Update from Portugal

Pete has invested in a body board.  It's the next best thing to surfing (although I'm sure some would debate that!) until his wrist is stronger as the body board is much smaller and lighter.  After his shopping trip on Thursday, a weekend of surf hunting ensued, starting with a day at Praia do Beliche on Friday.  I don't recall seeing Pete catch any waves, but plenty of waves caught him; it was a bit like watching him in a giant washing machine...!!  He had fun though, so the main objective was achieved!



After the boys had finished playing, the six of us headed back in convoy to Lagos in the evening and caught the last of happy hour at our 'local', Amuras before heading to 'Mamma Mia's' for pizza.  Yes, we are in Portugal, but that doesn't mean we have to eat traditional food all of the time!!

Saturday was a day of discovery as Mand and Ash led the way to Amado beach near Carrapateira.  Although they, Andy and Oonagh had visited before, it was our first time.  They definitely saved the best til last; it's a beautiful spot and it's free to park up there.  There were a lot of other motorhomes there, so we decided we'd be crazy not to make the most of it and spend the night.  Andy and Oonagh said their farewells due to having other engagements in the north and the remaining 4 of us settled in for the day.

I've finally started painting.  The scenery at Amado was the inspiration I needed to get the easel out and I spent the day being creative.  This is the end result.

I took a photo of the scene too (below) so that I could refer to it if it started raining and I had to go inside.  I'm really pleased with the end result.  Hopefully with more practice, I'll be able to refine my technique...

This one still needs to be finished off with detail, but again, I'm happy with it so far...

Can you tell who it is yet?!

We had a lovely evening, chatting and listening to the waves below, while the 'boys' took photos of the sea and the stars.  we all slept like babies and I didn't even hear the rain in the middle of the night!

On Sunday, after a day of studying the waves and watching a small number of crazies in the water, Pete and Ash decided to brave the crashing waves and see if they could catch any.  A good hour of attempting to actually get out to the waves and they were both defeated.  Thankfully, Praia de Porto do Mos offered a much calmer option, so on the last full day of Mash's time in Portugal, Ash managed to catch a wave or two.

It's now Monday and after a sensible night out last night, we're all bright eyed and bushy tailed today.  Pete is at the laundrette, doing a final load before we move on.  Mash are doing some final bits and pieces before they start their journey north and we'll be meeting for coffee shortly.  We'll be sad to see them go, but will be sure to keep in touch and wish them every happiness in their new chapter!

We're heading back to Portimao later today to make the most of the warmer weather that's inbound later in the week, before we start heading north ourselves.  As is usually the case, we don't know what internet will be like, or even if we'll have any, so posts will continue as and when possible!!  Happy Monday folks!