Somewhere Over The Sea

Somewhere beyond the sea
Somewhere waitin' for me
My lover stands on golden sand
And watches the ships that go sailin'

Bullfights Today In Fontainhas

Today we made a quick trip from Praia de Vitoria to the small town of Fontainhas for the bullfights on the street. I didn't expect to see so many people.

I posted some pictures as well as some video.



Today was a pretty mellow day. I was at the house alone relaxing. I also found a spot near the marina that offers free internet access to the sailors. This has to be the most beautiful WiFi hotspot...being only 20 feet from the water with an open bar next to it!

Views of Praia da Vitória

Praia da Vitória is the name of the town where I am staying. It's on the east side of the island of Terceira.

I swear there are 36 hours in a day here. People walk around town but drive cars to get around. The streets in town are narrow and are made of cobble stone.

I like wondering around with no agenda. It's allows me to pay attention. The scents are amazing. Every corner seems to have a distinct smell.

The town is very clean. The people here have pride in their town. Even the new buildings resemble the older ones to preserve the feel.

Today I woke up to a rain shower which cleared mid day for a sunny afternoon. By dinner time we had another quick shower leaving an overcast for the evening. They say it's a major news even to not see rain for two weeks.

The country side is divided by rock walls that seem to have been around for hundreds of years. They divide the land into parcels whom are owned by families. Today you can see dairy cattle grazing in them.

I've noticed that there are many elderly people walking around. There is respect here for the elders. Unlike most towns back home, the town's more suitable for walking with a slower pace of life. This may be where I spend my later years of life.

We start the day with bread, cheese, and "Galão". A Galão is milk with a shot of expresso in it; very similar to a latte. Here they cost about 0.85 euros or about $1.20. They are tasty.

Super Bock is the beer of choice around here...similar to Coors or Bud back home. It's still a weird feeling to pop one open while walking down the street.

The town is preparing for a 10 day long celebration starting this friday. Along the streets they are hanging lights and decorations. They say the celebration will span 2 miles down the street. It's a good time to be here.

Rapaz de Viola

(google's homepage from portugal)

Rapaz de Viola (Guitar Boy) is how they introduce me to the others on the island!

While landing on the island of Terciera last night I was unsure who I was going to see, where I was going to go, and how any of it would come together. I picked up my luggage and proceeded to walk down the arrivals ramp. That's where I saw a group of elders waving at me. Unsure if it was really for me I looked back to find I was the only one walking.

As I got closer they grabbed me and gave me the traditional Portuguese greeting, a kiss on both cheeks. They stopped me from guessing by saying in broken English, "We're your grandmother's cousins!" My grandmothers both called them to let them know I was coming and to pick me up.

When I asked them how did they know it was me they said, "Sua viola!" (your guitar!). I had it strapped on my back walking down the ramp as they were expecting it. My grandmother told them about it prior.

The island or Terceira is beautiful. Late last night I was walking around with a "Super Bock" beer in my hand. They are relaxed about things like that here.

Around town I noticed buildings with ages that probably spanned 100 or so years. Some have a date plastered on top. Most all of them are white with red tile roofs. A few are outlined in contrasting colors. Most of the streets are made of coble stones. I was soaking in the simplicity of it all...rustic and warm.

Most people around town have cell phones and computers with internet access. I'm at Chu's house. He's known around town as the computer guy who can fix things. When Mr. Meneses, who's been my host, found out I was into software he connected me with him.

I was familiar with the culture here through my family. My family migrated to California over the last fifty years. Even though I recognize the traditions I still see the difference in lifestyle. People here preserve the true simplicity in life. They live through the small things that mean the most: Warm smiles around town, honest handshakes, and handmade food.

Next post will include pictures...ate logo!