Messejana. One of many struggling towns dotting Portugal’s high central desert.
Spain and Italy get international attention for the flight of rural populations, but Portugal is right there with them. Residencies are an awesome way to revitalize places like Messejana.
Today, I slept until noon, made my usual residency omelet, and took a self-guided walking tour of Messejana. I’m so lucky to be here. Enjoy the photos of this magical place.
Messejana’s central square is actually a triangle! I love the colorful crochet tree sleeves and the juxtaposition of buildings against sky.
Portugal is known for its colorful ceramics.
Baked in desert heat, ceramic tile frames many Messejana entryways. Ceramic figures also decorate parks and squares.
Farming is a primary occupation along the Portuguese interior.
I climbed the highest point in town to capture this photo of the rolling countryside. Cattle ranching is prevalent here, and it’s not hard to see why. Between here and Lisbon, hundreds of vineyards dot the landscape.
Life is about putting one foot in front of another even when we aren’t feeling it.
Today, I’m feeling it. Savoring it. Unplanned setbacks shifted my focus for too long, but I’m back. I’m strong. I’m proud to live the peripatetic life of a creator. Finally, I’m being who I was meant to be. Instead of apologizing for it or trying to make it seem like it isn’t as awesome as it is, I’m embracing it. I’m ignoring that sign that reads “Please close the door,” and I’m kicking it life wide-open.
Want proof? Show up here every day for the next six weeks. You’ll see.
To find out more about Buinho Creative Hub, click here.
4 Comments
Love it!
Good thing I did it yesterday, because I’m in the thick of it today.
Nice!
Thanks!
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