tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17749853311023244102024-03-21T09:19:49.927+00:00We Love Moses!Blogging the stories of our family life on a yoga retreat in the magical village and valleys of Amieira, Central Portugal. Everyday we are tending this beautiful land and its stone dwellings in our journey towards self sufficiency. Moses is the Portuguese name of this place, meaning many mill stones. And, providently, is also the name of our beloved golden retriever, without whom, we'd never have found it. We love you Moses.The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.comBlogger154125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-46772080209853694302016-11-20T14:43:00.001+00:002016-11-20T14:51:09.944+00:00The passion behind our yoga retreatsWe're delighted to present 3 new videos shot earlier this summer by the talented Lisbon film director, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JONYBIGODEs" target="_blank">Tiago Pedro de Carvalho</a>. We asked Tiago to capture the passion of our team, to take a look behind the scenes and explain a little better why we love practicing and teaching yoga here, why we prepare such delicious and nutritious food, and why we include massage and acupuncture treatments on every retreat.<br />
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You can also find these videos on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/valedemoses/" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>. Help us spread the word about Vale de Moses by sharing with those you think might really enjoy retreating with us. View our calendar of retreats and reserve your place online via our <a href="http://valedemoses.com/" target="_blank">Vale de Moses</a> retreat website.<br />
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The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-87876896571535103152016-05-05T12:41:00.000+01:002016-05-06T09:49:29.577+01:00Sleeping Without Props, by Dr Nerina<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This blog post is republished with kind permission from our friend and teacher <a href="http://www.drnerinamuses.com/" target="_blank">Dr Nerina</a>. She teaches workshops on a retreat with us once a year. Her <a href="http://valedemoses.com/en/retreat/retreat-weeks?slug=slumber-and-restore">Slumber and Restore</a> retreat this May is already fully booked but we thought her insight and advice in this article, based on decades of experience, was an absolute must share.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">‘To sleep is an act of faith’</span> Barbara Grizzuti Harrison</blockquote>
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Firstly, I must apologise for the radio silence. It has been more than six months since my last offering but I assure you, this has been for good reason. Settling in to my new home and life and finishing Book 2 were no minor feats but throughout, I’ve mostly slept like a baby (one that sleeps well, that is). Yes – I’m sleeping better than I’ve ever slept. I used to need to sleep with a fan on at night – nothing to do with noisy neighbours or ferreting foxes but simply to erect a defence against my own noisy thoughts. However, after decades of waging war against my own insomnia, studying the delicate workings of the melatonin-secreting pineal gland, and helping others to sleep, maybe…just maybe…I’ve cracked it. No fan at night, no favourite pillow propped up just so, no sleep monitoring devices, no scented oils sprinkled on the pillow to calm mind and deepen breath. No props. Just…simple….deep, velvety sleep. Apparently we’re meant to spend roughly a third of our lives sleeping. It’s an innate ability that’s encoded in our DNA. So why is it so difficult at times?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM38otOe7XCFV2D45yRJyHS-jKRfF1h4K83QdWcf4_eynKmOOchSW1sF4ifEwoSog5jaf_UFKMMlTo-jImTVD1P8lKyKV_FGRyzCzeCHBb3pJksyu0ZMzj_5TXUm_ZESGvGl9xT3pPbUs/s1600/Mirte+and+Moses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM38otOe7XCFV2D45yRJyHS-jKRfF1h4K83QdWcf4_eynKmOOchSW1sF4ifEwoSog5jaf_UFKMMlTo-jImTVD1P8lKyKV_FGRyzCzeCHBb3pJksyu0ZMzj_5TXUm_ZESGvGl9xT3pPbUs/s200/Mirte+and+Moses.jpg" width="150" /></a>To answer this let me draw your attention to another innate need – the need to feel safe. Every living organism has this need. And I’ve long known that sleep and safety are inextricably connected. We sleep when we feel safe. Whatever safety means to you – inbox emptied, food in the fridge, money in the bank, children happy at school, fulfilment at work, relationships harmonious, and so on – whatever makes up the messy, challenging, glorious tapestry of your life. If we can let go of all of this, even the messiest of unfinished business…then we can sleep. Because, after all, to sleep is an act of faith, a deep abiding trust that whatever is going on in life, you can let it go, put it on hold for some hours so that you can sleep deeply and restoratively, waking with the energy and resilience to face whatever lies ahead.<br />
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Sleep problems are not created when you put your head on the pillow at night. Every choice you make during the day - every thought, every behaviour, every conversation (especially with yourself), whether you laugh or cry, the number of times you find yourself at the coffee machine, the number of times you swipe, how you live and love – all of this settles in your nervous system and affects your ability to sleep effortlessly. The key to deepest restoration lies not in superficial sleep hygiene methods (although they might help a little) but in examining the choices we’re making in life. <b>Are we making choices that are building inner safety and trust?</b> Or are we making choices that fuel fear, quicken the breath, and foster distrust?<br />
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So much of life is uncertain. So much can change at the drop of a hat. And as life continues to go ever faster, one of our greatest resources lies in going deeper within, finding that place of inner stillness and safety from which we can move outwards to action, not always knowing where we will end up but always trusting.<br />
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And in so doing, maybe we can sleep deeply and effortlessly…and without props.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoUMCr3slE_kRGrg-fmmhbvjL2eEBCRFOOyKQ-iofbsBXJzpY_tinTuyQKCoqiCSqvZEvk23dCjZ926gMybybkIaLKFyahiAJal7zgSlIHELvLkfxLjVAtl1EMfoNwlG49t7Fid2VVKqI/s1600/nerina+book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoUMCr3slE_kRGrg-fmmhbvjL2eEBCRFOOyKQ-iofbsBXJzpY_tinTuyQKCoqiCSqvZEvk23dCjZ926gMybybkIaLKFyahiAJal7zgSlIHELvLkfxLjVAtl1EMfoNwlG49t7Fid2VVKqI/s200/nerina+book.jpg" width="125" /></a>I promise you won’t have to wait so long for my next installment. In my next blog, I will share practical steps to creating inner safety and trust thus helping you to create the pure sleep that you truly deserve.<br />
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Until then…<br />
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Yours in amazing health and energy,<br />
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<b>Nerina</b><br />
<a href="http://www.drnerina.com/">www.drnerina.com</a><br />
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Order a copy of Dr Nerina's new book "Fast Asleep, Wide Awake" on <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Fast-Asleep-Wide-Awake-restorative/dp/0008179867/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1462524402&sr=8-1&keywords=dr+nerina" target="_blank">Amazon</a>.The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-34465876440789487212016-04-18T17:06:00.001+01:002016-04-18T17:16:41.777+01:00Where we live. In the foothills of this beauty.A couple of beautiful videos below I saw this week, of our local Serra da Estrela mountain range, just 50 kms north east of us as the crow flies. We're in the foothills of the tallest mountain in continental Portugal, 2kms above sea level at its highest point (on top of a 7m stone obelisk as it's officially only 1993m high without that stone!).<br />
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The big river Zêzere where we take our guests every week for a wild swim and mud bath, actually originates up in these mountains. We've been as a family up there a few times over the last 8 years. Always so very majestic, with breathtaking views and crystal clean air.<br />
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Hikes for miles in all directions too. Well worth a visit before or after a retreat with us.<br />
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The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-14348140709849174882016-03-09T14:55:00.004+00:002016-03-09T15:13:16.300+00:0010 reasons to retreat to Vale de Moses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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By <a href="http://valedemoses.com/en/us/team?slug=katherine-smith" target="_blank">Katherine Smith</a>, <i>republished with permission from her own <a href="http://katherinesmithyoga.com/blog/" target="_blank">blog</a>.</i></div>
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The mountain air rouses me from sleep, tickling the tip of my nose, as I breath deep. It’s not quite dawn and in the darkness the expectant moon shines through my window before it disappears behind the swaying tree line.<br />
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I rise in the stillness, to the sound of silence. I shower swiftly and pick my way across the olive terraces to the yoga retreat below. A quick coffee, a reflective moment and I am ready for the day, which always began with practice then teaching.<br />
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Stretching, sweating, laughing and sometimes even swearing before giving in to Savasana is how I remember mornings at <a href="http://valedemoses.com/" target="_blank">Vale de Moses</a>. It is the place I called home for two years before moving to Amsterdam and where I’ll be leading yoga retreats this May, August and October.<br />
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Vale de Moses is a small old valley farm nestled in the remote and picturesque foothills of the Serra de Estrela mountain range, Central Portugal. Here you can retreat for a week on the edge of wilderness, in the beautifully restored home of the Winter family, who will enchant you.<br />
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From mud-baths and forest walks to healing hands and floating yoga spaces there are almost too many reasons to retreat to Vale de Moses. It is full of magic and might just be the very escape your soul has been searching for.<br />
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Here are 10 reasons to go on yoga retreat at Vale de Moses:<br />
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1. Healing hands</h3>
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With one treatment included in every yoga retreat no-one misses out on benefiting from an incredible massage and/or acupuncture session with <a href="http://valedemoses.com/en/us/team?slug=vonetta-winter" target="_blank">Vonetta</a> or <a href="http://valedemoses.com/en/us/team?slug=peter-packard" target="_blank">Peter</a>.<br />
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2. The floating yoga shala</h3>
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The yoga shala is perched above the vegetable patch and fragrant herb garden, providing stunning panoramic views of the surrounding forest and mountains, which burst into full bloom in May. Yoga classes are offered every morning and afternoon in this serene spot.<br />
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3. Hidden spaces & secluded spots</h3>
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If you get tired relaxing by the natural plunge pools, lounging on the sun-terraces or feasting in the sunken courtyard there are plenty of secret spots to discover where you can enjoy time alone, in close proximity to nature, beneath the Portuguese sun.<br />
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4. High vibes, mountain climbing and hikes</h3>
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If yoga isn’t enough and you still have energy to burn, you can take off on the multitude of hiking trails through the mountains, visit local villages for a cheeky coffee or go climbing with an experienced guide.<br />
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5. Morning walks in the woods</h3>
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Let Andy lead you through the forest on one of his infamous morning walks that never fail to inspire. It is the perfect way to wake up your body for the yoga class that will follow.<br />
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6. Furry friends</h3>
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The dogs at Moses are very much part of the yoga family and love cuddles.<br />
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7. The food</h3>
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Vale de Moses believes in abundance and feeding guests well. You will be served nourishing, homely meals rich in pulses, grains and fresh vegetables that are intended to be gentle on the digestion.<br />
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8. The wilderness</h3>
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Magic happens when you immerse yourself in nature. Research has shown that spending time outdoors can have a positive impact on your health and happiness. Here you can bath in the natural pools, the forest, the mud or just the sun.<br />
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<h3>
9. Getting here won’t break the bank</h3>
Flights to Lisbon or Porto are usually inexpensive, from within the rest of Europe, if you time it booking them right. According to Skyscanner 7 weeks ahead of your trip is the <a href="http://www.skyscanner.net/bttb/best-time-to-book-uk" target="_blank">best time to book</a> affordable flights. (Direct coaches to Oleiros on Sunday afternoon where there'll pick everyone up by car. Lisbon 1.30pm Porto 4.30pm. <a href="http://www.rede-expressos.pt/default.aspx" target="_blank">Rede Expressos</a> site.)<br />
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<h3>
10. Lisbon</h3>
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It is hard not to fall in love with Lisbon. Its sunny colours, corner cafes and arty ambience provide the perfect stop off on route to Vale de Moses. There are plenty of beautiful Airbnb properties at reasonable prices, not to mention an incredible range of hostels offering rooms for as little at €15 per night. Be sure not to miss the Pasteis de Natas in Belem!<br />
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And if you’re still not convinced. Watch this video.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="252" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3K7hJ_4BBEg" width="448"></iframe>
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Join me at Vale De Moses for <a href="http://valedemoses.com/en/retreat/retreat-weeks?slug=wild-n-whole-nutrition-and-yoga" target="_blank">Wild & Whole</a>, 1-7th May, 7-13 August, 2-8 October or <a href="http://valedemoses.com/en/retreat/retreat-weeks?slug=get-on-your-mat-with-kat" target="_blank">Get on your mat with Kat</a>, 8-14th May, 14-20 August, 9-15 October.<br />
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<a href="http://valedemoses.com/en/book/calendar" target="_blank">Online Reservations</a> showing live availability for each of my retreats. Prices start from €740 for couples or friends sharing a private room, 790€ for a place in the old stone cottages, or 890€ for a private bedroom, Soulpad or Tipi as single occupancy.<br />
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<b>Kat x</b>The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-21177872814559038512015-09-30T12:02:00.000+01:002015-09-30T12:19:18.530+01:00Happy 10th Birthday Moses!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At 18 months the day we left London</td></tr>
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It's hard to describe how much you have changed our life Moses. We've always loved you. Even the very thought of you before we first met. Remembering back to 2004 when Vonnie and I, Joshua and Eloise began talking about getting a family dog to live with us in New Cross in south east London, we loved the idea of how you might change our lifestyle. How you would necessarily force us to live more outdoors, explore more of London's parks twice a day and take longer journeys out of the city where you, and we, could run a little freer.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieRk9GIoAcR12dDiUAMldu_hg3IFSFZhv_JOXgaCY1RJVPPM5UPxorAysKsZaZdmzWzLIiJNGQWRL2Kg-W_dfp_vrYyPecxtlJKabHJ68Hy4GB_7ozEZD6HX8v22x5b4m8vBexqNW3hWI/s1600/EliMosie+Sleeping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieRk9GIoAcR12dDiUAMldu_hg3IFSFZhv_JOXgaCY1RJVPPM5UPxorAysKsZaZdmzWzLIiJNGQWRL2Kg-W_dfp_vrYyPecxtlJKabHJ68Hy4GB_7ozEZD6HX8v22x5b4m8vBexqNW3hWI/s200/EliMosie+Sleeping.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Asleep with Eli</td></tr>
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The previous summer, Josh had been bitten by a big brutish dog while we were all on a yoga retreat in Italy and as a small boy was understandably a little scared thereafter of dogs. That had to change. So Von began doing her research into the best family dogs and the best breeders. Later the following year in 2005 we went to meet Lillah and her family in Sutton Coldfield in the UK Midlands. And to meet the 14 six week old puppies of the single litter Lillah let your mumma have. Josh picked up a few of your brothers and sisters before finding you. You lay on your back in his hands for just the right amount of time before wriggling to right yourself. Apparently a good sign you would be compliant but not too docile - still with a little joi de vie. You were the one.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In France 2007</td></tr>
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We returned to London and left you to spend a few more weeks with your mamma. Now we had to find your name. Took us a few weeks of playing around with a few. Had to be grand. Had to somehow capture how we felt your introduction to our life would lead us all on an adventure. Late one night, lying in bed laughing about historic adventures in human history, I said "Moses". Vonnie looked at me, smiled that big broad soft ear to ear grin of hers,and repeated "Moses. He's called Moses."<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Dijon</td></tr>
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Over the years since, I've often remembered that night of choosing your name. We had at the time absolutely no idea how provident that choice would be. It just felt right. We joked with our friends you were called Moses because you would lead us to the promised land. And that, my friend, you surely did.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pisa</td></tr>
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After just 18 months of exploring London's parks and surrounding countryside, holidays where you would be welcome and free, we finally began to realise that morning and evening walks and weekend wooded escapades were so much fun that maybe we'd like to spend all of our time with you like that. So we decided to quit our jobs, take the kids out of school, rent our house, buy a motorhome and take you on a much bigger expedition round Europe.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marking territory top of Portugal</td></tr>
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And we'd call it the <a href="http://poopineurope.blogspot.pt/2007_01_01_archive.html" target="_blank">Poop in Europe Tour</a> aiming to let you poop in as many countries as we could manage in a year. That link is the first blog we ever wrote, and it still gives me goose bumps to think of how nervous and excited we felt at the top of the cliff before we jumped.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Italy Sheep Trough</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Abruzzo with Margot Portrait</td></tr>
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6 months of travelling, eating, learning, cycling, walking, swimming in Europe's lakes, rivers and seas (and Italian sheep troughs!), <a href="http://poopineurope.blogspot.pt/2007_09_01_archive.html" target="_blank">you led us</a> to an old farm and the possibility of a new life in the mountains of Portugal. Through all the chaos of the beginning months, the uncertainty of not knowing whether we could restore these old ruins and what on earth we would do when we finished, the trepidation of starting to invite people to spend a week with us on retreat, the hundreds of people who have come to see us since, you Moses, have been our dependable, faithful constant.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The original yoga deck and Safira</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wife Safira and daughter Moksha</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Serra de Estrela</td></tr>
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It's been a remarkable 10 year adventure. And we owe it all to you buddy. Just in case you ever get to read this blog, your official pedigree registered name is "Osrealin The Show Must Go On" and you were born on Sep 15 2005. May you live long and healthy into your aging years and continue to bring joy and solace to all who know and love you.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">We love you Moses.</span></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg20eCKm8txuwshms-HmZGhGSwYNpohV-olQ7BTuGgZ5-vXQjKkXh6SXi7TpXK64JqFpV8INkF63cqt43o3_tEW2oxuE5WGHTW0fb0IpLJr1akRk8WGpkrS1MFWLKGq5iEb0hSSMhWaVvk/s1600/Von+and+Moses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg20eCKm8txuwshms-HmZGhGSwYNpohV-olQ7BTuGgZ5-vXQjKkXh6SXi7TpXK64JqFpV8INkF63cqt43o3_tEW2oxuE5WGHTW0fb0IpLJr1akRk8WGpkrS1MFWLKGq5iEb0hSSMhWaVvk/s200/Von+and+Moses.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walks by rivers</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the beach in Barcelona</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Company while restoring houses</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First touch of Portugal</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outdoor Shower with Vonnie</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First snow for 30 years</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for shampoo and set in Lisbon</td></tr>
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The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-30034570015727134292015-06-19T10:23:00.000+01:002015-06-24T19:03:21.518+01:00The State of Deliciousness, my retreat review by Chloe Skinner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgePqpDq5fwTBd2TXzSm87bGkqfkfVSZLGJJmJFfyy0reLVLnkEjRIWW-1BE-RMFv6Bs4Sy8l7ySVO7wEHX_yRODkCv4_wFfKrWqeObnOQqQL6TBfmhwfOSeKRqgsgIzJFSngGCnBbVgj4/s1600/Von+playing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgePqpDq5fwTBd2TXzSm87bGkqfkfVSZLGJJmJFfyy0reLVLnkEjRIWW-1BE-RMFv6Bs4Sy8l7ySVO7wEHX_yRODkCv4_wFfKrWqeObnOQqQL6TBfmhwfOSeKRqgsgIzJFSngGCnBbVgj4/s200/Von+playing.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Lying on my yoga mat this morning I was 'invited into stillness' by Von - my favourite yoga teacher, and now, after my third visit to Vale de Moses, my friend. I lay there in the beautiful yoga shala overlooking mountainous forests, gleefully anticipating the joy of the astanga practice that was to come - a yoga practice guided by Von's playful, sincere and genuine love of sharing the joy of yoga with others. 'Stillness' isn't something that I find easy to 'achieve', but here at Vale de Moses, even in the invigorating movement of a vinyasa flow, a meditative morning walk with Andy, or a solitary hike up a hill, I can - albeit apprehensively and reluctantly at times - find stillness. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBmpFQ1gi5vK8uRWCHAFLZK_J3UzQsQf8m8apTd3vmVaCPc6gueiJPaKwjvtfea-Vvf9V-IPE20lC2-848Y04MrjXez59fUnn-hZFskr1ElTWLn1CtuZw3GsuEeEzoyupzkaxXui8AGP0/s1600/Soulpad+Lit+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBmpFQ1gi5vK8uRWCHAFLZK_J3UzQsQf8m8apTd3vmVaCPc6gueiJPaKwjvtfea-Vvf9V-IPE20lC2-848Y04MrjXez59fUnn-hZFskr1ElTWLn1CtuZw3GsuEeEzoyupzkaxXui8AGP0/s200/Soulpad+Lit+up.jpg" width="200" /></a>Stillness in the surrounding mountains; stillness in the stars on a clear night; stillness in the people around me; stillness in myself. Stillness can be intimidating, particularly following or during life's storms - the times I have found myself journeying back to Vale de Moses - but the warmth and love of those that live and work here, coupled with the ease of finding solitude, is such a nurturing environment in which to seek stillness.<br />
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As someone more naturally inclined toward movement however, the ability to balance this stillness I need so much with the delight of physically flowing - as well as the inevitability of a concurrent emotional flowing - is one of the many dynamics which draws me to Vale de Moses. After a morning walk with a sparkly-eyed and warm-souled Andy - predominantly silent but with a vignette of wisdom sprinkled in - a yoga class in which all different bodies are lovingly celebrated, 'held', supported and encouraged by Von, and a body and soul nourishing breakfast with good food and good people, I spent some time alone yesterday down at one of the natural pools - basking in the cool, fresh water, the fire of the sun, the rich smell of the earth and the silkiness of the light wind.<br />
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In the nurturing stillness, I found the rarity of the time to 'look' - simply 'look' - and found movement, adventure and busyness. Watching the small fish under the surface, the insects resting on the water's surface, the sway of the surrounding trees, I thought about how lucky I am to find myself in a place where I am reminded of the ease of loving this life, this world, these people, this self - even amidst the inevitabilities of pain and hardship which came before, and will come after, this moment, this week, this retreat.<br />
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All of this and it was only midday! The afternoon followed with mouth-tingling nourishment, brain-stimulating conversation, heart-warming laughter, body-quenching yoga practice and, all in all, soul-quenching life! Lovely life!<br />
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This morning, after hearing ourselves moving, stretching, and breathing into our bodies alongside one another - bodies that have recently been deeply massaged by the expert hands of Pete or Von - two of the other guests remarked upon how good an idea it was to come to Vale de Moses. I couldn't agree more - it is an excellent idea... indeed, it is my favourite! It is true, however, that one of my 'favourite' volunteers here said yesterday that 'every 'thing' is your favourite'. But that is just how I feel at Vale de Moses...as Von said to me,<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">'it is just about moving from one state of deliciousness to another'. </span></i></blockquote>
