July 14-18

We decided to go to lunch on Wed. And it was the most " Portuguese" experience I think we have had as of now.  The little cafe is just across the street from us and Reuben and his family eat there frequently because it is good and very reasonable.  Problem is it is small and seats no more than maybe 18 people.  We went and no table was empty so the owners seated us with these 2 old Portuguese men
    We started out each minding our own business but eventually we started communicating albeit awkwardly for they spoke virtually no english and well we all know our portuguee skills. Nevertheless,  a delightful conversation ensued. We had language lessons over the food. They told us what what the foods were in Portuguese and we shared the english term.
    We introduced ourselves. They were Ezera and Antonio, the one with the groucho marx eyebrows was delighted because his daughter in laws name is Gloria and his daughters name is Claudia.
   So we had good food and good conversation. But as their  wine supply kept coming the situation began to deteriorate,  especially when they bought us each a glass of port.
  As dessert came. ..they had melon glazed with port wine, they very graciously felt the need to share this with us and wouldn't take no for an answer.
  With coffee they ordered some clear fire water and one old gentleman poured some in my coffee.  It wasn't in my plan, but it was delicious.
We detected the conversation between them may be swerving to one of romance?  I think a marriage propoal to Gloria was on the tip of Antonio's tongue when we decided to excuse ourselves, thanking them for a lovely meal.  It was delightful!
  Thursday we helped to prepare and serve a meal for the English pioneer school. It was very American...meat loaf, mashed potatoes, salad and rolls.  We think it was a hit.
  Today we shopped for something new to wear to the reginal convention next week.  Claudia got a skirt and blouse..I got a dress.
We are excited for convention, but next week is going to be exhausting.
The weather was a little cooler the last few days and there is a chance of rain tomorrow.   All in all, another beautiful day in Portugal.