Portugal

By now, you have seen so many photos of Portugal on Facebook, it is hard to find one that has not seen the light of day.  But, here it is.  This is of the newly-blessed-wedding couple at the reception overlooking the Rio Tajo on its way to the Atlantic Ocean.  

Many memories.  Wonderful, happy, special.  

A few things stick out.

First was the generosity and hospitable-ness of Leonor's family.  They really rolled out the red carpet for us.  

Second, was the beauty of the country. Lots of history, and I mean 5-6 centuries old buildings and streets and alleys.

Third, was the weather.  We couldn't believe it but one day towards the end of the trip, the sky was overcast for a few hours.  Other than that, blue skies, sunny and dry during the day, with a slight chill at night.

Fourth were the grapes.  If the weather described above sounds ideal for grapes, that's because it is.  We drove the wine valley, and along sides its mountains, which made for spectacular views, but some white knuckle driving and riding.  We even sampled some of the wine and port.

Fifth, (and there were many more) was being together and sharing this time with Joe and Leonor.  

We know some of you were unable to make it, but we also know that because of number one above, there will be other opportunities to visit and get to know the trans-Atlantic side of our family.

We arrived home, turned on the heat, and slept for almost 12 hours.  Unpacking, doing laundry, and sorting through photos will keep the memories alive for a lot longer.

Congratulations Leonor and Joe.  Love from up here