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And it is. It is delicious here. <a href="http://valedemoses.com/" target="_blank">Come</a>.<br />
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<b>Chloe Skinner</b>The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-72229423045767288592015-05-13T10:57:00.000+01:002015-05-13T10:57:38.172+01:00The beauty of May in the Forest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Spring here in central Portugal is, by far, our favourite season. Warm and sunny already well into the mid 30 degree heat, cool in the evenings and mornings, with the heavy rain showers back in April, as always, precipitating such a splendid show of flowers, roses and colour everywhere. We love it. It's divine. </div>
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We just uploaded to our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/valedemoses" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> some of our favourite <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.784080585038499.1073741845.127383840708180&type=1&comment_id=784492264997331&notif_t=photo_album_comment" target="_blank">guests' photos</a> of their retreats here since March. A few on the blog today but do take a browse if you can. There are some stunners. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYKvJSov5t90YabK3qCkw-t9falxUfXROMWAvWxE1ZhwsKN1DZuHeA3XRxIOiLtZJA_cZgSG5u7LdJY1roW8irYYdHHZbU7-UgO19yHpcVBzjsEnZywvgxRHeSEKvPGltqO0p_Lc1hWN4/s1600/Misty+morning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYKvJSov5t90YabK3qCkw-t9falxUfXROMWAvWxE1ZhwsKN1DZuHeA3XRxIOiLtZJA_cZgSG5u7LdJY1roW8irYYdHHZbU7-UgO19yHpcVBzjsEnZywvgxRHeSEKvPGltqO0p_Lc1hWN4/s200/Misty+morning.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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To help us capture the lushness of the landscape at this time of year, tomorrow a film crew arrive with a drone! They came last week to do some light testing and flight path work, and it was so bizarre to have a noisy little machine flying around the place. Like a wee invasion from the civilized technological world far far away. But we think it's the best way to film the valley and buildings here so it's happening tomorrow and Friday. Gulp!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ7P0MfB46U-KERAyPBvFBk_v01v7rWj1TGgHDKMGR20wvWQ_akMG51DoJo7Z7116_FcTdu6Ai41bU9aENnKAelYAyuPYHNL6cehhSFOWC4ld0g74YesGJFsC2riV8PDmecgMytg6Q0rA/s1600/Josh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ7P0MfB46U-KERAyPBvFBk_v01v7rWj1TGgHDKMGR20wvWQ_akMG51DoJo7Z7116_FcTdu6Ai41bU9aENnKAelYAyuPYHNL6cehhSFOWC4ld0g74YesGJFsC2riV8PDmecgMytg6Q0rA/s200/Josh.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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On a personal note, although it's been wonderful to have so many more lovely people <a href="http://valedemoses.com/" target="_blank">retreat</a> with us again this year, Vonetta and I are missing our children terribly during the week days. Eloise is in Lisbon at art school and Josh finishing off his schooling in Castelo Branco. They’re both healthy and happy but we wish we could all still be together. Summer is here soon and they’ll be home for a while. ;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsUS5HijK8_VQ3_L4AyCwT5ewscCFhLRUd-gpouys-lwN5-F-UtlUxw0kX6v4Mk4mRKcoQ7lLH55v3TSqZxevRjEPbTQQNn8DVY_IOv0wmpRNDMOmABPFNZX-J59OnJzinFPhOw_MMZ2U/s1600/Eli+Tattoo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsUS5HijK8_VQ3_L4AyCwT5ewscCFhLRUd-gpouys-lwN5-F-UtlUxw0kX6v4Mk4mRKcoQ7lLH55v3TSqZxevRjEPbTQQNn8DVY_IOv0wmpRNDMOmABPFNZX-J59OnJzinFPhOw_MMZ2U/s200/Eli+Tattoo.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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As if I hadn't already realized that they’re both all grown up and flying the nest in search of their own independent adventures, the arrival of tattoos kind of visualized it for me. You won't believe how many times I've said I'm getting a Tat but always chickened out. Not our two though! They beat me to it. Maybe encouraged a little by the fact that where Eloise stays in Campo Pequeno, a new tattoo bar opened up last month beneath the flat! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNX0XY-cPICHdkR2ro6tdRcJXfb5EWvWRmZo5b8Jq85LQtiWuPfrIVfnWWVY5aiVEdTdJ02a0aWrFA-TwovdEvT8bqT5Blap1GMA6hefiGH7z8ebqD6kBwHHmL_dszyMVXdgFslf5Tdbw/s1600/Starry+Night.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNX0XY-cPICHdkR2ro6tdRcJXfb5EWvWRmZo5b8Jq85LQtiWuPfrIVfnWWVY5aiVEdTdJ02a0aWrFA-TwovdEvT8bqT5Blap1GMA6hefiGH7z8ebqD6kBwHHmL_dszyMVXdgFslf5Tdbw/s200/Starry+Night.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
I’ll leave you with links to two videos of our new Tipi going up a couple of weeks ago. (Videos will appear here soon when I work out how to embed from FB!) Big thanks to our dear friends Ian and Merle from <a href="http://www.hummingbird-tipis.com/" target="_blank">Hummingbird Tipis</a> and Scorp for carrying it over in 3 suitcases on an airplane and putting it up for us. It's resplendent. </div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/valedemoses/videos/vb.127383840708180/777899492323275/?type=1&theater" target="_blank">Tipi poles go up </a><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/valedemoses/videos/vb.127383840708180/777954428984448/?type=1&theater" target="_blank">Tipi is built</a><br />
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Paz e amor,<br />
<b>Andrew</b>The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-34617746200609306952015-01-26T14:35:00.000+00:002015-01-26T14:50:31.062+00:00Happy New Year and Green Smoothie Recipe - by Vonetta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIZlPN3QNb9pVLI2_FRa4oTr-_YpVwi3T2W-Ok_wAO47_Z1XA8KZpJ9syZdj8lBi9wCSlnkJjwwzrzSTNzEhubVJIT36WYdsd9163GYuM91gAGpAYlAPFdDOWdCryoRW6R5cam5WAt64w/s1600/Vonetta+Winter+Lisbon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIZlPN3QNb9pVLI2_FRa4oTr-_YpVwi3T2W-Ok_wAO47_Z1XA8KZpJ9syZdj8lBi9wCSlnkJjwwzrzSTNzEhubVJIT36WYdsd9163GYuM91gAGpAYlAPFdDOWdCryoRW6R5cam5WAt64w/s1600/Vonetta+Winter+Lisbon.jpg" height="200" width="112" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Campo Pequeno</td></tr>
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Happy New Year one and all. I just finished my first practice session in a few days. Over the winter so far, I have been travelling and moving and teaching and studying and being a Mother. My yoga practice often has to fit into my life and 2014 indeed was very busy, productive and outstanding. It is a little daunting to consider making it all happen again in 2015, but I am also reminded that my life will not fit without practice and it is on to the mat I go.</div>
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My setting has changed, I am now in a tiny little flat in Lisbon. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6sfIKRTO7Uqsqv13jVMwXR4tY-oP-rf-Fh8PCVHOJOZ1Ebl_CkawGXT9u4GhSXyNKq7QqmQARxHGqFbYpL9e2PHlDD82DPtSzMhgWj-vwO6mi7zutHVieipJ3_r7wp8nkibOMR8oPAy0/s1600/Vale+de+Moses+Shala+View.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6sfIKRTO7Uqsqv13jVMwXR4tY-oP-rf-Fh8PCVHOJOZ1Ebl_CkawGXT9u4GhSXyNKq7QqmQARxHGqFbYpL9e2PHlDD82DPtSzMhgWj-vwO6mi7zutHVieipJ3_r7wp8nkibOMR8oPAy0/s1600/Vale+de+Moses+Shala+View.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
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For the last seven years at <a href="http://valedemoses.com/" target="_blank">Vale de Moses</a> my gaze while practicing looking forward out of the shala has always landed on a tiny little pine tree. From where I like to stand, this tree appears to be growing at the end of a fire path. When I first started practicing in Portugal this tree was pretty little. Like me, it has survived being in total isolation, aloneness, strong winds, blazing heat, electric storms and even a huge forest fire in 2012. I remember the first morning practice after the fire, I looked up ready to say goodbye to the little tree to find the fire had been put out by the brave firemen just above it. That morning when I came to practice Vrksasana I felt a communion with the little tree. It had survived and would therefore be nourished by the scary events that had taken place, depositing nutrient laden potash all around it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHagoTdXtnmB74Uvd81MPW3YBVD8wURIP3ztvJYtVKCab5_WZbjzJ-2xYuyUVaXAig9hsPyV-C3oW8oa15iDpWuU_IhwhbbdM4DtuUDYkYRQun3Ow28AMVlWR-P4cgkN0tV9zOYtd57l0/s1600/Lisbon+Yellow+Apartment.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHagoTdXtnmB74Uvd81MPW3YBVD8wURIP3ztvJYtVKCab5_WZbjzJ-2xYuyUVaXAig9hsPyV-C3oW8oa15iDpWuU_IhwhbbdM4DtuUDYkYRQun3Ow28AMVlWR-P4cgkN0tV9zOYtd57l0/s1600/Lisbon+Yellow+Apartment.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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This morning I am seeing the tree but only in my mind's eye. My real view now is an elegant yellow Lisbon apartment building. I am unable to sprawl around the shala and I am not receiving strong and satisfying adjustments as I would do in a studio. I have simply rolled out my mat and a delicious solitary practice can begin, time and space, after months of teaching, working, travelling, moving and mothering. I am actually landing and there is no better place to land than on my own on my mat. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuJSESkR6nitp0yqkTRjLuXdE0oB3Spn_IQQ1tfrmSNCrcN8dCT5W_1I5Tkjp6xOcEjTRsN9Am3tS4-PY1u-vLGY0AJnYkf-N93_ahy0ZzM5Q1X74bYQUtGRKKgNjqcDM5FxfAVuf2QUc/s1600/Handstand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuJSESkR6nitp0yqkTRjLuXdE0oB3Spn_IQQ1tfrmSNCrcN8dCT5W_1I5Tkjp6xOcEjTRsN9Am3tS4-PY1u-vLGY0AJnYkf-N93_ahy0ZzM5Q1X74bYQUtGRKKgNjqcDM5FxfAVuf2QUc/s1600/Handstand.jpg" height="200" width="112" /></a><br />
This morning I am surprised by how light and happy my body feels even though certain more athletic postures feel awkward. I know that after a few days of dedicated practice more lightness, or freedom or whatever may come, but I am not concerned. The aloneness that this personal practice provides is needed right now. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs1JwU_RYusbZEVxX_wd_MD9ZQTFfTdZGkGVUQ2m0XZS9mTRv0zbkbQ2iY07pHrIS62peSEeEYbw8Xq71A0OOzQnjeus3VYpbl2GjySKwkY9JSG_z0MwZFHlO-hX9zuQ-M7sLUipLTQpo/s1600/Vonetta+Winter+Crab+Beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs1JwU_RYusbZEVxX_wd_MD9ZQTFfTdZGkGVUQ2m0XZS9mTRv0zbkbQ2iY07pHrIS62peSEeEYbw8Xq71A0OOzQnjeus3VYpbl2GjySKwkY9JSG_z0MwZFHlO-hX9zuQ-M7sLUipLTQpo/s1600/Vonetta+Winter+Crab+Beach.jpg" height="112" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqLDEQjdOn1o2dYxPOvCe2jZ6wwE2BHI12eiLf4T9Pl0SIRnyjWdb7ll-TKYeiyA706gO3o1wzp5fZ2KaajLDA5UpJQWB3NlTD44E-AjUKE7AOOSeBNcfcVPe7J772hVMet9JWAT9kQdE/s1600/Yoga+Mat+Naniki.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqLDEQjdOn1o2dYxPOvCe2jZ6wwE2BHI12eiLf4T9Pl0SIRnyjWdb7ll-TKYeiyA706gO3o1wzp5fZ2KaajLDA5UpJQWB3NlTD44E-AjUKE7AOOSeBNcfcVPe7J772hVMet9JWAT9kQdE/s1600/Yoga+Mat+Naniki.jpg" height="200" width="112" /></a>Tomorrow, I will be back to the studio, <a href="http://www.casavinyasa.com/en/" target="_blank">Casa Vinyasa</a> in Lisbon (not unfortunately on this beach nor this mat in Barbados!), allowing my body to be artfully adjusted in postures, a benefit that I would not be without. I am sure this morning's gleeful leaping around the mat while it has personality, must lack technique. However today is a personality day and I am having fun. I am falling in love with lengthening and broadening again.<br />
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When I am struggling with accepting any phase in my life, then this little practice time helps me to just feel better after, or at the very least, less bothered. Practice is, after all, a tried and tested method of delighting in the now.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2iKqyWK5-Y0dptiaKymq2u6TtZGzonot4bDyUYTktGtUVTk1aBmPdXeJuFvPzudsrqrq_E08MqQNy4brwVMmr2t-Re4gUMBH76S9F1xtqmAKxmsGVZGJ04xwrL1ndrZmhPYyVV5Yd9bk/s1600/Vale+de+Moses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2iKqyWK5-Y0dptiaKymq2u6TtZGzonot4bDyUYTktGtUVTk1aBmPdXeJuFvPzudsrqrq_E08MqQNy4brwVMmr2t-Re4gUMBH76S9F1xtqmAKxmsGVZGJ04xwrL1ndrZmhPYyVV5Yd9bk/s1600/Vale+de+Moses.jpg" height="112" width="200" /></a></div>
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In a few months I will be back to retreat teaching and the joys of seeing known faces and new ones, of hearing their stories of the Winter face to face rather than on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/valedemoses" target="_blank">FB</a>. My days will be filled with sweet smelling oils, pungent herbs and Qi balancing magic wands (acupuncture needles). Beautiful bodies of all sizes and descriptions will be nourished by the excellent Vale de Moses <a href="http://valedemoses.com/en/us/team?slug=katherine-smith" target="_blank">team</a> and volunteers. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGVfzwNftAUTU4kYjDQRd4DvFk7PJUznqWGGVBVcBZY48wyMR63wKzMSea9Ar-i4LAzyJa8gP9AAuo6ZegOrcutMPVy9ThwaU1im6tUL8vvPQgdjz9y7kF0L5YtNrS84wUaTMs50dUdDk/s1600/Vonetta+Winter+Walking+Dogs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGVfzwNftAUTU4kYjDQRd4DvFk7PJUznqWGGVBVcBZY48wyMR63wKzMSea9Ar-i4LAzyJa8gP9AAuo6ZegOrcutMPVy9ThwaU1im6tUL8vvPQgdjz9y7kF0L5YtNrS84wUaTMs50dUdDk/s1600/Vonetta+Winter+Walking+Dogs.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
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Like my Yoga practice, the pleasures of retreat life have been tried and tested and I am relieved to have this in my future. Yoga practice with our other teachers coming this year will begin and there will be sharing and learning and a light competitive frolicking and I am looking forward to such long and generous summer days. However, right now it is good just to roll out my mat and be there.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The joy of yoga has to be being alone in your flat with your tunes, enjoying the immediate gratification of touching your toes. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV5N55yUi0v0Cx2zTCWwpTKKsWNDV7GRRELIXqEENemiPUHkfvCUO-n-5JJ2uIxQbXvgCexgb_-lc70vNK68Jg2f0El-7IQttFiojA_NAYIA9vpRfBCzwqSJZNtYiNto_lR22LkZTNGQg/s1600/Green+Smoothie+Ingredients.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV5N55yUi0v0Cx2zTCWwpTKKsWNDV7GRRELIXqEENemiPUHkfvCUO-n-5JJ2uIxQbXvgCexgb_-lc70vNK68Jg2f0El-7IQttFiojA_NAYIA9vpRfBCzwqSJZNtYiNto_lR22LkZTNGQg/s1600/Green+Smoothie+Ingredients.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
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Ah, all that is left to mention is my Green Smoothie fetish. My favourite smoothie at the moment. Created by <a href="http://www.drfuhrman.com/" target="_blank">Dr. Fuhrman</a> and inspired by <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Green-Smoothie-Revolution-Radical-Natural/dp/1556438125/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422281208&sr=8-1&keywords=Victoria+Boutenko%27s+Green+Smoothie+Revolution" target="_blank">Victoria Boutenko's Green Smoothie Revolution</a> and introduced to me by my Natural Physician Course. The course gives me the mental challenge I need while I wait for my loved ones: Andy from his work preparing the valley and cottages in the mountains for the Yoga Season ahead; Josh finishing school in Castelo Branco and Eloise finishing a day of art school in Lisbon. The juice gives me that zip that lasts throughout the day and will also help get rid of some of the Christmas loving. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsfBe_75o1-wShV0dD80xDvMYPbwS_lFz6Au4pKjUMCLkXqHOt1C-Pj5prPxO_N89Nj_hr7zy_wYCbI2KTXraUPFqvp8Wn3plBkp183tjEszumVC6TQG3SVSMLJHMvlxIp74I6JOlxWTE/s1600/Lisbon+Green+Smoothie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsfBe_75o1-wShV0dD80xDvMYPbwS_lFz6Au4pKjUMCLkXqHOt1C-Pj5prPxO_N89Nj_hr7zy_wYCbI2KTXraUPFqvp8Wn3plBkp183tjEszumVC6TQG3SVSMLJHMvlxIp74I6JOlxWTE/s1600/Lisbon+Green+Smoothie.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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It's a lot of fun working on the course, I am constantly running little benign experiments on myself and it is worth it as I know the experiences I am having through this course will improve what we offer at <a href="http://valedemoses.com/" target="_blank">Vale de Moses</a> and in <a href="http://valedemoses.com/en/retreat/retreat-weeks?slug=lush-life-nature-retreat-barbados" target="_blank">Barbados</a> over many years to come. This juice was apparently drunk by Pop icon <a href="http://www.vegetariantimes.com/blog/vt-taste-test-dr-fuhrman-39-s-green-longevity-drink/" target="_blank">Peter Max</a> every morning since 1998. It is a deluxe Super Green juice that gives me the stamina to keep at it. If you would like to try the juice and do not have all of the ingredients, don't worry about it just substitute and omit. I often have to. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9KAPTO7wafRMkPtqcIwoy-lTHwShVdUaT7DtX7bpCxBga5QxXB42iJZ9pCmODSq2i-LAegVuShgIawlbM8tZEn68XuuUG23Clvvy4Fg0vC1D9_geeqTayzbcE79owtD1DcoGpBdrLb4/s1600/Lisbon+Herbs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9KAPTO7wafRMkPtqcIwoy-lTHwShVdUaT7DtX7bpCxBga5QxXB42iJZ9pCmODSq2i-LAegVuShgIawlbM8tZEn68XuuUG23Clvvy4Fg0vC1D9_geeqTayzbcE79owtD1DcoGpBdrLb4/s1600/Lisbon+Herbs.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>The treat of a great juicer such as <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Hurom-HU700GY-Cold-Press-Juicer/dp/B00GIMBYEA/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1422281272&sr=8-2-fkmr0&keywords=Hurom+700+YG" target="_blank">Hurom 700 GY</a> or a Vitamix may be just the thing for you to get this 2015 off to a bouncy start. </div>
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<b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/vonetta.winter">Vonetta </a></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.vegetariantimes.com/blog/vt-taste-test-dr-fuhrman-39-s-green-longevity-drink/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjok-BKalygEBLq6z7obq-qaB_m_wfGaEJGmWw2jS-gORnbsRWkSNkkrIG98KMswIhZlG1CaBJKvZsZldWJRxr2axpJpUeSJMMTfD5ENYP8pFDP0aJ1zJLhvxDxLjWqGS_m273-iazW5KE/s1600/Dr+Fuhrman.jpg" height="115" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><i>Dr. Fuhrmanʼs Green Longevity Drink</i></b></div>
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<i>Makes 4 cups </i></div>
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<i>1 large head romaine lettuce </i></div>
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<i>1 1/2 cups spinach </i></div>
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<i>2 sprigs parsley </i></div>
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<i>1 cup broccoli florets </i></div>
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<i>2 leaves mustard greens or turnip greens </i></div>
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<i>3 collard leaves </i></div>
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<i>1/2 cup watercress </i></div>
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<i>1/8 tsp. oregano </i></div>
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<i>1/2 avocado </i></div>
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<i>1 banana, peeled </i></div>
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<i>3 large strawberries </i></div>
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<i>1 cup frozen or fresh blueberries </i></div>
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<i>1/2 papaya or mango </i></div>
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<i>1 1/2 tsp. flax seeds </i></div>
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<i>1 1/2 tsp. sunflower seeds </i></div>
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<i>1 1/2 tsp. sesame seeds</i></div>
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<i>I hope 2015 is a Yogi Year.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsqJwPX3W3wAh5Opc6qgwxFugVjnzvx602HETJ15lF3jSSmwm9uXeUcSviru0yihbAFVgGMxzD2nzYE5vYtTwXULFInz-OwcOtxIIokWQ6EcA3ueiY1d3-hg5sE1bscx-oy6PHkTo2eQ/s1600/Old+Vale+de+Moses.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsqJwPX3W3wAh5Opc6qgwxFugVjnzvx602HETJ15lF3jSSmwm9uXeUcSviru0yihbAFVgGMxzD2nzYE5vYtTwXULFInz-OwcOtxIIokWQ6EcA3ueiY1d3-hg5sE1bscx-oy6PHkTo2eQ/s1600/Old+Vale+de+Moses.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
In September 2007, on a family tour round southern europe in a motorhome, with Moses our golden retriever, Josh aged 10 and Eloise aged 8, we arrived in Portugal and saw on the web an old abandoned farm in the centre of Portugal with the same name as our dog.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBnoLAShFNtkRSfkhw3dkMF_94jJWEcyGBAdKDOo0b72XAYWNYRgUohqNVt_J5fJc2V5DQ9iXKrEsHJByvK3jkhviRlYMTS7qyWtLWLyldZg8ryryp7petChfyd2kwrwhg3ybGxlCK06A/s1600/old+farmhouse.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBnoLAShFNtkRSfkhw3dkMF_94jJWEcyGBAdKDOo0b72XAYWNYRgUohqNVt_J5fJc2V5DQ9iXKrEsHJByvK3jkhviRlYMTS7qyWtLWLyldZg8ryryp7petChfyd2kwrwhg3ybGxlCK06A/s1600/old+farmhouse.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
Here's the <a href="http://poopineurope.blogspot.pt/2007/09/day-destiny-served-banquet-screeming.html" target="_blank">blog entry</a> we wrote on that providential day when we first arrived to the village of Amieira and were led by our trusty hound to discover the hope of a new adventure. I re read it today to remind us where this all began. Worth a read if you've not heard the story before. All the photos on this post today are from 2007.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAWRKC9D8LQuH-8FxaBZ_vB1YeiN4QkCK-8vg8Mwo1ahs6e5btD7rGBoC4D6OoFXxpnjaSiwnEXXrjyskzDLqcTuIvHrZuOS41maccS5tnjnK6FnQRBRu7TeHcT00-D2O-TDatpv-P-m4/s1600/eli.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAWRKC9D8LQuH-8FxaBZ_vB1YeiN4QkCK-8vg8Mwo1ahs6e5btD7rGBoC4D6OoFXxpnjaSiwnEXXrjyskzDLqcTuIvHrZuOS41maccS5tnjnK6FnQRBRu7TeHcT00-D2O-TDatpv-P-m4/s1600/eli.JPG" height="200" width="133" /></a></div>
That's 7 years ago this month. Feels like an entire lifetime away. And what an adventure it has been. Learning how to restore houses. Learning a new language and culture. Learning how to make wine, plant trees and potatoes, cultivate herbs and tomatoes, use power tools, drive tractors. Learning how to fish. Learning how to teach English to children in schools. Learning about social media and launching a yoga retreat from our home. Meeting such a rich diversity of people, teachers, volunteers, therapists and carers from all over the planet. Most importantly of all, raising our children (this was Eloise aged 8!) in an isolated forest environment with an abundance of peace and olive oil.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3WiZo78nDI3vxrZHhyphenhyphen41w2SMGeLg0Oz1vy8e-AqgiV7-RU3MDE0xNtEcvszFex_sp7u7Zel1-QdSVDHCB5-V2oUxVGQg_mO9IzAMLNEGX3zVR5B4f4Obi14qjwCIPOBFCixzU3UPiaw/s1600/kids+cleaning.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3WiZo78nDI3vxrZHhyphenhyphen41w2SMGeLg0Oz1vy8e-AqgiV7-RU3MDE0xNtEcvszFex_sp7u7Zel1-QdSVDHCB5-V2oUxVGQg_mO9IzAMLNEGX3zVR5B4f4Obi14qjwCIPOBFCixzU3UPiaw/s1600/kids+cleaning.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
Life, they say, revolves in 7 year cycles. Every single cell in our body changes over this time. Perhaps we fundamentally do too. I was 35 then and now I'm 42. A quick <a href="https://www.google.pt/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&rlz=1C1TEUA_enPT467PT467&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=7%20year%20life%20cycle" target="_blank">Google search</a> brings up some fascinating stuff around the phases of our lives. And this one I've just been through resonates with lots that have been written about by sages past. Here's a snippet of just one of those <a href="http://dreamhawk.com/body-and-mind/every-seven-years-you-change/" target="_blank">links</a>...<br />
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<blockquote>
<i>"From the thirty-fifth to the forty-second year, depending upon one’s personality and what one’s circumstances allow, one begins to feel a new restlessness. In some degree a desire to share whatever one has gained through life with others comes to the surface. What has been developed or realised can be taken to greater subtlety during this period. This is almost like unfolding something, perhaps similar to the way a flower unfolds a bud that has been developing in earlier phases of its growth. </i></blockquote>
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<i>You may reach heights or realisation and creativity not touched previously. The profound breakthrough of ones innate genius that emerges around this time will no doubt be expressed in some degree. However, whatever is attained or realised will be enlarged and synthesised in later periods."</i></blockquote>
All encouraging stuff. Seems from these sites that there is more to come as we get older. Obviously. Good to know nonetheless.<br />
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So here we are, drawing towards the close of another fabulous yoga retreat season at Vale de Moses, starting to peak at what might be down the road in the months and years to come. Josh left home last week for school in Castelo Branco. Eli just left for art school in Lisbon this morning. Soon our retreats will close once again for the year, our wonderful team departs and it will then be just Vonnie and I. Then she's off end of November for a while to New York to see her aunty before our <a href="http://valedemoses.com/en/retreat/retreat-weeks?slug=lush-life-nature-retreat-barbados" target="_blank">Christmas retreat</a> in Barbados. So in December it will be just me and Moses. And his Mrs, Safi and their puppy Moksha. And our 11 year old cat from London, Angel. No one else.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SMY7HghXW_o/SEVt_BvZCzI/AAAAAAAAAwE/y2WO_jTZ7Lw/s1600/june09.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SMY7HghXW_o/SEVt_BvZCzI/AAAAAAAAAwE/y2WO_jTZ7Lw/s1600/june09.JPG" height="200" width="133" /></a></div>
Despite the fact we've lived so remotely for 7 years, I've actually only spent a couple of days here on my <a href="http://www.cockneyrhymingslang.co.uk/slang/jack_jones_1" target="_blank">Jack Jones</a> own. December might be just the thing to take stock, reflect and dream a little more of what lies ahead. The next 7 year cycle is just around the corner. Today though, I am feeling unbelievably grateful that we bought a puppy in London and named him Moses and that he led Vonnie, Josh, Eli and I to this magical little valley in Portugal.<br />
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May your journey through Autumn this year be full of loveliness, whatever life cycle you find yourself in.<br />
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Peace.<br />
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<b>Memphis</b><br />
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p.s. was also looking through some of the restoration videos we took and found this one by Eloise. Check out the chaos of building work...<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/HATCB-FO6sI" width="420"></iframe>
