In 1565, Spanish Admiral Pedro Menéndez de Avilés established the first successful European settlement in America. He named it St. Augustine.
New here, I started wandering the streets and alleys. Turning down King Street, I realized I was humming Simon & Garfunkel’s America. Hum… Fitting.
At Phillip Anthony’s Gallery I had a long conversation with the Curator. We talked about her gallery artists, their visions and styles. One reminded me of Alma-Tadema and his paintings Sappho and The Women of Amphissa.
On Aviles Street I met Ken Jenson and he played some melodies on his amazing ceramic guitars and banjos.
When my stomach started rumbling, I stopped at Ancient City Brunch Bar on St. George St., for a blueberry muffin and coffee. It was a perfect February day, so in the park next to the Governor’s house I enjoyed my snack and the tourists strolling by.
There’s something powerful about sitting still and observing. People flowed in and out of Star Bucks’. A teenager with a raspy, trumpeting, exhaust rattled the streetside windows. A father shepherded his children across the street and into a horse drawn carriage.
Then a thought floated past.
1565 was 457 years ago.
That would be quite a birthday cake.
Hello Tom, my name is Angel; we haven’t met each other but I indirectly know you: my daughter is Alba, your room neighbour that has gone today to a student residence.
I’ve read three chapters of your blog, a pleasure, and I liked a lot the entry of this one, remembering a great Spanish man. I love that time in my country History.
Thanks for helping my daughter with the luggage; I hope you enjoy your adventure. I’ll keep reading your blog.
Pd.: sorry for my English level, my daughter one is thousand of miles away of mine.
Beat regards
Hi Angel!
As I travel I stay in Airbnb’s so I can meet interesting people like your daughter.
Alba and I often talked in the kitchen while having breakfast or dinner. She spoke fondly of her family and home but is also excited about her professional future. She strikes me as a strong, smart, independent person who’s very wise. With all that going for her, and recently graduating university and finding her first job, you must be very proud of her.
Alba’s independence was on display as she took care of her own luggage (except that great big hard shell one). It was very heavy, I’m glad I could help her with it:)
Since January I’ve been working on a screenplay about a young woman just a few years older than Alba. Part of the story is her growing independence, but the bigger theme is discovering her way in life. Alba’s stories from the kitchen were full of insights and inspiration. I’m grateful we met.
I’m glad you enjoy my stories. The next one will be about my trip to the small town my family immigrated from 300 years ago.
Stay tuned:)
Tom