Having wasted precious time trying to find parking last weekend, this Saturday we took a different route, found parking immediately, then arrived at the market to discover it was much more sedate this week than last. I’m wasn’t certain why, as the weather was beautiful, but then I recalled that last weekend encompassed Easter and there you have it. Today was actually a “normal” market day.
Marc and I didn’t have much on our list, the primary was fresh artichoke, as we love to eat them while they are in season here. He went off in hunt whilst I found a comfortable table, away from our usual spot, and sat to enjoy the sun, a bica, and people watching until he returned.
Today was really about flowers……they were being sold in abundance and most I saw were 3 euros a bunch, and a bunch was generous. We almost bought some but then again, it turns out to be a good thing we didn’t!!! More later.
Because we had and afternoon “date” we didn’t linger as long as usual. We bought our things, enjoyed a coffee, then headed back towards the car. As it was in a different area than usual, we took advantage of wandering up and down a few “less traveled” streets simply to extend the visit.
Marc’s birthday is April 18th, a week from today, but because several of our friends, and Marc’s cousin (Line) are heading back to Canada on Wednesday, I had organized a birthday lunch at a lovely tapas restaurant (Fora da Vila) very near where we live. There were ten of us, thank you all for coming, and as always it was lively, pleasant, and made Marc a happy man.
Because of our seating arrangement, and in respect for the other diners, I didn’t pop about taking photos of food but WOW, there wasn’t a single unhappy person at the table. I did manage a few and can tell you, we left there a satisfied bunch.
Next Saturday I’ll be taking Marc out for his official birthday dinner but this was a great start to the celebrations. Again, thanks all.
And I forgot……thanks for the lovely wildflower bouquet Line, it graces our table and brightens up the hous.e
I just loved seeing everyone in glorious joy!! Ye all look so grand. The taps look exceptional, yum.
We’ll have to go next year as it is truly exceptional……..
Love all your stories and travels, but most of all your hair oh my goodness I absolutely am in love with your hair
I don’t know if you’re teasing me or being serious……..
Happy Birthday Week Marc 🌷🎁🎂🍷🎶🫶🏻
He smiled!!!
Ooh the food looks wonderful! I love Tapas and this restaurant looks wonderful! The weather looks so great, better than here where there are days I still wear my winter coat!
I think I could safely tell you that you would have loved this place. It was our second time and we will absolutely return before we head home later this month. A great find indeed and we could literally walk there for our house. Stay warm, spring is just around the corner
A great group photo to capture a wonderful birthday celebration! Oh, to be able to replicate some of those dishes on your lunch menu would be wonderful! They are looked fabulous! Happy Birthday Month, Marco! ❤️❤️
He thanks you and yes, I wouldn’t mind trying to replicate a couple of those myself, especially the risotto and confit du canard……OMG…..I can still drool just thinking about it.
LMAO the picture of Marc holding the hand of Arraul sent me over the top!!!!
Happy early birthday Marco my love!
What a lovely get together that looked like. Food looked fantastic. I love to see you all getting together and enjoying each other’s company.
I think he only touched it but yes, it looked as if he was holding it. He poses every time I ask him to do so……..I wanted him in that photo for perspective.