The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-7026419965619211852014-08-29T11:03:00.000+01:002014-08-29T12:10:33.293+01:00Kids leaving home & Yoga at Christmas in the Bajan Sun - by Vonetta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcKmIsD8nm8gjVYhqUqGcG6CqT6xEfPZHc9fIb-lX_7A-RP56Szo91rxV6GRTLOBJmYs9MnlhTH3KX_oRus0YCqnH5cOdoAlTMqr_vSL9WIlhYxqI0BYD3LTD3y2TCYVmY5Z-vjynolhU/s1600/frida.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcKmIsD8nm8gjVYhqUqGcG6CqT6xEfPZHc9fIb-lX_7A-RP56Szo91rxV6GRTLOBJmYs9MnlhTH3KX_oRus0YCqnH5cOdoAlTMqr_vSL9WIlhYxqI0BYD3LTD3y2TCYVmY5Z-vjynolhU/s1600/frida.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
We've been having another super summer here at Vale de Moses. So many guests once again have made long trips from all over the world to spend a week or 2 with us in our home in these remote Portuguese mountains. Doesn't feel so remote here when we're surrounded by all these lovely people. You should see some of their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.635357963244096.1073741842.127383840708180&type=3" target="_blank">sweet photos</a> of their stays on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/valedemoses" target="_blank">FB page</a> and some <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g189142-d6228697-Reviews-Vale_De_Moses-Castelo_Branco_Castelo_Branco_District_Central_Portugal.html#REVIEWS" target="_blank">kind words</a> in reviews on our new Trip Advisor page.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVnFHV8vaDiudRj2BayclpqTT_OiDRMIhu-0gJqsXL1s6clohpqJG4xiyNH0vyX16mGqq-sw_xVzxurhT0mKBpeF0tLPX-NQ3clcsAxcomwn_MoDxkv-F3YCUTE0SsJLpapV_3Ze6sQos/s1600/Kat+and+Vonnie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVnFHV8vaDiudRj2BayclpqTT_OiDRMIhu-0gJqsXL1s6clohpqJG4xiyNH0vyX16mGqq-sw_xVzxurhT0mKBpeF0tLPX-NQ3clcsAxcomwn_MoDxkv-F3YCUTE0SsJLpapV_3Ze6sQos/s1600/Kat+and+Vonnie.jpg" height="200" width="119" /></a></div>
We’ve had tremendous help from lots of great people too. Our Karma volunteers have relentlessly and cheerily washed dishes and tidied spaces. <a href="http://www.katherinesmithyoga.com/" target="_blank">Katherine Smith</a> has continually created culinary delights in our kitchen, wrote our first retreat menu <a href="http://valedemoses.com/en/us/nourish" target="_blank">cookbook</a> and teaches her afternoon <a href="http://www.doyouyoga.com/going-deep-with-yin-yoga/" target="_blank">yin yoga classes</a>. <a href="http://www.cosmicflow.nl/en/" target="_blank">Fleur van Hille</a> from Amsterdam is sadly leaving us today after running 4 inspirational vinyasas flow retreats in July and August. And Peter Packard, who Maria Mercati (my TCM teacher from <a href="http://www.bodyharmonics.co.uk/" target="_blank">Body Harmonics</a> in the UK) sent us, has been brilliantly massaging our guests this summer and treated me too with regular with acupuncture and Thai, keeping my own body in good energetic shape for teaching and treating everyone that comes here.<br />
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Pete and I have decided to run our first <a href="http://valedemoses.com/en/retreat/retreat-weeks?slug=thai-massage-course-with-yoga" target="_blank">Thai Massage Course with Yoga</a> this October, 19th to 25th. We're really looking forward to it. If it goes well, we plan to run a few more courses next year too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0VBgKYLuhKCex80heVbmWvZEAQpmiCdYphKA3ewNEPiJU18HMppZUIYZpCsxjKR44Jqgc2gKkcB3A-wB88yF_ZVrumKiQutLqptGGh5tyx5cylDNH2AlAcDhICuJSoKUTLM_C_cE-Qwg/s1600/Ellie+and+Vonnie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0VBgKYLuhKCex80heVbmWvZEAQpmiCdYphKA3ewNEPiJU18HMppZUIYZpCsxjKR44Jqgc2gKkcB3A-wB88yF_ZVrumKiQutLqptGGh5tyx5cylDNH2AlAcDhICuJSoKUTLM_C_cE-Qwg/s1600/Ellie+and+Vonnie.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
Big family changes are on the close horizon for us in the next few weeks. My Eloise got accepted into Art School in Lisbon, <a href="http://www.antonioarroio.pt/" target="_blank">António Arroio</a>. So she’ll be leaving home end of September to stay with a family there until we can find a place to rent together in Lisbon from January onwards. Gulp.<br />
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Joshua is also moving to Castelo Branco to finish off his last year at a new school, <a href="http://www.aenacb.pt/" target="_blank">Nuno Alvares</a>, studying Physics. He’s in England at the moment with Andy’s folks touring a few universities to consider. So both Eli and Josh are leaving home at the same time in under a month!! A little earlier than we had thought they would. Andy keeps telling me "breathe, Vonetta, breathe. Change is inevitable. It’s all gonna be OK."<br />
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I went shopping with Ellie and a friend of mine the other day and picked up a number of items of clothing I felt best represented my present incarnation as Von. As I lifted up the choices for my friend’s inspection, I was thinking “yep, nice look”. My friend raised her nose, smiled out of the corner of her mouth and noted “you can take the island girl to the city and through the desert and place her in the middle of the Portuguese forest, but you definitely can’t take the island out of the girl!” I looked again at the clothes, one with a palm tree printed over bright magenta, others with orange, sunshine yellow or cobalt blue fabric. I smiled back recognising the truth of her statement. I am an island girl and that is never going to change, no matter how far I have come since leaving Barbados at 17. I left the shops that day knowing what I really wanted. To go home to that beautiful, feisty tiny rock in the middle of the cobalt Caribbean Sea, and teach some yoga surrounded by real palm trees.<br />
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Teaching and living in a temperate climate like this in Portugal is exciting. As the seasons change, so too does my yoga practice. More expansive in the summer months. More internalised in the cold winter months. Feeling the surge of energy as the Spring sap rises in the forest, and being refreshed by the Autumn rains as they douse the acute dryness of our long summer months. Yet there is nothing like practicing in a constant climate - the day and night temperatures are relatively stable in Barbados. Even the sea temperature varies little. Air humidity is moist with a cooling drying sea breeze. This constant temperature means that the body has the opportunity to remain in a pretty constant state of muscular relaxation. There are no sudden cold chills to shorten the back of the neck and lock the hips. Flexibility is greatly improved by consistency, not only consistency of practice but also consistency of environment. <br />
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While recently away with Andy and the kids (and Sally & Jonathan my inlaws) on the Costa Vicentina in June, down on the South West gorgeousness of Portugal, I needed a vigorous practice of backbends, handstands and salutations before my body temperature was high enough to cope with the invigorating Atlantic sea. It was fun to run around, get hot and then charge into the ocean, but I definitely felt the need for strength over flexibility. While lying on the sand recovering from the shock and thrill of the cold water, I found my memory drawing me to a particular practice time I experienced last year when we ventured back to Barbados. It was one of those practices you don’t forget easily. Instant ecstasy.<br />
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Everything feels more alive when we practice outside especially with the song of tropical birds in the ears and a turn to face the waves of the ocean or a monkey stealing a mango from its tree. A pre heated supple body, softened by an early morning swim in warm clear water retreating from the Caribbean sun to a shaded veranda for a long slow indulgence in the fine art of stretching and breathing. I began the practice that morning with breath work and was immediately delighted by the ease of my breath. Warm salty water into the nose from the sea rather than from my usual neti pot meant my breathing was silky smooth and entirely relaxed. <br />
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In my sun salutations, I felt like a hot knife moving through room temperature butter as all 650 plus muscles in my body surrendered to the Bajan sun. There was no crunch in the spine as I slid from Chaturanga Dandasana to Updog. I was able to assess the liquid nature of my spine as I folded into forward bends and the strength of fully relaxed muscles as I sprung into Full Wheel. For the first time in several years I was able to effortlessly place both feet behind my head and sit, it was so good to experience easy open hips. I emerged from Yoga Nidrasana thinking once again, “This yoga shit is the bomb”. My mind was quieted and utterly present as the gentle swish of the lapping sea, placed me in a mellow mood. I walked along the beach after practice towards the kids snorkling with Andy out on the reef and as my entire pelvis swayed effortlessly from left to right I lost the sensation of having bones or separate parts. The supple nature of my spine made me feel somehow taller and thinner. Liquefied is the word that most aptly describes the experience of practicing yoga in Barbados. My nervous system in tune with my mood worked with me and everything within flowed as one.<br />
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My practice on the beach in Barbados that day made me realise that I wanted to find a way for others to feel this comfortable while practicing yoga. For those who struggle with tight hamstrings, stiff hips and a rigid lower back, retreating to my little island might be just the thing for them to escape the pain and discomfort in their bodies that colder northern winters often bring. When we got back to Portugal we decided we’d run retreats there one day if we ever found the right place. <br />
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Bathsheba along the East Coast of the island has always been my favourite part of the island. Our Sunday afternoon family outings there as a child always involved a drive and rest watching the waves of the Atlantic ocean crashing against the shore. My mum and my dad both live in more populated and buzzing parts of the island. Bathsheba in contrast ushers in an energy of reverence as the small hills and dunes formed out of the flat chalk areas of the rest of the island and scenes of busy hotels and home districts fade to small wooden chattel houses and fecund tropical vegetation. No matter the time of year we could always find a good breeze to lift the spirits and dry away the tropical humidity, easing us into serenity. Bathsheba gave me this as a child and 25 years later nothing has changed, serenity is still very much the spirit of the east coast.<br />
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Earlier this year my Dad called to say he had found us the perfect place to have Yoga Retreats and it was, of course, in Bathsheba. A newly built retreat called <a href="http://www.lushlife.bb/" target="_blank">Lush Life</a> with a dozen or so luxury eco lodges, set in an 18 acre palm tree forest far from the often overcrowded parts of the island with their big hotels. We checked out their website and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i7ePHoJGT54" target="_blank">Youtube video</a> and I immediately knew where we were going to be spending our winters from here on in, out of the European wet and cold and in with the new, hot Christmases of yoga and gentle rebalancing and maybe a little partying at night on the lively South Coast bars and clubs.<br />
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So we’re off to <a href="http://valedemoses.com/en/retreat/retreat-weeks?slug=lush-life-nature-retreat-barbados" target="_blank">Barbados this December</a>. Just for a couple of weeks this time. December 16-30. In these retreat weeks we will yoga chill, immerse ourselves in the tropical heat, moisture and natural Vitamin D boost of the sun, and explore a more supple, yielding, willing, adaptable body, possibly a little freer from our winter aches and pains. <br />
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My shopping friend was right, I am indeed still Vonnie from Barbados and I’m sooo looking forward to sharing my little island with those coming with us this Christmas. <br />
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When we return to Portugal in the New Year, it will be to a new phase of our lives, based more in Lisbon, until our 2015 yoga retreat season starts again at Vale de Moses. We will have spent 7 years living here full time in this beautiful peaceful forested valley, and from January our adventure and our daughter are drawing us to the charming capital city of Lisbon. Perhaps we’ll add to our annual <a href="http://valedemoses.com/en/book/calendar" target="_blank">retreat calendar</a>, not just more Thai Massage courses and winter trips to Barbados, but also some short Spring and Autumn city breaks in Lisbon with yoga classes and treatments. I wonder....:)<br />
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Watch this space.<br />
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Peace and Love<br />
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Vonetta xxx<br />
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The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-20732373686355550562014-06-20T09:54:00.001+01:002014-06-20T10:09:23.858+01:00Our first recipe book and Barbados for Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSULcuL1cqJGglIjKbGJYLn6MU1ACrIU2YB9pNt62zcOHSrh7uIzw_z9OUtYd89ntTJFWoqAAipPi1iHGG5KXdJDGGkr3YgIpPhviyQ0JLIFBwh1k-7WR00kigAEMgi7TtpkfLPrglBCc/s1600/Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSULcuL1cqJGglIjKbGJYLn6MU1ACrIU2YB9pNt62zcOHSrh7uIzw_z9OUtYd89ntTJFWoqAAipPi1iHGG5KXdJDGGkr3YgIpPhviyQ0JLIFBwh1k-7WR00kigAEMgi7TtpkfLPrglBCc/s1600/Cover.jpg" height="200" width="140" /></a></div>
We are delighted to announce that our first e-cookbook is now available to buy! "<a href="http://yogaatmoses.com/en/us/Nourish" target="_blank">Nourish: Healing Meals from Vale de Moses</a>." 93 pages of our favourite mouth watering recipes written and compiled by <a href="http://www.katherinesmithyoga.com/" target="_blank">Katherine Smith</a> and beautifully designed by my old friend and Creative Director <a href="http://www.tobydesigns.com/" target="_blank">Toby Leetham</a>.<br />
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Now, at last, you can make for yourself some of the breakfast porridges, complete main meals, satisfying soups, healthy snacks and drinks we serve on our retreat menu here at Vale de Moses.<br />
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To order, just email info@yogaatmoses.com and we'll send you a Paypal invoice for 15€ (you can bank transfer too). Once paid, we'll email you the e-book in pdf form. We hope to do a paperback/hardback print run in time for Christmas pressies too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ixg1GbYnlpWlC926OgfqQCbyjgZ7weM7VsRxxXArt547H9onnXngwL_i68gLVvLw6MuEtOcM8FEO6l0-RFqg7QpDCtjlUUZSYVjLWkKd7bd4YlJhHqueA_QF0MQa9Uk4KCui10-50sg/s1600/16+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ixg1GbYnlpWlC926OgfqQCbyjgZ7weM7VsRxxXArt547H9onnXngwL_i68gLVvLw6MuEtOcM8FEO6l0-RFqg7QpDCtjlUUZSYVjLWkKd7bd4YlJhHqueA_QF0MQa9Uk4KCui10-50sg/s1600/16+(2).jpg" height="141" width="200" /></a></div>
We also thought you might like to use this cookbook as a way to take a mini retreat at home. Invite a couple of friends over for the weekend, practice yoga together in the mornings, then cook one or two of your favourite meals. And if you know a good massage and acupuncture therapist, invite them too!<br />
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We're hoping to produce more recipe books over the years to come, so please let us know how you get on with preparing these recipes and also share with us some of your own. And if you do the mini retreat thing at home, send us your Retreat Selfies!<br />
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Other thing to mention is that our <a href="http://yogaatmoses.com/en/retreat/retreat-weeks?slug=lush-life-nature-retreat-barbados" target="_blank">retreat in Barbados</a> is finally going ahead this December. Vonetta's dad Tim, discovered an awesome place called <a href="http://www.lushlife.bb/home.php" target="_blank">Lush Life</a> last year on the unspoilt and non touristy east coast of Barbados owned and run by a lovely local guy called Tom Hinds. He's created a magical spot in 22 acres of virgin forest with tropical flower gardens, gorgeous luxury eco cabins, a pool, practice spaces, and a restaurant run by the TV chef Peter Eddy.<br />
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We're really excited to be running a retreat at Tom's incredible place this year and hopefully helping him attract other yoga teachers to hire it out in 2015 and beyond. Dates are December 16-30, and you can join us anytime for just 3 nights or the whole 2 weeks over Christmas.<br />
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If you're interested in coming do <a href="http://yogaatmoses.com/en/us/connect" target="_blank">let us know</a> as soon as you can as spaces are limited. You can reserve your place <a href="http://yogaatmoses.com/en/book/calendar" target="_blank">online</a>. There are 5 one bedroom cabins and 6 two bedroom ones. Prices are US$1225 / 900€ for a week’s retreat in a private bedroom or $2100 / 1550€ for a couple. Or for just a few nights at $175 / 130€ per night.<br />
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Our Spring retreats in Portugal this year have been wonderful. We've so enjoyed meeting people from around the world once again this year. Take a look at some of their photos in our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.595859930527233.1073741841.127383840708180&type=1" target="_blank">Spring Retreat</a> album on Facebook. Talented little yogini photographers they all are! Summer retreats filling up fast so don't miss out this year if you're considering coming out to see us again or for the first time. You'll be most welcome, whether you are new to yoga or have been practicing for years.<br />
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There's a wee bit more space this year too, with the addition of 3 new Soulpad belle tents nestled in the quiet valley behind the tipi and below the old moorish water mine. Each has 2 mahogany beds, carpets and drawers inside, with solar lights and wrought iron table and chairs outside. Perfect for friends or couples, or just if you would prefer a little more privacy than the guest cottage or monastic Adega.<br />
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We're off to the <a href="http://yogaatmoses.com/en/retreat/retreat-weeks?slug=yoga-coastal-walking" target="_blank">Costa Vicentina</a> again on June 29 for a week's retreat by the beach. There are still a couple of rooms available if you'd like to join us. Stunning restored guest house called <a href="http://www.cercadosul.com/" target="_blank">Cerca do Sul</a> run by a friend of ours Sara Serrão, with an awesome salt water pool and terrific walks all along the coastline. Surf lessons too if you'd like. Let us know as soon as you can.<br />
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Finally, a huge, enormous, very special and heartfelt thanks to the wonderboy Dylan from South Australia. He came for his first trip to Europe to help us out for a couple of weeks back in April and just left this morning. Our world will not be the same without his face around and consistent, quiet and ready to do anything at any time attitude. God's wind in your sails Dylan. Enjoy the rest of your European adventure!<br />
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Peace and love from all of us in this valley in the Portuguese hills.<br />
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Andrew & Vonetta<br />
<a href="http://www.valedemoses.com/" target="_blank">Vale de Moses</a><br />
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<br />The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-31377189350895561842014-05-01T10:20:00.001+01:002014-05-01T19:24:02.573+01:00Tired of Speaking Sweetly - a poem by HafizBom Dia! A good friend of ours David Pott sent us this poem this morning by the 13th century mystic Sufi poet Hafiz, and I couldn't resist sharing it on the blog.<br />
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<h3>
Tired of Speaking Sweetly</h3>
<i>Love wants to reach out and manhandle us, </i><br />
<i>Break all our teacup talk of God. </i><br />
<i>If you had the courage and </i><br />
<i>Could give the Beloved His choice, some nights, </i><br />
<i>He would just drag you around the room </i><br />
<i>Ripping from your grip all those toys in the world </i><br />
<i>By your hair, </i><br />
<i>That bring you no joy. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5GVP1i0nYswXKBxs0mGb-T7r4qDnOQZRVQ6nm8UvdBt3pAnPn7Mhdov2kQBUdK9InIxBnsWUmuCcoeZF7Zv11jH5LHjokMMzfMpzwFV15HPJEP_k-02WEcuWEp7jKEdb4Dy1cXw2PKik/s1600/roses+and+daisies+%2528600x400%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5GVP1i0nYswXKBxs0mGb-T7r4qDnOQZRVQ6nm8UvdBt3pAnPn7Mhdov2kQBUdK9InIxBnsWUmuCcoeZF7Zv11jH5LHjokMMzfMpzwFV15HPJEP_k-02WEcuWEp7jKEdb4Dy1cXw2PKik/s1600/roses+and+daisies+%2528600x400%2529.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a><i>Love sometimes gets tired of speaking sweetly </i><br />
<i>All your erroneous notions of truth </i><br />
<i>That make you fight within yourself, dear one, </i><br />
<i>And wants to rip to shreds </i><br />
<i>And with others,</i><br />
<i>Causing the world to weep</i><br />
<i>On too many fine days.</i><br />
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<i>God wants to manhandle us,</i><br />
<i>And practice His dropkick. </i><br />
<i>Lock us inside of a tiny room with Himself </i><br />
<i>The Beloved sometimes wants </i><br />
<i>To do us a great favor: </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
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<h3>
<i>Hold us upside down </i><i>And shake all the nonsense out. </i></h3>
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<i>He is in such a “playful drunken mood” </i><br />
<i>Quickly packs their bags and hightails it </i><br />
<i>But when we hear </i><br />
<i>Most everyone I know </i><br />
<i>Out of town. </i><br />
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~ Hafiz ~<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Gift-Poems-Hafiz-Master/dp/0140195815/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1398932216&sr=8-2&keywords=Hafiz+by+Daniel+Ladinsky" target="_blank">The Gift – versions of Hafiz by Daniel Ladinsky</a><br />
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We've been revelling in the <a href="http://valedemoses.com/" target="_blank">retreats</a> so far this year. So wonderful to have guests animating the landscape once again. It's such a joyous thing to watch people relax into their week, with themselves and with other people around them. If you've been here you'll know exactly what I mean.<br />
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After a few days of daily yoga practice, morning meditation walks through the <a href="http://welovemoses.blogspot.pt/2014/03/take-forest-bath.html" target="_blank">forest</a>, dips in the natural river pools, good food, clean spring water to drink and bathe in, and most importantly of all, some massage and acupuncture from <a href="http://yogaatmoses.com/en/us/team?slug=vonetta-winter" target="_blank">Vonetta</a>, the months of stress and tension that often lead people to come on retreat, begins to melt away.<br />
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You see it on the face first of all. I really should take before and after photos of everyone so you can see what that looks like. "Angel faces" is how our last week's group aptly described the phenomenon. When the tension that builds up in the small muscles of the face disappears, it's like seeing a brand <a href="http://welovemoses.blogspot.pt/2014/01/maybe-in-stillness.html" target="_blank">new version</a> of someone.<br />
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A special thanks also to our Karma Yogi volunteers this year. Lou from the UK, Maria from Germany and our dear friend and yoga teacher Sara from Oleiros were so helpful in getting us started for the year. Thanks for your patience in the chaos of set up. Much appreciated. :)<br />
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This month we have the delightful Petra & Sophia from Holland and Dylan from south Australia. All the volunteers have worked incredibly hard to enable the retreats to run smoothly and with a lot of fun too. You guys are stars. It's been an absolute pleasure to have you on the team. You've set the bar high for the teams that follow!<br />
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Our friend Tashi Dawa flew in for a fortnight of retreats in April and as always lifted our spirits with her loveliness. So sad to see her leave but we wish her all the best in her retreats in Italy and France this year with Kaliyoga.<br />
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That's all for now, just wanted to share Hafiz's poem with you today as I loved the idea of the divine playfully turning us upside down now and again. <br />
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Saude, Paz e Amor<br />
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<b>Memphis</b><br />
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<br />The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-32903000345737706252014-04-20T13:05:00.001+01:002014-04-20T13:06:24.267+01:00Spring Clean - by Vonetta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Spring, the season of renewal, is a beautiful
season here in the hills. The winter is
over and all energy moves towards resurgence. Relieved to be getting some of my Vit D straight from the sunshine I
start to feel like a new shoot, eager for growth but a little fragile. As the creeping energy of the Gallbladder
starts to awaken to encourage me to grow and unfurl from the cosy slumber of winter, I am made aware of the places where I have settled for less, both
within my body and mind.<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">I have learnt that the renewal of Spring
energy encourages us to make decisions and stick to them, but my body, in need
of some ignition, can easily find itself trying to catch up with soul aspirations, and in no time at all the rush of enthusiasm can easily become frustration
followed by a distinct loss of stamina. I have been known to cling white knuckled to comfy jumpers and the
dreaminess of winter mist. Spring in
balance says, “Come out. Let’s
play.” Out of step with the season, that
spring like enthusiasm can easily become an exhausting reminder that I am not
yet able to rest in the languid days of summer heat, there are still the year’s
mountains to climb. </span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">In the city it was hard to fully appreciate
the metaphors of natural medicine, born out of our relationship with nature. I
didn’t fully grasp why in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) Spring was also associated with the urgent and
unsettled, at a time equally associated with good times, happiness and a return
of the sun. In the countryside it is
easy to appreciate why this season of the Wood phase, is the time of judgement,
decisiveness and courage. As a vegetable
gardener there is just so much to do.
