Great Memories

I've decided to highlight the remainder of my Portugal trip rather than blog day by day.  I must do this as I find that time is quickly getting away from me and the holidays are fast approaching.  I've been very busy in the studio (much has inspired me) and will have lots to share with you all soon.  

I hope that you've enjoyed hearing about my amazing journey as much as I've enjoyed telling it.
Thank you to my kids and dear, dear husband for their love and support because without them this trip could never have been possible, to my parents for their constant love, generosity and graciousness and to my dear friend Leigh for her friendship and enthusiasm during this memorable time that we shared.  After being around me and my parents in our country environment for a few days she said that she can now can see why I'm the person that I am and all that has attributed to me being that way.  Thanks Leigh, what an amazing compliment that I'll always cherish!

Viana do Castelo - 
Santa Luzia basilica & the view down to the Lima River Valley

Fresh seafood  = An amazing Mariscada dish 

(paired with the great Palacio da Brejoeira Alvarinho wine)

Valença do Minho (my birthplace!)

 Views from the old fortress part of town with Tui, Spain 

looming in the background.

Ponte de Lima - 

A sleepy town nestled along the banks of the Lima river.  

The pedestrian bridge dates back to Roman times and Saint Anthony's church from the 15th century.  On a rainy day the "oldest town in Portugal" was hauntingly beautiful.

The Antiques Flea Market along the sycamore tree lined 

Avenida dos Platanos where I find all of my treasures!  

Our final Sunday meal out in Ponte de Lima

(the perfect ending to the perfect trip!)

Pataniscas de Bacalhau - as opposed to the traditional 

"bolinhos de bacalhau" cakes made with cod and potato, 

these fluffy fritters are made with cod and flour and they 

absolutely melted in our mouths!

        

Arroz de Sarrabulho (the regional blood sausage dish shown in the center) with roasted and braised pork, chestnuts and potatoes, white rice and salad paired with a regional full bodied red wine.