Sunday, September 26, 2010

Jazzmin

Music mingles with low clouds pouring over Chora, shrouding Steve as he plays with his new ipod. Veronique, a young interpreter with the United Nations, sips white wine with her boiled egg breakfast. Bright bunches of cherries dangle from Sandra's ears as she cooks in the underground kitchen. Later she will transform a piece of fabric into a work of art in her small room at the windmills. An elderly man from Vienna wears a unique hat created from white surgical mesh to protect the injury he sustained two days ago. Two Greek women at the next table share gossip in whispery tones. They are not happy to have him so close, suspecting that he is an unbalanced tourist.  Meanwhile he quietly sips a coffee and smiles at them.

Inside Eva perches on a bar stool, talking with Kallyroi about her trips to Ethiopia and Nepal. Originally a Marine Biologist, she has lately diverted her interest and energy to reforestation around the globe. Kallyroi listens attentively but her mind is distracted by the challenge of preparing a dinner for 12-15 people this afternoon.

In the corner, quiet as a mouse, sits an old woman. She has finished her daily breakfast of coffee and bread but often lingers to listen and watch. The cafe owners do not expect her to pay.

Behind the bar Theo prepares coffees and teas, adjusts the mellow music and greets customers. People return year after year for the pleasure of sharing time 
with him. He is welcomed into customers' homes around the world during his winter travels.

The daytime atmosphere in the cafe is transformed in the evening when Yorgos takes over from Theo behind the bar. Music is upbeat, encouraging dancers to spin and twirl to a salsa beat. Voices become louder. Locals and visitors share the energy. Around 5am the last customer pays and stumbles home. Yorgos cleans and prepares the cafe for Theo's arrival at 8am.

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