News from the BigBlue:

April report »

The spring has arrived and São Miguel is starting to bloom. Camelias in red and white are still fresh and pink Azaleas are now lining the roads. Tobacco is planted in the fields and the
harvest of tea has started. Many days has rained away, but during days with sunshine – we
have gone out! Out to sea to see the magnificient blue whales pass by. They are going north to
feed. A few lucky have seen them. The air is still cool, but the sun is hot and gives you a burn
on your nose if not careful! The celebration of Santo Cristo attracted both worshippers and
tourists. It is truly a beautiful tradition.

May report »

The marina of Ponta Delgada is suddenly more busy. Sailers from other parts of the world stop
by, the whale watchers are many more now, eagerly waiting to go out at sea. Whale! Sperm
whales and pilot whales are spotted. The ocean lies flat. The beaches are still quiet, but the
surfers are there. They don't mind cloudy skies. On land, fog still comes and goes some days.
But we took the chance one day and reached the top of the island by foot. Pico da Vara,
1103m. Wonderful! Celebrations of the Holy Gost – Espirito Santo, are ongoing in the villages,
indicated by the bangs from firecrackers.