Oh How Mighty The Sun Is!

Our housekeeper was arriving today and as we like to “get out of the way” and let her do her thing, Patricia suggested a drive to Vila Real de Santo António for a walkabout and maybe a poke or two in some of the outlets…..it’s the town to visit for anything cloth.  And so, off we headed.

The day was sunny and bright, a cloud or two around that looked as if it might dampen us a bit, but generally, gorgeous.

This tall scrawny cactus in a pot o the sidewalk contained the most lovely tiny blossoms.

Yahoo, the orange blossoms are starting to burst. Intoxicating scent.

As you can see, the orange trees are coming into bloom. Soon that’s all you will smell as you drive or walk around the countryside.

A happy shopper and wanderer.

Look at the array of colours and prices of these towels. Most of these things are 100% cotton, a real deal.

Me in front of one of our favourite little spots……they sell most things by the weight!! We bought six little bath gloves……they don’t use facecloths here…and they cost 1,34.!!

A very happy shopper. Miss Patricia was quite content to window shop and wander in and out of the occasional store. She did not come home empty handed!!

We had a place in mind for lunch, one we had eaten at before and is off the beaten tourist path.  We headed in that direction and found it, or at least thought we had.  Turns out it is under new management, today was their first day to be opened and WE were their first customers.   A lovely couple, he cooks, she waits tables.  We enjoyed a wonderful chat with them and at the end of the meal he brought a bottle of Port to the table with four glasses.  I wasn’t drinking (driving) and it was suggested that he join us in a drink and he did!  Poured a tiny portion for himself and we toasted to his restaurant and longevity.  I love moments like this.  Restaurante Panela Magica…Rue Ministro Duarte Pacheco…he’s not on TripAdvisor just yet as he has to wait to be approved.

Marc, Patricia and myself enjoyed the grilled octopus. Melt in the mouth goodness.

Gary had the grilled cod.

Marc was gaga over this dessert. Fresh cheese, sweet and crumbly topped with candied pumpkin.

And Gary, this light and flavourful chocolate mousse. Look at how airy it is.

Of course all big meals demand more walking and wandering……otherwise we would all weight a ton while living here.

As many times as I have been in this town, and walked this particular street, I had never noticed this gorgeous tile work on the second level.

I can imagine this when the leaves and flowers are all in evidence on this vine. I’ll have to check it out again in a few weeks.

Old, decayed and gorgeous……just like so many people I know!!!!

This window caught my eye in the tiny chapel on the main street. Quite lovely.

As did this wonderful old door. They have such character to me.

A large old hotel is being renovated and the front door was slightly ajar, which I took as an invitation. I wandered the main floor a little and the grandeur it once possessed is evident. I am certain it will shine once again when they are finished.

On the way home we decided to head into Cacela Vela for a walk, a look and maybe a beverage of some sort, just to continue to enjoy the sunshine and the day.  After all, the only thing we had to get home for was NOTHING!

You can see we live such difficult lives and life is so tough!!!

The late afternoon sun shining off the Atlantic.

I’ve been playing with my camera and trying to learn how to soften the background and keep the closeness in focus. I did a pretty good job with this one. I’ll get there.

Following our nearly three weeks of rains, colour is everywhere.

These always make me smile. Such rich colour with such dainty centers.

This open window with the curtains blowing the afternoon breeze encapsulated exactly how I was feeling.

Our view as we enjoyed a drink on the patio at Manta Rota beach near Cacela Velha

Patricia and Gary getting us all organized with beverages while Marc enjoyed the sound of the sea.

This flock of flamingos were cuddled together sleeping on the opposite shore from us .

And here they are….could mellow be any more mellow?

This sat just in front of us……….

And speaking of mellow.

A wonderful end to a wonderful day………..the sunshine rejuvenates…………and motivates.  And with that in mind I leave you with this wonderful face….there are stories galore here.