between Vistahermosa and the Naval Base and the famous Churos stand.

El Alguila with two-three story homes, saddles Vistahermosa but some 'shady' agents will try to tell you that it's considered Vistahermosa...it's not!   The reason I cover this is because, just as back in the US, public school selection (if you are interested in sending your little ones to Spanish school) in Spain is dependent on where you live, and the Vistahermosa, El Puerto areas are highly desirable for American and Spanish families.

El Manantial and Las Redes remind me of a 'dude' if Spanish had 'dudes' beach town with a touch of the classic European style.  More medium rise apartments than houses here, and all a close walk to the beach and base.

Rent?

Monthly rent, after negotiation can be anywhere from 1500-2200 Euro plus utilities depending on the area of preference, the size of the house or apartment and number of bedrooms.  

BUT!!! Never accept the initial asking price EVER!  

The Spanish real estate agents and landlords know that whatever seemingly low amount that we Americans pay for rent, it is still likely to be double what the local Spanish locals would pay.

They also have an idea of the military housing CAP range (never reveal your cap), so with that in mind, don't be afraid to negotiate on rent or other amenities such as a pool fence or heating/ac installed etc.

We negotiated our rent down almost 800 Euro per month from the initial ridiculously way above our cap, asking price, and had the owners pay half for the pool fence.   

Oh, and by the way, unlike in America where it's law to have a pool fence, not in Spain, so don't expect to find it, and if you do, it's likely that an American family lived in the house previously.

Proximity to base facilities?

Of all the locations above, you will never be more than a ten-minute drive from base or a 20 Euro taxi fare (set amount to get on base).  Plus, the benefit of living in town is that you have endless walking-distance options when it comes to dining, entertainment and beaches.  There are no cab fares, no carrying your military ID, no 10:00 pm curfew, Spain never sleeps (at night anyway), and you become instantly immersed in the Spanish way of life and the beautiful language...no habla Ingles!

If your children attend DGF school as my older daughter does, the free DGF only buses route throughout all of the above areas to school and return.  The buses are supervised by a teacher, names are checked off and ID must be shown.  My daughter has only a five-minute walk to and from the bus stop.

Is it safe?

I can truly only speak of El Puerto de Santa Maria in regards to daily living of which yes, it is incredibly safe with private security cars that patrol nightly.  It is not uncommon to see families walking around late at night, us included.  I have left the cars unlocked with windows down numerous times and never had an issue..we also live in a cul-de-sac, so I'm sure that's part of it.  Overall though, I have never felt unsafe, ever.

We were warned of the petty crime in Spain, smashing windows to retrieve sunglasses etc, but touch wood, we have not experienced any of this, however, I have heard from many that Rota and El Alguila are more familiar with these petty crimes.  Typically if I'm in town though, I never leave anything valuable in sight in the car...that's common sense.

Should I sell my appliances?

We kept most of our appliances, despite being warned otherwise, and I'm so glad we did.  Housing will loan you (no cost) as many transformer's as you need (suggest 3 or 4) for the duration of your tour.  

A transformer is NOT a power converter like you buy when you travel abroad, so please do NOT try to use those little travel converters on your US hairdryer or other appliances: they will catch fire and blow up..trust me!

Transformer:  So Inconspicuous!

Rather, they are small grey boxes that convert your US voltage (110) appliance to European voltage (220).  

The newer transformer's seem to blend better with our appliances and although still two-hand heavy, with three in the house, it means that I can still use the Dyson, whip up my cakes in the Kitchenaide and keep the computer's and X-box charged.  

List of Appliances to Consider

Washer/dryer:  SELL, as they will not likely fit into the allocated spaces in houses here, plus housing will loan you (no cost) brand new washer/dryer with Spanish outlets for the duration of your tour.

Television/ X-Box/Computer/Stereo:  DON'T SELL, as you can hook them up using a transformer, however most houses in Spain come furnished or partly furnished (meaning you tell them what you want them to leave..eg TV)

For all those other smaller items like hair dryers, portable fans, humidifiers, personally we sold most as we knew we were going to live off-base and, then simply went to nearest Walmart equivalent (Carrefore) or the Exchange and purchased Spanish voltage appliances for little cost.  

I trust that I have at least given you an insight into the different areas surrounding the Naval Base, the style of house on or off-base and a general insight into your up-coming move. Stay tuned for Part II, which will discuss the intricacies of finding the right house off-base and the process in how to make it yours, despite what 'they' will tell you, plus a little more about the Rota Naval Base facilities and the surrounding area.

Crikey!

You're Not Leaving This House Wearing Those Bones!

