i took a walk today
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
This afternoon, my grandmother decided to go for a walk, and I decided to tag along.
She asked me, "How long have you lived here?"
nearly 10 years. 10 years in Areia, my hood, my ghetto, my home.
It was a real pleasure taking her around, showing her my favourite places nearby.
My favourite spot in the area happens to be pretty much right behind my house. Living on the edge of the town, I have a near-unobstructed view of the Sintra Mountains and Atlantic Ocean. Behind our house is a field, and at the end of that field is a small clearing, covered by an overhanging tree. It's like something out of a book.
I've lived here for ten years, so I've become very accustomed to the area and the view, and I begin to forget what an amazingly beautiful country I live in. All it takes to remind me is a second set of eyes. A new perspective.
I remember when I was in Morocco, the people around me were marvelling at the brilliant coastline. I, on the other hand, felt very comfortable with it. "You know," I told them, "this is just like the coastline down the road from my house."
That was a moment where I remembered why I love living here.
Today, showing my grandmother around, I was again reminded. In the country club across the street, we walked past the tennis courts, where Lennard used to play. Further down are the stables, where Tim used to ride. To the side are the dunes, where we would walk the dogs, and where they're currently buried. Sometimes zack and I go to the dunes, find the largest one, and sit on it just to soak up our surroundings. The whole town is steeped in our family history. There are a thousand stories, just a few steps away.
Tomorrow is the shortest day of the year, and the beginning of winter. Today was sunny, and warm enough so that I could be out in just a jacket and t-shirt. I can hear the ocean from my room.
It's a terrific home.
you're that much closer to knowing me.
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