Here in Spain, Easter Sunday is preceeded by Holy Week events that begin on Palm Sunday. There are processions through the streets, late-night masses and activities for the children. By the time Easter Sunday rolls around, people seem overspent by the whole affair, and the festivities are much more relaxed.
In our town, after mass we all head down to the reservoir. Friends get together in groups to have a picnic and spend the day enjoying nature. Our group of friends traditionally prepare a paella for lunch, followed by a barbecue in the evening. Children are not allowed near the reservoir but enjoy themselves immensely by playing in the streams that feed into the lake, catching small fish and pollywogs with their hands. Extra pairs of pants, shoes and socks are a must!
Hard times call for drastic measures: instead of shellfish, this year's rice was chicken and veg.
Is your mouth watering, yet?
This Easter, we enjoyed perfect picnic weather: not windy at all, and not a cloud in the sky. After recent rains and the sun we had last week, the fields were abloom with the tiniest of wildflowers.
The lavender is starting to bloom, often in the most impossible of places.
After lunch, it's time for a long walk around the lake.
This little village is proud of its beautiful countryside.
Our house is down where the reservoir starts to narrow.
So, if you stop by on Easter Sunday and we're not home, you can find us down by the reservoir in the shade of an old oak tree. Bring your appetite!