Thousands of little babies need to be planted, watered, fed, kept free
of strong weeds according to the principals of crop rotation. It is easy to forget the seeds that have been
sown, not yet jewelled with summer flowers and fruit. The
peas need to be sown before the summer heat comes, and staked and watered. The tomatoes need to be planted correctly so
that their adventitious roots may receive all the good food we will be giving
them this year. The potatoes planted
before the Spring rainsa re now proudly above the soil, but as they come up one
knows that there is no time for sitting around giving congratulations, those
potatoes, still need feeding, earthing up (covering with soil) and
mulching. </span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">Crops that I have only just
sewn seemed to be going to seed and need to be sewn again. And of course everything needs to be bedded
down before the ravages of summer heat. So
it is in the emotional environment, many of us may have made New Year’s
resolutions it is about now that we realise our ideas or not. Relationships with colleagues may suffer, as
the clock ticks and tocks, it easy to fall out of step with the love vibrations
and be pushed forward by Liver energies of independence releasing the autocrat commanding that this be done and
that be done with perfection. The mind
can become contaminated by Liver Wind as the Gall Bladder’s energies are turned
towards nourishing the heart and the Soul’s work through decisive action. Flash card thoughts may blow in and out and
it can be difficult to hold onto sequential orderly work. Bright sharp
headaches, irritable eyes and ears throat disorders may become prevalent. </span>Uncoordinated urgency is the disease of this time as we run from task to task trying to make it all happen. </div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
This season has a pushing forward energy
and at this time of little rest, I do not necessarily want harsh detoxes or fasting,
there is just too much to attend to. Instead
I am looking for a gentle way to maintain any good work that has been
accomplished and the commitment to take on any challenges that are coming my
way. I want energy, a lift to help me
feel good, and no downs please. I want
to shed the winter skin by doing the work of spring to prepare for the fruit of
summer. Spring encourages work and the
gentle awe of the land’s delicate bounty. When in balance I can see that
beneath the urgent activity, there is a
gentle heart pull to give space to the past times of childhood. Unstressed walks through the still soft
forest floor are preferred to runs. Our
work has to cease for a few moments to play homage to the tiny species
daffodils, bluebells and buttercups that will only be around for a week or
two. The channels of our bodies warm
thanks to the ever increasing strength of the sun, and from my desk I can hear
shrieks of delight as our guest dip their legs into spring water flowing from
the thawing snows of the Serra de Estrela.</div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">As the elements awaken so too does my
desire to give. I find myself energised
to practice, teach and give treatments. My
limbs easily unfurl under the influence of Spring Gallbladder Qi and a sense of
independence arises from my Liver. I
find myself leaping out of bed before my alarm to get on my matt and beat the
sunshine so that I can bask in it’s warmth during morning Sun Salutations. The creaky, disjointed aches of Winter are
passing and my body begins to hum. Hum
for balancing postures and inversions and flowing sequences. I long to stretch my limbs as far as possible
but I am also still reminded that these early days call for containment and a
sensitive approach to testing the strength of my tendons and ligaments, most
vulnerable at this time of heat and cold, themselves dominated by the energetic
potential of the Liver and Gallbladder the Yin and Yang organs of Spring. Gentle side opening yoga postures are
required before I am ready for heated heart opening back bends, such as
Ustrasana. My neck, still thawing from
the emotional coldness of winter needs a little more time in
Shoulderstands. I adore Kurmasana and Yoga Nidra and I am thrilled and
encouraged by the return of just enough heat to make these postures possible, I
find myself looking for more of, this.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">Spring Qi when we are attuned may give us lightness;
as these days are not yet weighed down by the heavy languidness of the Earth
days yet to come. This is the time to
turn away quite effortlessly from heaviness of any sort. My being cries out for the light, green and
cleansing. Salads of watercress and
cucumber with dill or Mustard frills lettuce, hot and spicy with it’s little
yellow flowers attached, generate water into the mouth. I find myself instinctively reaching for all
things green, Green Tara Mantras, a new Green Sporty jacket, my favourite Moss
Green Hat , I think about buying new green tights but instead, wisely, reach for a little Green Juice and some of
Katherine Smith’s cleansing Kedgeree.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Juice like fine Spring days, stimulates our childlike delight in lightness. In Barbados, where I was born, we drink
litres of fresh juice. Fresh cherry
juice electric pink and deep staining to the tongue. Mango juice thick and fibrous enough to take
the place of a solid lunch. Grapefruit
juice for cleansing and Pineapple for Magnesium. The detoxing and nutritional benefits of
juice have always been secondary to the delight of drinking juice. Juice makes me feel good and light where
other foods may leave me feeling heavy and sleepy. Juice makes my mouth feel, innocent. Innocent and clean and good for me without
any guilt or frustration, the perfect medicine to stave off Spring colds and
fevers. As I write and sip my morning
concoction I can almost feel the coolness of the juice keeping my blood
pressure at normal levels, ensuring that my arteries and heart stay open.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">When I started yoga, I wondered why it was
that all the yoga practioners seemed to be drinking something green. It was a yoga practioner that introduced me
to the health benefits of green juices. I am amused now that next to my litre of fruit juice lays a drunken one
slug shot of wheatgrass juice, some teachings stick. I now know that to be able to meet the demands
of this season of growth, I need all that chlorophyll, besides that, drinking
Green Liquid Sunshine makes me feel happy. One hit of these relatively tasteless organic wheatberries and I feel
the return of the Superhero Gallbladder Child, my Liverish tendencies to
initiate growth, are calmed and ordered. This season of Spring cleaning and Spring fever remind me to give my
renewal Qi a boost. </span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">At the moment I am drinking my <a href="http://thechalkboardmag.com/50-reasons-to-drink-wheatgrass-everyday" target="_blank">wheatgrass</a>
in the powdered form. Soon I hope to
have huge pots of this wonder food growing and maybe a handsome Matsone juicer
to release the power of this plant. As I
look at my completed shot glass I can not help but google search again the
health benefits of this super food. As I
read again that this food will give me 70% of my greenfood needs and 92 of the
102 minerals my body needs, I am impressed.
This one ounce shot of wheatgrass juice claims to contain the equivalent
nutritional content of 2 pounds of green vegetables. I mean, I couldn’t eat 2 pounds of green
vegetables first thing in the morning, yet I can get the equivalent nutrition
in a one ounce glug. If I tried to grow
enough vegetables to be able to eat 2
pounds a day, I would need to give hours of back breaking work to the land,
disturbing a great deal of the soil structure and probably hurting myself in
the process. Yet, I can grow wheatgrass
in large shallow pots, in less than one ounce of soil and just cut, use, water
the plants and watch them come again. 20
minutes after taking a shot I can feel the energy uplift and I can rest assured
that this hit will last throughout my day. Guilt free, environmentally sound healing nutrition, for real? Sign me up.
</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">If you are as impressed by wheatgrass as I
am, then I would recommend you read Ann Wigmore’s, “<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Wheatgrass-Book-Grow-Maximize-Health/dp/0895292343/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1397995275&sr=8-1&keywords=the+wheatgrass+book" target="_blank">The Wheatgrass Book</a>”. Wheatgrass is simple but powerful medicine,
and it is always worth it doing a little research before we introduce any new
food into the body. However below is a
summation of some of the generalised benefits of taking wheatgrass juice, as
taken from my Natural Physician course with the <a href="http://www.purehealth.com/" target="_blank">School of Natural Medicine</a>. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">Wheatgrass as a complete protein containing
the 19 amino acids, the building blocks of protein and roughly 30 enzymes. These friendly little health giving
acids and enzymes will:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ol>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Protect me against cancer</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Build up my blood protecting me
against anaemia and will keep my easily dirtied Liver clean as a whistle</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Give power to seminal fluid
(maybe this is not so important to me)</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Increase my energy levels</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Help me to keep my hearing and
nerve function</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Calm my thyroid and my brain
while leaving me alert and switched on</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Repair my DNA, and stop free
radicals from damaging my cells. Yes
please one shot glass, keep me looking younger for longer. That sounds good.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Chelate heavy metals so that my
nerves don’t fry, clean my colon so that doesn’t fry and protect my heart from
inflammatory conditions, so that that doesn’t fry.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Help to sooth cuts sores, eczema
and sinusitis helpful, as the pollen count is high in the Spring</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Enhance and boost my immunity</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Improve my circulation</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Neutalise body odours.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">And put me to bed encouraging a
deep and restful sleep at the end of the day.</span></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">This is one plant that ensures I can keep going
and not give in. A must if I want to
stay balanced and keep that spring in my step. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB"><b>Vonetta</b></span></div>
The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-27379421110951913262014-03-31T10:10:00.000+01:002014-04-02T10:45:03.064+01:00Take a Forest Bath! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCqL0DmAv6n4peefdujKSbukWGBZc-uKO0mjFe5kBQ9MT8w2NI0BFxb8ZTrNx8M26seJMks9NRT2KMZ8OUMLJb_jra4tzG95NIQv8hB4rO1yU4jrkn9Yu5FbyvVeg8NhCFG0g7gUrMnaA/s1600/River+Pools.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCqL0DmAv6n4peefdujKSbukWGBZc-uKO0mjFe5kBQ9MT8w2NI0BFxb8ZTrNx8M26seJMks9NRT2KMZ8OUMLJb_jra4tzG95NIQv8hB4rO1yU4jrkn9Yu5FbyvVeg8NhCFG0g7gUrMnaA/s1600/River+Pools.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a>Just back from our meditative walk before yoga class this morning. The mist is hanging delicately in all the meandering valleys and the welcome drizzle is gently watering all the newly planted herbs and veggies in the kitchen gardens. The smells of damp Eucalyptus and Pine trees together with the scent from the emerging spring flowers was divine today.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3-2mAZRbPHn1eOThYKehfgOX7V8jHdcTwIDBUsUABjGsCXT7d2epkYmbO_rChvVDGKhNNnhzvxCwM1Moql6c5xlg_7tUzb172rYMWocjxqCWzi3crptFi2pfCHi3J8Up0HUqC1Hia1M0/s1600/Olive+tree+sunshine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3-2mAZRbPHn1eOThYKehfgOX7V8jHdcTwIDBUsUABjGsCXT7d2epkYmbO_rChvVDGKhNNnhzvxCwM1Moql6c5xlg_7tUzb172rYMWocjxqCWzi3crptFi2pfCHi3J8Up0HUqC1Hia1M0/s1600/Olive+tree+sunshine.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a>This week is a <a href="http://yogaatmoses.com/en/retreat/retreat-weeks?slug=soft-power" target="_blank">Soft Power</a> retreat. And there's no better example here of the power water has to softly carve out the hardest of stone over the years, than these valleys. It's quite fitting that showers are forecast this week as we're focusing on the energy of water and its restorative ability to heal our bodies.<br />
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All this year I will be guiding our guests every morning on meditative walks through the surrounding forests. Depending on the retreat, we draw our attention to the various elements, their presence and effect on the landscape around us, and what might be happening in our own bodies as we move through it. It's a great way to start the day. I spent much of the autumn and winter walking the puppies after their breakfast. Now all but one have found new homes, it's gonna be lovely to walk guests instead! :)<br />
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When <a href="http://yogaatmoses.com/en/retreat/retreat-weeks?slug=wild-n-whole-nutrition-and-yoga" target="_blank">Katherine</a> found this old post the other day on Mother Earth News about <a href="http://www.motherearthnews.com/natural-health/forest-bathing-ze0z1301zgar.aspx#axzz2xWOTPM4Z" target="_blank">Forest Bathing</a>, I had to share it on the blog.<br />
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<i>"The Japanese term Shinrin-yoku may literally mean "forest bathing," but it doesn't involve soaking in a tub among the trees. Rather it refers to spending time in the woods for its therapeutic (or bathing) effect. Most of us have felt tension slip away in the midst of trees and nature’s beauty. But science now confirms its healing influence on the body. When you spend a few hours on a woodland hike or camping by a lake you breathe in phytoncides, active substances released by plants to protect them against insects and from rotting, which appear to lower blood pressure and stress and boost your immune system." </i><i><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 17.633333206176758px;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Courtesy Fotolia/Inga Nielsen</span></span></i><i><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span> </i><br />
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So there you have it. Scientific evidence, as if we needed it, that spending time with the trees is really good for us. The tree huggers were right all along. It's why we always encourage people to explore. Get out. Wander. Find a quiet secluded spot with an awesome view or find a rock by the streams and simply sit in the forest. Immerse your senses in the process. Smell it, feel, taste, touch, listen, and open up to the possibility that simply being in such an environment is healing in itself. When it really warms up in a few weeks time, it's nice to also be able to take a daily dip in the natural river pools and plunge pool to cool off. But until then, good to hear too that the non dip dry bathing concept is also just as therapeutic.<br />
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New Sweat Lodge</h3>
One of our guests who's been here a few times already, the lovely Georg, spent last week rebuilding a part of one of the terraces that had fallen in, then turned his attention to create this wee structure made from branches he found in the forest in front of the pizza oven by the Moses cottage. With 2 benches chainsawed from a pine trunk.<br />
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It's a Sweat Lodge. We bought new rugs yesterday to drape over the top and we're doing final heat checks on various stones from the river to see which won't explode in the fire. Seems to be the darker, harder more volcanic stone. Just need to check with the old guys in the village as they'll be sure to know, then we'll fire up the bread oven, heat the stones, bring them into the covered sweat lodge close the flaps, pour water on the hot rocks, and sweat.<br />
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When we get too hot, we'll explore the possibility of taking a plunge in this tank below fed by gravity from the river, with cold cold water, and returning back to the lodge again. We've talked forever about one day building a sweat lodge, and now, just like that, we might just have one. Thanks Georg! You're a star.<br />
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Nourish...</h3>
Last thing to mention today is that our new cook book "Nourish. Healing Meals from Vale de Moses" by Kat, is with the designers and the pdf should be ready for download in a few weeks. Keep an eye out for when it's released on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/valedemoses" target="_blank">FB</a> or here on the blog. Then we'll be printing hard copies later in the year once we've taken a few more gorgeous food photos of all our retreat menus this season.<br />
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Happy Spring everyone. I hope you each get the chance to take a few hours out this week to visit any nearby forest or woodland to take a "forest bath".<br />
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On your own or with friends! Enjoy. :)<br />
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<b>Memphis x</b><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">"Ah listen, for silence is not lonely!<br />Imitate the magnificent trees<br />That speak no word of their rapture, but only<br />Breathe largely the luminous breeze."</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">From Corot by D.H. Lawrence, as featured on, and photo courtesy of, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thewoodlandtrust" target="_blank">Woodland Trust</a> FB page. </span><br />
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The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-87956839207647019302014-01-19T10:16:00.000+00:002014-01-19T15:36:16.730+00:00Maybe in the stillness....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Skog8a0Vzoh5bpLYwzE9NP-ITX2-yhTG126H6lmpY0wD6tDEDewCyHcqyTHkYA8eVpFQ9NOkF9mDjSzgG01etE7mWBGTJw0-2Is7TpFX-kmQEHpDUVWaexV-cymW_XMtLEOE8BjU6Nc/s1600/Stephanie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Skog8a0Vzoh5bpLYwzE9NP-ITX2-yhTG126H6lmpY0wD6tDEDewCyHcqyTHkYA8eVpFQ9NOkF9mDjSzgG01etE7mWBGTJw0-2Is7TpFX-kmQEHpDUVWaexV-cymW_XMtLEOE8BjU6Nc/s1600/Stephanie.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">I love winter. The wind, the rain,
the cold that drives us inside. Still stacks to do outside to get ready for
spring, but when the weather howls, the fires get lit to roaring and we retreat
inwards to the warmth of the hearth and stove; metaphorically and physically.
Probably meta-physically too in some way. That's why I love it so. Every winter
we've spent here since 2008, I've relished the time to read, to reflect, to
plan, to ponder, to dream. To retreat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Vonnie favours the
sunshine of the summer, for she, after all, is a tropical island girl and
genetically designed for a daily shower of free vitamin supplements that never
cease to rain from the ever shining Barbados sun. I suspect our future
winters might be spent in other warmer climes, bless, but for this one, we're
here, in Portugal, in the mountains, on our own, and it’s raining. Inside we
remain. ;)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPjs8GPaIYdbMlIz3dh7Xb3e79wkAChF4gYCWS1e25GD_Z0zFUWSLYwelOb08wUNN35l3cQqf0p12GDByaMAO_yjXlvigc19QBN2bRc9bLj4623CfkLR2bgiheCCmIvLY1jjzt547DNQ4/s1600/Stephanie+Profile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPjs8GPaIYdbMlIz3dh7Xb3e79wkAChF4gYCWS1e25GD_Z0zFUWSLYwelOb08wUNN35l3cQqf0p12GDByaMAO_yjXlvigc19QBN2bRc9bLj4623CfkLR2bgiheCCmIvLY1jjzt547DNQ4/s1600/Stephanie+Profile.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">In this
reflective season, something dawned on me. Over the course of 2013 an
unexpected pattern had begun to emerge, on Facebook no less. Every week it seemed I
was seeing another new profile or cover photo emerge on our guests FB pages (as
they commented and shared each others holiday snaps), shots taken here on their
stay at Vale de Moses. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">It was flattering
to think people would choose our place as a beautiful setting to display their
virtual identity on the cloud. Face after face of happy, bright souls with
dreamy sunsets and misty valley vistas. All looking like they were feeling
pretty lovely about life, bordering on content.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">I realised it's on places like retreats and healthy
holidays we often feel quite lovely. About everything. Relaxed, nourished,
minds clear, bodies given an MOT and service, all far from the maddening
crowds. The least worried. The most meditative. The most still. Even
though every day our bodies are paradoxically more active than normal, practicing yoga, walking in forests, swimming in
rivers, surfing, whatever. We feel the most active and yet the most still. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: x-large;">Maybe in that stillness of retreat,
we get to know ourselves a bit better. </span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">And perhaps we actually like ourselves a
little better than the stressed out version of ourselves we left back at home. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-DSqHxA-UECYl4xdKNgjDhTygO8HxCCNwELYichSbyn8aWm9QA3eXXaGoX9xwgysiMXAgQR7Scg52stkh3ChE99fRZtLRNVCvkDDofcQxbn7yeqZKKJYER0zVfqoT9hXqS1EvPIAzyp0/s1600/Leontine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-DSqHxA-UECYl4xdKNgjDhTygO8HxCCNwELYichSbyn8aWm9QA3eXXaGoX9xwgysiMXAgQR7Scg52stkh3ChE99fRZtLRNVCvkDDofcQxbn7yeqZKKJYER0zVfqoT9hXqS1EvPIAzyp0/s1600/Leontine.jpg" height="200" width="143" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">One thing is certain to me,
everyone definitely shines after a week on retreat. “You’re positively glowing,
darling”. So maybe it's only natural that photos taken at those moments are the
ones we choose to share with the FB universe. Because we feel more like
ourselves. And to make our friends jealous too no doubt! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Thanks to our
guests who have let me share their selfies and Vale de Moses photos with you
today. Each one of these photos today on the blog are from their FB covers or profiles and aren't they all beautiful! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">That's it really.
To say it’s winter. Which you knew. And that Facebook is revealing patterns in our own human social behaviour and projection of virtual self image.
Again, you knew. And that going on a retreat is really really good for you. If you've not gone on one before, and you are able to do so this year, then<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV9rUhyKd826TZRWUlLOWlsiagmzf3xrQISjM6b-YtYjiUdkkLrf3EJZldbvgjwF1gdZ-lFaNg9uIAyweBsLW071HKuY9njtbXBTQKGln-AsacGApoAFuUygiBnQF6FuDV78JGQzpO2vI/s1600/Dawn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV9rUhyKd826TZRWUlLOWlsiagmzf3xrQISjM6b-YtYjiUdkkLrf3EJZldbvgjwF1gdZ-lFaNg9uIAyweBsLW071HKuY9njtbXBTQKGln-AsacGApoAFuUygiBnQF6FuDV78JGQzpO2vI/s1600/Dawn.jpg" height="199" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">"Retreat, retreat, retreat!"
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy3w3epiaQEBJVpYhG0tx-nKlMZBtNIx6Xi-IS4ys702TszFgCeCwI4ZV7SYgQ03oD_Vsn5nJLdg92NUfM8_80M-bcmXX2v8Sy_SOKbKMzF_aR2P6u3gWw25fBJYnaNMQLOTdPEifr8CM/s1600/Kate+Grace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy3w3epiaQEBJVpYhG0tx-nKlMZBtNIx6Xi-IS4ys702TszFgCeCwI4ZV7SYgQ03oD_Vsn5nJLdg92NUfM8_80M-bcmXX2v8Sy_SOKbKMzF_aR2P6u3gWw25fBJYnaNMQLOTdPEifr8CM/s1600/Kate+Grace.jpg" height="187" width="200" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Choose any one of hundreds of
wonderful retreat spaces all over the world. Any one of them. Just go.
Especially if you're not feeling particularly like the best you have ever felt.
