An Azorean American

 I think of myself as an Azorean American.  Though my great-grandparents emigrated to the U.S. at the beginning of the 20th century my family like many others traveled back and forth to visit relatives. I was born on one of these visits to the island of Fayal. This was fortunate because I became a dual citizen of both the U.S. and Portugal. When I visit I feel like I belong.

During summer vacations my family spent time on the islands, swimming and eating and then eating and swimming. I remember the food - fresh fish and meat, vegetables and fruit all so delicious.  Fresh figs and grapes, plums and pineapple ice cream. Bread was baked everyday and carried home in a cloth bag made of scraps of fabric. I can't forget this bag as it was the first time I saw a crazy quilt pattern and I spent hours trying to figure out how the scraps all fit together - there was no straight seam to be found.

Looking at the island of Pico from the Avenida do Mar.

The Azores is known for many types of embroideries and laces, especially Madeira embroidery. My first lessons were simple: Buttonhole, Cross stitch, Stem, Split and Straight stitch, Leaf and Satin stitch, Lazy Daisy and the very frustrating French Knot. My grandmother was delighted that I caught on so quickly and had an interest in it. My greatest regret was that I didn't have time to learn so much more. The summers passed quickly.