We would like to wish all of our family and friends all the best in the new year! This past year was a grande one for Raymond and I – one which we thank our lucky stars for every day. May the coming year bring good fortune to you all!

Cat Colony – Monte Brasil

We spent a recent afternoon at the cat colony on Monte Brasil, overlooking the historic capital of Terceira (Angra do Heroísmo). It was lovely to return after so many months and get our kitty fix from numerous friendly felines. One in particular (lower left) was the same tortoise-shell cat that was so affectionate with us back in March. Needless to say, we are strongly considering adopting one of the colony cats once we return from Coimbra at the beginning of February.

An Evening in Angra

After a beautiful sunset at the marina and a stroll through the old city, we treated ourselves to dinner and a movie. Initially confused why the theater was not open at the appropriate showtime, we soon realized that the movie (Wonka) was instead being shown at the cultural center. We made it just in time!

Garden Terrace Project

Top six, from R to L: working on the first rock wall and trimming the araçal tree; removal of the araçal tree and completion of the first rock wall; screening of dirt and rocks to create a new garden bed; creation of a second rock wall. 

Lower: the formerly overgrown and chest-high terrace behind the bathroom and bedroom (to the left of the top photos) which we are removing and repurposing to build the garden terraces. The plan is to clear a space 1) for a shady summer patio area, 2) to better access the area behind the bathroom for purposes of building a proper concrete retaining wall into the hill, and 3) to eventually expand the bathroom.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!