Book a retreat as soon as you can. If it's with us, we very much look forward to meeting you and showing you around this stunning part of Portugal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Also in this last week we've had an enormous response to our
Karma Volunteer recruitment, so successful in fact that looks like we're fully
staffed already! If you'd like to be contacted in case anyone of our volunteers
have to cancel, and at the same time be considered first for our 2015 teams, please still do<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://yogaatmoses.com/documents/2014KarmaYogaVolunteerPack.pdf" target="_blank">apply</a> for our Reserve team this year</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Finally, finally, you might like to read the <a href="http://www.lightstaysretreats.com/blog-posts/inspiring-retreat-owner-vonella-winter/" target="_blank">interview</a> Vonnie had last week with the delightful Tameera Kemp who runs Light Stays Retreats in Australia. Great site.</span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Wishing you lots
of warmth and cosyness wherever you maybe be wintering.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Memphis</span></b><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-72135016613532852442014-01-11T12:55:00.000+00:002016-03-09T15:15:43.714+00:00Calling all Karma Yoga Volunteers, lines are open... <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_-o1Vx8LNEJCRJpSNxzElyfVgpmrkPyFME6RMbWiYuDMwXgF-ucmTkAOI2UROwjq-ucwt0Wl__porIm0GtuE0yDCA1_wPvouguZm0Tmgw8QXySuB8T3sdE5b4kuhSz58uhtfqgqex_8/s1600/dining+table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_-o1Vx8LNEJCRJpSNxzElyfVgpmrkPyFME6RMbWiYuDMwXgF-ucmTkAOI2UROwjq-ucwt0Wl__porIm0GtuE0yDCA1_wPvouguZm0Tmgw8QXySuB8T3sdE5b4kuhSz58uhtfqgqex_8/s1600/dining+table.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
One of the things that not many people know about running yoga retreats is that it takes a small army of helpers each week to enable a group of people to feel comfortable, well fed, clean and cared for while in the middle of the forest. Lots of food preparation, daily beautifying of communal, treatment and yoga practice spaces, sparkling clean bathrooms decorated with freshly cut forest flowers, from early in the morning til late into the evening.<br />
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Enter stage left (back stage left really), our fabulous Karma Volunteers who help us keep <a href="http://www.valedemoses.com/" target="_blank">Vale de Moses</a> pristine and shining with care and kindness throughout our yoga retreat season.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgffI3XdTd2_W3RGKiVOWn15K7mUh26h13wuWOgsmgPvAiDT1U9aAOQYuLjVv2HICkXUXjtTKiSdparxwP9gBeKjD_Z7LoCZPwkdFh5qnujAeDnTqrhHJP_iYbUbYkjoFO0jsVsQA0kHLA/s1600/Karma+Volunteers+Vale+de+Moses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgffI3XdTd2_W3RGKiVOWn15K7mUh26h13wuWOgsmgPvAiDT1U9aAOQYuLjVv2HICkXUXjtTKiSdparxwP9gBeKjD_Z7LoCZPwkdFh5qnujAeDnTqrhHJP_iYbUbYkjoFO0jsVsQA0kHLA/s1600/Karma+Volunteers+Vale+de+Moses.jpg" width="178" /></a>Recruitment has now begun for the 8 teams of 3 volunteers we need to cover month-long slots between mid <a href="http://yogaatmoses.com/en/book/calendar" target="_blank">March to November retreats</a>. One per team needs a current driver's license to drive a jeep and tractor and be strong enough to lift heavy buckets and crates of fresh food.<br />
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If you're interested, or know anyone who you think would love the chance, please take a look at our <a href="http://yogaatmoses.com/documents/volunteeringvaledemoses.pdf" target="_blank">Karma Volunteer</a> pack online with all you need to know about the role and how to apply. We'll be selecting most of the teams by end of January. So do apply as soon as you can if you're considering, otherwise you might need to wait til 2015!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigNBL1bEdbR_FZG0_BXcl1ssUJpfgTxyqVHe4Zn0pX0d_zIcoPZx36rsbfVaJV4tELoDGK6n7egVK09Jvc39o22yP8Km4Xw2XLriqdVUU73y4q0MufQ5S8zSKJxqdxlXZcpdVW0ODX9R4/s1600/Food+at+Vale+de+Moses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigNBL1bEdbR_FZG0_BXcl1ssUJpfgTxyqVHe4Zn0pX0d_zIcoPZx36rsbfVaJV4tELoDGK6n7egVK09Jvc39o22yP8Km4Xw2XLriqdVUU73y4q0MufQ5S8zSKJxqdxlXZcpdVW0ODX9R4/s1600/Food+at+Vale+de+Moses.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
We have thoroughly enjoyed hosting volunteers with us over the years. With kindness, a "willing to do whatever every day" attitude, big heart and strong reliable work ethic, we have a wonderful time together serving and caring for our guests on retreats. Some of our Karma Yogis have already become life long friends and a couple are now on our yoga teaching and therapy teams. They become part of the family and as such we consider carefully who we select.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyVgkAOeqKhulO7-bmEQoVn0smj8XeZ-QzMjds81cXgyWEB9R0CUuHcDyxM-35myvy4ILpDHb97tDBoKcy8lAbDwQCjVNQE8WoJoMXZeLq7EGm2_iyHdZIdY4HZyqtroHAHvvc2D_WMOM/s1600/holly+laughing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyVgkAOeqKhulO7-bmEQoVn0smj8XeZ-QzMjds81cXgyWEB9R0CUuHcDyxM-35myvy4ILpDHb97tDBoKcy8lAbDwQCjVNQE8WoJoMXZeLq7EGm2_iyHdZIdY4HZyqtroHAHvvc2D_WMOM/s1600/holly+laughing.jpg" width="150" /></a>We're properly looking forward to getting to know even more lovely people from all round the world again this year. Only a couple of months away now. :)<br />
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"Até Logo"<br />
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<b>Memphis</b><br />
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<br />The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-22689337706433134092014-01-01T13:49:00.000+00:002014-01-19T12:42:18.171+00:00A little Life Yoga - by Vonetta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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2013 was a firecracker of a year. Well alive. As usual we Winters have had some great successes and some not so successful times. The good thing about being floored by experience is that on the floor we can be inspired to bow down and look for encouragement in the tiniest little detail. There have been times this year where I have been grateful for the quiet beauty of a single act of nature unfolding, or the soothing melody of the water continually flowing below, calming all. At other times the quiet and solitude of the Vale was shown the door and the hills reverberated with the aliveness of everything; people, music, birds, dogs, bugs, jostling against everything else looking for a role in the play.<br />
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Andy’s Mum Sally once said to me that my hubby was the kind of man who liked to entertain. At the time I thought that didn’t seem so bad, a little entertaining. Never in my youngest dreams did I imagine that we would be entertaining coach loads of people. Never did I imagine that I would have Happy Birthday sung to me in eight languages, in my own home. Never did I imagine that my son would play piano to our guests and sooth us all into conversation. Never did I imagine that I would watch my 14 year old daughter bossing around an entire kitchen, well perhaps I imagined that. And yet, all that has occurred this year has seemed so natural, so obvious. Perhaps the great Tapestry Maker of life has been weaving this particular pattern for some time, if so, thank you Tapestry Maker, I like the pattern, and may we repeat what is beautiful and correct our mistakes.<br />
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Particularly brilliant threads of this year:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Joshy Bear’s soothing piano playing filling the silence. Your kisses on the forehead every time I thought my brain might explode. A kiss, simple but effective medicine.</li>
<li>Fleur blowing the trumpet; Fleur exclaiming how wonderful everything is; Fleur in fairy wings and sparkly dust. I like your groove.</li>
<li>Tashi giving me what for and making me sit up straight. Thanks Tash, my L2 and L3 will always thank you. When asked if we yoginis should keep the bandhas on at all times, Master Dawa replied that you could wait for a bus, or while waiting for a bus put your bandhas on and practice yoga. Favourite Soundbite of the Year: Master Dawa “I would rather practice yoga than wait for a bus”</li>
<li>Ellie and Andy leading up a pizza storm and dancing in the Kitchen.</li>
<li>Emma Jane Bunn. My London Girl.</li>
<li>The amazing Viking lady, Marte, who ran up and down the hills every day after the silent walk and after 3 hours of yoga. Awesome.</li>
<li>The art installations in the Forest made by our guests. Placing something in the path encourages us to visit the path more often. Thank you …for the mosaic in the Forest and the blue painted trunk, they never fail to make me smile. </li>
<li>Being nurtured, soothed and calmed by Liese van Dam and her Ayurvedic oils. Yummy. </li>
<li>Shrieks of laughter and squealing coming from the River in the Valley.</li>
<li>Running through the valleys, at the end of the day knowing that everything is being looked after by lovely people at home.</li>
<li>My crazy family on both sides.</li>
<li>Spending a whole four days with the Fantabulous Jagos, we are coming to home to you in 2014, make room for the Winters.</li>
<li>Everyone and anyone who chose to practice A Little Life Yoga at Vale de Moses. As some of you may know I am taking a course in Natural Medicine over the next three years with The School of Natural Medicine. I hope to gain a little empirical knowledge by posting up a few short questionnaires on Facebook. Answering some of the light questions may be fun. I hope you enjoy what we are learning and are willing to share your experiences.</li>
<li>Standing up on a Surf Board while staying with Sara Serrão's at her Cerca do Sul paradise.</li>
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<ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjha694I2PE-csfMfVAfuYnx0zXVZGdTCN1lQP0TDDN7k1x870pDSVMUZZrZ8eF7fXKOF0vWbwLp8hRMLqLq61cmpxJtRBkE_t-vPua-aJDKCs2qDlmJR1uQRpkhltVPHKKUaPqSWwqye4/s1600/Yoga+Postures+048+%25281024x683%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjha694I2PE-csfMfVAfuYnx0zXVZGdTCN1lQP0TDDN7k1x870pDSVMUZZrZ8eF7fXKOF0vWbwLp8hRMLqLq61cmpxJtRBkE_t-vPua-aJDKCs2qDlmJR1uQRpkhltVPHKKUaPqSWwqye4/s1600/Yoga+Postures+048+%25281024x683%2529.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a>
<li>The chaos of puppies, born on my birthday, hearing Alex squealing "PUUPPIIEEEES" in excitement. Life is funny, for years I have repeated this mantra to calm my baby making hormones, “No late babies! No late babies” and then life presents us with 6 four legged hairy babies for my birthday, and of course their poos and the pups constantly doing everything they shouldn’t do. </li>
<li>My girl Spin floating up into Bakasana, balancing her Shiva dreads.</li>
<li>Laughter Yoga with The Ernesto Fleetwood a.k.a Ollie Pell. I still have your laughter ringing in my ears from time to time, “Very good, very good, Yeah!”</li>
<li>Giving more treatments of Acupuncture and Massage in one year than in any year previously. At the end of 2013 I think it is the giving that makes this work so rewarding.</li>
<li>Practising with Hugh and Kim, you two have such apple wholesome sunshine country angel vibes.</li>
<li>Sitting on the back steps with the Katherine Smith, sipping something salubrious from a straw. You lighten our lives and make things…better.</li>
<li>Being warm, warm, warm from the Forestry clearing of Andy and Fernando. Cleaning the land and looking after ourselves with this free energy keeps us warm in so many ways. "Good Jawb" as our gorgeous American volunteer Ashley would say.</li>
<li>And finally, seeing in the New Year with our delightful Portuguese friends Sara, Raquel and Francisco and their boys.</li>
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Everything that has happened thus far has indeed changed my life, and because of all that has happened thus far I am becoming more relaxed and am able to accept that my life is ever changing. Thank heavens for The resting place, the constant resting place within the hurly burly of everything, ‘the beloved sticky mat’. When I started yoga I did it because I thought it would be good for me. It is with considerable gratitude that I have found that all these years of practice have brought love to bloom. Sometimes love is like that, it takes time to realise itself and for the lover to realise what love is. <br />
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The teachers and students of 2013 have confirmed for me that I love any yoga, and I really do not think it matters, to me what I practice so long as I am practicing as sincerely as possible, in the moment. Who cares whether your practice is steeped in silence or sprinkled with a sweet song? Who cares whether Shavasana is your great delight or whether you like using your head as one giant foot? Who cares whether it is austerity that floats your boat or playful flaying your arms around grinning. I understand through this year that my mat helps to clarify what needs to be kept and what I no longer need. Sometimes silence does helps, sometimes a tune. Sometimes I am as stiff as a board and I feel all of my 40 years and at other times I am up for challenging the litheness of my kitty cat Angel. It really doesn't matter. <br />
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What matters is the love, the love of asana, philosophy, colour and light and chanting and drumming and jumping and trying to be really really still and quiet and playing with your breath and doing it all with a sense of ‘Wow´, a miracle has happened and it isn’t yet 9am! Come on the Day! Yoga has given me that, for sure. There are things I would like to leave me now in my life and there are some things that are keepers. Thank you Andy Winter lover, business partner, friend, father of my babies and well, my everything, including, sometimes the one who drives me round the bend; for coming into the Shala cussing and swearing about the lack of light on this strangely dreamy, misty Old Year’s Day. These photos will remind me that some New Year’s resolution is worth making. Old Year’s Night 2012 I promised myself that I would attempt to acquire a little comfort and stability in Pincha Mayurasana in the middle of the room. Pincha M, you have taught me that love conquers fear, you definitely a keeper. <br />
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So, do I have any New Year’s resolutions? Loads… There are so many, many, many improvements I would like to make in the Vale. There are postures I would love to experience and teachers to meet. However, mostly I would like to indulge the Mummy Von this year. The babes will be leaving these woods soon for senior school, and so, while with enthusiasm I say bring on the 2014, there is a little part of me, that says, ‘slow down’. <br />
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One of our guests gave me a beautiful bottle of true thick syrupy White Musk from Saudi Arabia. Each time I open that bottle to indulge in a drop of the oil I am reminded that life is like this oil, achingly sweet and precious and I determined to savour every drop.<br />
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So to end, may our 2014 be as precious oil…let’s not waste a drop of it! Happy New Year’s Day and a Prosperous 2014.<br />
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<b>Vonetta</b><br />
<br />The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-75179671315143433172013-12-08T17:17:00.000+00:002013-12-08T17:17:25.431+00:00Hibernating...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Our 2013 yoga retreat season finished in November with a flourish of glorious Argentinian Tango dancing and an Óga Yóga celebration in Irish. A fitting end in many ways to a wonderful year in which we welcomed guests, teachers and volunteers from all over the world to share our family home in the forest.<br />
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Since then we said goodbye for the winter to our awesome team of Olly and Spin, Katherine Smith, and Hugh & Kim, the last couple of a whole hard working crew we had the pleasure to get to know this year.<br />
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River's been spending her time alternating between prettifying every room in the house and studiously working on her Natural Physician training. I made the most of the last few dry and sunny winter weeks to gather, chop and store stacks and stacks of firewood from the land and river clearing we had done in the spring. Loving being the 4 of us again, retreating ourselves as a family into the cosyness of evenings spent in front of and devouring food cooked in, roaring wood burning stoves.<br />
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In between all of that, we've been developing our new retreat program for 2014, which, we're delighted to tell you, is now online and open for reservation on our <a href="http://valedemoses.com/" target="_blank">www.valedemoses.com </a>website and all weeks uploaded to our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/valedemoses/events" target="_blank">FB Events</a> page.<br />
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As you'll see, we've moved to a Sunday afternoon arrival, Saturday afternoon departure for our retreats next year. We want to encourage our guests to spend a night or 2 exploring Lisbon and Porto before travelling up to us in the forest. A little pre retreat break. And also to give our team Saturday nights off to chill and/or get to chance to explore our local town of Oleiros a bit more often.<br />
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Finally, a big thank you to all who visited us this year for all your incredible photos. We've uploaded some of our favourites to a new <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.499623493484211.1073741840.127383840708180&type=3" target="_blank">FB album</a>. Muito obrigado.<br />
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Here's wishing you a very happy Christmas, and may your dreams keep coming true in 2014.<br />
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Thanks for popping by.<br />
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<b>Memphis </b>The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-36981353605278338072013-08-27T11:02:00.000+01:002013-08-28T10:08:37.682+01:00Swimming in Rivers and Puppy Love!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We're having a scorcher folks! It's hot. Regularly up into the 40's and sizzling. So glad we were able to put in a couple of natural river pools this year. Has really helped all of us cool down in the late intense heat of the afternoons. We live on the edge of wilderness in the forests of central Portugal and as such we experience the elements of planet earth a tad more intensely than we used to in our old London life.<br />
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When the wind blows, the wood in the forest roars and dances. When the rain falls, the rivers' waters rage white. When you fall on a stone, you know the immovability of earth. As well as it's healing properties when we bathe in mud by the river. Now in summer, the fire from the sun in the sky sure does heat you up and everything around you. Thank God we're in the mountains so the evenings and mornings are fresh, enough for a jumper. And grateful that our houses here are bermed deep into the rock, so keep deliciously cool.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGpaHRPqpWe3g3kT0JML_httq-q6OSiVXVCLSiwc3JBYAzLj-SqSd1hyphenhyphenLkMTzBHCRkZYe3tWOTgvZD9HWuomr321x3cxGpchi052oltE9bOI-TZ1LJhMiR8PxSDrZ8QNH3XDr0RX0kjj0/s1600/steve+and+tess+in+tank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGpaHRPqpWe3g3kT0JML_httq-q6OSiVXVCLSiwc3JBYAzLj-SqSd1hyphenhyphenLkMTzBHCRkZYe3tWOTgvZD9HWuomr321x3cxGpchi052oltE9bOI-TZ1LJhMiR8PxSDrZ8QNH3XDr0RX0kjj0/s200/steve+and+tess+in+tank.jpg" width="200" /></a>While the team are keeping cool inside, our guests are obviously making the most of the weather. This is one of the new irrigation tanks just completed below our guest house. It is fed directly from the river and rejoins it straight after.<br />
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The best thing about the tank isn't the squeals of delight we hear wafting up from the valley as people take a plunge into the refreshing cold, but the knowledge that all the big terraces below this tank can now be irrigated plentifully in the years to come. Big relief.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkY-K9FIxg-boyd5anKoTVY5HIMfSB8lg77YZdBsxn0Y5CPFZJ4GygiYK4XKBm8wXO2BlAk6fZbUysZea-4P7KQ7rJznV0KhPnL8Dl4Aqpyl9nNiPGPjfTNU0MshpnQHLfjqyqaiC7BBA/s1600/Sonja+on+bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkY-K9FIxg-boyd5anKoTVY5HIMfSB8lg77YZdBsxn0Y5CPFZJ4GygiYK4XKBm8wXO2BlAk6fZbUysZea-4P7KQ7rJznV0KhPnL8Dl4Aqpyl9nNiPGPjfTNU0MshpnQHLfjqyqaiC7BBA/s200/Sonja+on+bridge.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
Water levels in this heat are running low as you can imagine, so everyone has kindly been careful with their water usage, quick showers, no running taps etc etc. As a back up we also just hooked up 3 outdoor showers that are run from an old Moorish water mine and heated on the way down by the sun. Means the showers are fresh in the mornings and evenings, but perfect shower temperature between 11am to 9pm.<br />
