In Bulgaria be a Bulgarian!!!

The algarve, The Moors and the snow...

According to legend, during the time when Al Garb still belonged to the Moors, there reigned a young Caliph in Silves called Ibn-Almundim, who fell in love and married Gilda, the daughter of a great Lord from the North, who had been defeated in battle by the Moorish king.

Their love was mutual and their marriage was celebrated in grand style. However, the beautiful princess grew sadder and sadder day after day. The Caliph was unable to make her smile. They consulted magicians and wise men from all over the world, but none could find a cure for her sadness…

Until one day an old Nordic man told the Caliph that Gilda was longing for the white snow-covered fields of her homeland. Ibn-Almundim then ordered thousands of almond trees to be planted outside the windows of the palace, which, when they blossomed, covered the land with white petals. The illusion took away her sadness and she became joyful again!

And this is why, since that spring so long ago, the Algarve re-lives each year the magic of the almond blossom!

(traditional short story)

Winter contrasts!...

Aveiro... uma cidade onde tudo luz!!!

FURAcão Gordon!

O meu cão sempre bem instalado no sofá e desta vez não pousou para a foto!!! :)

How can we not stop and stare at the beauty around us?

Emerson had it right...

The Definition of Success...

To laugh much; to win respect of intelligent persons and the affection of children; to earn the approbation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to give one's self; to leave the world a little better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to have played and laughed with enthusiasm, and sung with exultation; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived...this is to have succeeded." 

By  Ralph Waldo Emerson