I am one of the richest people in the Algarve, having everything I need and love: a bonnie (Scottish) lass as a partner, a silly black poodle called Winston, the vast body of salt water just five miles away from our veranda, and definitely so many new books to read and enjoy on each and every sunny day and every single starry night.

I found the unconditional love offered by thousands of books I had already read, and the unconditional friendship offered by my boon companions, to name only the best four of them: Shakespeare, Cervantes, Pessoa and Van Gogh.

When I do not read, I write. Or I translate. Or I proofread. Or I edit written materials. Or I publish. Or I do my best to improve my Portuguese vocabulary. Or I attempt to quit smoking. Or I travel. Or I regret there are only twenty-four hours in a day.

I like to keep my mind open. And my e-mail inbox is open at any time 24/7/365.