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For those who love a bigger swim we go to this magnificent natural river swimming pool called a Praia Fluvial, in Oleiros now and again, and once a week we all go to the River Zêzere for a decadent mud bath in the isolated wilds.<br />
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Mud baths are such a rejuvenating and elementally connecting thing to do, as any of our guests will attest. Always followed up with refreshments at the local cafés in Abitureira to meet the locals and chat under the shade of grapes, orange and olive trees. The kindness and advice of our neighbours here has often sustained us over the years. A precious anthropological experience that we can't let folk leave Oleiros without sampling. One of their highlights of the week.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhalyTxusxa1mAZS0ymLFPJhIeXM0enZbCfzzcwv2aAu3NCDPRmHBqqOLV3Mcggrp2kgaWsySLsFHQ3wG1_xVXSqt85__OYrdgrhQ_l1FwvEFPkvv-xG9ljRLUu9gqDnwqH2lmPqJ4fMjE/s1600/tipi+terrace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhalyTxusxa1mAZS0ymLFPJhIeXM0enZbCfzzcwv2aAu3NCDPRmHBqqOLV3Mcggrp2kgaWsySLsFHQ3wG1_xVXSqt85__OYrdgrhQ_l1FwvEFPkvv-xG9ljRLUu9gqDnwqH2lmPqJ4fMjE/s200/tipi+terrace.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
Other news is we finally got the tipi up. Josh, Olly and I went into the forest a few weeks ago to cut some tall straight young Eucalyptus trees, de barked them immediately and dried them. Olly and Ernst put it up ready for its first guest, the wonderful Holly, a couple of weeks ago. There's also a 4 man tent next to it. Both have handmade Portuguese futons on frames and glammed up a little inside. Most cosy and already useful additional this year for those who ignored our fully booked sign on the website and enquired if we had somewhere to stay anyway!<br />
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Josh and Eloise are spending August, before they return to school mid September, visiting their grandparents in Barbados. This is Eli's new FB shot just to rub it in. While Vonetta and I are working through the heat of the summer, they are chilling with cocktails by tropical beaches. I'm wondering if these roles reverse anytime in the next few years. Where we put our feet up and they work to keep us in a manner to which we are still yet to be accustomed to! I suspect not so much!<br />
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So apart from swimming in rivers, in mud, in lovely guests, and the kids in the Caribbean sea, we're also swimming in puppies. It was Vonetta's 40th back in July and Eloise baked one outstanding cake to celebrate the occasion. Seriously peeps, these photos don't do it justice. Simply divine taste and texture, ingeniously sculpted and perfectly iced. I can still taste it. What a baker!<br />
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Fitting for the grandeur of the moment. Particularly as the day had already started with cries of <b>"THE PUPPIES ARE HERE!!"</b> screeching through the dawn over the valleys at 7.15am as Safira our dog began giving birth to 6 gorgeous little blind and wet heirs to the Moses dynasty.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjza-j36tjOfbWlfhW-nxZUfHYF27gsINSJNPAV5gCGvEQ2E63x3CAdPVg_Q89yKOt8lCbxh5XuTepl9P5IVEAvZEYkH5gO2iY_FcaUtDhk9qGV-McBM9EsQMKnU1y7RCSF7FCORqwjBcc/s1600/vonny+cutting+cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjza-j36tjOfbWlfhW-nxZUfHYF27gsINSJNPAV5gCGvEQ2E63x3CAdPVg_Q89yKOt8lCbxh5XuTepl9P5IVEAvZEYkH5gO2iY_FcaUtDhk9qGV-McBM9EsQMKnU1y7RCSF7FCORqwjBcc/s200/vonny+cutting+cake.jpg" width="133" /></a>We're thinking of keeping a couple of them and are currently talking to a few lovely peeps about whether they would like to take care of 4. One of the 2 black girls and three of the 4 boys. I'll leave you with a few pictures of Puppies below, cure enough to warm the hardest hearts. They are socialised beyond belief thanks to everyone who's stayed here and taken advantage of regular one on one puppy love therapy sessions as often as they could.<br />
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There's a lot of love around Vale de Moses this summer. Bursting at the seams with it. :) We even had honeymooners Emily and James from Lisbon with us too (twas a grand excuse for more cake!). Plus a happy birthday sung in 6 different languages to Avril from Ireland. Surely this is the season to be jolly? Tra la la la la La la la la!<br />
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Only a few more retreats left this season. Still one or two spaces left in September and October. Reserve your place on <a href="http://valedemoses.com/" target="_blank">Vale de Moses</a> and we'll be seeing you later in the Autumn. And if you want to be first to be notified when our 2014 retreats are online, do like our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/valedemoses" target="_blank">FB </a>page. Barbados retreats next Easter too. New schedule and dates should be up online in a month or so.<br />
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Peace and all good things to you. Wherever you are, we hope you're having a wonderful time.<br />
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<b>Memphis</b><br />
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<b><i>"And they call it, puppy love...."</i></b></h2>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First week</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK4gMQDwhoOD6J72GhsUo3lo-GngU2GrLFPn65oTru4tsr2TbZ4c7-KsxMh1Hvvx8NYmuEvi4ymV0Eu7WSTI0KEXR7DSbJF4mQoVfPQgPsp29mnRYEKo-tXHe3xbwkCkwTb5gVipumXeU/s1600/pile+of+puppies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK4gMQDwhoOD6J72GhsUo3lo-GngU2GrLFPn65oTru4tsr2TbZ4c7-KsxMh1Hvvx8NYmuEvi4ymV0Eu7WSTI0KEXR7DSbJF4mQoVfPQgPsp29mnRYEKo-tXHe3xbwkCkwTb5gVipumXeU/s200/pile+of+puppies.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2 weeks old</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Always sleeping in piles</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Man and Dog!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Known as Cosmo or Ice</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjpvZ5wCXfqa-6q37tmBq6XOJykQwZg8VA3h0yHVWMEvIFTLLIgFNTNkIWZ7npInTyLCcvv8DhXn56bjGK1vu45Y3iiXb5X5fEVuyCb8hs9sjCE_jyntgsEch3VpFmU_ZjrTbzG9QewaQ/s1600/ice+out.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjpvZ5wCXfqa-6q37tmBq6XOJykQwZg8VA3h0yHVWMEvIFTLLIgFNTNkIWZ7npInTyLCcvv8DhXn56bjGK1vu45Y3iiXb5X5fEVuyCb8hs9sjCE_jyntgsEch3VpFmU_ZjrTbzG9QewaQ/s200/ice+out.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ice leaving his cage</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDj_2qXmNXkvVkaAmHgolccmUkEY3mXkQvv1E8poukxI3vTOTzqwoadoN61EGvl4eIOCGaWeYa_UCE0gZkNFEe1urCsCk52MfiqHHaspmg88uXcGd_Es0EuHOFV6Ce0CQ2owNmZoKboE/s1600/burrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDj_2qXmNXkvVkaAmHgolccmUkEY3mXkQvv1E8poukxI3vTOTzqwoadoN61EGvl4eIOCGaWeYa_UCE0gZkNFEe1urCsCk52MfiqHHaspmg88uXcGd_Es0EuHOFV6Ce0CQ2owNmZoKboE/s200/burrow.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is Burrow</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwRCFHFNMf-ZzdoSlNdm3z0ndRLGELq5tJMWOD2BYciRKizPDdbqCmEVpjwaPuUIcJYvT6_jiNdXfwC8NA53MNoGUI2aScz-DAgMNaY6ftl21ExFoXqdeJxprj7YY3YWcOrsAijbjx-CM/s1600/Puppies!.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwRCFHFNMf-ZzdoSlNdm3z0ndRLGELq5tJMWOD2BYciRKizPDdbqCmEVpjwaPuUIcJYvT6_jiNdXfwC8NA53MNoGUI2aScz-DAgMNaY6ftl21ExFoXqdeJxprj7YY3YWcOrsAijbjx-CM/s200/Puppies!.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Safira: Stamina and Patience</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTrweg5ahdsrXGepv3af8CJhdNkWFz9Le0rE1CfGd5kdK40nrJzq2RLPL0C2XY7B0ezJn2MjC30oB-zynxZjywLXbbikPpQKQXGNMVuTE8LgZjPYQ_FPru5w8W0XI4o1bggWxLGUUFOto/s1600/puppy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTrweg5ahdsrXGepv3af8CJhdNkWFz9Le0rE1CfGd5kdK40nrJzq2RLPL0C2XY7B0ezJn2MjC30oB-zynxZjywLXbbikPpQKQXGNMVuTE8LgZjPYQ_FPru5w8W0XI4o1bggWxLGUUFOto/s200/puppy.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Too sweet!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdFDHXRtesgLf43vmq9zSSpAsrqB02nUp7SRhSJIJgf-KGo_bMv1hQ-rCNzE6hF-svo0oKP9yXXZ4KLfEksA0mJ86MUsNSJXJ4GuyK1v0t_JqbF03q_iuzfS27pT9FEEvKMnazZKJANfo/s1600/eli+and+burrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdFDHXRtesgLf43vmq9zSSpAsrqB02nUp7SRhSJIJgf-KGo_bMv1hQ-rCNzE6hF-svo0oKP9yXXZ4KLfEksA0mJ86MUsNSJXJ4GuyK1v0t_JqbF03q_iuzfS27pT9FEEvKMnazZKJANfo/s200/eli+and+burrow.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eloise in Puppy heaven</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPG02lQRFLhD9YCdN8ydEU85T8XgqaZF4UYMKQR3ryilTlA5Zhhyphenhyphenk1mri7sdPumCLKU6h0FGUgBn-EotRfppJPD7akTu4vWTvjLliWFrDdn8qzKyBPSUiJ-XjVkT669-FaRliVNbASjYA/s1600/Josh+and+MiniM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPG02lQRFLhD9YCdN8ydEU85T8XgqaZF4UYMKQR3ryilTlA5Zhhyphenhyphenk1mri7sdPumCLKU6h0FGUgBn-EotRfppJPD7akTu4vWTvjLliWFrDdn8qzKyBPSUiJ-XjVkT669-FaRliVNbASjYA/s200/Josh+and+MiniM.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Josh and MiniMoses</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTu4iWh7A-weUFX-U7I7rIroioZ7T8beP3u7bqJqLyheqAyqaxfhySo4-2AFI1Wqp47os6QNhUt_qY0GrOy_9Azu7tDx5qNtjxAEXylB26PNRtcbI3vVFjm1dqheA5lK_UM7xCBk-eJi4/s1600/minimoses+sitting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTu4iWh7A-weUFX-U7I7rIroioZ7T8beP3u7bqJqLyheqAyqaxfhySo4-2AFI1Wqp47os6QNhUt_qY0GrOy_9Azu7tDx5qNtjxAEXylB26PNRtcbI3vVFjm1dqheA5lK_UM7xCBk-eJi4/s200/minimoses+sitting.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Regal and proud already!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqcfhVznUUBEa0n5ks-YVlbgf8ajvMuYLLV2fmvS-SLM_wIJz5ymn1Kgf9HVNm5b5nVeHA89q1ID51V-45hJSiUsd9yOuA122rxxcy7NM-QtnC6GI3MHAsZeH8J9jKlsQBWtV2MlGt9PE/s1600/asleep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqcfhVznUUBEa0n5ks-YVlbgf8ajvMuYLLV2fmvS-SLM_wIJz5ymn1Kgf9HVNm5b5nVeHA89q1ID51V-45hJSiUsd9yOuA122rxxcy7NM-QtnC6GI3MHAsZeH8J9jKlsQBWtV2MlGt9PE/s200/asleep.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eat, play, poo and sleep!</td></tr>
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The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com36160 Amieira, Portugal39.9810919 -7.910129900000015414.459057400000003 -49.218723900000015 65.5031264 33.398464099999984tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-10811488937228591202013-06-29T10:16:00.000+01:002013-06-29T10:16:06.639+01:00Off to the beach...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8keKnTSdAzX9VHV2GMOtZAiztYhfod_TsE3mY8nvNQsWKrbwl3vTBDrJgXMvVZBgujWkXBZHEvlM92Cu6fsIcDWYhuG94CrB9cbHR6wjHBZqbV7ZUuG1Aq5hNSuNte-jRE6XY14rE_SM/s960/yogaandsurfretreat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8keKnTSdAzX9VHV2GMOtZAiztYhfod_TsE3mY8nvNQsWKrbwl3vTBDrJgXMvVZBgujWkXBZHEvlM92Cu6fsIcDWYhuG94CrB9cbHR6wjHBZqbV7ZUuG1Aq5hNSuNte-jRE6XY14rE_SM/s200/yogaandsurfretreat.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
We just said goodbye this morning to a lovely group on our Cultivate Contentment retreat. The summer is in full flow here in Portugal with temperatures soaring above 40 in the afternoon sun. We knew it would be hot, so we cheekily planned a couple of weeks off in our yoga season this year to enjoy it as a family.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-H7Xq1ot9RZAMFMnXOCDoXLJ8VMelZ0XAY5gpYdOX2DVU38vRmt67ydKw1Zh_TGYPrfJvQhtbLKNe4yR8kd-4aXZQhWIZP-G5Ks6dRv3An8LNhbR1S7bu6BCXG7ti0ZFrRn2brFUgQ9o/s640/beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-H7Xq1ot9RZAMFMnXOCDoXLJ8VMelZ0XAY5gpYdOX2DVU38vRmt67ydKw1Zh_TGYPrfJvQhtbLKNe4yR8kd-4aXZQhWIZP-G5Ks6dRv3An8LNhbR1S7bu6BCXG7ti0ZFrRn2brFUgQ9o/s200/beach.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
In a bit I'm driving off with Von and the kids down to one of the most gorgeous stretches of Portuguese coastline, the Costa Vicentina. For a week of yoga, pool and surfing. We'll be staying with out friend Sara Serrão in her stunning Cerca do Sul place down there, and have invited folks to join us. 2 of our guests from the week just gone are meeting us there tonight, along with a few others journeying from cooler climes to basque in the sunshine with us.<br />
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To the beach, to the beach, to the beach!!! If you happen to be in Portugal this week, I know Sara still has a couple of rooms free. Come down and join us even if it's just for a night or 2. There's a Jazz festival there next weekend too. We're hoping to see some of it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0Q-bJcxopbjTZJtPCfcj6Q9IEOMnvA0MiIJ3WiI9a15YmcrNeMAhQiK3mAbum6987CzUCJbLPET0LGgBd7uvZLzELQk8WnN7VWZV9_izyG9CemnFjp3QwdGqsQ-_R4FAVmshDwRXAjs/s800/Safi+and+Moses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0Q-bJcxopbjTZJtPCfcj6Q9IEOMnvA0MiIJ3WiI9a15YmcrNeMAhQiK3mAbum6987CzUCJbLPET0LGgBd7uvZLzELQk8WnN7VWZV9_izyG9CemnFjp3QwdGqsQ-_R4FAVmshDwRXAjs/s200/Safi+and+Moses.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Other snitch of news from Vale de Moses to share is that Safira, our little black, blue-eyed forest guide of a dog, is shortly to birth heirs to the Moses dynasty. Safi is pregnant. A good 6 weeks by our reckoning. That means a slight chance she might pop some puppies out while we're away. So we have a fully trained, fully prepared, fully excited ("the puppies are coming, the puppies are coming!" team to look after her while we're gone. Katherine, Alex and Hannah. They've promised to take plenty of photos and vids, and if all goes well, watch our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/valedemoses" target="_blank">Facebook </a>space for details of the new Royal arrivals (Moses granny won best of breed at Crufts don't you know!). We will be needing to find very good homes for all the little puppies. Give us a <a href="http://yogaatmoses.com/en/us/connect" target="_blank">shout </a>if you'd like to be considered as adoptive parents. :)<br />
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"Saude, paz e amor" as they say round these parts. Hope you are having a great summer wherever you are.<br />
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<b>Memphis</b>The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-75831965178090822692013-06-15T12:57:00.003+01:002013-06-16T22:00:45.824+01:00As Featured in The Guardian!<div class="separator tr_bq" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr9CLBIp_4cOwFvanI0Av0ONy86TpXzVOT0bg3lLkwTmHfkO843F1W3_derofGpUWDSuKH1ase71lLjiGf7gTALEXi9qnpGHGbcn0OskrokfqfOvMFAs4ojMH83-3tMhQkUwCohCcjXUU/s1600/Mud+bathing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr9CLBIp_4cOwFvanI0Av0ONy86TpXzVOT0bg3lLkwTmHfkO843F1W3_derofGpUWDSuKH1ase71lLjiGf7gTALEXi9qnpGHGbcn0OskrokfqfOvMFAs4ojMH83-3tMhQkUwCohCcjXUU/s200/Mud+bathing.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
A pleasant little surprise this week to find The Guardian ran it's first little <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/may/24/greece-silver-island-yoga-retreat" target="_blank">feature </a>on Vale de Moses. We had no idea. It was only when a guest booked on last weekend and said they had seen us in the travel section of the paper, that we were first alerted.<br />
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So now we're officially at "As featured in The Guardian" status. :) We hope the first of many main stream press features to come. You can see all our published articles and reviews so far <a href="http://yogaatmoses.com/en/us/partners" target="_blank">here </a>on our site.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLtggpiyr5vCZQ91iAXNd8HQqDd6szC2uln6yOewoVdxmS1E1SXDqUVJ0VMFj6iJdF2fiNVfLxihmC8kHi0hjqGsyKUa-HSwmCLicyYHtIvD45GWomn5TYK-5-GJzMQE0lzBnXrV6DD18/s1600/Ashtango!.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLtggpiyr5vCZQ91iAXNd8HQqDd6szC2uln6yOewoVdxmS1E1SXDqUVJ0VMFj6iJdF2fiNVfLxihmC8kHi0hjqGsyKUa-HSwmCLicyYHtIvD45GWomn5TYK-5-GJzMQE0lzBnXrV6DD18/s200/Ashtango!.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Other big news is our launch of "<a href="http://yogaatmoses.com/en/retreat/retreat-weeks?slug=ashtango" target="_blank">Ashtango</a>" this Autumn. Featuring daily classes of Ashtanga Yoga and evening classes of Argentine Tango, we combine the two disciplines and are playfully calling it ‘Ashtango’. Retreat dates: October 12 – 19 & October 19 – 26<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJurIAFFn4MQypL0iPIAfmBixo5PTfdaSvmszMs-bUM9A5NlxB6KmAhj5-eNDc5WxcV5GTLJ_ulgfIIal2gCI3GmLiF0OcxbMN_SGwCtdbJdv6hgsRI9PG8Uepj8bze5j6pI8YPHXLWjQ/s1600/tashi+dawa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJurIAFFn4MQypL0iPIAfmBixo5PTfdaSvmszMs-bUM9A5NlxB6KmAhj5-eNDc5WxcV5GTLJ_ulgfIIal2gCI3GmLiF0OcxbMN_SGwCtdbJdv6hgsRI9PG8Uepj8bze5j6pI8YPHXLWjQ/s320/tashi+dawa.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<i><a href="http://tashidawa.com/ashtanga-and-tango-retreat/" target="_blank">Tashidawa</a> teaches daily Ashtanga yoga classes and Carla Somer leads afternoon Tango technique classes and evening dance events. Combining the skills of dance and the mindful meditation of yoga, this retreat will explore alignment, balance, acceptance, grace and power.</i><br />
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<i>Argentine Tango is an improvisational dance in which the connection between the dance partners is the most important factor. The dance technique begins with learning simple steps and then exploring these steps with varied expressive, playful, intense, passionate moods.</i> </blockquote>
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<i>Memorising the dance steps is not necessary & you don’t need any prior dance experience to be involved. What is important is the open minded & responsive contact between the dancers. </i><i>No yoga experience is necessary either, however, a good level of fitness is recommended as the classes can be rigorous.</i></blockquote>
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<i>This retreat is not to be missed, <a href="http://yogaatmoses.com/en/book/calendar" target="_blank">book </a>early to ensure your place…</i><i><br /></i><i>Retreat price from 550€ includes:</i><i><br /></i><br />
<ul><i>
<li><i>7 nights accommodation, all Ayurveda meals and full facilities</i></li>
<li><i>5 morning Ashtanga classes with Tashi Dawa</i></li>
<li><i>4 afternoon and 3 evening Tango classes with Carla</i></li>
<li><i>Massage and Acupuncture treatments with Vonetta Winter from 50€ per hour</i></li>
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It would be so very remiss of me, seeing as we are on the topic of Guardian features, not to also mention how incredibly proud we are of our friends Hannah and Charlie, from an olive farm over the hills from us in Oleiros. These guys who have been instrumental in bringing the Bilderberg group into the global public eye over the last 4 years. Check out<a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/profile/charlie-skelton" target="_blank"> Charlie's hilarious satirical Guardian blog</a> entries from this year's not-so-secret-anymore conference in Watford.<br />
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While here in the forests of Portugal we are far away in distance from the rest of civilisation, you guys have helped us feel so very much more connected. You are our heroes. Look what you did!! Feet up next year then?<br />
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Thanks for tuning in.<br />
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Hope you are having a wonderful summer wherever you are.<br />
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<b>Memphis</b>The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-80241589266698860412013-05-12T12:02:00.002+01:002013-05-19T09:02:28.244+01:00Interview with Tashi Dawa<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="215" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/lHPl7N5k7pY" width="382"></iframe><br />
