I know the subject is the lovely blooming succulent...but that basket of walnuts behind drew my attention too.... at least I think they're walnuts?

Yes they are walnuts Lori, picked off a tree in my cousin's garden. The area is especially renowned for their walnuts and almonds - and almost everything else too !!! . More photos later of the local produce.

Walnuts and almonds! I think it would be a shame to industrialize of touristryize (lol, sp?) such an obviously agrarian place. Do they grow herbs as well?... they probably have a local liqueur too, right... amaretto?
sigh... perhaps a specialized operation..you mentioned nuts! Maybe the best thing would be to keep totally mum... for the children who have left will someday return as the retired elderly, perhaps? Perhaps it is a trust...waiting for the future generation to reclaim it? Today's trends are toward "bedroom communities". the wife and kiddies in the nice house in the safe neighbourhood, while dad pops across to the mainland to work! I'm glad I'm nearing the end of my time...not sure I'd like to live in the future.