A lifetime of encounters with Spain.
Posted in Amigos, Corners of Spain, Reflections on Spain on Nov 22nd, 2010
My family and I have traveled the byways of Spain over the years, and we take great pleasure in getting to know members of Spanish families whose livelihood is intimately linked with the earth. Whether they are churning milk from tended flocks, growing rice or peppers; pruning grape vines or olive trees, there is something [...]
Posted in Corners of Spain, Reflections on Spain on Sep 13th, 2010
Have you ever given a second thought to a bar of soap? It has a fascinating role to play in Spanish history where soap was first shunned by Christians as a sign of unfaithfulness, and later became one of Castile’s proudest contributions to courtly life. Although not used in Europe, soap was known in the [...]
This two part video is an excellent presentation prepared by my friend Han de Roos who provides La Tienda with Can Solivera Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Wild Olive Oil by Can Solivera and the exquisite Can Solivera Extra Virgin Olive Oil Soap.
Posted in Amigos, Corners of Spain, Reflections on Spain on Mar 15th, 2006
Hans and Daida’s greatest love is the olive oil from Spain. When they settled into their new estate, Can Solivera, they planted a grove of arbequina olive trees and personally nurtured their growth. Through their own toil and the blessing of a favorable micro-climate, they produce a sublime extra virgin olive oil, and, in addition, an organic wild olive oil produced using the medieval style of pressing the olives. They bring home the fruit of their labor and actually put it into individual bottles.
Posted in Reflections on Spain on Jan 15th, 2005
Continuity of life within the family is highly prized in Spain. For this reason acknowledging the passing year is integral to welcoming the new. During the first part of the evening the family is apt to reminisce about the events of the past year — you might term that time Old Year’s Eve – Año Viejo. Then as midnight approaches the family welcomes the New Year – Año Nuevo — with a glass of sparkling cava while eating individual grapes – one for each toll from the bell tower. It is after this time that they go out into the streets to celebrate with their neighbors. This way of celebrating makes much more sense to me. So, in the vein of remembering and celebrating the year
