Stopping to smell the Roses....

A double rosebud. In our backyard in Ramila, Portugal.

Tomorrow Larry and I will celebrate 34 years of relative wedded bliss.  As all couples, we have had our good days and our bad ones, but on the whole, we have been very even keel. I can't imagine who else would have put up with me for all of these years!

The past 10 days in this area of Portugal have been so beautiful.  I can see why so many foreigners have chosen to make this area their home.  From the artist up the street who swears the light here is different than any on earth, or the woman next door who loves the flowers and the sweet sounds of the birds, to us; who just love the quiet roads and the beautiful contrasts of the old rocks with the amazing wildflowers that are everywhere.

The national plant of spring in Portugal should be the Scotch Broom.  It covers vast areas, and is in full bloom right now.  Wild lavender, white cistus, red poppies and buttercups complete the color palate.  With the sweet smell of lemon trees scattered throughout, it is a sensory overload at times.

Fresh water out of the spring at the end of our driveway. 

We have made several journeys to our favorite destination, Castillo do Vide.  It is about 15k from here, and with the circuitous route we have devised, it is about a 30 mile round trip ride with lots of rollers.  Add in  a stop for a Coca Lite and a "tosta", it is the perfect day for us old folks.

Relaxing in Castillo do Vida during our ride.  I packed a back pack with shoes, bike lock and my hat so we could sightsee.

May each of you find some springtime peace, love and happiness like Larry and I have.