Superlatives Spent

Thursday October 13,2011

I was awake early as it was our last day at Porta del Mar and I wanted to catch the sunrise. The moon was still bright in the western sky and the morning was calm, warm and beautiful. I snapped a few pre-sunrise pictures as the sky was pink with the promise of a sunny day. The early fishing boats were getting set for their morning catch. I heard the distant sound of a rooster crowing. Rex hadn't followed me down to the beach as he wanted to post some pictures and had failed because of internet trouble the night before. I was soon back coaxing him out for a walk up the beach. As we stepped out on to the veranda the bright red globe poked up from behind the distant trees and another fabulous day was born. We walked up the beach, encouraged by the light glinting off a fishing boat with its net bobbing in the water. It looked like the perfect picture opportunity. We hadn't been up the road at the far end of the beach so on we went. The morning sun sparkled in the dewy leaves of the olive trees and the open spots were a yellow green in the warm light. Three goats were staked in one field. The two white nannys glanced our way but looked disinterested as we walked by however the black billy watched us curiously, his tidy black beard giving the impression of a little old man. One thing I have really enjoyed about this area is the peace and quiet. Besides the occasional bird and sound of a barking dog the morning was quiet. Most of the places we walked by looked closed up for the season. We did pass a farmer on a tractor spraying weeds along the road side but that was the only person we saw besides the fisherman. We wandered back and had french toast for breakfast and then I quickly tidied up so I could have another hour down in the sea before it was check out time. The water was still and warm. I can't get over how clear and clean it is. I think that is really what I can't resist. All too soon it was time to pack up and wait for the taxi back to town.

We decided to spend the last two nights on Zakynthos Island, in the town. Our hotel is right on the busy water front and has been the best perch for people watching ever. We watched the comings and goings of a cruise ship in the bay, the ferries arriving, the fishing boats coming home for the night as well as the busy comings and goings of the town. We walked about, had a lovely Greek supper at an open air taverna and walked the main shopping street that is all lit up in hopes a few more ships will bring the customers before the season is completely ended.When we got back to our hotel the moon was showing off, glinting in the harbour, lighting up the sea beyond the habour walls. A enchanting end to another glorious day.