As the first stage of our vagabond journey comes to a close, six months in a tiny village was an experience that generated ideas about how to spend our future.
Exploring the Mid-Alpujarra on Foot
We came to a small Alpujjaran village six months ago. Little did we realize how much walking we’d be doing or how beneficial all those walks were to be.
Finding our food in a small Alpujarran village
Friends who know that Jamie and I are plant based eaters asked how we’re managing in Mairena, the tiny Alpujarran village where we’ve spent the last 5 months. Our answer is, “Surprisingly well!” This region of Spain grows about 50 percent of Europe’s produce making it plentiful and inexpensive for the local residents.
A room with a view
For the first time ever, Susan and I have our morning coffee in a room with a view. Sitting quietly, doing nothing.
The Surprising History of Júbar’s Church
What can this unassuming church in a tiny village tell us about village life centuries ago? Well, it turns out that sometimes the most unassuming location or building can tell you a lot if you only dig a little deeper.
Olive Harvest in the Alpujarra
When December rolls around it’s time to harvest olives destined to be pressed for their oil at the local olive mill.
Alistair: A Profile in Gentle Living
I admire Alistair; he’s found his way to a fulfilling, gentle life. He doesn’t look forward with anticipation or backwards with regret.
Walking to Ugíjar
Every morning while Susan and I are sipping coffee and waiting for sunrise, the street lights of the white villages beckon us from the coastal mountain range across the valley. The largest village, in the …
Castañas Asadas or Roasted Chestnuts
We’re all familiar with the December classic that begins, “Chestnuts roasting on an open fire…” Funny thing, I didn’t know the song is titled “The Christmas Song,” neither did I realize that roasting chestnuts was …
Granadas (Pomegranates) in Granada Province ES
Pomegranate season is officially over in the Alpujarra. When we arrived in late October we had only a couple of weeks to get our fill of these extraordinary fruits. Most of the beautiful fall foliage …
Tranquil the Whole Day Through
Our casita here in Mairena has a south facing terrace. It’s a pleasant place. I especially enjoy watching as clouds across the valley arise, linger for a while, and then fade. The quiet spectacle always …
1st Impressions: Mairena, an Alpujarran Pueblo
We’ve been in Mairena Spain for just over a week having arrived a few hours before the borders closed between the autonomous communities in yet another attempt to control the pandemic. This tiny village has …
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