Our Next Journey
July 3, 2024History seems to repeat itself when it comes to us moving to foreign countries. We get settled in, expecting to be there for a long time but then something happens to change that (usually job related). Although these moves require lots of planning and logistic maneuvering, I wouldn’t trade these adventures for anything. They are significant markers on our life’s journey and provide some of the most rewarding memories for us. We’ve called Portugal ‘home’ for nearly two years now. We embarked on this journey intending to stay for several years. We bought a house and a car; filled out…
The Orchard Comes to Life
Our orchard is a bit of a mystery. I have no idea what type of fruit most of these trees will produce. Having only purchased the house in August of 2023, most of the trees where not producing at that…
Christmas Vacation in Portugal
We sort of have a go to itinerary for friends that come to Portugal and spend a few days with us on their holiday. Our standard Alentejo highlights include visits to Monsaraz, Evora and Estremoz. Typically our guests have already…
First Christmas in Portugal
December started just perfect to kick off the holiday season. The weather was sunny and comfortable but much cooler with a high of only 13C/55F. Perfect weather for a visit to the Estremoz Saturday market to look for holiday trinkets.…
Olive Harvesting
It’s olive harvesting season here in the Alentejo. It’s a busy time of year as property owners with olive trees (which includes just about everyone around here) scramble to pull all those green and black fruits from the trees. Whether…
Fall in the Alentejo
Although summer in the Alentejo extends well into September and October, once the hot, dry summer months have ended, it’s time to prepare for the Fall and winter months, which will include lots of rain and some cold, damp nights.…
Estremoz Saturday Market and Castle Tour
The Saturday market in Estremoz is pure Europe. Vegetables, fruit, bread, marinated olives and all sorts of cured meats and sausages are for sale at this weekly market. Vendors line the streets with their small booths bloated with all kinds…
Monsaraz Day Trip
A trip to Portugal would not be complete without visiting the walled village of Monsaraz. You’ll be rewarded with amazing views, excellent dining, and boutiques selling local wines, olive oil, rugs and pottery. This historic village is a special gem…
Wake-up Walk
I typically wake up with a cat tucked into my arm. He’s content to follow the rhythm of my sleep cycle. Although I wake up at 6:00 A.M., we have an understanding that 6:00-7:00 A.M. is my transition period from…
Redondo Street Flower Festival (Ruas Floridas)
Every two years the streets of Redondo, in the Alentejo region of Portugal, come alive with flowers. Not actually alive, since they’re paper flowers, but absolutely alive with color and creativity. And it’s not just flowers. Animals, movie characters, food…
Setting up the Coffee Station
I’ve been getting the house set up with all the necessities and the daily coffee experience is one of them. Starting the day with a great cup of coffee is critical to a successful day. It’s the second thing I…