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Very sad to say goodbye to Tashi yesterday. We can't wait to see her again in the Autumn. Watch this space for more info of her return. Plus a few more photos from our guests over the last fortnight. More on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/valedemoses" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5epjFS68T__6Gkeo5lIAELBVaMkhB3YrxsWcYs7KlrBZyig2chpB62PeJoSoGMORtfB8vES2GkNreXRlbQtipcJ8tRUSaJgdWwxw8phqfOCzf3c1_b41GIsU6293kgpmN7bunIS5ri_M/s1600/Vale+de+Moses+Vista.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5epjFS68T__6Gkeo5lIAELBVaMkhB3YrxsWcYs7KlrBZyig2chpB62PeJoSoGMORtfB8vES2GkNreXRlbQtipcJ8tRUSaJgdWwxw8phqfOCzf3c1_b41GIsU6293kgpmN7bunIS5ri_M/s200/Vale+de+Moses+Vista.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountain View</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtqOUHf8kpRS7zB-ZVPkzun9qog-q0Ut0fHUsxlxBGHtMBK10FyvKieQvef_2w6etpW8Tf_QMkaa0tCR5D86sIeMDTYUY5GWk8_D6LrGE11Kx-9S8UpcGhw1nqFPqlogvHS8RU6KdXHQw/s1600/Lunch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtqOUHf8kpRS7zB-ZVPkzun9qog-q0Ut0fHUsxlxBGHtMBK10FyvKieQvef_2w6etpW8Tf_QMkaa0tCR5D86sIeMDTYUY5GWk8_D6LrGE11Kx-9S8UpcGhw1nqFPqlogvHS8RU6KdXHQw/s200/Lunch.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch Prep</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXyxgALJxF0OP6snzqVKsRcHSHOmFyYez_xfzElYC_uhOO3EXcjXp-hGIf_jeIYtWzG2FdBPw0MY-dWrNrPIz99ZWoxzT-819r0qt-3RUwBMrmVsWZKS0VtHW4SZYkatiIZjmhr8nqZJY/s1600/Food+at+Moses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXyxgALJxF0OP6snzqVKsRcHSHOmFyYez_xfzElYC_uhOO3EXcjXp-hGIf_jeIYtWzG2FdBPw0MY-dWrNrPIz99ZWoxzT-819r0qt-3RUwBMrmVsWZKS0VtHW4SZYkatiIZjmhr8nqZJY/s200/Food+at+Moses.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner in Courtyard</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoi1RrRg2llDcq2QDMo28p-7aXEoogR33woUUqcLIh2IC6fblOyTSzhkdia_2_6Z42ksFA-kj7poHQSr62n5AdK6TkTWa-TfaapN5TEyD7tLXEA2-pfBlRsHWUbGvgenaCF1vpJUejIio/s1600/Vale+de+Moses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoi1RrRg2llDcq2QDMo28p-7aXEoogR33woUUqcLIh2IC6fblOyTSzhkdia_2_6Z42ksFA-kj7poHQSr62n5AdK6TkTWa-TfaapN5TEyD7tLXEA2-pfBlRsHWUbGvgenaCF1vpJUejIio/s200/Vale+de+Moses.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vale de Moses</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib0I1ddzVbnN8_leoNj7T-h1EZnTjTEZXdbdmFb_nH0Q96VP3DGyLm0EluE7O1s3Q3uXbbZ_bbYz1wHJSdRg5s63UyI5R2JYes4rfmN4POH5VajepZwsMgSzvaAR1KKQYtGeWmMGe-emo/s1600/Vale+de+Moses+Mist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib0I1ddzVbnN8_leoNj7T-h1EZnTjTEZXdbdmFb_nH0Q96VP3DGyLm0EluE7O1s3Q3uXbbZ_bbYz1wHJSdRg5s63UyI5R2JYes4rfmN4POH5VajepZwsMgSzvaAR1KKQYtGeWmMGe-emo/s200/Vale+de+Moses+Mist.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farmhouse and Yoga Shala</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUT69pa5XhKAgv6vQ4Vs-Rss_-2jLIAWLn-q_lo0rbv0AyR038lydXkp0G5AMObRDqcuwL1-C9Cmql_tjCHBXIj9JteVSJhCFkXO2wz4cZNDkdufOAJcMAIt5eZSv6Z5QrV3MPMff3rRo/s1600/Moses+Yoga+Farmhouse+%2526+Shala.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUT69pa5XhKAgv6vQ4Vs-Rss_-2jLIAWLn-q_lo0rbv0AyR038lydXkp0G5AMObRDqcuwL1-C9Cmql_tjCHBXIj9JteVSJhCFkXO2wz4cZNDkdufOAJcMAIt5eZSv6Z5QrV3MPMff3rRo/s200/Moses+Yoga+Farmhouse+%2526+Shala.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yoga Shala</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMFgwXO7ZpbFldP3J-LxFvHHBunt2JGndHH8PovXKwJZKltfwb2xBXk0Jo0XxLktnhSvCyNUTQ4SrpNOOZ_WxnOHACMgCzrWcajHTjaH5m60c5rwNIhe1xp4NKbHF7vxATNUK0PMx5XU/s1600/Mung+Bean+Pancakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMFgwXO7ZpbFldP3J-LxFvHHBunt2JGndHH8PovXKwJZKltfwb2xBXk0Jo0XxLktnhSvCyNUTQ4SrpNOOZ_WxnOHACMgCzrWcajHTjaH5m60c5rwNIhe1xp4NKbHF7vxATNUK0PMx5XU/s200/Mung+Bean+Pancakes.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mung bean Pancakes</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3pTqf5xXWxdKlB26NlJQwDKyeVj4M81sSzEGiOT3xdECFcOFcqeaUC4c5369H_sHywAhfPADKnM0fHX1QO65b6cWPWPaPyYQM2n8Qv6l58iXPXq_ouqsHbHW5qWepOe17pn1VS1kR3lw/s1600/Partner+Yoga.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3pTqf5xXWxdKlB26NlJQwDKyeVj4M81sSzEGiOT3xdECFcOFcqeaUC4c5369H_sHywAhfPADKnM0fHX1QO65b6cWPWPaPyYQM2n8Qv6l58iXPXq_ouqsHbHW5qWepOe17pn1VS1kR3lw/s200/Partner+Yoga.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Partner Yoga</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1t95n7sP4PCgLPFyJoGbW_Y50fx6A_fGbIl14Pu06ny-sCOSUCFFxR-gJalYPYyRT_Okxw7_lTNme3W8n9tRU6UGMInqbvpJk3-JcyvbPadhZ-K8DcG8ClDEbvAEjdaAdOk8HYu28Gf4/s1600/Safira+drinking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1t95n7sP4PCgLPFyJoGbW_Y50fx6A_fGbIl14Pu06ny-sCOSUCFFxR-gJalYPYyRT_Okxw7_lTNme3W8n9tRU6UGMInqbvpJk3-JcyvbPadhZ-K8DcG8ClDEbvAEjdaAdOk8HYu28Gf4/s200/Safira+drinking.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Safira drinking</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVgWs7dOi1Qm3K5ZWUF5-WG7G0GdMzTHiC0_cffUc2Mno45CBmEgk1-1OGH4TMYh6PnRT0HiAFLLumR4DnW2tRTRSoEMwd1ZjqTD2kbGJAb-D5o38ASf-DB57TObjebUo3Jo4cMMIn4j0/s1600/Soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVgWs7dOi1Qm3K5ZWUF5-WG7G0GdMzTHiC0_cffUc2Mno45CBmEgk1-1OGH4TMYh6PnRT0HiAFLLumR4DnW2tRTRSoEMwd1ZjqTD2kbGJAb-D5o38ASf-DB57TObjebUo3Jo4cMMIn4j0/s200/Soup.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soup</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5idSei-HJg-wmkee_DJUd_Vs1iRiJtmYUHyCLlJoaYbPtgnbq_V0MkQDylDoQC1D0dzFtorungjeUWv8IKV9tmAeWV4O745cVxFaXEijCXMgE8XHb-w-nZDMGS-taHFjobk8lU9-BH5Y/s1600/Marta+and+Jordan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5idSei-HJg-wmkee_DJUd_Vs1iRiJtmYUHyCLlJoaYbPtgnbq_V0MkQDylDoQC1D0dzFtorungjeUWv8IKV9tmAeWV4O745cVxFaXEijCXMgE8XHb-w-nZDMGS-taHFjobk8lU9-BH5Y/s200/Marta+and+Jordan.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marte and Jordan</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZKRwomkcIaKcJR8XTlR8T4eDaWbfjk5_1LO1YITyTc6ShOYZTRftAU7lEA0ZF-oGpRQ29u-237eSxo7aFSwDWvaBfVCvm3KHOfsrQrRBMzUmrGBG15w8m708yfi6ki1UXjuGZnieRiLs/s1600/Katherine+Smith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZKRwomkcIaKcJR8XTlR8T4eDaWbfjk5_1LO1YITyTc6ShOYZTRftAU7lEA0ZF-oGpRQ29u-237eSxo7aFSwDWvaBfVCvm3KHOfsrQrRBMzUmrGBG15w8m708yfi6ki1UXjuGZnieRiLs/s200/Katherine+Smith.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Katherine Smith</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2_1jShSmsAEL3GSYDSbEI_6abVowTOmmCAg1w37yF8QgatKTPpN5xRMNyxGAPtlkf9yllswm3vmgf1euan0aCPr-Qpthfo94sluljr2Y91zq9IYYv0H9fmxDz_uOeceRtcUH6SllvKp8/s1600/Jordan+on+the+path.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2_1jShSmsAEL3GSYDSbEI_6abVowTOmmCAg1w37yF8QgatKTPpN5xRMNyxGAPtlkf9yllswm3vmgf1euan0aCPr-Qpthfo94sluljr2Y91zq9IYYv0H9fmxDz_uOeceRtcUH6SllvKp8/s200/Jordan+on+the+path.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jordan on the path</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQIj3SHF9Ai6pGtVtM_a1r78IjK5fsP06fHdRoWjZu8tpMK8BZq5fhFKpUyNRCajnaw8KBypSpxDCPXYo17lVdBVZ-5Gv2uFK4luGl7uFJW5-tE9Sp4dBY9ZNrp5PezZ68tjILDJJf7nU/s1600/Abitureira.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQIj3SHF9Ai6pGtVtM_a1r78IjK5fsP06fHdRoWjZu8tpMK8BZq5fhFKpUyNRCajnaw8KBypSpxDCPXYo17lVdBVZ-5Gv2uFK4luGl7uFJW5-tE9Sp4dBY9ZNrp5PezZ68tjILDJJf7nU/s200/Abitureira.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sr António in Abitureira</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_saesod78TmGfizko_FW7zYo2W9DRzpvnKeqzNAa17kje3JitLkjJiZaMoVBAbjlt4i5u3rD41hKBHHJGkq7kdiLyP6v8wsnbsa6NgYZbp4GcURGKIkNqjUuaZAodwlcRVnmJvVCJlGc/s1600/Ana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_saesod78TmGfizko_FW7zYo2W9DRzpvnKeqzNAa17kje3JitLkjJiZaMoVBAbjlt4i5u3rD41hKBHHJGkq7kdiLyP6v8wsnbsa6NgYZbp4GcURGKIkNqjUuaZAodwlcRVnmJvVCJlGc/s200/Ana.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ana with Dona Celeste in Abitureira</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkv7nqIY0JTtTGq5_X-Z_WAnP7F0YP66UWkjDsGmXpo64wGfFphRhwI6MJ5FQzkJO2myKofFff9oNfu3_ZNcGj5NJ-Pg8tR-VBjSis_Mci1shU1DYjCqBP2IgFnbDzEgSEJKVWmwYu5Z4/s1600/Candle+and+Mug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkv7nqIY0JTtTGq5_X-Z_WAnP7F0YP66UWkjDsGmXpo64wGfFphRhwI6MJ5FQzkJO2myKofFff9oNfu3_ZNcGj5NJ-Pg8tR-VBjSis_Mci1shU1DYjCqBP2IgFnbDzEgSEJKVWmwYu5Z4/s200/Candle+and+Mug.jpg" width="132" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mug and Candle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh89m34nKlWjQHHO83o1-1plQpRaKKInXkZftCXPBGOCMMI-hE29lPWBjYcEhMgZRjOaXyAQbzPqIwUg9D5LPEr7YJ7ae4k_BORclW2z6-TjCAwmq9DnhhfeRsJULIbDlQ4MxaXiNQPqEU/s1600/Josh+and+Andrew+in+Courtyard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh89m34nKlWjQHHO83o1-1plQpRaKKInXkZftCXPBGOCMMI-hE29lPWBjYcEhMgZRjOaXyAQbzPqIwUg9D5LPEr7YJ7ae4k_BORclW2z6-TjCAwmq9DnhhfeRsJULIbDlQ4MxaXiNQPqEU/s200/Josh+and+Andrew+in+Courtyard.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Josh and Andrew</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhErkY0pzv_YNOkBtBNgplJtYPKO3gzbbujJFz9mBLsk45y6yCJ1s3M2siV8w7L65t0gDxizXNeBlRDvhtQ_NLiyBwZiQZCw-lq-l8NP1ojq7gHF6j5M2fm4PZJu1VX6JQ4PnghGdrX0x8/s1600/Moses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhErkY0pzv_YNOkBtBNgplJtYPKO3gzbbujJFz9mBLsk45y6yCJ1s3M2siV8w7L65t0gDxizXNeBlRDvhtQ_NLiyBwZiQZCw-lq-l8NP1ojq7gHF6j5M2fm4PZJu1VX6JQ4PnghGdrX0x8/s200/Moses.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moses napping</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiufBZg0SuaH2_LZ3Ly5SQXYWyIuiiv8Pe1tvMvN7GO2J8jvT_dBrP_bPEYGHWWi_hiEZiay_JsgGDna85r1W9CfdMG6COJ-r5ZqPJtetBWdDsQMorpDwgkFFy2OH-zFa6g2FPZAR3zw_E/s1600/Stream+at+Vale+de+Moses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiufBZg0SuaH2_LZ3Ly5SQXYWyIuiiv8Pe1tvMvN7GO2J8jvT_dBrP_bPEYGHWWi_hiEZiay_JsgGDna85r1W9CfdMG6COJ-r5ZqPJtetBWdDsQMorpDwgkFFy2OH-zFa6g2FPZAR3zw_E/s200/Stream+at+Vale+de+Moses.jpg" width="132" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River in the valley</td></tr>
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<br />The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-60969095575600937962013-05-04T14:15:00.003+01:002013-05-04T17:38:18.443+01:00Through the lens of our guests<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ-3gvbiAK8vTPucU_oO5XcyFLKuZpMgVQwcAJc_KtaeIbhcnC2LzlwzSXgcBwZESYPajUfDEqVSIgreNmS1TcrOWNyGaepEDtAeyLV8Ibk-SvhCHFk07tDsu8D19Di0VNneVrUZ5k3tQ/s1600/Tempestous+Skies.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ-3gvbiAK8vTPucU_oO5XcyFLKuZpMgVQwcAJc_KtaeIbhcnC2LzlwzSXgcBwZESYPajUfDEqVSIgreNmS1TcrOWNyGaepEDtAeyLV8Ibk-SvhCHFk07tDsu8D19Di0VNneVrUZ5k3tQ/s200/Tempestous+Skies.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
April has just flown by. One of the most exciting we've had here in Portugal so far. Started so cold and wet. Now people are bathing daily in the rivers that run through the land in the heat of the afternoon sun. Should be ready for planting out the veggies this week. Finally.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgn_vq8LQBWngwXGSL7qw0yxTEoBTn2CEDJUoDt3jw3ln5d8qimzzPQX41EDbrEnhTyrJ7nIgVWPbIwXeGhtPMyiDaCl4hU_AXBIJ29coYUu1kwCCI3MNAr5ZZfG_hVryze25q-8rEsqw/s1600/Smell+the+Roses.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgn_vq8LQBWngwXGSL7qw0yxTEoBTn2CEDJUoDt3jw3ln5d8qimzzPQX41EDbrEnhTyrJ7nIgVWPbIwXeGhtPMyiDaCl4hU_AXBIJ29coYUu1kwCCI3MNAr5ZZfG_hVryze25q-8rEsqw/s200/Smell+the+Roses.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Plus we've had guests from all over the world pop by for some rest in our home in the forest. What a joy to have been able to take care of them all. They've bought such light, kindness and gratitude to our little family. As well as some amazing <a href="https://www.facebook.com/valedemoses" target="_blank">photos </a>from their wanderings through the valleys and forests. (Thanks <a href="http://www.zoebarling.com/" target="_blank">Zoe Barling</a> for all your iPhone shots on today's post.) It's a real treat to look at our place through someone else's eyes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5E9J4LoQFG7Cm9jEoedQpfiO4Ab7qnfvGSEgGw4Z46Z9ZByPfZYmG89EISYxleEect3462E1cqfc4boA6dkyosOQOfu8idT6rfTrJOk6onYfnvD0IGQ4dff9R0lwUVv-xoeBxood3kuY/s1600/Lunch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5E9J4LoQFG7Cm9jEoedQpfiO4Ab7qnfvGSEgGw4Z46Z9ZByPfZYmG89EISYxleEect3462E1cqfc4boA6dkyosOQOfu8idT6rfTrJOk6onYfnvD0IGQ4dff9R0lwUVv-xoeBxood3kuY/s200/Lunch.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
I've been enjoying creating some new dishes with the herbs and salads from the kitchen garden and the first produce from our neighbours farm too. Grelhos are the new green shoots from the coming year's cabbages, broccolies and turnip tops. Steamed with some tamari sauce, a little lime juice and a sprinkling of pepper and freshly cut herbs. Delish! Especially when they're picked in the morning and served for lunch. Pranamictastic. :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaXNYh40NdVn0OeN1PBs0DcCbgM5W2PUIdvw2KL8sqqJoQ-GtYtZEnsttqbU4A_pjfZ56cQMXrvwySjIIqbmF19I9hV3iNzmtqbR3jI1-fzm0A8-3aUR8w-f04_0RcKDKxYBW0g2FRAGA/s1600/Yoga+Shala+in+May.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaXNYh40NdVn0OeN1PBs0DcCbgM5W2PUIdvw2KL8sqqJoQ-GtYtZEnsttqbU4A_pjfZ56cQMXrvwySjIIqbmF19I9hV3iNzmtqbR3jI1-fzm0A8-3aUR8w-f04_0RcKDKxYBW0g2FRAGA/s200/Yoga+Shala+in+May.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Plan is to carve out some time this month to blog some recipes and share a few tales and reflections of our life on a yoga retreat. But for now I'll leave you with some photos and a We Love Moses TV walk around the farmhouse courtyard and new yoga shala.<br />
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Enjoy and may you feel the sap rising inside of you this Spring.<br />
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Peace<br />
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<b>Memphis</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiey5SBusuIDmPf97LW_hQcGfz7CIIo-XE5dvLcmc0UvYhyphenhyphen4Cz70mqkdvC1NQSqoSkJVh0htdHgAgMTkn09Zw0vZXN4vwksjosEbQhwMvsIab83VrE0HaVOJ1W-tXQKFm4k7fy0Pt8GkTY/s1600/Water.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiey5SBusuIDmPf97LW_hQcGfz7CIIo-XE5dvLcmc0UvYhyphenhyphen4Cz70mqkdvC1NQSqoSkJVh0htdHgAgMTkn09Zw0vZXN4vwksjosEbQhwMvsIab83VrE0HaVOJ1W-tXQKFm4k7fy0Pt8GkTY/s200/Water.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reflections</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOawt23BZb0RGUR7ALOFx3ci0OfxS1UJFxJDIc2hOFC6i0ImG9VOOfO0pj4nJbCnA3jW6TVou9fFMoKbIA52rJIJrsNDTlKDRaPWYg-wJQy5aLxgx7_841uNtO3WNHBegN_FY72ZKOhgw/s1600/Yoga+Vernada.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOawt23BZb0RGUR7ALOFx3ci0OfxS1UJFxJDIc2hOFC6i0ImG9VOOfO0pj4nJbCnA3jW6TVou9fFMoKbIA52rJIJrsNDTlKDRaPWYg-wJQy5aLxgx7_841uNtO3WNHBegN_FY72ZKOhgw/s200/Yoga+Vernada.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yoga Shala Windows arrive!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAWA-Dg01soA4neIKRCSwcWRs2EbMOrsXF012HCTJpb-pe_nkDHzR9SeOdEyjuXxlbCd7u3hwaklrEwoxerdtd8uxGBDxZyapjoHrDss2ijReD0y7-m30dtbI-y1GqGj-9KLzZvo0v958/s1600/RiverTrip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAWA-Dg01soA4neIKRCSwcWRs2EbMOrsXF012HCTJpb-pe_nkDHzR9SeOdEyjuXxlbCd7u3hwaklrEwoxerdtd8uxGBDxZyapjoHrDss2ijReD0y7-m30dtbI-y1GqGj-9KLzZvo0v958/s200/RiverTrip.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River Trip in the Truck</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyjq_bvdAbASXe6HVVm3vMAQ1qkPCfHSoS95ag5YeFc3ZylQ8AePPSkwLU_O8kpA5yzmVkBEq3bN-xoQqpLTmPeuixRrg-TIQOfKs6sRpzSSeZjbpXosHMY5mkhOYU2OoCj8hixk5yGhg/s1600/Vale+de+Moses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyjq_bvdAbASXe6HVVm3vMAQ1qkPCfHSoS95ag5YeFc3ZylQ8AePPSkwLU_O8kpA5yzmVkBEq3bN-xoQqpLTmPeuixRrg-TIQOfKs6sRpzSSeZjbpXosHMY5mkhOYU2OoCj8hixk5yGhg/s200/Vale+de+Moses.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Washing Line</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6XAuYZNo2NSa4cctaZlDOJXDAE4AmXr3mUzFesAVty7szN-jblvC_3CYmVbuT4EF1m_l2WfRMT2Kd5FgmBWGd2QQp-zyUex0f3bzTB-fuUJBmbthM1Z6l1gReJHnwKKvkUWF7mcd6vA/s1600/Vista+Bonita.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6XAuYZNo2NSa4cctaZlDOJXDAE4AmXr3mUzFesAVty7szN-jblvC_3CYmVbuT4EF1m_l2WfRMT2Kd5FgmBWGd2QQp-zyUex0f3bzTB-fuUJBmbthM1Z6l1gReJHnwKKvkUWF7mcd6vA/s200/Vista+Bonita.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Felgueiras</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV2D0fvDGGugfx1XPNCz4gKuXiR8edJ2ZmIJRnScd2XOzGYKuOAaPqods9dre6LXMFbQc8YUe7b3hfwV9UgMr6qbUrRZHyFk7Y4gSV71ETlCGTfrwGmshAwNTGjKkTS6P6oh_2XokLeZ4/s1600/Warrior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV2D0fvDGGugfx1XPNCz4gKuXiR8edJ2ZmIJRnScd2XOzGYKuOAaPqods9dre6LXMFbQc8YUe7b3hfwV9UgMr6qbUrRZHyFk7Y4gSV71ETlCGTfrwGmshAwNTGjKkTS6P6oh_2XokLeZ4/s200/Warrior.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yoga at Vale de Moses</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIODP2ACMYAZ_5RvI7zCdQfR8cCT_I3tkvGVW3q4fCrygw675ariUPqB8TfHKdO6_AbB44reoBF0IwWu_S4_YjuvdYnCLoAOrapDb1fAvnXuuHJo736XUmT5C4YhPaLwtQRF6HB0RdeEQ/s1600/Acude+Vale+de+Moses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIODP2ACMYAZ_5RvI7zCdQfR8cCT_I3tkvGVW3q4fCrygw675ariUPqB8TfHKdO6_AbB44reoBF0IwWu_S4_YjuvdYnCLoAOrapDb1fAvnXuuHJo736XUmT5C4YhPaLwtQRF6HB0RdeEQ/s200/Acude+Vale+de+Moses.jpg" width="128" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waterfall in the valley</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8bTBifL7Ew4H3Jgy6uH31U3DL_pGmS4Iab_PeoWSXgovhNoIQax8dIyGmmmJJYEZB9SGmDZORQq91e4Vh_715AEKGXyYQPSJ6lqcE6VJvsE-rwJw8F8ci4A9dGLT7kOt2A_H7x-4CpDE/s1600/Aduki+Beans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8bTBifL7Ew4H3Jgy6uH31U3DL_pGmS4Iab_PeoWSXgovhNoIQax8dIyGmmmJJYEZB9SGmDZORQq91e4Vh_715AEKGXyYQPSJ6lqcE6VJvsE-rwJw8F8ci4A9dGLT7kOt2A_H7x-4CpDE/s200/Aduki+Beans.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aduki beans</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Ui2aaFrmTTYyw2xPOgo7NbHjkvMp9rcB_0h9e0dNxSRcB7b8mysX-7GdVBSqozQttQQkpVjdhxkpzKebky89tSv9yNP9Pt6L0NI-b5z6qVKmiqqJZigcpNtBRoRmuvbruUZGt7dA6s8/s1600/Anne+and+Pete.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Ui2aaFrmTTYyw2xPOgo7NbHjkvMp9rcB_0h9e0dNxSRcB7b8mysX-7GdVBSqozQttQQkpVjdhxkpzKebky89tSv9yNP9Pt6L0NI-b5z6qVKmiqqJZigcpNtBRoRmuvbruUZGt7dA6s8/s200/Anne+and+Pete.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PartnerYoga</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz1s-hbPvNtVm9SlncCBP3VFRDGtIHmVz1E8_u3JxHTkp2bCdbMSmy1k857jG21KVtdH-8uSM4t0deQCLp9A2jQ1N1hYE8XjhxpgHe1TNDQLnPKd6Tc_olVyOTtYfHPLrIHFX6232X4GA/s1600/Annie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz1s-hbPvNtVm9SlncCBP3VFRDGtIHmVz1E8_u3JxHTkp2bCdbMSmy1k857jG21KVtdH-8uSM4t0deQCLp9A2jQ1N1hYE8XjhxpgHe1TNDQLnPKd6Tc_olVyOTtYfHPLrIHFX6232X4GA/s200/Annie.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">By the River</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigVUlcHnQb7o195eoAxif84Z4l5AJeI1DcrN6h5froOXb-vSlo0KZ6B3gouBYIZ-stVl4db-sMPZ9BGX893gC9outz6SLpS7icjTFMCJoq8lHlSmTAEGuq_sBXaURez8Wpn9JO5Eba07A/s1600/Ashley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigVUlcHnQb7o195eoAxif84Z4l5AJeI1DcrN6h5froOXb-vSlo0KZ6B3gouBYIZ-stVl4db-sMPZ9BGX893gC9outz6SLpS7icjTFMCJoq8lHlSmTAEGuq_sBXaURez8Wpn9JO5Eba07A/s200/Ashley.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Forest trail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKwPGw4bDCUhvN65VYITdzJRIKM5AOvTzeLqJbHyA5n7L1_gzR3zEalioNWyyRcXDbvZybmbP5E4uF5o3sFwUgcCn87NBO8EZo8fyxpSONAentQVxdN1tY818bbBJ3kiS2088ySG3ArnM/s1600/Courtyard+Eating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKwPGw4bDCUhvN65VYITdzJRIKM5AOvTzeLqJbHyA5n7L1_gzR3zEalioNWyyRcXDbvZybmbP5E4uF5o3sFwUgcCn87NBO8EZo8fyxpSONAentQVxdN1tY818bbBJ3kiS2088ySG3ArnM/s200/Courtyard+Eating.jpg" width="132" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farmhouse Courtyard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFUZKHxbfw_KviBjZwgwUBq2CCs-2rb0eXC05QGBKm_D-h3CmJLOK4Bmr46lgqurJojz7no3xLkN-f4HibY3nkruKgi-LFCs1MyQSVtkzs7o_Trh6IPfEU38GtpGvGKzyknWzlQPlMZ5s/s1600/Dining.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFUZKHxbfw_KviBjZwgwUBq2CCs-2rb0eXC05QGBKm_D-h3CmJLOK4Bmr46lgqurJojz7no3xLkN-f4HibY3nkruKgi-LFCs1MyQSVtkzs7o_Trh6IPfEU38GtpGvGKzyknWzlQPlMZ5s/s200/Dining.jpg" width="132" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPT7jBeqqiuJQPQOllJRX-Z0vacM21I9L4EQq3Zt7lg1zbhpbFrVAo69n8e82W4StbfpixVOir4lhD4QHztImFQwSpIgy1Mlc0qW6TgSjkvHDrYLTCHbzOfSSJpHmxZAyZyNbonuIKSWM/s1600/Eucalyptus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPT7jBeqqiuJQPQOllJRX-Z0vacM21I9L4EQq3Zt7lg1zbhpbFrVAo69n8e82W4StbfpixVOir4lhD4QHztImFQwSpIgy1Mlc0qW6TgSjkvHDrYLTCHbzOfSSJpHmxZAyZyNbonuIKSWM/s200/Eucalyptus.jpg" width="132" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eucalyptus Woods</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS5sJYG_SfVdwbL0rPvYQ9fHSoumYc_6cFLwjQ1f6KSAnHzY583p7S2v4UghjW2DwEM3Q9iv7PgCKxHE-zBCygdlu4MFlBvFCsVPo8xDm34sA_Ed4TaU2nZpwuvd45gMIUOZDIwOpJTKk/s1600/Farmouse+View.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS5sJYG_SfVdwbL0rPvYQ9fHSoumYc_6cFLwjQ1f6KSAnHzY583p7S2v4UghjW2DwEM3Q9iv7PgCKxHE-zBCygdlu4MFlBvFCsVPo8xDm34sA_Ed4TaU2nZpwuvd45gMIUOZDIwOpJTKk/s200/Farmouse+View.jpg" width="132" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farmhouse View</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzev_PBkkB68R_k9nDZFRP3Ltdg7OwvWeYMhfj1SYPDEPzegJJhjPKOINTZXwHaLhBjB6JOfo6oBAx0G-jLb0nYkUned6wT0zEPpbEfgK7_Psovvdwcbs0Tng3rwxKGC2tSXaPyVHuf_Q/s1600/Flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzev_PBkkB68R_k9nDZFRP3Ltdg7OwvWeYMhfj1SYPDEPzegJJhjPKOINTZXwHaLhBjB6JOfo6oBAx0G-jLb0nYkUned6wT0zEPpbEfgK7_Psovvdwcbs0Tng3rwxKGC2tSXaPyVHuf_Q/s200/Flowers.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dining Table</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEoJZZxo4tC0TIbrvik8MHf60yBTEPGB5yFr6Do5sHvRzqgn8Aos4dvGPZHsDXxZEeJFiPVsDD3oihZ4WgaltSb2b1qKsoxfsvhDTefHyO_m9O5E3SZgKNJv0UUntw6hsyz4jf0bc0iqw/s1600/Follow+Moses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEoJZZxo4tC0TIbrvik8MHf60yBTEPGB5yFr6Do5sHvRzqgn8Aos4dvGPZHsDXxZEeJFiPVsDD3oihZ4WgaltSb2b1qKsoxfsvhDTefHyO_m9O5E3SZgKNJv0UUntw6hsyz4jf0bc0iqw/s200/Follow+Moses.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swimming in the Zêzere</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLjmrvCJtAzNYPAvwLeCAeGNJVFA7Ccc7NKHvvXSZ5pNZn433u37TjhiJhQXru-weAt5dPK7q4CPC8juTcysPSbmFOcMTqAT1tEJVCkDX_K1iCw2EoPu7IxmBTkScd6fBFW3tIgsYColc/s1600/Guest+House.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLjmrvCJtAzNYPAvwLeCAeGNJVFA7Ccc7NKHvvXSZ5pNZn433u37TjhiJhQXru-weAt5dPK7q4CPC8juTcysPSbmFOcMTqAT1tEJVCkDX_K1iCw2EoPu7IxmBTkScd6fBFW3tIgsYColc/s200/Guest+House.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guest House</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvzD-WE-tbrsH_t2MgGAnJfBM1kb3rScz9WBVJfvb8hWvTqq73c6DNC5ZfIcnp5MGR6QI_mADpJ_9kno_SL9RBTM-JHIM9Jsehm1aLZLPZ1JR5rI-QqQfV7nQS-i-N8V0VzEEgiCs9c6Y/s1600/Kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvzD-WE-tbrsH_t2MgGAnJfBM1kb3rScz9WBVJfvb8hWvTqq73c6DNC5ZfIcnp5MGR6QI_mADpJ_9kno_SL9RBTM-JHIM9Jsehm1aLZLPZ1JR5rI-QqQfV7nQS-i-N8V0VzEEgiCs9c6Y/s200/Kitchen.