Today as I stood in front of the mirror grabbing those -more than I remember last year- squishy bits, turning left then right, sucking my gut in, sticking my -less than I remember last year- boobs out, twirling some more and pushing my wrinkles flat (it could happen), I realized that, at 36 years old, I might just be equally, if not more obsessed aware of my physical appearance as I was at 12, 13, 14, 15...!

As I studied 'those' bits, the ones that were always at the top of my 'eliminate' list, I began to wonder if I had spent so many years preening and pruning myself every day, that this critically mandatory 'beautifying routine',  just like breathing, had become habit, or, if like a teenager, I was still foolishly, immaturely influenced and intimidated by the images of unattainably -without a stylist, make-up artist, personal trainer, hairdresser and incredible genes- beautiful skinny women plastered everywhere...surely not?

Surely I don't want to look like those painfully thin models who never smile, the ones that look like they could use a good feed and a pint of blood STAT?  Heck no, but I once did, I absolutely once did! 

All I ever wanted as a 'tweenager' was to be a model, and I figured that all I had to do was strut into an agency dressed in a pretty outfit, a face full of make-up, a head of teased hair, and a huge smile, and 'whala' I'd be a famous model!  

With this naivety in mind,  I entered every pathetic money hoarding model pageant that ran the shopping mall circuit and I convinced my Dad to shell out, I'm sure a crap load of money to send me to Anne Merton Academy of Modeling, on the 'somewhat of a promise' that upon completion, they'd pick me to be their next famous model.

Shock!  A few years and a few not famous yet, modeling classes later, I finally realized that, those models who were actually jet setting around the world, looked nothing like me.  

They were naturally undeniably beautiful with or without 400 layers of Spackle, their praying mantis-like legs didn't jiggle when they walked, their face didn't look a pizza slice, and they could most likely pick coconuts off the tallest palms by just standing on their tip-toes. 

I was NONE of the above!  

In fact, I remember sitting in seventh grade class one afternoon failing miserably to lure Aaron Hill's (the class cutie) attention away from whatever her name was, when it hit me that, no matter what funny comment or interesting thing I had to say, it was the pretty, skinny girls like whatever her name was, with some mini unfair 'boobage' going on, who gained the attention of the boys, over some flat-as-a-pancake pimple face like, ah, me!

From that day of subtle as a tornado rejection forward, I made it my focus to stay thin, to attempt to grow my boobs faster (it could happen) and to start wearing make-up to not only cover up the face that could own a 'puss factory' as one charming boy once announced to me in front of class, but to attempt to make myself prettier for the boys, to actually sneak some of that attention that 'blondie' and mini boobs were getting.

Needless to say, I was never the popular girl, the captain of the cheerleaders -if we had cheerleaders-and Miss Australia I certainly wasn't!  

It wasn't until eleventh grade in a new school with some boobs that finally decided to show up, a face that didn't resemble a slice of pizza, a new attitude and name (that's another story) that I began to become somewhat popular and see the view from another angle.  It also wasn't until then that I'd actually ever considered doing whatever it took to stay that 'new way' either, whether it meant eating a lettuce or a piece of gum for lunch or gorging on a meat pie and throwing it up later.

Apparently this is beautiful...not in my world!

By my early twenties, I must have matured (a little) because those dangerous habits disappeared, but the excruciating intent to remain thin did not.  I always saw a 'fat whale' in the mirror...always!

When mUm or Dad would say 'Trude you're looking thin, need to put some meat on your bones', rather than consider the possibility that my parents might actually be right, I took it as a compliment, as a motivator to exercise more and eat less, and so I did, until a few weeks after I found out I was pregnant.

After almost twenty years of obsessing over being 'stick thin', one day I just decided that I couldn't be bothered starving myself anymore, wasting so much energy on something so impossible -my body would never be a size 0-, and, because Michael was kicking my very pregnant a*s without relent.

So, today as I stood in front of the mirror grabbing those -more than I remember last year- squishy bits, turning left then right, sucking my gut in, sticking my -less than I remember last year- boobs out, twirling some more and pushing my wrinkles flat (it could happen), I realized that, at 36 years old, I am no longer obsessed with being an impossibly dangerous level of 'stick thin'.  I'll never grace the runway-for more reasons than just the body- but I'm healthy and I'm happy that although I'm not even close to body perfect, I have a life. 

Living a healthy physical and emotional lifestyle is my new black!

And although I am no longer obsessed with a need to emulate those painfully thin models who depressingly and desperately jolt and jut down the catwalk in their couture skeletal ensemble, I still out of enjoyable habit paint my face on every time I step out of the house...I guess some just die hard or not at all.

