Feliz Natal de Portugal! Merry Christmas from Portugal!

 




This year is a year unlike any other for our family.  We have one very special person missing, who is in our hearts and minds every day - even more so (if that's possible) as the holiday spirit surrounds us. 

Irena has come to Europe, and we decided to head for the coast and visit a quaint little town in the Algarve region of Portugal, called Carvoeiro.  We are eating well, mostly delicious Portuguese pastries, drinking wine and port and feeling the welcoming spirit of the Portuguese.  We are not, however, progressing very much in learning the language.  The beautiful ocean greets us every day from our balcony, and we are enjoying watching the crashing of the waves, the shifts of the tide and weather, and the intensely colorful sunsets that make you say "wow" (proof below).  

Did you say wow?  No filter, people.

The limestone coastline creates pretty incredible landscapes and walking trails reveal awe inspiring views from every corner.   Below is a view of Irena and two special visitors that joined us in our Portuguese adventures for a few days.  (Irena is the shortest, as usual.)



One can also explore the limestone from down below, where the water from below and the rain from above have, over time, carved crevices and caves into the layers of rock, forming a speckled, multicolored landscape that feels other worldly.  Within the strata of these layers, we find layers and layers of fossilized shells that I could stare at for hours.






Exploring limestone nooks and crannies


And finally, we zip about the coast in our little red rental car and see what else the cities of the Algarve have to offer - colorful and quaint architecture that make you dream of another time...


Wandering the cobblestone streets of Lagos



Historic city center of Silves


And so, from this little corner of the earth, we send you our warmest wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season.  Remember to enjoy every moment with those you love.  Have a very Merry Christmas and we wish you all the best in 2022!  

Jackie and Irena 

🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄




Location: 8400 Carvoeiro, Portugal

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