Trial By Bone Saw

('La Autopsia', 1890, Enrique Simonet)

Last year, I had the opportunity to watch not one, but two autopsies - we can say it was a very morbid dream come true. Twice.

The text you're about to read was written on February 21st and chronicles my personal views on the first of those two events. I hate to state the obvious, but dead people are involved and you may or may not like the subject. I hope, nevertheless, no matter where you stand, that you can be respectful about it. Thank you.

Syndromes

I'm down with a nasty cold, a bad shoulder, and a swollen eye. I don't get sick very often, you see - but when I do, I like to do it right. The more, the better. And that's kind of why you're getting a post of random pictures with very little words. Now off to slap on a heating pad, down a lovely Fluticasone-Acetylcysteine-Paracetamol cocktail, and throw myself a pity party (with fancy chocolates that I won't be able to taste). See you on the other side.

Have a nice week!
xx

The Unfortunate But Tolerated Decay Of Relevant Public Property

(Palacete Pinto Leite - Rua da Maternidade, Porto)

I visited a palace, a few days ago. I didn't know much about it, but it was a ten-minute walk from my flat and I was in an escapist mood, so I decided to just grab my camera, make my way there, and learn.

Well I hate to say it, but it's been a while since I've been this disappointed by a touristic endeavor. The state of the gardens is apparent in the photo above. It left a negative impression on me, right away, but I was willing to excuse it - since it's February and the weather hasn't been exactly picture-perfect. So I walked in, up the steps and into the opulent front room. Intricate columns and ceilings, a red carpet leading up a staircase, and a small peek of a stained glass window above. My excitement returned. I smiled at the man who walked up to me, asked him if I could wander around as I pleased, he said yes. I asked about pictures. He said no, not inside the palace. That... I hadn't expected.