Family can come in many shapes and sizes. For those of us living away from out blood families, we come to make our soul families in our communities and with our heart connections.

Here in my neighbourhood of Bonfim, I have some adopted sons from Nepal. Raj and his band of brothers, run a great coffee shop and brunch menu eatery in my apartment block. We met the first day they moved in, and we all keep an eye on one another. Making sure that there is a listening ear, and helping hand when we need it. We laugh and joke. Complain about the weather and immigration issues. We try and keep one another buoyant on the seas of life. I love them like my own. Because on the soul map - they are in my constellation of stars.

I love their eggs benedict and chai latte especially. The banana bread is home baked, and a great ‘happy hit’ when your spirits are low. Pay a visit to Canvas Coffee but be prepared for the queue, since it’s now a popular destination for not only tip top coffee - but also a great heart love vibe. ❤️

Julia - a hungry pilgrim in Portugal.