I lied yesterday. It was beautiful, sunny, and crisp with a forecast of continued sun and cool temps. However, about 5 the clouds mounded on the horizon and the rain started falling in fits and starts. Then the wind blew in – and blew and blew and is still blowing. Come to find out that the Cycladic islands are the root for the word Cyclone as this is where the northern wind streams from Europe battle out with the southern rising from Africa. It is now 80 and humid so Africa is winning. TWC says tomorrow and the rest of the week will be lovely with the northerly breezes caressing us more gently. Who knows. Continue reading “The windmill of my mind”
Thyme on my hands
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”
Paros, at last
At last! The ferry arrived just before noon on Saturday – more like a cruise ship actually. Semis and a concrete truck and a helicopter were part of the cargo along with many heading to Paros or Naxos or Santorini. Once docked, there was a grand rush of humanity and luggage to our awaiting home. We passed the school on the way to our homes. We were back later for a brief orientation, but we were free until this morning at 10. Oh the joys of finally unpacking, quiet, and nesting. Continue reading “Paros, at last”
Penultimate day before Paros!
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!”
Ciao, Italia
As you can see, I finally did have my date with David on my last day in Florence. The line was only 45 minutes long and the weather was mild so it definitely was worth the wait to see the original. Since two churches had already been viewed previous to my encounter with this masterpiece, I had reached my beauty limit for the day and just headed home on the train instead of viewing any other possible piece of art. Continue reading “Ciao, Italia”
Lisa Oberreuter 