Spain is such a beautiful and fascinating country. I share these photos to give you an idea of the kinds of things you can see in this Mediterranean country if you ever get a chance to visit it. Amazing churches, beautiful bodies of water, impressive castles, awe-inspiring palaces, interesting traditions, stunning architecture, fun festivals and … Continue reading Scenes of Spain Photo Essay
Category: Europe
Murals in Orihuela in honor of Spanish poet Miguel Hernandez
In the city of Orihuela, in the Spanish province of Alicante, there lies a hidden treasure: beautiful murals painted by Spanish artists in tribute to the poetry of hometown son Miguel Hernandez. I never heard of this poet before but he was very popular during and after the Spanish Civil War. Unfortunately, he wasn't a … Continue reading Murals in Orihuela in honor of Spanish poet Miguel Hernandez
Spain’s State of Emergency Ends
Ninety-nine days after it started, Spain has finally ended its state of emergency. As of now, summer solstice day, there have been 293,018 Covid-19 cases and 28,322 deaths here in Spain. Those of us who survived this ordeal are glad it is over, of course, but we now wonder what will happen once the tourists … Continue reading Spain’s State of Emergency Ends
Finding Comfort in Times of Turmoil
The United States is unraveling right now: riots, fires, violence, police brutality and unemployment levels unequaled since the Great Depression, along with an out-of-control pandemic. And on top of that, a president who relishes the violence and disruption. Reading the news about my country takes nerves of steel these days. At the same time, I … Continue reading Finding Comfort in Times of Turmoil
Day 52 of Spain’s Lockdown
This weekend was the first time people in Spain were allowed out to walk around. It was a joyful sight to see others when I walked our dog Tess along the nearby canal on Saturday morning. Some couples were strolling along, other people were running and still others flew by on bikes. It almost felt … Continue reading Day 52 of Spain’s Lockdown
Day Eight of Spain’s Lockdown
As of today, there are 21, 571 reported cases of covid-19 in Spain, with 1,093 deaths reported. This is up sharply from 13,910 cases and 623 deaths three days ago. With these kinds of numbers, it is very hard to stay positive and hopeful. But the Spanish government has taken some wise decisions in reponse … Continue reading Day Eight of Spain’s Lockdown
State of Emergency in Spain
For many years we have been warned by experts that the world was at risk for a pandemic. A deadly virus was only a plane ride away, they said. Well, now that time has come. Government officials here have said you can only go outside if you have a good reason, such a trip to … Continue reading State of Emergency in Spain
Five Days in Lisbon, Portugal
The beautiful city of Lisbon reminds some people of San Francisco: it's hilly, there are trams everywhere, it's beside the water, and it even has a big bridge built by the same company that constructed the Golden Gate Bridge. If you visit Lisbon, one thing I recommend you do is take the Yellow Bus tram … Continue reading Five Days in Lisbon, Portugal
The Beauty of Andalucia
From where we live in Spain, we can see the Mediterranean Sea. It's a beautiful sight to behold, of course. But we like mountains too and hubby Rick and I are both from Chicagoland. This is not a place with mountains or even big hills of any kind. When we go out for a drive … Continue reading The Beauty of Andalucia
Remembering Our Dead
When mom died, I felt adrift, like my anchor was gone. When dad left us too, it was a kick in the stomach. Their absence is keenly felt. Not just on the Day of the Dead. But everyday. As my attempt at a poem reflects, the death of loved ones hurts very deeply. And it … Continue reading Remembering Our Dead