Living life with your senses wide open brings about experiences and memories that can be embedded in you.
On a recent trip to Croatia, my senses peaked. As I think about the smells of the trip, I definitely have more pleasant recollections than raunchy aromas.
Join me as I reminisce about the aromas of Croatia.
When we walked the centuries-old cobblestone streets, I couldn’t help but wonder about the decisions that were made in conversations by others in the third century Roman days. The alleys were mysterious yet inviting, buildings were pronounced with endless stories, and the aroma of the ancient town was seasoned with muskiness and modernization. Cats and pigeons were prominent around every corner. You would often find yourself dodging the flight of a pigeon or stepping around a feline lounging around. Although these creatures were noticeable, their scents were surprisingly subtle.
Adventuring out of the old city walls, the senses were awakened with nature, hardwork, and simplicity. The coastline and mountains were dotted with beautiful and quaint villages. The people were hospitable and calm. There didn’t seem to be any hurriedness in life, only evidence of simply living and enjoying the fruits of one’s labour.
One of the most memorable excursions we savored was an authentic cooking experience with a family of three generations present in Lovorno. The Mujo family have been in the same location since the 16th century.
From the moment you walk up the stoned drive to the entrance of the home, the aroma of the various fruit trees waft through the air. You can’t help but stop and truly smell the florals surrounding the charming cottage. The patriarch, Ivo, was tending to the garden that was filled with fresh vegetables.
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Once we began the cooking experience, which included making and baking bread, preparing the meat on stick kabobs, harvesting veggies from the garden, milking goats for fresh cheese, arranging charcuterie, and setting the tables, you couldn’t help but be immersed in all your senses. As bread browned and meat sizzled over the open fire, those fragrances awakened my appetite and anchored the moment.
Just like the slogan reads on their website, “Your authentic Dubrovnik countryside escape”, you definitely escape the busyness of life, yet are unable to flee from the inviting hospitality this beautiful retreat offers. https://www.holiday-village-konavle.com/
Walking through Krka National Park, outside the seaport of the Adriatic Sea, was another sensory gift. The sights and sounds deserve their own entry, but the air itself felt restorative: cool, tree-scented, and charged with the life of flowing water. https://npkrka.hr/en_us/prirodna-bastina/slapovi/
Split, Dubrovnik, and other surrounding towns in Croatia did not disappoint.
Accept my prayer as incense offered to you, and my upraised hands as an evening offering. Psalm 141:2
Throughout the bible we read about aromas. In Psalm 141:2, David was praying to the Lord for protection and wisdom. It is my prayer that you will live your life. Not just live by experiencing the world through travels or the routine of daily life, but with each of your life experiences you will lift a sweet aroma to heaven by your words and actions. May you do as David and seek God for protection and wisdom. Jesus Christ is there for you. He will lift you up, forgive and love you, and is waiting for you to live your life with Him.
Blessings to you and yours,
Stephanie