Fiery red skies at sunset. For some, autumn and winter are favoured. Time to unwind and relax. For those who have lost a partner for one reason or another. Time to repair. “It is difficult when an animal is part of the puzzle.” APAA’s President, Jenny Clarke has first-hand experience along with many of their members. “But all is not lost!” Jenny is a firm believer in the positive over the negative. “After all, during the animals' life-time, it has been part of a family and now unfortunately the whole thing has gone pear-shaped.” A lot of the members have had problems, initially, trying to establish a relationship with the animal, especially where ‘it’ had been the love of the other partner’s life. “What can you say?” Indeed. “The whole business of grieving is dreadful, but having to carry on with a silent partner is a big ask.” Pining. Off their food, illnesses. All part of the panoply of life. People just find they have to cope. Vet, neighbours, friends? If you cannot get help and have nowhere to turn APAA’s motto ‘Here to Help’ is well-worn and tried and true. “This is a chance for a new beginning.” Sure is.

Team APAA has been putting on their thinking caps to forge a new calendar of events for their members and friends. Stickers and markers at the ready!

Team APAA has drawn up a sturdy list of ‘things to do’. Markers at the ready. APAA Stall at ‘Convent’bio’ Lagoa Friday 27 September 11am-4pm. General household goodies, Pet Corner. Pop-Up shop ‘O Tasco’ Senhora do Verde 7 October 12-3pm. Always a smash hit for pictures, ornaments, books a mini-bazar! APAA’s Stand at Afpop’s BLiP (Better Living in Portugal) Saturday/Sunday 12/13th October. Sat 10-6pm/Sun 10-4pm. Special welcoming table for new members. Cat and Dog stockings with treats for your pets! Come and chat. ‘Jolly’ Bar Alvor Friday 25 October 10.30-2pm Another amazing shopping adventure. Check out the curtains and linen. Also Gill Goode’s arts, cards and prints. With Fiona’s Fi-Line clothing, jewellery and make-up. Yeah! AND! Ferragudo Fair Car Boot Sale Sunday 10th November and 8th December starts at 8.00am! . Also keep a look out for APAA on Facebook’s monthly group Charity Auctions with Emporium.

Not forgetting! Charity shops at Alvor and Silves always welcoming shoppers who bring and buy. Stacked with goodies! Don’t forget all ‘Pop-Up’ Shops, and stalls will have a super yummy array of homemade jams, preserves, chutneys and marmalades and scrummy cookies!

Contact: Help info.apaaportugal@gmail.com

Events info: events.apaaportugal@gmail.com

BLiP: info@afpop.com