Angeiras "Lavra parish " - Land of fishermen

Hello, and welcome to my blog :)

I wish you all a Happy 2024 filled with health, love, peace, success, and many travels.

On the afternoon of the last day of the year, we decided to take a stroll through Angeiras North and enjoy the calm before the excitement of the festivities that take over the houses and streets of our country. We set off for a walk by the seaside, where the golden rays of the sun peeked through the clouds, painting the whitewashed houses and anchored boats.

We walked among the fishermen's houses, a place where the sea intertwines with the community's daily life. The fishing nets rested, waiting for the next call, silent witnesses of a journey that didn't take place that day. It was a scene different from the daily bustle, a quietude that invited reflection. Each time the boats do not sail, it's a relief for the wives, mothers, and children of fishermen. I believe that hearts beat inside their chests every dawn, waiting for everyone to return to land safe and sound. It's a very tough life, and I believe that those who make a living from this profession do it out of love.

At every corner, we imagined stories intertwined in the threads of time, in the salty scents, and in the memories of those who live and lived there. In one of these corners, a house stood out with a cat lazily lying at the window sill. Very leisurely, adorned with a beautiful sequined bow, it allowed itself to be photographed by those passing by. That singular image was a reminder: beauty often resides in unexpected simplicity, a sparkling charm in the scenery of everyday life.

While we savored the tranquility surrounding us, several thoughts lingered in my mind. The sea, so vast and imposing, is a reminder of the ephemeral nature of human life. Just as fishermen choose their working days, we choose the paths we follow, aware (or not) that everything is transient. Every passing day makes me more aware that everything can change in an instant, and that sometimes scares and conditions us a little. The vastness of the ocean reminds us that we are just a small part of this grand existence, and that we should cherish every moment.

We could feel the aroma of fish from restaurants in the air, almost like a tempting invitation to sit down and enjoy a wonderful meal. In summer, when the streets are filled with tourists and locals alike, the scent of delicious dishes fills the senses, blending with the sea breeze. It's a fusion of flavors and aromas that enriches the experience, bringing life to the streets and the community.

I can't help but suggest to anyone passing by the Casa da Guripa Restaurant. Picturesque, with a wonderful decoration and an art of serving both meat and fish exceptionally.

In the middle of one of the alleys (right near the Portinho de Angeiras), we can find the Sonorous Mermaid as a Navigation Warning. We climbed some stairs and could contemplate the sea. Around us, seagulls began to perch as the rain was approaching.

We slowly bid farewell to the year 2023. For me, it was a particularly tough year that I believe, in the future, will allow me to understand that its demands enabled me to grow. However, it was a year that allowed me to start a new career, we all had health, visited many places, and never lacked anything. So, I am very, very grateful. For some years now, I don't ask for much more; I just want to be with my loved ones and for them to be well. But the presence of those we love the most is not filled with anything, perhaps that's why it remains my biggest wish year after year.

See you around.
Wishing you much peace and health

Text & Photography by @Onyfest

With love @onyfest