Category: Travels

Last week was a big celebration in Greece, “No” day.  It is the day Metaxes, the prime minister refused Mussolini the right to use Greek territory to invade Albania.  It marked the end of that coalition and Greece’s entry into the Allied front.  Ultimately, there was great loss of life and much horror – but they are very proud of doing the right thing.  There was a big church service and then the parade which featured the high school’s marching  band – all 6 drums and flag carrier.  Every student down to wee ones were lined up behind flags and marched the whole length of the port.  Every thing was closed down and all cheered the participants wildly.  What a joyful experience. Continue reading “I love a parade” →

This photo depicts the scene from the donkey path overlooking Lefkes, a brilliant white village in the mountains of central Paros, about a 15 minute bus ride from our home in the city of Pariki.  Yesterday was our first Friday hike of the semester.  As we clambered along the stones and brush John pointed out all of the wild herbs, and graciously handed out plastic sacks for us to fill for our kitchens.  Thyme, oregano, myrtle, fenugreek, and sage are now filling my apartment with aromas I had only read about.  The depth of scent and strength of the smell is beyond my ability to describe…just like the pervading blue, you have to experience the reality to understand. Continue reading “Thyme on my hands” →

I am obviously delighted to be back in Greece!  This morning early I hit the central Athenian Market which is just up the street from the hotel.  Didn’t buy the octopi or fish or tripe, but managed sack fulls of Greek herbed sea salt, Greek walnuts, dates, honey, oregano, almonds, dried apricots, and sun dried olives.  Most of what I am carrying to Paros is food, some for thought but mostly for consumption.  Life is getting better and better. Continue reading “Penultimate day before Paros!” →

This picture looks rather gloomy, but in actuality a rainy day on Wednesday was a glorious retreat time.  The break from glorious blue skies and non-stop activity gave my brain a day of recuperation.  All of my synapses are on overload so a few hours respite has not been enough to sort through all events much less make a grand meaning of them all.  This will be a series of moments which stand out this past week. 
Continue reading “Blurred Lines” →