MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!

SUNSET IN APOLLO BEACH

Christmas Door, Malta

Ron and I are in Apollo Beach, Florida, this Christmas and plan to stay here until spring calls us back to Wisconsin. For now, we have settled into a 55+ community, enjoying the sunshine, warm weather, and our daily swims. One of the best parts of being here is living close to Anna and John—and, of course, our three wonderful granddaughters: Mila (11), Sienna (7), and Etta (4).

Red Door, Senglea, Malta

Our son, Ben, is still living in Wisconsin, but he's visiting for the holidays, and we're grateful to have everyone together.

I've included some of my favorite Photos—hope they bring a smile. 

PAINTING BY MY BROTHER, FRED 
HE PASSED AWAY ON SEPT 6, 2025
AT THE AGE OF 88.

The Wonderful 3 Sisters

Christmas Door, Malta

Doors of Malta

                                                             

Work in Progress

…”..Living in the world is an adventure. One day can be up, and the next can be down. But we learn and grow, that's what the world is about.” -author unknown

VINTAGE DOORS IN LE PANIER, THE OLDEST DISTRICT IN MARSEILLE, FRANCE

 

   
     

In 600 BC the Greeks discovered three hills overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and decided this was the perfect place to begin a city. The small area, where it all began, is referred to as Le Panier—the oldest district in Marseille, France.

     Through the years, this district in Marseille has developed into a magical work of art and a delight to wander through. The narrow brick streets are lined with colorful street art, outdoor cafes, plazas, and shops.

Le Panier, which means “basket” in French, is a paradise for anyone that loves old doors—especially when they have been embellished with street art. Here are some of my favorites:

Related Posts:  “More than a Door”  May 11, 2020

MORE THAN A DOOR

TARIFA, SPAIN

Walking down an old street looking for an interesting door to photograph is, for me, like visiting an art museum and searching for a favorite work of art. My eyes seem to gravitate to the doors and entryways, and if one of them catches my eye I will often linger a while to view it from different perspectives and take photos.

TALLINN, ESTONIA

For thousands of years, doors have served as entryways to dwellings throughout the world and across all cultures. The first recorded history was found over 4,000 years ago on Egyptian tomb paintings. Early doors used throughout Mesopotamia and the ancient world were merely hides or textiles. Craftsmanship was at its finest in the 15th and 16th centuries during the Renaissance period--a time when Michelangelo described doors as the "gates of paradise."

FRASCATI, ITALY

Doors come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. They can be elegant, quirky, exotic, faded, or run down. Some come with stained-glass windows, graffiti, latticework, cobblestone steps, or pointed arches. Many are adorned with handles and knockers that are relics. Nearby patios, benches, pets, columns, flowerpots, rocks, lighting, or ironwork frequently add interest.

Someday I plan to roam those old streets again, but for now, I will have to be content with the memories and spend my extra time organizing photos. Thanks to Google Photos, I now have online travel albums that include my favorite, Doors.

Thanks for reading my blog. If anyone has any door photos or stories to share please send them to MyVintageJourneys@gmail.com. I will add them to this post.

MALAGA, SPAIN

FRIGLIANA, ITALY

VENICE, ITALY

KRAKOW, POLAND