Journal #21 We must appreciate the small things in daily life
Gastronomic gem in Portuguese culture, olive oil is the main reason for the presence of Mariana Carmona e Costa at the Open House - Harvest Party.
The Agricultural Director of Herdade do Monte da Ribeira, Mariana is recognized for leading the reconversion and restructuring of the estate’s olive groves. Her expertise in olive oil will be shared during an olive oil tasting with those who wish to learn more about "az-zait," the Arabic word meaning "the olive’s juice."
It will be a privilege to have Mariana with us – "I love this kind of event where art, music, and knowledge come together. The purpose of that day is to share my knowledge and passion for olive oil with those interested." Like wine, there are some key considerations to enhance the tasting of this "sacred oil." On October 5th, Mariana will tell us all about it.
Surviving the passage of centuries and a witness to both past and present, the olive tree at Morgado do Quintão represents the passion and resilience needed in rural life and agricultural challenges. "When a farmer plants a tree, they plant for the next generation." This statement from Mariana is symbolic of the spirit embodied in the project. “It’s important to celebrate every challenge and each chapter in a project’s history, only made possible through the contribution of a team and every generation involved”.
Meanwhile, we must appreciate the small things in daily life that bring us happiness and peace and share joy, Mariana concludes.
MdQ: The Open House is a day of celebration – what is your intention for this day?
MCC: I love this type of event where art, music, and knowledge come together. The purpose of this day is to share my knowledge about olive oil with anyone interested.
MdQ: What do you celebrate in your daily life?
MCC: The small things in everyday life that make us happy and bring us peace. Whether it's a latte with a view, lunch with friends, or a family walk
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MdQ: How do you enjoy celebrating?
MCC: Life with health
MdQ: What makes you feel like home?
MCC:I love decoration, and when I'm away from home, good décor, nice pillows, small details, a blanket on the sofa — all of it makes me feel at home.
MdQ: At Morgado do Quintão, there is a favorite spot for many – our ancient olive tree. Do you have a favorite spot at home?
MCC: I really love my vintage chair with a light nearby, facing the balconies. It’s my reading refuge.
MdQ: What is essential to share in your home?
MCC: Joy. I love hosting dinners, and people always ask me what they should bring, to which I always reply, 'good mood’! There’s nothing like a great meal around the table with everyone in high spirits.
MdQ: September/October is a time to revisit matters and tidy up the 'house,' also in a metaphorical sense. What do you need to tidy up at 'home'?
MCC: Yes, for me, September is a time of return because I literally spend two months away from home, between holidays and the grape harvest, I am barely at home. I take advantage of this time to organize, re-arrange the plants in the balconies, try to eat healthily, and get back into my home routines.
MdQ: A song to celebrate?
MCC: An all-time classic – Missing (Todd Terry Remix) by Everything but the Girl.