Crikey!

A Unique Birthday Party: Virtual Pink Cupcakes!

Pretty Pink Cupcakes with Meringue Mushrooms

Living the military life, moving from one US duty station to another is challenging enough, now think of military life when your family and friends are not a quick domestic two or three hour flight away, but an international assortment of a painfully long 36-48 hour flight itinerary. 

This logistical and incredibly expensive financial challenge has meant that, in the past eight years of this albeit exciting and amazing experience, I've missed a lot of special moments including birthday's, wedding's, baby shower's and, well you get the idea.  

The view from Australia via Skype

So, this year for my Step-mUm's birthday, rather than sing the usual off-pitch, tired 'Happy Birthday' via phone at some ungodly hour, I decided to throw her a surprise birthday party.  

A pink birthday party in fact, complete with pink party hats, pinkish streamers and what else, pink cupcakes! 

My husband thought I was crazy at first, adding his usual sweetly sarcastic comment: 'You're like a little Napoleon, running around ruling the world unless someone stops you'.

So this little Napoleon spent the evening before the party, baking, piping meringue mushrooms and decorating and finally when it came time to throw the surprise, demanding that we be dressed in pink and blue attire, my husband lit the candles and walked into the room with a tray of pretty pink cupcakes adorned with sweet meringue mushrooms and brightly glowing candles.

Grandpa & Grandma via Skype

We yelled surprise and sang 'Happy Birthday', probably, actually most definitely out of tune, and after the candles were blown out, Alena offered a scratchy clarinet performance, Michael sang a song about dinosaurs, and like little pigs, we plucked out the candles and hogged into the cupcakes. 

We celebrated my Step-mUm's birthday just as it should be celebrated...if we were there?

Happy Birthday Charleene!  



You are truly a beautiful person inside and out, and it's only now as a mUm and a Step-mUm do I realize just how much energy it takes to not just be both, but be both equally.  Thank you!

I hope you enjoyed your party, however next year, although I can't promise you that we'll be home, I can promise you an off-key rendition of 'Happy Birthday', a song about dinosaurs and of course...cupcakes.

Crikey!

Three Kings Day: A Spanish Christmas Tradition

Throughout Spain tonight, millions of little children will fall asleep and dream of the wonderful gifts that the Three Kings will leave in their shoes for when they wake tomorrow morning on Three Kings Day (Dia de Los Reyes).  

Three Kings Day (January 6) which falls twelve days after Christmas, celebrates the arrival of the Three Kings (Los Tres Reyes Magos - Three Wise Men), Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar into Bethlehem on the night Christ was born.  

However, the celebration begins in early December when children write letters to the Three Kings asking them for gifts and telling them of their behavior throughout the year.

On the eve of the 5th, however, the Three Kings parades are held throughout Spain, and this evening we, along with a few thousand Americans and Spanish joined in the celebration in the town of Rota.  

At 5:00pm precisely the marching band started playing and then continued to lead the spectacular array of adorned floats complete with HARD candy pelting children, throughout the streets of Rota.  

Each float blasted out Spanish Christmas music while adorable children dressed in traditional costume pelted and I mean pelted from above, that hard candy Grandma's like to hand out, into the eager crowd.  I took at least five or six to the head.  

I immediately retracted my 'look at the crazy woman with an upside down umbrella' statement!

The parade of floats and musicians itself was small, however, as it continued to weave throughout the streets of Rota, the moment that it passed one area and bags were full of candy, stuffed toys and balls, people would high-tail it across the block and wait for round two, three, four....  

We made it to round two.

The Spanish, as I've seen before, are, lets just say committed when it comes to obtaining free goods. And I truly mean committed in a crazy a*s will beat down a three year old or grown man, in WWF style wrestling technique to get their hands on a 50 cent plastic beach ball or toy car!   

It was bloody fabulous though in a crazy a*s kind of way - what man will do for a piece of sugar or plastic!

The atmosphere, the music, the floats, the bruises, and the bag full of candy we hoarded was unbelievable, but by far the most exquisite part of the evening was yet to come.

Of course it has to be food, this is me!

'Roscon de Reyes' (King's Ring) an unbelievably light sweet bread cake filled with fresh cream, drizzled with a sweet citrus-like glaze and adorned with brightly colored candied fruit and sprinkled sugar, that we devoured in minutes.

  

Inside each exquisite cake is hidden a dried fava bean (my bite) - which means that I have to buy the cake next year- and a king figurine (Chad), which means that he's King for the Day!

