Tag Archives: miscellaneous

Nuria is centered and thoughtful at 21. She studies psychology at university and has widely ranging interests. In the gloom of Santes Creus cathedral she and I contemplated skeptically the riotously decorated altarpiece. I asked her if she was familiar … Continue reading →

Yesteryear’s recreation. JMN.

The “mas” dates from 1901. It’s a walled compound high in the northern reaches of Reus (Catalonia, Spain). In former times it would have been rural or semi-rural; now it’s an island of serenity in a bustling urban setting: “Mas … Continue reading →

Eduard bosses the well-traveled, 4-wheel drive Audi Quattro over the switchback roads of the Montsant mountains with the commanding zeal of a seasoned rallye enthusiast. One feels G-force as he accelerates into the curves. It’s an experience to be had … Continue reading →

My son-in-law is a medical doctor and practices dentistry. He said the other day that, as a father of three, he has been especially diligent in allowing his children to experience childhood abundantly, letting maturity arrive gradually and in due … Continue reading →

Eva, Eduard, Helena (10), Nuria (21) Are these Catalan grandchildren a manufactured figment from my internal dream factory, or are they real? Helena, the youngest, is a Cheshire cat that swallowed a Roman candle peeping from Puck’s pocket — I … Continue reading →

Before and after. JMN.

Enjoyed a leisurely outdoor chamomile tea with my granddaughter at the Viena. The windows with awnings formerly housed a fine restaurant patronized by prosperous Catalan burghers and their families. The Fortuny Theater is next door, a venue for opera, ballet … Continue reading →