A Better Place

April 17, 2009

Arriving in Portugal this time has felt extraordinarily different from the many other times we have arrived in Portugal. Walking into Quinta da Mata was like walking into my own home. It felt so familiar and pleasant. Instantly I felt the love of home and the smell of an old place and I knew there would be many good days ahead.

What has changed is me. Another year has passed with it trial and tribulations. Our every day battle for balance and peace is puzzling as we find it here so readily. Duarte and I are frequently at odds with one another at home, there are so many things to be done, and the kids have needs. In Portugal, all of this dissipates and we become very different people - Happier, more agreeable people.

Duarte and I are enjoying laughter and easy conversation. We hop on our bikes and travel over the varied landscape and talk and talk without any tension whatsoever. Marcos and Jenna are free and independent. Marcos KNOWS Quinta da Mata. He is the master of his own big world here. He can hike about the farm, pick cherries from the trees, catch big air on his own bicycle ramps and cuddle up in a chair with his dog “Bella.” Jenna finally seems old enough to be a kid here. She and her grandfather hike up to the chicken cages and gather warm eggs from the chickens. Her eyes twinkle from this experience. She is so happy.

My heart is full of love and peace and balance. Portugal is good for my soul. I’m very glad to be here.