So, now as the parade has ended, and the last piece of candy is picked up off the street, as it falls just after midnight, most children should (this is Spain) be asleep by now and their shoes be left by the door let the Three Kings know how many children live there.

And just as I leave Vegemite sandwiches, a glass of milk and some carrots for Santa and his reindeer, the children in Spain leave grass and water for the camels and something to eat for Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar.  

Remember the Three Kings have travelled all the way across the desert to reach Spain.

Then, come tomorrow morning, the 6th (Three Kings Day), the children will excitedly run to find presents in their shoes and while they play with their toys, the families and friends gather to celebrate another year.

I love Spain!

Crikey!

Happy New Year 2012 from Spain: Feliz Año Nuevo! A Mouth Full of Grapes!

12 Grapes 

Along with a few hundred of my closest Spanish and American friends and my beautiful Rota family, I celebrated New Years Eve amidst bubbles, strobe lights, Jello-oh shots and grapes, in the beautiful seaside town of Rota, Spain.

That's right grapes!  This wonderfully unique Spanish tradition entails choking scoffing down 12 grapes - one per clock chime -in the last 12 seconds before the stroke of midnight, and splash them down with the Spanish bubbly: Cava.

Unlike in most countries where New Years Eve parties begin earlier in the evening, the Spanish celebrate the earlier part of New Years Eve in their homes with family dinners. 

Of course, being the eager beaver Americans - used to hitting the p*ss hours earlier - from 10:00pm we walked the streets, and it eerily felt like we were the last human's on Earth.  Rota was a ghost town!

But then with only a few minutes before midnight, like little ants, they filtered out into the main square, dressed to perfection with their grapes and plastic bags filled with bottles of Cava, Tinto and Sangria ready to party until the sun rose.

Are we in the right place - at 11:00pm.

The DJ warmed up, excited voices buzzed and hundreds of eager faces each more beautiful and drunk than the last, in between sips of wine, kept vigilant watch at the clock tower above.

And then, SILENCE!  

In an instant the crowd - us included - raised their grapes, and the first chime rang.

Gong: Chew. Gulp.  

Gong: Chew. Gulp.  

Gong: Chew. Choke.  

Gong: Choke...I'm just going to have fun watching everyone else!

Tu eres me vida te amo: You are my life, I love you

I honestly thought that this challenge would be a piece of cake, however, as I began stuffing possibly the largest grapes I could buy into my mouth, I decided that unless a Heimlich maneuver was in my future that the Spanish grapes had defeated me...this time!

Once the grapes were downed and the bubbly popped, the DJ pumped out Spanish dance tracks most of which I actually knew and loved, just had absolutely no clue what the song was about.

Through endless confetti, blowers, bubbles, and dancing feet, some more fancy than others, we continued to celebrate, loudly, the new year and all the excitement that it will bring.

However amidst the excitement and my favourite song of the moment, Follow the Leader , as I hugged my friends, something tackled my heart and I started to cry.  No, I wasn't drunk, nor did I get into a fight, walk into a wall or fall down a hole.  It was something far deeper than any hole I've ever fallen into.

Amigos para siempre!   

The early part of last year was tough for me with new 'friendships' - unexpected military spouse drama- so standing beside these beautiful girls, I realized that although horrible back then, it actually took in some morbid way, all of that nasty drama and bullsh*t to bring these girls into my life.

These girls were now embedded into my heart and soul as true lifelong friends, and that's why I cried. 

So, yes I'm starting a sentence with so, at 3:30am with tired legs and sleeping kiddies in tow, we pushed our way through the energetic crowd and said goodnight the first day of 2012.

Kiddies at 3:30am?  

Oh, yes, the New Years Eve party in Spain isn't reserved for adults alone, in fact in Spain it's common to see young kiddies out with their parents til' way past any 'appropriate' bedtime that we are familiar with.  But then, when dinner time here doesn't start til' at least 10:00pm, what else would you expect?

What about Resolutions?

This year I made six resolutions that are not only achievable but such that will strengthen and diversify my character and life even more.

1: To be more adventurous with my fashion sense: Spain certainly is the epicenter of incredible fashion!

2: Speak Spanish fluently: I start classes this week.

3: Travel Europe til' my legs fall off.

4. Become 'most excellent' at playing the guitar - yes I said 'most excellent'.

5: Not give a f*ck about the little people or things that try to cause trouble.

6: Stop saying f*ck!

Of course I wouldn't be a woman if I didn't add lose weight and look fabulous to that list.  So, with that said, goodbye 2011, hello 2012.  Now, where to celebrate the next New Years Eve:  Paris, Germany, Scotland? 

Happy New Year! - Feliz Año Nuevo!

  

Crikey!