Five Feet, Nine Inches Above Ground

Tuesday January 06, 2026

Today is the day many Christians around the world celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany – January 6, 12 days after Christmas Day. It’s also the day traditionally attached to the three Wise Guys from the East visiting the Christ Child. No one really knows how many there were or exactly where or when they got there. Never let the facts get in the way of a good story! All that to say by way of introduction to my arrival in my favourite place to spend the winter – Estoi, Portugal. That is my epiphany! Actually, I arrived in Lisbon on Saturday after an uneventful overnight flight from Montreal. Greeted by pouring rain and a lush green landscape. Caught the 10H00 train to Faro as the sun began to poke its face through the clouds. Have been settling into my usual apartment in the quinta, recovering gradually from jet lag. The new addition to this year’s adventure is my brand new bicycle. It came with me in its own special travel case. I spent Monday morning putting it together and took it for its maiden voyage on Monday afternoon. It was a short trip! However, that will change as days progress. Will keep you posted. Meanwhile, here are few pictures from my travels around the immediate area. But first, a few images of home just to keep everything in perspective!

Am I feeling homesick? Nostalgic? Not in the least! And here is why:

Of course, there are images of me and the bike although my arms aren’t long enough to take a proper selfie. I tried shopping for a selfie stick today but was told they are no longer in vogue. Oh, well.

Noticed a few flowering plants whilst I was out and about and some interesting doors and decorations that caught my eye.

Today was spent shopping at the Algarve mall I like the best because it is built around an outdoor courtyard and feels less claustrophobic. There is an enclosed skating rink along with a carousel or merry go round and people were having a grand time. I think today might have been a holiday for a lot of folks.

There are lots of small birds about and this little one did not appear concerned that I was taking a photo or two as the hunt for food was more important. It’s a White Wagtail.

Tuesday afternoons are usually bread delivery day in Estoi. While I was waiting at the corner near the local chapel I took a few more shots. The bread truck never showed up. Probably because it’s a holiday.

Not a terribly exciting time to date but most relaxing! Especially the sunsets.