Settling In Nicely

We were surprised this morning to realize that it’s been a week since we flew out of Toronto.  Slow Down!!!!!

We’ve been disciplined in our daily walks.  I’ve read it take 30 days of doing the same activity daily to create a habit.!  We’ve a way to go!

Yesterday was quite warm as we hiked up the mountain road near the Quinta and within ten minutes from home we were peeling things off.  I’m trying to pay attention to that and wear a bit less as it’s cumbersome to carry it all.  Not complaining, simply “note to self”.

We ended up heading into Fuzeta for a delightful fresh fish (corvina) on the patio of one of our favourite places, O Pedro.

This is the face of happiness! And not just because he has wine!!!!

Corvina…..white, sweet, large flakes. Mouthwateringly good!

We aided digestion by enjoying a leisurely walk along the beach and boardwalk before heading back to Estoi.  This town is quite special to me as it was my first exposure to Portugal back when I started coming here for the winter.

It’s a tough life being a fisherman I’m certain. This fellow was sitting in the shade of the tree cleaning his octopus pots and nets.

A section of the Fuzeta beach with the tide just starting to roll in. Several folks had to get up quickly and move as once it starts to roll in, it happens quickly. The sand was warm to the touch.

Today was a bit cooler, only 17 degrees, with clouds moving in and out all day.  It seemed to threaten rain but happily, it never arrived.   We had a few things to do around the house today as well our friends Harald and Bela were to arrive mid-morning and we wanted to stick around to greet them.   They did arrive safe and sound, albeit tired.  We are especially elated they are here and look forward to spending quality time together.

Late morning we headed off to run a few errands, always those things that you realize you didn’t bring and can’t live without, and while out enjoyed a relaxing lunch.  Once home I headed out for a walk around town while Marc busied himself with residual administrative issues tied to his recent exhibition.  I was struck with the quietness of the streets and the feeling of calmness and tranquility in the air.  We are so lucky to have found this tiny haven.

New tile work has been installed on the principle exterior wall of a recently renovated and freshly painted house a few doors from ours.

This beautiful square is about a three minute walk from the house. It’s lined with benches and blossoming rose and hibiscus flowers as well as line with jacaranda trees. I often take a book in the afternoon and sit here to read for an hour or so. I’ve yet to do it this year but have lots of time.

There is some construction going on with the house next door and I climbed up to our terrace to inspect the progress when I happened to look out and noticed the view, and how different in was from one direction to the other.   These following photos are virtually taken from the same spot just simply opposite directions.

This is to the south west of the house, our neighbours garden.

This is to the north east, the steeple of the old church and the mountain slopes behind them.

And that, in a nutshell, is how our day has unfolded.   It’s just after 17h00 here and time for a “cinq à sept”, which for those of you who don’t know the term is a French-language term for activities taking place after work and before returning home, or for having dinner. It may also be written as 5 à 7 or 5@7…..we use it as an excuse to enjoy a cocktail…..our first G&T since arrival.

La Dolce Vita!