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farmhouse Kitchen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbIK54L68JKjzbInNpnLlFAJV5S_v1ekGnTLFNSQI7ZH8lGx_E1SNAaBBlcK-XLVWLg_QOPSdB50oBXmk_MYPVtHBNiOt0RjNlhiN1oHqH5CgG6zip-761Wg1gbsuUYToVlgblRZOcbpU/s1600/Laughter+Yoga.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbIK54L68JKjzbInNpnLlFAJV5S_v1ekGnTLFNSQI7ZH8lGx_E1SNAaBBlcK-XLVWLg_QOPSdB50oBXmk_MYPVtHBNiOt0RjNlhiN1oHqH5CgG6zip-761Wg1gbsuUYToVlgblRZOcbpU/s200/Laughter+Yoga.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laughter Yoga</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXs-B35xvS-4EC-L3AT34lexYFK0rK022febaOsLQp6jXUhNAOtQyeRDr1g8vTU28sxmpDC3bJI51i0nGv-2G0ajHVu77EYaLN8TMGpxrWb2XKMbilNkfo1Nr2iZeZ3JKnMxFeVuYhJd8/s1600/MeadowFlowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXs-B35xvS-4EC-L3AT34lexYFK0rK022febaOsLQp6jXUhNAOtQyeRDr1g8vTU28sxmpDC3bJI51i0nGv-2G0ajHVu77EYaLN8TMGpxrWb2XKMbilNkfo1Nr2iZeZ3JKnMxFeVuYhJd8/s200/MeadowFlowers.jpg" width="132" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meadow Flowers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Tky_pFBLdzIfQfCsU0zit1YqtZw_SbRUCaCA9yIHLb7VrLsbFr3DwV86ibsx-jEO4FMcLWvgWpF47qUdaTbGNRRMG2jlJigjLs4BRN2N1g160jppP7rn4uO3F05srQFuYfcg5LMZsvE/s1600/More+partner+yoga.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Tky_pFBLdzIfQfCsU0zit1YqtZw_SbRUCaCA9yIHLb7VrLsbFr3DwV86ibsx-jEO4FMcLWvgWpF47qUdaTbGNRRMG2jlJigjLs4BRN2N1g160jppP7rn4uO3F05srQFuYfcg5LMZsvE/s200/More+partner+yoga.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Partner Yoga Von and Eli</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWgAvB41Kai99U1uYQ7F3LXF5Xw21vSNXb_A4PptWm0mtkzZecoPHxNlwK4DTG26GFHZtz7rQdC2xfgDljy41zFZLeXYnDREarddK7SnpJd1S7rWqUs-KHOuECBaITC5GkXQ1RMTv6PfE/s1600/Rio+Zezere+and+Jeep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWgAvB41Kai99U1uYQ7F3LXF5Xw21vSNXb_A4PptWm0mtkzZecoPHxNlwK4DTG26GFHZtz7rQdC2xfgDljy41zFZLeXYnDREarddK7SnpJd1S7rWqUs-KHOuECBaITC5GkXQ1RMTv6PfE/s200/Rio+Zezere+and+Jeep.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River trip</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKzuhoBQyGFJMO7YH5afhjdkVQfsyrUthYqFqr3QUAFkKQf9bGskoKIgCNA6_HLk0VJ7WmtcLrRjx8rBRqL2bpISKZoMf5ap8EvJ_9HNrJxkKEhu8GX0hHgN6Zeh9ft-E16GJlyvzWKPI/s1600/Yoga+Shala.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKzuhoBQyGFJMO7YH5afhjdkVQfsyrUthYqFqr3QUAFkKQf9bGskoKIgCNA6_HLk0VJ7WmtcLrRjx8rBRqL2bpISKZoMf5ap8EvJ_9HNrJxkKEhu8GX0hHgN6Zeh9ft-E16GJlyvzWKPI/s200/Yoga+Shala.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yoga at Moses</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVU1s7EhezI1JWSwj8ZLFIYjeEKBOwQiUJPbYwBZeSco7TaH4b_D8WmNxxPLsrSsrXQBT4wi53iPWb_mEDEuUt1kj9lW-CYoCD6c2WA0vHdL_GXd-v8BYmmX8VXlUbKA2Py5yxqgSv5uk/s1600/Wild+bouquet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVU1s7EhezI1JWSwj8ZLFIYjeEKBOwQiUJPbYwBZeSco7TaH4b_D8WmNxxPLsrSsrXQBT4wi53iPWb_mEDEuUt1kj9lW-CYoCD6c2WA0vHdL_GXd-v8BYmmX8VXlUbKA2Py5yxqgSv5uk/s200/Wild+bouquet.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild River Flower Bouquet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEingEQbg-Li-8JKUvm3Ui8LkdCeo7UmOHOMT3zb1rETPNGgVnVGpEJFtEe9Xx_iD4T7cJqcdDPr8MMyAgyi8xTPrMsjDu4zOmx1PTBmW7u9mQpsUZ58cBczPsnqbKK3MyWPIOL1axTtqaE/s1600/Vale+de+Moses+in+May.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEingEQbg-Li-8JKUvm3Ui8LkdCeo7UmOHOMT3zb1rETPNGgVnVGpEJFtEe9Xx_iD4T7cJqcdDPr8MMyAgyi8xTPrMsjDu4zOmx1PTBmW7u9mQpsUZ58cBczPsnqbKK3MyWPIOL1axTtqaE/s200/Vale+de+Moses+in+May.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spring Flowers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4WqE3cHIIsaKt9NiKSTs7bxQWwgIdBrYsU7_blfjIZAA_jP28WglddtuWWxjnkxrw5pH6fz1rwWOxuhyphenhyphenaiyvwA5-GJoQ9azo-mlQxdLh_EhPFRLD-ugVSezPRJO3M480vHLLWEA9qYo/s1600/Spring+dip+in+Z%25C3%25AAzere.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4WqE3cHIIsaKt9NiKSTs7bxQWwgIdBrYsU7_blfjIZAA_jP28WglddtuWWxjnkxrw5pH6fz1rwWOxuhyphenhyphenaiyvwA5-GJoQ9azo-mlQxdLh_EhPFRLD-ugVSezPRJO3M480vHLLWEA9qYo/s200/Spring+dip+in+Z%25C3%25AAzere.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spring Dip in the Zezere</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMrw8jRde4dNEd0M5rjRdcoyIBauWseNe8ThqiLvNdYMDOIXMRsnQ75GSkUkZI_tL05oGS_a3F2vbfWvuv1EhO4A0KU6oZJW62JTh3vRZ3bNyVIXniDwtPAQUJZHAUN-HTFjrxLgzsSck/s1600/Safira.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMrw8jRde4dNEd0M5rjRdcoyIBauWseNe8ThqiLvNdYMDOIXMRsnQ75GSkUkZI_tL05oGS_a3F2vbfWvuv1EhO4A0KU6oZJW62JTh3vRZ3bNyVIXniDwtPAQUJZHAUN-HTFjrxLgzsSck/s200/Safira.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Safira Chillaxing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWTlFBRf_fQO5lP3ThVJZnR-rAAPlAcUyP2usqh6eaBQSShii5kRM2vp0aux_aKIOoeiJB5PS8GBkyL3MgDnsGjbW05gAj4GhIjYMwVDBkjkvKhvrntUkxlrj-cEjC4mXT9Hl2DfAsAxI/s1600/Poppies.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWTlFBRf_fQO5lP3ThVJZnR-rAAPlAcUyP2usqh6eaBQSShii5kRM2vp0aux_aKIOoeiJB5PS8GBkyL3MgDnsGjbW05gAj4GhIjYMwVDBkjkvKhvrntUkxlrj-cEjC4mXT9Hl2DfAsAxI/s200/Poppies.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poppies in May</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid3ScJKvwaze2OwAytWKDL94Zw1EAdnCmbS3QV9fPzd7-pqi0eGJemkNSftMDRrbpw3E7Mz2RRaHv8xvOQrodUuVBxB9wLzIolymoxfpKQkR0cyCsMHZuntthDxRQMGKW7GOntkhnWTNk/s1600/Morning+Walks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid3ScJKvwaze2OwAytWKDL94Zw1EAdnCmbS3QV9fPzd7-pqi0eGJemkNSftMDRrbpw3E7Mz2RRaHv8xvOQrodUuVBxB9wLzIolymoxfpKQkR0cyCsMHZuntthDxRQMGKW7GOntkhnWTNk/s200/Morning+Walks.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silent Morning Walks before Yoga</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiizq5uxJvXRMRvWCCoJc2ntG_Az2T7tGnHG13PPyXjKrHllYC8UH9HLUysAEWRJB8hlxbtWCQz_4p9yuJKlv63BxTELlRcJ82QbDThGzM2DCmx5zRFOy-T68S2hwDd-q4_SJShaisSZXQ/s1600/Menu.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiizq5uxJvXRMRvWCCoJc2ntG_Az2T7tGnHG13PPyXjKrHllYC8UH9HLUysAEWRJB8hlxbtWCQz_4p9yuJKlv63BxTELlRcJ82QbDThGzM2DCmx5zRFOy-T68S2hwDd-q4_SJShaisSZXQ/s200/Menu.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch Menu</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHsts2d1l64ZGl8PBEgvRCzCvsuYdFQyM3Ld3tHG4_u_Wnpmnierm2gb6W1U_UnyubU-TdwZX7H-uyxl7odg2U58cTYr3707mO8cvwEpH3Ns7QGjEymbXr4Qi7oxlV3zJs1T7lGnO7Scc/s1600/Laurinda.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHsts2d1l64ZGl8PBEgvRCzCvsuYdFQyM3Ld3tHG4_u_Wnpmnierm2gb6W1U_UnyubU-TdwZX7H-uyxl7odg2U58cTYr3707mO8cvwEpH3Ns7QGjEymbXr4Qi7oxlV3zJs1T7lGnO7Scc/s200/Laurinda.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laurinda</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz3zNgJ5e0YALgT3jOZI8yZfitjW6Y8zpO29VQsrueIn8fWLMkFxVwn7M0qDLrUzSIZOnfwFJGC9g6Tlkfmi7mCASQhLya79ILCw06Z6baw6y5P4CuJgn7K7I3MUaRmKIqGlsNX05XeOA/s1600/IMG_2153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz3zNgJ5e0YALgT3jOZI8yZfitjW6Y8zpO29VQsrueIn8fWLMkFxVwn7M0qDLrUzSIZOnfwFJGC9g6Tlkfmi7mCASQhLya79ILCw06Z6baw6y5P4CuJgn7K7I3MUaRmKIqGlsNX05XeOA/s200/IMG_2153.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poppy meadow</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1oMIbgrhjQAhRFusgmqsm1fN4Yc2G_k2-1ITq3_kFcj5ViPtKGZpLd8niQ35sjjN6LiI8xW30qM1dAt6iSNw8Sh49SzJqXHjAXqtO29fl0mgcUYnHwIN-n1ZONyjUI8_A1hpVy72oVkg/s1600/IMG_2146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1oMIbgrhjQAhRFusgmqsm1fN4Yc2G_k2-1ITq3_kFcj5ViPtKGZpLd8niQ35sjjN6LiI8xW30qM1dAt6iSNw8Sh49SzJqXHjAXqtO29fl0mgcUYnHwIN-n1ZONyjUI8_A1hpVy72oVkg/s200/IMG_2146.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steps of the guest house</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUp3syw_7GFR3FUpFxKMH0PRPmiH3kNyjlqg2hjCdK8xA4mCyLafTuz9DvDi8v2hRZ4YZR-ZvhX8dHw5R46J4osrftVzdFON0PBSRsjRhqjkDSb_FDRtxQHsfCCrzCLJnUMr1vlMdRjIA/s1600/Dogs+by+bench.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUp3syw_7GFR3FUpFxKMH0PRPmiH3kNyjlqg2hjCdK8xA4mCyLafTuz9DvDi8v2hRZ4YZR-ZvhX8dHw5R46J4osrftVzdFON0PBSRsjRhqjkDSb_FDRtxQHsfCCrzCLJnUMr1vlMdRjIA/s200/Dogs+by+bench.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moses & Safira by bench</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgdzeNZqicbVg23k9Z6eiUtjbwvj2VcOHycvQuiRHAz_ov1Ptgh-huarD3PwXgrobZRXlnCITJlGdtsa_kNWUz7W3b6L3KeCf6QWiSH2krntlhz5So30cGgTpqIXko4KMuvM3ak3xGOyw/s1600/Amanda.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgdzeNZqicbVg23k9Z6eiUtjbwvj2VcOHycvQuiRHAz_ov1Ptgh-huarD3PwXgrobZRXlnCITJlGdtsa_kNWUz7W3b6L3KeCf6QWiSH2krntlhz5So30cGgTpqIXko4KMuvM3ak3xGOyw/s200/Amanda.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amanda and Safira </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgof4gpJ_k8VXmdSW3o4CCIT3jYfTL8Y3JSFM7kTW-ga5voudHHulznDl2cfg4npGVim1QgGGFi2ykgxyJgeif3CnzodmK1g4vBTeIHjaiLj-Nqx2srF_XdnCfgs9U949aRzkkJE5Sf2SI/s1600/Abitureira.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgof4gpJ_k8VXmdSW3o4CCIT3jYfTL8Y3JSFM7kTW-ga5voudHHulznDl2cfg4npGVim1QgGGFi2ykgxyJgeif3CnzodmK1g4vBTeIHjaiLj-Nqx2srF_XdnCfgs9U949aRzkkJE5Sf2SI/s200/Abitureira.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from Abitureira</td></tr>
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The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-26812889462204925072013-03-30T12:59:00.000+00:002013-03-30T13:20:09.324+00:00We're open! The 2013 Yoga Retreat Season begins.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs-jjBRSp6hycLQm0CFJJ4wLJhjUnMpYq29-xF3ax9h38PvjMQhIYzv6xnqaCYXcAIdKRjnpisFyxc7Rm1nWk8A6pzQmR4wXo2i2nhF_G6VUtwe4BdYx5gPZy9ymWfbjooEtAU09y7cAw/s1600/IMG_5107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="86" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs-jjBRSp6hycLQm0CFJJ4wLJhjUnMpYq29-xF3ax9h38PvjMQhIYzv6xnqaCYXcAIdKRjnpisFyxc7Rm1nWk8A6pzQmR4wXo2i2nhF_G6VUtwe4BdYx5gPZy9ymWfbjooEtAU09y7cAw/s400/IMG_5107.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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After all the preparation over the last 3 months, we finally began our new yoga season last week. It was a close one. We had to battle with constant rain for most of February and March. Record breaking rainfall. Our elderly neighbours cannot ever remember living through a wetter winter. And that follows last year's dryest ever winter. The world's weather, it sure is a changing.<br />
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For those of you new to this blog, now and again we take some very home made videos of our restoration and landscaping work here at Vale de Moses. And as a bit of fun we call it We Love Moses TV and upload them to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/WeLoveMosesTV" target="_blank">Youtube</a>. Below are the latest 4 episodes documenting our last building project - converting the veranda into a more appropriate space to practice. I wish I had had the time to take a video every day, but there simply wasn't the time. We were flat out helping the carpenters, blacksmiths and stone masons get it built. And boy, was it close.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="203" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/iiY0NToRMJ0?list=UUlOqIVSM0yBt4KOGN-3LxKw" width="360"></iframe><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="203" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/I2KKbe1dvlE?list=UUlOqIVSM0yBt4KOGN-3LxKw" width="360"></iframe><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="203" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/xEiXGGT4xlc?list=UUlOqIVSM0yBt4KOGN-3LxKw" width="360"></iframe><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="203" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7ZJLWuMQxKY?list=UUlOqIVSM0yBt4KOGN-3LxKw" width="360"></iframe><br />
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We're still waiting for a couple of things to be installed, like doors and some of the railings, but they'll be in place in the next week or so. What was a big relief was that we had an enclosed practice space ready for when our first guests of the year arrived last Saturday. And what an incredible group they were. Even though it poured with rain nearly all week, when the sun did burst through, a few still managed to take dips in the white water rivers running through the land and brave a full swim in the Rio Zêzere on our river trip. Once the sun comes out in full, those waters heat up quickly and it will be a little more comfortable. But hats off. No holding back.<br />
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This <a href="http://www.facebook.com/events/374810032610738/" target="_blank">Rainbows on your Eyelashes </a>group also took some beautiful photos of their stay with us, today's post has a few but I am uploading a bigger album to a Spring Retreat album Facebook. I had forgotten how wonderful it is to see this place through other people's eyes and lenses. Special.<br />
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I could write a hundred stories of our experience this week. Each of our guests was a real character and threw themselves whole heartedly into their yoga practice, their treatments and for some experimented with a completely new diet for the week. And they did so with a joyful openness to the elements of life out here on the edge of wilderness. When the water falls like it has done, rivers and waterfalls open up all over the valley. The energy of all those rushing waters is invigorating. And obviously very wet. <br />
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It was a real treat for us to meet such wonderful people from all over Europe and beyond. They came for a week's break to our home in the forest. I was chatting to Josh the other day after his acupuncture session with Mama bear, and we agreed how amazing it is that even though we've moved so far away from the bustling multi cultural life of London, we still get to meet so many great people and hear about their tales from foreign lands.<br />
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This morning came round very quickly, bright and early at 7am we loaded everyone and their bags into the cars and drove into Oleiros to buy coach tickets from the sweetest old man in the café and had time for a quick tea and coffee and fresh home made pastries straight out of the oven at another café, before saying our goodbyes.<br />
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To Marianna, Nolene, Edgar, Sue, Bob, Jane, Oksana, Vicky, Laura and Per, that was an absolute honour to have you with us this week. God's wind in your sails you lovely, lovely people.<br />
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Peace and love and all good things.<br />
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Thanks for tuning in.<br />
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<b>Memphis</b><br />
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<br />The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1774985331102324410.post-33729038871884587752013-02-23T17:05:00.000+00:002013-02-23T17:46:41.458+00:00Nature doesn't hurry...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The sun is shining. The sap in the trees is rising. The mimosas are in full, gloriously-scented, yellow bloom. And the tiny daffodils are peeping out on the forest floor. Signs that Spring is emerging. Graças a Deus that we've had a winter of rain to fill up the water tables after last winter's 5 month drought. The appearance of Spring holds an even more poignant message for us this year.<br />
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The <a href="http://welovemoses.blogspot.pt/2012/09/os-bombeiros-de-oleiros-sao-herois.html" target="_blank">forest fires</a> at the end of last summer charred a sizeable chunk of the surrounding landscape. Paradoxically, fire destroys and rejuvenates simultaneously. The contrast between the wee forest flowers breaking through the rich black pot ash is remarkable. I was heartened by Tameera at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/lightstays" target="_blank">Light Stays Retreats</a> for her Lau Tzu quote this week on FB. Good to be reminded....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyd9q1sze9RWI8mQaVWkypbV3Nr6Mrv97UgKEfclzO_36bkJrRtqYTPJj1oh8KrGBp7WAeIZ6JDZCtyClWy7hJlgRHYMhL5jZ8nj4gtrqaffYOIbsRoGo0Mlc5NoMtGT61DEevRpmU6eA/s1600/Flowers+after+Fire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyd9q1sze9RWI8mQaVWkypbV3Nr6Mrv97UgKEfclzO_36bkJrRtqYTPJj1oh8KrGBp7WAeIZ6JDZCtyClWy7hJlgRHYMhL5jZ8nj4gtrqaffYOIbsRoGo0Mlc5NoMtGT61DEevRpmU6eA/s200/Flowers+after+Fire.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"<i>Nature doesn't hurry, </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>yet everything is accomplished.</i>" </span></div>
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Lau Tzu.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtwvI2hmajhV4-s7DUk00Zney-xTZRtLOgNCcD_QvBfw5nQQa_NRXJ49PyxpuKBZaSZKu1AlThR3E34FQ_yeh6PzHSVBlgX1jLdjsuBALRNHgvO23xKynZDyCu2aJmv2COaUGZxl8olKU/s1600/New+Lawn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtwvI2hmajhV4-s7DUk00Zney-xTZRtLOgNCcD_QvBfw5nQQa_NRXJ49PyxpuKBZaSZKu1AlThR3E34FQ_yeh6PzHSVBlgX1jLdjsuBALRNHgvO23xKynZDyCu2aJmv2COaUGZxl8olKU/s200/New+Lawn.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
Big thanks to our wonderful volunteer Christian Steiger, who has been working tirelessly over the last month, helping us prepare the houses and the land for our <a href="http://yogaatmoses.com/" target="_blank">yoga retreat season</a> opening in a few weeks. Clearing up some of the fallen trees and debris of the winter storms, weeding the kitchen gardens ready for planting out this year's herbs and salads, rearranging and tidying spaces, deep Spring cleaning and to top it off playing around in the kitchen with me inventing new dishes for the retreats. Exploring the taste-scape of our pallets. It's been a lot of fun and inspiring to have another chef to cook with.<br />
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Eloise turned 14 in January and Joshua 16 last week. They grow fast. And we observe them change once more, this time into adults, young, energetic and magnificent. Flapping their perfectly formed wings on the edge of the proverbial nest, eyeing that tantalizing horizon of destiny, wherever it may lie for them. The world is their oyster. 2 languages mastered and more coming, they'll be able to navigate their way through. They're not ready to leave just yet, but they're beginning to imagine what that might look like. Imagination and Vision. Such precious and powerful human attributes.<br />
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Now the winter rains seem to have passed, we'll be starting the improvements to the yoga platform next week in the sunshine. Strengthening the wooden pillars beneath the veranda with a metal structure that will double as a frame for the wisteria, roses and jasmines to grow up through. We'll also be enclosing it from the fresh morning valley autumn breezes and the fierce summer sun. We'll keep you updated with a couple of vids to show work in progress. It'll be sad in someways to loose the openness of the practice space, but with more guests and children coming this year, that experience of floating above the forest is not as important as taking care that our guests are safe and don't fall to injury.<br />
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And while all that is happening we also have 4 families from the UK with us to explore the possibility of making the jump out to this part of the world. Nice to be able to provide a comfortable base from which they can travel off every day to hunt for similar abandoned hamlets in this beautiful, mountainous and relatively "undiscovered" central part of Portugal.<br />
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After these lovely families and their oh so very cute kids leave, my Mum and Dad are popping over for a fortnight from the UK before Easter and then we start our first retreat of the year. Which, Merci Papa, is already fully booked. Places on our retreats are booking so fast this year we can hardly believe it. We've had over 5000 likes for our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/valedemoses" target="_blank">Facebook </a>page in 12 months. Staggering. Guests are coming in from all over the world - America, Australia, United Arab Emirates, Italy, India, the UK, Thailand and Norway. And that's just for the first 2 retreats of the year. Amazing.<br />
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We are really touched by how people have responded to our invitation to come spend a week with us in the forest. And by how many people are helping us in this little quest - Ellie and Rosy at <a href="http://www.responsibletravel.com/holiday/9688/yoga-holiday-portugal" target="_blank">Responsible Travel</a>, Will at <a href="http://www.yogatravel.co.uk/" target="_blank">Yoga Travel</a>, Filipe at <a href="http://seegno.com/" target="_blank">Seegno</a>, among many others. Thanks. We really do appreciate all you're doing for us.<br />
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Peace, love and Spring hope to you, whatever the weather outside your window today.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/andrewcampbellwinter" target="_blank">Memphis</a> x</b><br />
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<b>p.s. </b>Respect is due to Josh for these photos on the blog, he took them for me this morning. Lad, you sure got an eye.<br />
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<br />The Wintershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11230305180202017162noreply@blogger.com2