A lot of people have been asking me what the scariest part of this move has been. I think what they’re really trying to understand is: how did we overcome that fear? I don’t have all the answers. I can only tell you my experience. So here it is, honest, imperfect, and raw. But hopefully…
🌰 Magusto in the Mountains: Fire, Chestnuts, and Finding Warmth in a New Home
Something I’ve learned recently about life in Portugal is that the most magical experiences aren’t the ones you plan. They’re the ones you’re invited into. Our landlords, Antonio and Aura — who have quickly become two of the kindest, most generous people we’ve ever met — invited us to join them for a local festival…
🎃 Halloween in Portugal: Pumpkins, Saudade, and the Question of Belonging
Saudade – Noun. A Portuguese word that doesn’t have a direct English equivalent… The sentiment is a feeling of longing, nostalgia, dreaming, and wistfulness… Halloween isn’t exactly a big deal in Portugal — at least not in the same way it is back in the U.S. Here, October doesn’t bring front-yard graveyards, inflatable ghosts, or…